Nikon Announces the D5300, Its First DSLR with Built-In WiFi

Adding to the deluge of camera announcements this month, Nikon chose today to release an update to its D5200 consumer DSLR. The new camera, the Nikon D5300 Cheap, isn't a huge breakthrough, but Nikon managed to pack in a few new features that'll help the shooter keep up with competitors like the Canon 70D.

There are a few updates to the camera, but the headliner is the fact that Nikon has finally added built-in WiFi - no need to go out and purchase a WU-1a adapter. It's also the first Nikon SLR to feature built-in GPS.

The new WiFi and GPS features are joined by an "enhanced" 24.2-megapixel DX sensor without an anti-aliasing filter (say hello to sharper images and potential moire) and a powerful EXPEED 4 processor. That translates into the ability to shoot 1080/60p video, 5fps continuous in both live view and via the viewfinder, a max ISO of 25,600 and better battery life to boot (700 shots vs 500).

Other notable features include a 3.2-inch 1.04M-dot articulating display and a 39-point AF system that works with Nikon's Scene Recognition System for metering. Here are a few more pictures:

For more info on the new camera, feel free to head over to Nikon's press room and read up on the details. The D5300 will be available sometime this month in Black, Red and Gray for $800, or in a kit with the AF-S 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens for $1,400.

Source: Petapixel

Nikon D5300 DSLR Unveiled, 24.2MP Successor to the D5200

Posted on 18. Oct, 2013 by Steve in Digital Cameras

Nikon D5300 Buy Cheap-with-18-140mm-Nikkor-lens.jpg">Nikon has unveiled the successor to the popular Nikon D5200 digital SLR, which the company launched almost one year ago, the new model is named Nikon D5300. The new Nikon D5300 will start to ship early next month with a retail price that is just under $800 for the camera body. The D5300 and the D5200 both share a similar body design, but there are minor differences or improvements that the D5300 has to offer buyers.

The improvements list is short and consists of features that enhance the photographic abilities of the camera and a feature that brings the camera up-to-date with a new digital camera market trend.

Improvements that will help the overall performance of the new Nikon D5300 over the now-old D5200 include a newly designed and higher resolution CMOS image sensor along with a brand new image processor.

Between the Nikon D5200 and the new Nikon D5300, the 24.2 megapixel D5300 has just 0.1 megapixels more resolution than the 24.1 megapixel D5200, however the D5300′s sensor has no built-in OLPF (optical low pass filter) and Nikon say's that will help with image clarity, both the old D5200 and new D5300 use similarly sized DX-format CMOS image sensors.

Nikon D5300 digital SLR gallery:

The new image processor that you will be getting with the upcoming Nikon D5300 is Nikon's newly developed EXPEED 4 image processor. According to Nikon, the new EXPEED 4 offers fast performance while 'maximizing energy efficiency, reducing image noise and delivering true-to-life colors'. The D5200 digital SLR features the EXPEED 3 image processing engine.

After the new image sensor and processor the only other major new feature included with the new Nikon D5300 digital SLR is Wi-Fi. The camera will be shipped with Wi-Fi capabilities built-in that don't need any external accessories like the Nikon WU-1a. The built-in Wi-Fi will let you pair your D5300 to your mobile devices iOS or Android after you install the Nikon Wireless Mobile Utility free app. Also the Wi-Fi working with the cameras built-in GPS can geo-tag files all without external accessories.

However, with the Nikon Wireless Mobile Utility app you will be able to complete functions like remote shooting where you can use your mobile device as a live view enabled wireless remote for snapping photos, wireless transferring of photo and video files, manual file upload for sending files to your mobile device even when you're not paired to the device (the image just downloads later when you are paired).

After you consider all of those differences the Nikon D5300 isn't really a radically new camera compared to the out-going Nikon D5200. However nobody should have expected a totally different camera given the very short gap between the two cameras launches, the D5200 was launched November of last year.

Some big similarities include Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 60 fps, continuous Shooting up to 5 fps, expandable ISO from 100-25600, 39-Point auto-focusing system, active D-Lighting and built-in HDR, Nikon F mount support, and an at eye-level pentamirror optical viewfinder.

