Top stories of 2013

Fifty-five year old Nathaniel Johnson was found dead in his backyard at 325 Mabel Avenue in Swainsboro at approximately 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, January 2, 2013. He was found with multiple gunshot wounds, the victim of an apparent homicide.

January 16

Officers of the Swainsboro Police Department and Georgia Department of Revenue conducted a raid on the Swainsboro Game Room, located on Hwy 1 South. Nine Joker Poker machines were found in a separate room at the back of the business.

January 23

Rayonier announced that it reached agreement to sell all of the assets of its Wood Products business to International Forest Products Limited (Interfor) for $80 million. The sale would result in an after-tax gain of approximately $40 million. The Swainsboro, Eatonton and Baxley sawmills were purchased and all 260 of its current employees hired by Interfor.

January 30

STAR students and teachers from Emanuel County Institute and Swainsboro High School were announced. JoBeth Walker was the STAR student from ECI, picking Glenn Turner as her STAR Teacher. Paige Ogletree was chosen as STAR Student from SHS, picking Angela Hooks as her STAR Teacher.

February 6

The East Georgia State College Bobcat basketball team was ranked 13th in the National Junior College Athletic Association, comprised of Division 1 schools, the "bigger, better basketball programs of the two-year schools across the country."

February 13

Officers arrested five juveniles at Swainsboro High School after the school was placed on lockdown on February 7, 2013. The juveniles were arrested facing charges related to gang affiliation.

February 20

Representatives of Emanuel County Schools, along with representatives of local law enforcement and emergency services, held a Crisis Management Organizational Meeting on February 13, 2013 to discuss plans for school safety in the event of a crisis.

February 27

The East Georgia State College Bobcat basketball team ended their regular season with a 72-56 win over Waycross College, putting them at 27-2 overall with a 19-1 record in the conference, winning the regular season conference title.

March 6

During the Annual Chamber Banquet on Thursday, Feb. 28, Jean Morgan was awarded the 2013 Person of the Year Award. Large Business of the Year went to Rayonier's Swainsboro Sawmill, and Small Business of the Year went to Southern Traditions Floral and Gifts.

March 13

Samantha Janes Scott and Randy Lee Scott were arrested and charged with murder and concealing the death of another after a missing persons case reporting Samantha's father, Kenneth Wiley Janes, resulted in a body being found in a makeshift grave in the Scott Family Cemetery in North Emanuel County.

March 20

At approximately 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, March 16, 2013, a body was discovered by residents of the Lincoln Street neighborhood in Swainsboro. The body was identified as Jennifer Sutton, 37, of Swainsboro.

March 27

The Emanuel County Institute boyfriend christmas cards baseball team claimed the Region 3 Championship with a 14-0 record.

April 3

The Emanuel County Hospital Authority and Emanuel Medical Center announced that, as of April 1, 2013, they had entered into a joint management agreement and lease with ER Hospitals, LLC of Salt Lake City, Utah.

April 10

Nordson Corporation was named Georgia Manufacturer of the year for its "commitment to manufacturing efficiency, community service and economic growth in Georgia," according to remarks read when the award was announced. They were nominated by Southeastern Technical College.

April 17

Robert A. Hill, 51, of Swainsboro and Roswell, was sentenced to more than seven years in a federal prison on the charge of interstate transportation of stolen property. On December 19, 2012, he was found guilty of selling several million dollars of stolen property through an eBay account and shipping it across state lines to customers.

April 24

Sunday, April 21, a birthday celebration was held for Jimmy Morgan at East Georgia State College, celebrating his 100th birthday and his many accomplishments in and for the community. His birthday is April 26, 1913.

May 1

The David Emanuel Academy Eagles baseball team won the GISA region 2-A baseball championship title, defeating Robert Toombs Christian Academy before a large crowd in Stillmore. They swept through region play with a perfect 4-0 record, capturing the region championship for the second year in a row.

May 8

During the 68th Annual Pine Tree Festival, Bill Rogers, Jr. was awarded the coveted Green Jacket in recognition of his involvement in many community projects and his part in the Pine Tree Festival for many years.

May 15

East Georgia State College expanded yet again as it entered a partnership with Georgia Regents University in Augusta. EGSC students will have the opportunity to take classes on GRU's Summerville campus and, following the completion of 30 hours in the program, those with a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher can opt to transfer into a bachelor's degree program at GRU.

