• Confusion
• Memory loss
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Slurred speech
• Fatigue

New innovation

Traditional helmets are not custom fit to the athlete’s head and are only adequate when it comes to protecting it. Cutting edge makers of football helmets have invented new technology to reduce the incidences of concussion among football athletes. Riddell introduced a helmet called The Revolution. Four years in the making, it was the first improvement in football helmets in 25 years. Current research from the February 2006 issue of Neurosurgery magazine found that players wearing the Revolution helmet were 31% less likely to suffer a concussion than those wearing a traditional helmet. For athletes who have never suffered a concussion, wearing the Revolution was reported to reduce the risk of head injury by 41%. This translates into about 18,000-46,000 fewer concussions per year. Riddell helmets are designed to cushion the head face and jaw of the athlete. A computer generated program design measures the head’s center of gravity to provide maximum protection for this vulnerable area. Xenith’s “XI” helmet adapts to both the players head size and force of each hit through technology called Adaptive Head Protection. The fit system allows athletes to tailor the helmet to the size and shape of their heads. It also allows the head to stay secure upon impact.

Protection, not prevention

Even with all the new innovations in helmet technology, concussions can only be reduced and not eliminated altogether as seen by Tim Tebow’s heart stopping concussion. The only thing athletes can do is try to protect themselves with the safest head protection on the market.

Football Helmet Technology was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Royal Caribbean’s Freedom Class

At 160,000 tons these ships will accommodate approximately 3,600 passengers on its 15 decks. In addition to the standard stateroom offerings, the Presidential Family Suites are an option only on Freedom Class ships, these rooms offer over 1,200 square feet and sleep eight to 14 people. The interior is compromised of two master bedrooms with private baths and two additional bedrooms and baths, a living area with sofa bed and dining table. A private balcony with dining area, lounge chairs, whirlpool and wet bar compliment this spacious category of room. Cruising has always been a family-friendly option, but with the addition of this cabin category, this provides yet a further opportunity for families to come together in a fun-filled vacation environment.

Lovers of sun and water will not be disappointed in this class of ship.  An onboard surfing experience is available via the FlowRider for beginners to advanced levels. This is not as easy as it looks, but provides a new water sport element to cruising…a first of its kind. Beyond traditional pool settings, Freedom Class’ H2O Zone water parks offer a variety of interactive fountains and geysers for children of all ages. For children who do not swim well, be sure to keep an eye on them as there are sudden drop offs with no warning.  

Watching the sunset with the drink special of the day in one of the ship’s hot tubs is a calming and beautiful experience. On Freedom ships, there are two large whirlpools that set out over the side of the ship present a panoramic view from 11 stories above the water. Cruisers feel as though they are sailing free-form in the ocean in this new feature. 

Like other Royal Caribbean ships, there is an adult-only area, the Solarium pool is for passengers 18 and older and is lined with palm trees and hammocks (which is a new option). This area brings the island relaxing feel onboard.

One of the best values for cruising is its cuisine. Just as with other Royal Caribbean ships, Freedom Class vessels offer an abundance of dining options from the standard dining room experience to the buffet of the less formal café. For those desiring a more personalized experience, you can opt for one of the specialty restaurants, Portofino or Chops Grille. Jade is a buffet-style restaurant open for dinner specializing in Asian cuisine. Johnny Rockets offers the 50′s style burger, fries and shake experience in a fun music filled atmosphere. Be aware that the specialty dining options do carry a fee, typically to cover gratuity for the servers.

To help ensure passengers stay in shape after indulging in the midnight buffet and unlimited food options, cruises are known for its fitness facilities. A new sporting option made available on Freedom vessels is the boxing ring. Cruisers can also take part in its miniature golf course, rock climbing wall, ice skating rink at sea and other sport activities. When cruising, be sure to check out the fitness classes, many of which are included in the cruise price, and any health-related seminars.

The Freedom Class ships amaze the first time cruiser with their size and abundance of options while providing familiarity to the Voyager class cruisers with additional benefits.  All of the fascinations of a vacation at sea on a floating resort, these Freedom Class ships truly do provide the freedom to explore.

PHOTO CREDITS: Tropical Latitudes Travel (www.tltravels.com)

Freedom to Explore: Royal Caribbean’s Freedom Class Ships was created by and is property of American Consumer News.

Play Off-Peak

Many golfers employ a routine of a Saturday morning tee-time. Weekend play can cost you around $35-$50, depending on the course you choose to play. If you can clear a weekday on your schedule to get out on the course, you can save a good bit of money.

Look for Discounts

Courses may offer discounts to people depending on their age. Senior citizens and even younger golfers may be able to take advantage of such discounts by inquiring about them from the course management office.

Keep Tabs on the Specials

Some golf courses will offer special deals on certain days or times during the week, when business is otherwise slow. Check out different course websites or at the information desk to find out about specials and keep a list handy in case you have some time to get away during the week. You can easily find the special deals.

Compare Memberships

If you tend to play golf often, it may be worth it to join as a member of a course you frequent. You may want to compare other clubs to see which has a better deal before committing to a membership, which probably will cost you on average $100 a year. Memberships may afford you bigger discounts on play and equipment.

Skip 18, Play 9

If you hit the golf course for an evening special, inquire about additional discounts for only playing 9 holes. In the event it will get dark before you finish 18 holes, you won’t be out any money. Some courses may even accommodate a pay-per-hole request if you are short on time.

Become Part of a League

Joining a golf league not only will give you a nice discount on fees, it is also a great way to network for your business or socially.

Hint for A Gift

Loved ones often struggle to think of new gift ideas. For a golf lover, a season pass to their favorite course would make a great present. Purchasing a pass to a golf course is also a lot less expensive than paying as you go – so even if you don’t get a pass for a special occasion, go buy one for yourself.

18 Holes and Your Family Budget was created by and is property of American Consumer News.