From an exterior design perspective you can really see the lack of a re-design in the D5300 compared to the D5200. The only difference in looks is the vari-angle LCD is now 3.2-inches with the D5300 instead of 3.1-inches. Even with the color options the new Nikon D5300 is much like the D5200, the new camera will be offered in Black, Red or Grey colors.

Camera seller B&H Photo Video is offering pre-orders for the Nikon D5300 body at $796.95 (same price for each color) and they are offering a body+14-140mm telephoto zoom lens kit (pictured first above) for $1,396.95. With this particular retailer you can expect your pre-ordered D5300 camera to ship on November 14, 2013 according to notice put on each listing.

Tags: 1080p, 3.2-inch Vari-Angle LCD, 720p hd, active D-Lighting, auto-focus system, cmos sensor, digital camera, dslr, DX-format DSLR, full hd, FullHD, gps, hd, hdmi, hdr, image stabilization system, interchangeable lens, memory card, Nikon, Nikon D5300, Nikon dslr, Nikon Expeed 4, Nikon F mount, Nikon Wireless Mobile Utility, optical low pass filter, optical viewfinder, pentamirror optical viewfinder, sd memory card, sdhc memory card, sdxc memory card, tilt LCD, Video, wi-fi

Source: Digital-cameras-planet

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Eek! 9 Quick Halloween costumes for TV geeks

Unless you're a Halloween aficionado, you probably haven't started putting together your costume yet. Good news! We have some great ideas you and your friends (or family) can use to hit the party circuit or wow your neighbors in your unending quest for candy!

Remember, your gender, size, hair color - none of it matters. Halloween is all about playing dress-up so go for the gusto. Boys can be girls and girls boys. There's no reason not to expect a complete role reversal for any of these costumes for two, as long as you're having fun!

Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul) and Walter White (Bryan Cranston)

See the photo above. Face it. It's not every day of the year that your neighbors are going to be happy to see two meth cooks showing up on their doorstep demanding candy. But with the ever-present Breaking Bad withdrawal still overtaking your fellow countrymen, now is the perfect time to take advantage. Suit up in yellow, don a pair of headphones covered in orange and the odds are in your favor you'll be the most welcome drug dealers on the Halloween circuit.

2 Broke Girls

Candy corn is orange and yellow. So are our first two TV-inspired costume choices! Coincidence? I think not. It's Halloween, where else would you expect to find 2 Broke Girls other than begging door-to-door for candy? Brown hair, blonde hair, boots, pumps and costume jewelry set off these groovy '70s throwback waitress uniforms in colors only meth dealers and Halloween can love. You can be Max (Kat Dennings) or Caroline (Beth Behrs) and if your group expands beyond that, they never seem to be at a loss for stragglers, so yours can grow, too!

Doctor Who (Matt Smith) and his Companion Clara Oswald (Jenna-Louise Coleman)

Thrift store finds, slicked-back hair and a motorcycle wouldn't hurt to help to complete this ensemble. As much fun as it would be tote around a full-sized TARDIS to really drive it home, using a British accent should seal the deal.

Mike (Billy Gardell) and Molly (Melissa McCarthy)

Sure, you could go with Mike in plainclothes, but that would take some of the punch out of the costume. You can find a children's police badge, put it on a blue shirt and hit the streets. Plus, Melissa McCarthy is one of the biggest talents in entertainment. Can't lose!

The Green Arrow (Stephen Amell) and The Black Canary (Caity Lotz)

If you don't normally have leather in your wardrobe, nobody's going to hold it against you if you go for all black. Just get those masks right. Black around the eyes for the Green Arrow and a genuine black mask for the Black Canary. A green hoodie, a blonde wig and some black gloves will have you saving lives in no time flat.

Young Samantha and Carrie from The Carrie Diaries

They were fashion icons in their adult years, but throwing back to the '80s will be even more fun as young Samantha Jones (Lindsey Gort) and Carrie Bradshaw ( AnnaSophia Robb). Any outfit from the decade will do; the more eclectic, the better!

Any of the Orphan Black ladies

Shown in the photo are incarnations Sarah, Alison and Cosima, but there are at least three others that we know of already - all played by the incomparable Tatiana Maslany. She looks so different as each character that you and your friends can easily pull off being as few or as many of them as you want. The more that go, the better you'll look!