May 27

On Wednesday, May 15, Atlanta Gas Light experienced a gas outage that affected more than 2500 customers in Mount Vernon, Ailey, Vidalia, Lyons, Soperton, Swainsboro and Twin City. Repairs were made at crews began the process of restoring service to customers in the affected areas.

May 29

Emanuel Medical Center announced that a reduction of staff was implemented, affecting ten employees.

June 5

On Saturday, June 1, 2013, the Swainsboro High School Class of 1963 dedicated a granite bench in Pine Brook Nature Park and Bird Sanctuary in memory of Sgt. Ronald Bruce Price, who was killed in action on March 16, 1967 while serving in Vietnam. The ceremony was part of the Class of 1963's 50th class reunion.

June 12

Emanuel Medical Center was named to the prestigious Presidential Circle for its accomplishments in the patient safety arena. The Presidential Circle is one of three categories in the Georgia Hospital Association's Hospital Engagement Network's recognition program and places EMC in the 90th percentile or able.

June 19

Renovations have been made to improve the Emanuel County Jail/Detention Center at no cost to taxpayers. The Sheriff's Office used inmate labor and seized funds to give the facility a facelift, including a fresh coat of paint inside and out.

June 26

David Emanuel Academy's head varsity baseball coach Ty Mingle was selected to be the head varsity football coach. He replaces Andy Woodard, who left after one season to accept a position at Tattnall Square Academy in Macon.

July 3

In their regular monthly meeting, the Swainsboro City Council voted to approve a request by the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 103 to place3 a Veterans Memorial Wall in Pinewood Park featuring all veterans who died in battle.

July 10

On Wednesday, July 3, 2013, Freeman James Rountree, Jr., 41, of Swainsboro, negotiated a plea of guilty to the murder of his estranged wife, Meagan Salter Rountree, on Thursday, Nov. 22, 2012 at 220 Watson Street in Swainsboro.

July 17

Officers with the Swainsboro Police Department made a big arrest after responding to a call regarding suspicious activity and individuals trying to pass fraudulent checks. The call led to five arrests, with all being charged with Racketeering under RICO act.

July 24

Dr. H. Lee Cheek, Jr., who has taught and served as a college administrator in Georgia for many years, returned to South Georgia as East Georgia State College's new Chair of the Social Sciences Division, where he will also serve as professor of political science.

July 31

Ken Warnock was chosen to serve as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce and Swainsboro-Emanuel County Joint Development Authorities.

August 7

East Georgia State College announced its upcoming events to celebrate 40 years. A convocation, Capital Campaign Kick-Off Dinner, Investiture of Dr. Robert Boehmer as the fifth president of EGSC, and celebrations for the 40th anniversary were all planned. for September 26 - 28.

August 14

Judy R. Gay of Twin City Elementary was named Emanuel County's Teacher of the Year during the Emanuel County Board of Education's regular meeting on Monday, August 12, 2013.

August 21

Interfor announced that, less than six months after acquiing the Swainsboro sawmill, it has completed a new $2.8 million state-of-the-art Dual Path Kiln to replace the previous kiln, which was destroyed in a fire during Labor Day weekend in 2012.

August 28

Coach Leroy Jordan was selected to lead the Men's Bobcat Basketball Program this season at East Georgia State College as Interim Head Coach following the resignation of EGSC's Athletic Director and Head Men's Basketball Coach Neil Bailey.

September 4

A tribute was held to honor the life of the late Herman E. Talmadge, Sr., and a portrait was donated to the University of Georgia's Richard B. Russell Library Building by Talmadge's widow, Lynda Cowart Talmadge. The portrait will become part of the permanent collection.

September 11

Otis Alexander, 34, of a Swainsboro address, was arrested in relation to a bomb threat at Swainsboro High School and an armed robbery at the Swainsboro Branch of Robins Federal Credit Union.

September 18

After much work, the lighting at I-16 and US 1 was turned on. Lighting this interchange was part of an ongoing project started after Emanuel County's I-16 Industrial Park was built, and will have a significant impact on its development, both commercial and industrial.

September 25

The Investiture of Dr. Robert G. Boehmer as East Georgia State College's fifth president was announced. The event would take place in EGSC's Luck Gambrell Auditorium on Friday, September 27, attended by University System of Georgia Chancellor Hank Huckaby and delegate representatives from other colleges and universities, as well as local dignitaries.

