Abstract: The present invention is directed to a protective device for articles such as portable stereos, radios, cassette and CD players, and other articles easily misplaced or lost. The invention comprises a flexible fabric body structure and an internal, preferably metallic, skeletal structure. The invention has pop-up and collapsible capability, and is configured with an easy access entryway for the introduction and storage of articles.

Abstract: A timing buoy comprising a flotation buoy having an outer shell. A switch in communication with the outer shell and activatable in response to forcible contacts to the shell. A timing device responsive to the switch to start and stop a timing sequence in response to a forcible contact to the shell of the buoy. An embodiment of the invention may also include a transmitter and receiver to start and stop a remote timing device in response to contacts on the shell of the buoy which actuate the switch. The invention may also include a method for timing a watercraft event by positioning the inventive apparatus in the path of the watercraft and enabling the watercraft to strike the buoy to start and stop the timing sequence of the timing device.