The Draper family

Hey, mom! Are you taking Halloween off this year and sending dad out with the kids? Why not dress them all up Mad Men style? Daddy can look splendid as Don Draper (Jon Hamm) and your little ones can surely fit the molds of as many Draper children as you need. Heck, borrow one from the neighbors if you need a complete set! Using this photo, you can even give them lessons on how to look baffled as they contemplate heading up to the house for candy.

Bonus: Easiest costume - Under the Dome

Do you have a bubble umbrella? Done! Just continually walk up to your friends and press your hands against it, pretending to scream as if they can't hear you. Boom! Easiest costume in the world. Thanks, CBS and Stephen King!

There are so many ideas you can take out of your closet, your attic or discover at the local thrift store that only require a little effort and a lot of imagination. Run down your favorite list of TV shows, get to work and have a fabulous Halloween!

Breaking Bad image courtesy of Frank Ockenfels/AMC; Two Broke Girls image courtesy of Darren Michaels/Warner Bros; Doctor Who image courtesy of BBC America; Mike & Molly image courtesy of Cliff Lipson/CBS; Arrow/Black Canary image courtesy of Jack Rowand/The CW; The Carrie Diaries image courtesy of Patrick Harbron/The CW; Orphan Black image courtesy of BBC America; Mad Men image courtesy of Jamie Trueblood/AMC; Under the Dome image courtesy of CBS
Source: Sheknows

Community calendar: Oct. 17 edition

<charlie brown and the great pumpkin full moviep>CRYSTAL COAST REPUBLICAN WOMEN FASHION SHOW AND LUNCHEON Oct. 18, Dunes Club, Atlantic Beach. Cost is $30. Deadline for purchasing tickets was Oct. 9. No tickets will be sold at the door. A social hour with cash bar will start at 11 a.m. There will be door prizes. For reservations, call Linda at 726-4086 or Ann at 726-0048.

AARP DRIVER SAFETY CLASS 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 18, Leon Mann Jr. Enrichment Center, Morehead City. $12 for members, $14 for nonmembers. Call 247-2930 for details.

TURTLE TALK 10 a.m. Oct. 18, Nov. 29 and Dec. 20, Fort Macon State Park. Meet at the Visitor Center to learn about the loggerhead sea turtle. All species of turtles and how common they are on our beaches will be discussed.

BEAUFORT ELEMENTARY FALL FESTIVAL 5-8 p.m. Oct. 18, 110 Carraway Drive, Beaufort. Slides, silent auction, food, games, haunted house, bake sale and more. Proceeds go to the school for supplies, technology and teacher needs.

ANNUAL CARTERET LITERACY COUNCIL'S SPELLING BEE Oct. 18, The History Place, Morehead City. Spots are open for spellers and teams to compete. Prizes will be awarded. Visit www.carteretliteracy.org or call 808-2020 to participate. Tickets for this event are $25 per person and are available at the Train Depot in Morehead City.

MOORS AND MCCUMBER Oct. 18, Trent River Coffee Co., and Oct. 19, Clawson's 1905, Beaufort. Down East FolkArts Society concert. Tickets are $15, $12 for members and active military or $8 for students. Reserve by texting or calling 646-4657, or see www.downeastfolkarts.org.

MOREHEAD CITY LIONS CLUB YARD SALE 7 a.m.-noon Oct. 19, Curb Market, 13th and Evans streets, Morehead City.

BOOK SALE 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 19, Twice Read Tales, Newport. The Friends of the Newport Library is hosting the bag sale. Bags will provided and can be stuffed for $3.

CARTERET COUNTY BIG SWEEP Oct. 19. To get involved, volunteers can visit www.ncbigsweep.org or call the volunteer hotline at 800-27-sweep.

ART IN THE PARK CRAFTSMEN SHOW 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 19, Fort Benjamin Park and Recreation Center, 100 McQueen Ave., Newport. Contact Darlene Austin at darlenea@carteretcountygov.org or 504-4263 to become a vendor. Booths are $30 and benefit Carteret County Special Olympics.

LOBSTER FEST noon-4 p.m. Oct. 19, St. Francis by the Sea, Salter Path. Live lobsters are $16, cooked are $19, and full meals with coleslaw, potato salad, roll, homemade dessert and tea or water are $24 (eat in or take out). Call the church at 240-2388 to reserve lobsters and meals.

