Thanks, Lew. We've got a bunch of rechargable batteries for our old camera, so that won't be a problem. Plus, what we've been using is a P&S so we're used to a little delay. I've heard that this (S9100) is not your typical P&S and acts more like an SLR, or somewhere in between. The proof will be in the pudding, but it's sure to be a big step up from what we were using before - a Kodak DC240 Digital Zoom. It's seven years old and the epitome of P&S. 

thanks again,
Ken

"Imagination is more important than knowledge." - Albert Einstein