October 2

The National Nanotechnology Manufacturing Center, Inc., based in Swasinboro, was in the news in June when their Multi Prototyping Lab won the Exhibiter Innovation award at the RAPID 2013 exhibition in Pittsburg, Pa. NNMC went on to be named a finalist in the NewSpace Business Plan Competition, which would be held at Stamford University on October 24.

October 16

Pineland Telephone Communications has been deploying its state of the art underground fiber optic network throughout Swainsboro since the beginning of 2011, and, as of October, the project was 50% completed and included the east side of Swainsboro.

October 23

A long-term investigation conducted by the Emanuel County Sheriff's Office led to the arrest of four suspects, the recovery of thousands of dollars in stolen property, and the closure of several residential burglary and theft by taking cases dating back to at least January of 2013 in Emanuel, Johnson, Jefferson and Burke Counties.

October 30

Swainsboro Masonic Lodge #244 was awarded the First District Sub District #1C Lodge of the Year with cumulative 990 points for their work in the community, charity and for the promotion of Masonic values and interaction throughout Emanuel County, as well as the state of Georgia.

November 6

Felony warrants of murder and cruelty to children were issued for Robert Michael Benton and Melissa Faye Fullmore in relation to an ongoing investigation of the death of four-month-old Rosalynn Fullmore on May 21, 2013.

November 13

During the regular meeting of the Emanuel County Board of Education, Superintendent Erma Jenkins announced her retirement effective June 30, 2014.

November 20

Southeastern Technical College observed their 50th anniversary with a celebration and groundbreaking ceremony for their new Health Science Building.

November 27

A traffic stop on a speeding motorist in Emanuel County led to a large-scale investigation related to credit card and identity fraud. Items found in the vehicle and during the subsequent search of a residence produced enough evidence to indicate the case has international ties.

December 4

Emanuel County firefighters were called twice to a home in Oak Park, located on Whipporwill Road. The first call saw the fire contained to the first floor master bedroom/bathroom area, but the second call saw the entire second floor and roof fully involved, destroying the house.

December 11

Samantha Janes Scott entered a plea of guilty to the charge of felony murder involving the death of her father, Kenneth Wiley Janes. She was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum of 30 years to serve before the possibility of parole. She will also testify against her husband, Randy Lee Scott, at his trial for the same charge in January.

December 18

Emanuel County Institute and Adrian School of Performing Arts were named Title I Distinguished Schools by the Georgia State Board of Education for their focus on student excellence and building strong communities.

December 25

The Swainsboro Police Department proudly hosted their first annual Shop With a Cop event, which enables the police department to provide Christmas gifts for a selected group of children in the community. The program was made possible by a grant received through Walmart.

Deadline to send Christmas packages to troops overseas approaches

The deadline to ship military care packages to troops before Christmas hasn't passed, though some families may have sent their gifts weeks ago.

Tuesday is the deadline to send First Class and Priority Mail packages to ensure delivery by Dec. 25. This includes the flat rate priority boxes offered by the post office. Priority Mail Express will ensure deliver to an APO if sent by Dec. 17.

But Ben Abel, a Fort Bragg spokesman, said there may not be as many packages going overseas this year, thanks to troops returning home.

"The positive thing this year is majority of guys are home," Abel said.

But if a loved one is still deployed, what should be sent?

beautiful christmas cards Rice's husband is still deployed. She said she knows what to avoid sending him.

"He doesn't eat candy," she said. "I send him coffee, his magazine subscriptions. This year I sent him Christmas cards so he could give out to his men."

She also advises families to pack things extremely carefully.

"The APO roughs them up more than the regular mail," she said.

Her husband has brought home the boxes she sent. With the shape they were in, she said, she couldn't use them again.

"I'd say maybe skip glass Christmas ornaments," she said.

Elizabeth Griffin's husband isn't deployed now, but she's had a lot of experience sending out care packages in her husband's five deployments.

"There's things you can't send, things that are restricted," Griffin said.

Depending on where the soldier is deployed, the prohibited items may change, so families are encouraged to check before they send anything.

"Don't send alcohol," she said. "If it gets confiscated, the soldier can get in a lot of trouble."

The season of the destination country is also something to keep in mind.