CLIP FOR THE CURE business hours, Oct. 19, SmartStyle inside Walmart, Morehead City. Proceeds from the salon's fundraising event go to the Regis Foundation for Breast Cancer Research, which supports early diagnosis, prevention, treatment and research to find a cure for breast cancer. For more information, see www.ClipForTheCure.org or call 726-1271.

HORSE SENSE AND SURVIVAL TOUR Oct. 19 with Cape Lookout National Seashore at Shackleford Banks. Reservations are required to join a ranger for a four-hour walking trip to find the wild horses of Shackleford Banks and watch their behavior. There is a fee for the ferry service. Call 728-2250 ext. 0 for reservations and more information. Also, Nov. 16.

CRYSTAL COAST CON 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Oct. 19, MacDaddy's, Cape Carteret. Visit www.MyMacDaddys.com for details.

BOATING EDUCATION SEMINAR: LOCAL KNOWLEDGE OF AREA WATERS Oct. 19, Carteret Community College. Certified Instructors of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary will offer this one-half day seminar, which will assist recreational boaters in learning to navigate area waters more safely. A study of area charts, buoys, day markers and other aids to navigation will be presented, as well as a review of basic rules of the road. Cost is $20. A discount for families is available. Pre-registration is required. For additional information or to register, contact Ben Crabtree at 808-3091 or e-mail benandlibbie1@embarqmail.com.

BOOKSIGNING WITH RANGER PAUL BRANCH JR. 1-3:30 p.m. Oct. 19, Fort Macon State Park, 2303 East Fort Macon Road, Atlantic Beach. He will sign copies of his new pictorial history book, Fort Macon.

BEAUFORT HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION'S FALL PARTY 6:30 p.m. Oct. 19, 105 Front Street, Beaufort. Held at the historic Duncan House, home of Bill and Deborah Tuttle, this fundraising party features lively music by The Ginger Thompson Band, bold impressionist artwork by Trisha Adams and an exquisite menu by Beaufort Grocery. Tickets are $75 each and sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, contact the BHA at 728-5225 or go to www.beauforthistoricsite.org.

MOONLIGHT ESCAPADES FUN RUN FUNDRAISER 8 p.m. Oct. 19, Friendly Market on Friendly Road and Bridges Street extension in Morehead City. Fundraiser for Crystal Coast Hospice House. The approximately 3K route will follow Bridges Street extension to the Morehead City Plaza Shopping Center, crossing Arendell Street to finish at the Hampton Inn of Morehead City. Fabulous frock prizes will be awarded based on the "brightest" individual and group originality. Cost is $25 each or, for groups of six or more, $20. Register and pay by Oct. 9 to receive a t-shirt. Tax deductible. Register at www.crystalcoasthospicehouse.org.

RALPH STANLEY WITH THE CLINCH MOUNTAIN BOYS BAND 8 p.m. Oct. 19, The Morehead Center, Arendell Street, Morehead City. Tickets are $30 and $40 each. Call 726-1511 or visit www.themoreheadcenter.com for details.

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FALL "IN THE WATER" MEET 1-5:30 p.m. Oct. 20, N.C. Maritime Museum's Gallants Channel Annex in Beaufort. Hosted by NCMM chapter of the Traditional Small Craft Association. Fleet of spritsail skiffs will be there and volunteers will be taking visitors for boat rides. Dinner is a $10 ($5 for members) fund-raising barbecue.

ATLANTIC WELCOME SIGN DEDICATION 3 p.m. Oct. 20, hosted by the Atlantic Civic & Beautification Committee. The dedication will be in honor of Elmo Gaskill Jr.

EIGHTH ANNUAL CRYSTAL COAST UPPER DIVISION TALENT SHOW 7 p.m. Oct. 21, Croatan High School Auditorium. For grades nine to age 21. Email barbara.swigart@carteretk2.org to register. Entry deadline was Oct. 14.

BROADWAY STAR GAY WILLIS 7 p.m. Oct. 24, Glad Tidings Church, Morehead City. Reception follows to honor this Beaufort native. Tickets by subscription or $35 at the door. Call 726-1152.

