Abstract: A resonating device is disclosed. The device can include a generally planar first portion, a second portion opposite the first portion, and a body portion. The body portion generally has a first stiffness and includes a discontinuity with a second stiffness that is less than the first stiffness. The discontinuity is positioned to allow the body portion to circumferentially vibrate relative to the discontinuity.

Abstract: Snare drum assemblies, including assemblies with flexible snare anchors, and associated methods are described. A drum assembly in accordance with one embodiment includes a set of snare strands, each having a first end and a second end, a first, flexible snare anchor connected directly to the snare strands toward the first ends, and a second, flexible snare anchor connected directly to the snare strands towards the second ends. The snare anchors can be flexible between a first shape and a second shape different than the first shape when attaching the snare anchors to a drum. The first and second snare anchors can have generally flat, uniform shapes when not under tension, and can have a relatively thin profile (e.g., thickness) to provide for contact between the snare strands and a drum head in one or more orientations. In further particular embodiments, the drum head against which the snare assembly is positioned need not include snare beds.

Abstract: A holder and napkin assembly for a beverage or liquid food cup. The holder is defined by a sleeve mounted on and encircling a beverage cup or liquid food cup. The sleeve has an open top and an open bottom through which the cup extends and an inner surface adjacent the cup. The napkin includes a generally rectangular body portion and a smaller generally rectangular tab portion connected by a line of weakness. The tab portion is adhered to the holder, preferably on the inner surface of the holder. The line of weakness is positioned at the top edge of the holder sleeve. The napkin body and napkin tab are notched on opposite sides at the line of weakness. The inner surface of the holder has a plurality of discreet, spaced apart, hemispherical-shaped protrusions on the inner surface thereof.

Abstract: A snare strainer for a drum. The snare strainer includes a tube having a noncylindrical transverse cross section with a first axis and a second axis with oppositely located curved bearing surfaces positioned on the first axis. A piston is positioned in the tube for slidable movement between a first position in which the snares are located against the drumhead and a second position in which the snares are located away from the drumhead. The piston has a transverse cross section similar in shape to the transverse cross section of the tube. A quick release mechanism is provided to move the piston between the first and second positions. A handle forming part of the quick release mechanism is mounted on the tube and has a linkage connecting the piston, the handle and axis of the two during movement of the piston between the first and second positions. An axial passage is formed in one of the fasteners connecting the tube to the drum to allow air flow into and out of the drum.

Abstract: A snare strainer for a drum. The snare strainer includes a cylindrical tube which is mounted on the shell of a drum. A piston is installed in the cylindrical tube for slidable movement between a first position in which the snares are positioned against the head of the drum and a second position in which the snares are moved away from the head of the drum. The snare strainer includes a handle pivotally mounted on the cylindrical tube which is connected to a cross member engaging the piston by a link. The link is pivotally connected at one end to the cross member and at its opposite end to a pivotal connection of said handle. The pivotal connections are positioned so that rotation of the handle to move the piston between the first and second positions of the piston moves the pivotal connection of the handle of the link and the pivotal connection of the link of the cross member through over center positions.