"I sent my husband gummy vitamins once," she said. "It didn't even occur to me that it was July. By the time he got it, they had all melted together."

She said sending individual packets of food is preferable, to keep things from sticking together. Some things she's found popular include protein packets, beef jerky and magazines.

Both Rice and Griffin agreed that magazines were well received by their loved ones..

"There is never a magazine that does not get read," Griffin said. "Even if it was about knitting."

Websites such as the armywifenetwork.com, ourmilitary.mil and anysolider.com can help provide ideas for care packages.

Rice suggests just asking loved ones what they need.

"My husband will just tell me what he wants," she said. "He'll just say, 'Hey, I need another T-shirt, Hon.' If you know them personally, just ask what they want."

Staff writer Derek Wickham can be reached at wickhamd@fayobserver.com or 323-4848, ext. 332.

Nikon D5300 First Shots: Can Nikon's new mid-level DSLR not only beat the D5200, but compete with the D7100?

<Nikon D5300 Cyber Monday Dealp>by Roger Slavens

In less than a year's time, the recently introduced Nikon D5300 has replaced the mid-level consumer D5200 DSLR. And while its upgrades may not be revolutionary, the new model stands as a compelling, affordable option for advanced amateurs who may be eyeing the higher-end, prosumer D7100 -- as well as an enticement for owners of Nikon's older models to take a step up. We just got the Nikon D5300 into the lab, and we've published our first batch of First Shots -- Still Life* test images -- for you to analyze closely.

The D5300's enhanced DX-format, 24-megapixel APS-C-type CMOS sensor was designed to maximize the camera's resolving power by omitting the optical low-pass filter (as Nikon did earlier this year with the D7100). If the D5300 can minimize moire and anti-aliasing as well as the D7100 did, forgoing the OLPF in a consumer-friendly DSLR could be the move that opens up a realm of incredible detail and sharpness to a mass audience. What's more, the D5300 incorporates Nikon's latest processor -- the EXPEED 4 -- which even the company's most recently announced full-frame prosumer DSLR, the D610, doesn't have. This next-generation imaging engine purports optimize the DSLR's detail-versus-noise output and enhance color accuracy, and its improved ISO sensitivity -- now ranging from 100 to 12,800 in standard mode -- could up the ante on low-light performance.

How do all these upgrades translate in terms of image quality?

Check out our Nikon D5300 First Shots for yourself. And be sure to pit these test images side-by-side with those from the D5200, D7100 -- or any other camera we've ever tested -- via our Comparometer™ image quality comparison tool.

For more information about the DSLR's new features and specs, read our first impressions Nikon D5300 review. In addition to image quality and performance enhancements, the camera also boasts built-in Wi-Fi functionality and GPS -- the first Nikon DSLR to do so -- as well as a more compact and lightweight design, and a 3-2-inch tilt-swivel LCD monitor that features a whopping 1,037K dots of resolution.

* Use our Still Life target images to look for detail (tone-on-tone, fine, highlights, shadows), as well as noise suppression, white balance, color accuracy and color shape retention.

Order your Nikon D5300 with trusted Imaging Resource affiliates Adorama or B&H now. The D5300 body runs about US$700, and kitted with a Nikon 18-140mm lens about $1,400.

Adorama:

B&H:

Source: Imaging-resource

Sigma Lenses Get Firmware Update For Nikon D5300

<Nikon D5300 Discounth2>By Greg Tarr On Nov 19 2013 - 12:04pm

Ronkonkoma, N.Y. - Sigma revealed Tuesday that a free firmware upgrade is available for photographers using Nikon mount Sigma lenses with their Nikon model D5300 cameras.

The company said it has discovered that when paired with the D5300, Sigma Nikon mount lenses containing internal motors do not properly operate the optical stabilization (OS) and Live View Auto Focus functions.

The issue is specific to lenses used with this particular camera.

The free firmware update will be available starting Nov. 20. For discontinued products, Sigma said users should contact their nearest authorized Sigma distributor.

For lenses that are compatible with the SIGMA USB DOCK, users may update their lenses via the Sigma Optimization Pro software.

Sigma customers who own a Nikon D5300 can contact their nearest authorized Sigma distributors, from the provided link, to receive the firmware update.

Going forward, all Nikon mount Sigma lenses leaving the factory will be made fully compatible with the D5300 and will carry a "D5300 compatible" tag, the company said.