LUNCH WITH A DASH OF HISTORY, The History Place, 1008 Arendell St., Morehead City. Rodney Kemp leads the presentations on select Fridays. Lunch is served at 11:30 a.m., and the presentation is noon-1 p.m. Lunch is $12 for members or $15 for nonmembers. For the presentation only, cost is $5 for members or $8 for nonmembers. Call 247-7533 by Wednesday before the event to reserve a lunch. Topics are Up West and Down East: The Geography of Carteret County, Oct. 25; the community of Davis, Nov. 1; and Rodney's annual Christmas Show, Dec. 13.

HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL 6-8 p.m. Oct. 25, Emerald Isle Parks and Recreation, Emerald Isle. Glow-in-the-dark mural, face painting, cake walk, costume contest at 7 p.m., liver toss, hanging donut eating contest, ID kits by the EI Police Department and more. Admission is two bags of individually wrapped candy per child. Candy will be distributed back to children at departure. Please bring a bag for your goodies. Call 354-6350 for more information.

MOREHEAD MANOR 7:30 p.m.-midnight Oct. 25-26, Crystal Coast Civic Center, Morehead City. Presented by the creators of "The House on North Forty" and the young professionals group, Connect Carteret. Tickets are $10 or $20 for "RIP," on sale at Ioannis Bar & Grill, Halloween Express and Merv's Joke Shop. Rated PG-13. For more information, log on to Morehead Manor's Facebook page.

FIRST BLACKBEARD'S PIRATE JAMBOREE Oct. 25-27, Ocracoke Island. Presented by the Ocracoke Foundation. For details, visit the website www.piratejamboree.com or the Facebook page: Ocracoke Pirate Jamboree.

FRIDAY NIGHT DANCES 7:30-11 p.m. Fridays, Leon Mann Jr. Enrichment Center, Morehead City. For adults over 50, the cost is $5. For more Information, call 247-2626. Entertainment is Halloween Party Costumes Or Not, Chuck Eatmon, Oct. 25; Tom Bone, Nov. 1, Dec. 6 and Jan. 3, and Chuck Eatmon, Nov. 15, Dec. 20 and Jan. 17.

NORTH CAROLINA A-SCARE-IUM Oct. 25, N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. Great disguises win prizes in this unique Halloween party for grown-ups that haunts the aquarium waters after dark. Music, food, dancing and games are included in admission. Beer and wine will be for sale. Must be 21 to attend, and costumes are required. See the Pine Knoll Shores section of www.ncaquariums.com or call 247-4003 for details.

CETACEAN FASCINATION 6:30 p.m. Oct. 25, N.C. Maritime Museum, Gallants Channel annex. Come make discoveries during a peek behind the scenes of where whalebones are being prepared for study and display. Meet at gate 3 of the Gallants Channel Annex on West Beaufort Road. Free event.

PURVIS CHAPEL FUNDRAISER WITH AUTHOR DAVID CECELSKI AND AME ZION STATE CHOIR 6:30 p.m. Oct. 25, Purvis Chapel, 215 Craven St. Beaufort Woman's Club is hosting this event that will raise funds for church preservation and restoration. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the Beaufort Historical Association's Welcome Center, Beaufort; The History Place, Morehead City; and from members of the Beaufort Woman's Club. To reserve tickets from a club member, please call 728-3917, 728-7365 or 838-6191.

FRIGHT NIGHT 5:30-8 p.m. Oct. 25, N.C. Maritime Museum, Beaufort. The museum's exhibit hall comes to life in a haunted kind of way, complete with sweet treats and a few tricks. Fun for ghouls and goblins of all ages. Proceeds from this partnership event benefit museum education programs and East Carteret High School Drama Club. Cost is $6 for adults and $3 for children 18 and under.

ROY WILLIS COLLECTION AUCTION Oct. 25-26, Core Sound Waterfowl Museum and Heritage Center, Harkers Island. First of three auctions to be held of the extensive collection of hunting decoys by the late collector and carver Roy Willis of Stacy. The auction will begin at 6 p.m. Oct. 25 with a special preview and event at 3:30 p.m. The auction resumes 9:30 a.m. Oct. 26. More than 600 lots from this collection will be sold. An online catalog with photographs is at www.HouseAuctionCompany.com.

CURB MARKET OPEN 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 26, 13th and Evans streets, Morehead City, in conjunction with the Promise Land Society Festival.

