Still have not completely decided between the FZ5 and the Canon S2 but
leaning heavily toward the Panasonic.  While there is a lot I like about
the S2, the very slow focus when zooming in may be enough to sway me to
the Panasonic.  It seems that the FZ5 has fewer features but the ones
that it does have are more significant.

One issue with the FZ5 is batteries.  The FZ5 is rated at around 300
shots per charge and I guess one has to count on 150.00.  The Canon is
rated at about 500 so one can count on 250.  But you have big choice of
NiMh from a variety of sources at cheap (relatively) prices.

The extra batteries (and you need maybe 2 plus the one included with the
camera) are very expensive.  I did notice that there are 3rd party
batteries for sale but I am concerned they could damage the camera or do
not provide the same energy as the OEM.  Also I am concerned about leakage.

Does anybody out there who has an FZ5 use aftermarket batteries.  I
would like to know what your experience is and what brand you have had
experience with.