Source: Twice

Sigma announces compatibility problems with Nikon D5300

<Nikon D5300 Cyber Monday Dealp>Sigma has said it will release new firmware that should correct the problems Nikon D5300 users may experience with its lenses

In a statement on its website, Sigma has said that the current firmware of its Nikon-fit interchangeable lenses 'may not work properly with the Nikon D5300's OS and Live View Auto Focus functions'.

Though it hasn't released specific details, Sigma has said that the problem occurs specifically with Nikon-fit interchangable lenses that incorporatean internal motor.

Sigma will be releasing a free firmware update tomorrow (November 20) that it says should correct the problem. You can contact your nearest Sigma dealer in order to receive the update; Sigma provides a full list here.

See Sigma's website for the full statement.

Source: Whatdigitalcamera

Nikon Releases D5300 Digital SLR Camera

<Nikon D5300 Cheapp>/PRNewswire/ --

The new Nikon D5300 with built-in Wi-Fi® and GPS makes it simple to share high quality images

Nikon Singapore Pte Ltd is pleased to announce the release of the D5300, Nikon's latest entry-level DX-format digital SLR camera.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20131110/652912 )

The D5300 offers an effective pixel count of 24.2-million pixels and is equipped with a Nikon DX-format CMOS sensor with no optical low-pass filter, as well as the new high-performance EXPEED 4 image-processing engine. It is Nikon's first digital SLR camera to offer built-in wireless LAN (Wi-Fi®) and GPS functions, so users can easily share high-quality images captured with the D5300 and NIKKOR lenses via a smart device. These functions also allow users to look back on routes taken on vacation or with outdoor activities using a log feature that is part of the built-in GPS function.

The D5300 is designed with a structure made of a new material to bring about a smaller and lighter body while maintaining the necessary strength and durability. The camera is also equipped with a number of features that support various shooting situations, including a 3.2-inch, approximately 1037k-dot vari-angle monitor with a wide viewing angle for shooting from a variety of angles, a full-HD movie recording function that supports recording of smooth 1920 × 1080/60p movies, and a Special Effects mode with nine options that can be applied to photos and movies with shooting for a variety of creative effects.

The Zoom/Focus Assist Lever NAL-1 for exclusive use with NIKKOR lenses will also be released at the same time as the D5300. The NAL-1 is a lever that enables smoother zooming and focusing when attached to the zoom ring or focus ring on a NIKKOR lens and is especially convenient for movie recording.

D5300 Primary Features

1. An effective pixel count of 24.2-million pixels anda Nikon DX-format CMOS sensor with no optical low-pass filter, and the latest image-processing engine, EXPEED 4, for superior image quality and definition

The D5300 offers an effective pixel count of 24.2-million pixels and is equipped with a DX-format CMOS image sensor developed exclusively by Nikon. It supports a broad range of standard sensitivities from ISO 100 to 12800, as well as an additional expansion of up to ISO 25600 equivalent (Hi 1) for high-definition images exhibiting very little noise with shooting at a broad range of sensitivities. In addition, the high-speed performance of the latest image-processing engine, EXPEED 4, optimized for high-performance digital SLR cameras, provides superior results with noise reduction (NR), auto white balance, color reproduction characteristics, tone processing, and image quality at high sensitivities. The absence of a low-pass filter maximizes the superior resolution of the high pixel count and rendering capabilities of NIKKOR lenses.

2. Built-in Wi-Fi for transferring high-quality images to a smart device for ease of sharing

As Nikon's first digital SLR camera equipped with a built-in Wi-Fi function, high-quality images with an effective pixel count of 24.2-million pixels captured from a variety of angles using the flexible vari-angle monitor can be transferred to a smart device for sharing with others[*1]. This expands the ways in which images are enjoyed after they are taken by enabling immediate image transfer for sharing photos with family and friends via blogs or social networking sites anytime, anywhere.

Transfer function: Images captured by the D5300, or already saved to a memory card inserted in the D5300, can be transferred to a smart device over a wireless connection. These images can then be viewed in the smart device display, or uploaded to a blog or social networking site. In addition, the size at which images are transferred to a smart device can be selected from two options to fit the storage capacity of the smart device.

Remote shooting function: The camera's live view shooting display can be shown on the display of the smart device in real time, allowing users to accurately frame photos and predict results with remote control while shooting[*2].