FISH TOWNE REGATTA 9 a.m. Oct. 26, Backstreet Pub, Beaufort. Preregister at the pub Oct. 25. Sailing and paddling event.

PROMISE LAND SOCIETY FESTIVAL 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 26, 14th Street between Shepard and Shackleford streets, Morehead City. There will be crafts, games, history and music. Free.

ANNUAL CAROLINA KITE FEST 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 26-27, with a special night flying session 6 p.m. Oct. 26, at the public beach access known as "The Circle" in Atlantic Beach. Events include kite flying, games, team flying, Indian Fighter kites, big kites and sled kite building for children. Sponsored by Kites Unlimited, Atlantic Station Shopping Center, Atlantic Beach.

ANNUAL RALLY FOR AMERICA 1-4 p.m. Oct. 26, Fort Benjamin Park, Newport. Hosted by the Crystal Coast Republican Men's Club, there will be hot dogs and drinks available for a donation and many Republican officials and candidates in attendance, including Congressman Walter B. Jones, Sen. Norman Sanderson, Representatives Pat McElraft and Michael Speciale, N.C. Supreme Court candidate Bob Hunter, U.S. Senate candidate Greg Brannon and many others.

CAROLINA MARITIME MODEL SOCIETY 2 p.m. Oct. 26, N.C. Maritime Museum, Beaufort. The society exists to promote the production of high quality ship models and encourage members and the public to participate in the craft that is as old as shipbuilding itself. All meetings are open to the public. Call 728-7317 for details.

BIRDING AT NORTH RIVER FARMS in Smyrna 8 to 11 a.m. Oct. 27, Nov. 10 and Dec. 15. N.C. Coastal Federation program. Join local birding expert Joanne Powell. The group will look for resident birds as well as fall migrants that might include warblers, raptors and waterfowl in farm fields, along roadside shrubs and in restored marsh habitat. Participants are asked to bring their own binoculars, as well as water and a snack, and to dress appropriately for the weather and for moderate walking in open fields and along dirt roads. There are no restroom facilities or shelter. The group will meet at the Crossroads Minimart in Otway at the intersection of Highway 70 and Harkers Island Road at 8 a.m. The group will carpool to the farm and return to the Minimart by 11 a.m. In case of rain, the event will be rescheduled. These tours are free for N.C. Coastal Federation members and $15 for non-members. Registration, which is required and can be done by calling 393-8185, will include a one-year membership.

FALL FESTIVAL 5 p.m. Oct. 27, Cherry Point Baptist Church, Havelock. Non-scary costume contest, best homemade hat contest and bounce houses. Games and dinner from 6-7 p.m. Pie eating contest at 7 p.m., hayride and trunk or treat until 8 p.m. For details, call 447-5462.

ANNUAL PUMPKIN CARD PARTY 1-5 p.m. Oct. 29, First Presbyterian Church, 1604 Arendell St., Morehead City. Tickets are $14, sponsored by Carteret General Hospital auxiliary volunteers. There will be bridge, canasta, dominoes, scrabble or game of choice, plus snacks, a 50/50 raffle and door prizes. To reserve, call 648-8017 or 222-0233.

TRICK-OR-TREAT UNDER THE SEA Oct. 29-30, N.C. Aquarium at Pine Knoll Shores. An aquatic twist makes this Halloween event a treat for all ages. Kids trick-or-treat indoors among the exhibits, show off their costumes and enjoy other fun and games. Special admission price: $8 per person, $6 for members, ages 2 and under free. Daily admission tickets do not apply for this special event. Buy advance tickets online. See the Pine Knoll Shores section of www.ncaquariums.com or call 247-4003 for details.

BROWN BAG GAM noon Oct. 30, N.C. Maritime Museum, Beaufort. Gam is defined as a friendly conversation between whalers or to visit with another ship while at sea. Pack a lunch and come learn about North Carolina's rich coastal environment and culture. For specific topics, visit www.ncmaritimemuseums.com. Call 728-7317 for details.

MOONLIGHT KAYAK ADVENTURE 3:30-6:30 p.m. Oct. 31, N.C. Maritime Museum, Beaufort. Watch the moon rise over the water on a Halloween inspired kayak tour. Kayaks and navigation lights provided. Space limited. For intermediate or advanced paddlers ages 12 and up, though under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Reservations needed; cost is $50. Call 728-7317.

LA MUSIQUE CLUB 24TH ANNUAL PAGEANT 6:30 p.m. Nov. 2 at West Carteret High School. Categories are for ages 3-4, kindergarten-second grade, third-fifth grade, sixth-eighth grade and high school. No charge to enter. Contact Rachel Mundine, 223-4538, for an application or more information.

MOVIES IN THE PARK "Hotel Transylvania" 6:30 p.m. Nov. 2, Fort Benjamin Park, Newport. Pack a picnic, and bring a blanket or beach chair. The Movie will be shown outside, the concession stand will sell popcorn, candy and soft drinks. In the case of inclement weather, movies will be shown inside. "Rise of the Guardians" will be shown Dec. 7.

BIRD HIKE 10 a.m. Nov. 4, Fort Macon State Park. Meet at the Visitor Center and take a leisurely hike to identify birds in the area.

MEDICARE OR MEDICAID: WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE? 10:30 a.m. Nov. 5, Leon Mann Jr. Enrichment Center, 3820 Galantis Drive, Morehead City. Brief presentation of information followed by question and answer period is the fifth in the seminar series offered on the first Tuesday of each month by the senior center. Admission is free. Call 247-2626 for directions or more information.

OIL PRESSURE: CETACEANS IN THE CROSSHAIRS OF OUR SEARCH FOR OIL 7 p.m. Nov. 6, N.C. Maritime Museum, Beaufort. From hunting whales to seismic exploration, our search for oil in marine environments continues to involve whales in some way or another. Join Museum Natural Science Curator Keith Rittmaster for this free, after-hours presentation.

FIRST THURSDAY AT THE TEACHERAGE 10:30 a.m. Nov. 7, at the Teacherage in Newport. Held the first Thursday of each month to hear and share stories and experiences in Newport's history. Each month features a central storyteller. Nov. 7 is Charles Hill and Dec. 5 is Mon Garner. For more information, contact Dianne Johnson at 241-1793.

MISTLETOE MAGIC HOLIDAY GIFT SHOW 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 9, Crystal Coast Civic Center, Morehead City. Handcrafted wreaths, decorations, jewelry, photography, pottery, woodwork and more. Admission is $3, $2 for seniors and free for children 12 and under. Bring a can food item to be donated to a local food bank. Visit www.crystalcoastcivicctr.com or call 247-3883 for details.

ST. PAUL'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH BAZAAR 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 9, St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Beaufort. Hosted by the church's women's group, the bazaar will feature handmade crafts, books, toys, Christmas décor, kitchen gadgets, unique treasures, frozen and baked holiday food, jams, pickles and more. There will also be a raffle (tickets are $1 each) and Silent Auction. A luncheon will be served from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. with take-out lunches from 11-11:30 a.m. Tickets are $10 and can be purchased in advance or at the door. Proceeds benefit local outreach projects supported by the ECW. For tickets and additional information about the bazaar, call 728-3324, Roberta Brown, Bazaar Chair.

SECOND CRAFTS ON THE CRYSTAL COAST Nov. 10, Crystal Coast Civic Center, Morehead City. Tickets are $50 for VIP and $40 general admission. For details, visit www.crystalcoastbeer.eventbrite.com.

OUTER BANKS WILDLIFE SHELTER'S TASTE OF CARTERET COUNTY Nov. 15, Crystal Coast County Civic Center, Morehead City. Tickets are $35 and include dinner provided by more than 20 of the restaurants in the county and include an open bar and live entertainment, plus a silent auction rivaled by none other. Call the shelter at 240-1200 to purchase tickets or for more information.

THE N.C. WRITERS' NETWORK 2013 FALL CONFERENCE Nov. 15-17, Holiday Inn Resort, Wrightsville Beach. Price varies. Workshops and master classes in creative nonfiction, fiction and poetry, as well as panels, lectures and workshops on indie publishing, publishers and agents, marketing for writers and more. The faculty includes Philip Gerard and Virginia Holman (creative nonfiction); Rebecca Lee and Clyde Edgerton (fiction); and Peter Makuck and Malena Mörling (poetry). Visit www.ncwriters.org for information and to register.

THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF STEPHEN FOSTER 3 p.m. Nov. 17, Carteret County Public Library, Live Oak Street, Beaufort. Presented by The Friends of the Carteret County Library. Narration by Bob Malone, and music by Harmony Creek. Tickets are $10 at the door and $1 for children. Enjoy songs by the composer of "Oh! Susanna," "My Old Kentucky Home," "Jeanie with the Light Brown Hair" and "Beautiful Dreamer." Contact Marlene Anderson at 728-3988 for details.

GIVING THANKS: POTLUCK FOR COMMERCIAL FISHERMEN 4-7 p.m. Nov. 21, N.C. Maritime Museum, Beaufort. The museum is hosting a potluck dinner for commercial fishermen and will show the film "Core Sounders." This event is free. Commercial Fishermen bring your appetite; other guests please bring a potluck dish to show your thanks. Call the museum to sign up your dish, 728-7317.

FOURTH ANNUAL HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA SHOW with Gaylon Pope & SweetWater 7 p.m. Nov. 23, Carteret Community College, Joslyn Hall. Seating is limited and the public is encouraged to purchase advance tickets no later than Nov. 20. Tickets are $20 and $23 at the door for adults and $12 for children or $15 at the door. For more information, visit www.gaylonpopeandsweetwater.com

Meetings

AARP CHAPTER 1714 11 a.m. Oct. 21, Golden Corral, Morehead City. Program with The History Place executive director, Steve Anderson.

CARTERET COUNTY COUNCIL FOR WOMEN 5:30 p.m. Oct. 24, Carteret General Hospital Meeting Room A, Morehead City. For more details, contact Juli Cosgrove, 393-1972.

CARTERET COUNTY DEMOCRATIC WOMEN 6 p.m. Oct. 22, Ruby Tuesday, Morehead City. Insurance agent Tom Styron will be the speaker. He will discuss the Affordable Care Act. All registered Democrats and their families are invited. For more information call 726-4841.

SOUTHERN BELLES REHEARSALS 7-8:30 p.m. Mondays, Cape Carteret Presbyterian Church, 100 Yaupon Drive, Cape Carteret. Southern Belles is a four-part harmony barbershop-style singing group for women. New members are always welcome. 354-2925.

Source: Carolinacoastonline

Consumer Reports: Motorola's latest Droids are better than iPhone 5s, 5c

Consumer Reports is still the buying guide of record for many consumers in older age demographics, and the not-for-profit group recently took a look at Apple's new wares. While Consumer Reports has historically been pretty rough on Apple gadgets, it came away from its iPhone 5s iphone cases otterbox camo iphone 5s and iPhone 5c tests fairly impressed, giving each handset a respectable score. Where the flagship iPhone 5s is concerned, found a happy surprise in the Touch ID fingerprint scanner, which it said was surprisingly reliable. It also said the 5s camera is better than ever and that the iPhone 5c is a "compelling offering for budget-minded buyers." Despite all that praise, however, Consumer Reports still thinks that Motorola's latest Droid handsets are a better buy.

The group had plenty of good things to say about both new iPhone models, and it was also a big fan of Apple's new iOS 7 software. Siri enhancements and the new Control Center were areas of particular interest. Consumer Reports says that the iPhone 5s and iPhone 5c both fall short when it comes to battery life, however, and that the smaller screens are a big drawback compared to devices from Samsung, LG and HTC.

As such, CR recommends that consumers purchase the Droid Maxx, Droid Ultra and Droid mini over Apple's handsets. The impressive battery life and larger displays are among the top reasons for the recommendation, and Consumer Reports was also a big fan of Google Now, Active Notifications and the ability to have mobile notifications display on a connected computer.

In the end, however, Samsung's Galaxy S4 is still Consumer Reports' highest-rated smartphone of the year.

Source: BGR

Why Apple Can't Stop NTT DoCoMo's Bleeding

Even though NTT DoCoMo Inc. ( 9437:JP) finally added the iPhone to its mobile lineup with the release of the iPhone 5s iphone cases otterbox defender razr maxx and iPhone 5c, the largest mobile carrier in Japan still can't stop losing subscribers. DoCoMo said on Monday it lost 66,800 net users in September, which marks the largest loss on record for the company.

Source: Ibtimes