Manual upload function: Users can select images to be uploaded to a smart device using the D5300 monitor display. In situations or environments that do not sufficiently support immediate image upload, or when a smart device is not readily available, the camera can be used to specify images, and image file size, to be uploaded to the smart device at a later time.

[*1] The Wireless Mobile Utility app must first be installed on the smart device (the app can be downloaded free of charge from the smart device's app store).

[*2] Effective only when AF-area mode is set to "Normal-area AF" or "Wide-area AF".

3. A built-in GPS function that records location data and tracks movement

The D5300 is Nikon's first digital SLR camera with a built-in GPS function, enabling recording of location data (longitude, latitude, altitude) with images. It also works seamlessly with ViewNX 2, NIKON IMAGE SPACE, and commercial mapping software enables display of images where they were captured on maps, as well as sharing of images with location data. The A-GPS function also makes detection of location data smoother. This capability allows users to look back on memories or track their movement, on vacations or with outdoor activities by shooting location, and date and time of capture.

4. Designed using a new material for a smaller and lighter body that is strong and durable

The D5300 is designed using a new material. As the camera cover and body are formed with a rigid, integrated structure, there are fewer joints. This enables a smaller and lighter camera with a width of 125 mm, height of 98 mm, and depth of 76 mm, and weighing just 530 g[*], all while maintaining the necessary strength and durability.

* Including battery and SD memory card; excluding body cap.

5. A 3.2-inch, 1037k-dot vari-angle LCD monitor with wide viewing angle for simple shooting from any angle

The D5300 features a larger 3.2-inch (approximately 1037k-dot) LCD monitor with wide viewing angle for a crisp and clear display. The side-hinged vari-angle monitor opens from 0 to 180° at the side, and can be rotated up to 90° clockwise and up to 180° counter-clockwise. This enables shooting from a wide variety of angles, from low to high, making even self-portraits possible.

6. D-Movie function for recording full-HD 1920 × 1080 60p movies

The D5300 is equipped with a D-Movie function that supports recording of 1920 × 1080/60p movies. The combination of NIKKOR lenses, a high pixel-count CMOS image sensor unit which does not include an optical low-pass filter, and an effective pixel count of 24.2-million pixels, enables recording of high-definition movies exhibiting superior rendering characteristics. In addition, autofocusing during movie recording is possible using contrast-detect AF. When the focus mode is set to full-time-servo AF (AF-F) and AF-area mode is set to Subject-tracking AF, the camera automatically maintains focus on moving subjects. Manual movie settings are also available, allowing users to choose the desired shutter speed and ISO sensitivity in live view mode and with movie recording. Movie frame rate with full-HD recording can be selected from 24p, 25p, 30p, 50p, and 60p. In addition to recording of high-quality sound via the built-in stereo microphone, the optional Stereo Microphone ME-1 can also be used to record stereo sound.

Toy Camera Effect: Create photos and movies in which colors have been changed and edges have been shaded so that they appear to have been recorded with a toy camera. Users can adjust the vividness and degree of vignetting (peripheral shading) from three options each to suit their individual preferences.

HDR Painting[*]: The camera shoots two frames at different exposures and combines them, with processing that changes color tones, for HDR images with a painterly effect.

7. Toy Camera Effect and HDR Painting added to Special Effects mode (total of 9 effects) for more creative expression with still images and movies

The D5300 is equipped with a Special Effects mode, with which effects can be selected and applied with recording of both still images and movies. The effects can also be previewed in the camera monitor in real time before shooting or recording begins. A total of nine special effects are available, including the seven built into the D5200 (Selective Color, Color Sketch, Miniature Effect, Night Vision, Silhouette, High Key, Low Key), as well as the new Toy Camera Effect and HDR Painting*. This allows users to easily utilize dramatic effects like those seen in art and the movies. This mode was incorporated into the D5300 to respond to the creative intent of users who were searching for a way to express their own unique style and creativity.

* HDR Painting cannot be applied to movies. Further, results of the HDR Painting effect cannot be previewed in the camera monitor.

8. Designed with a firm grip using just one hand and available in 3 colors, including a new gray option

The grip on the D5300 is designed to fit comfortably in the palm of the hand for a firm hold using just one hand, making framing via both the optical viewfinder and the monitor's live view display easier. In addition to the popular black and red colors, the D5300 is also available in a new gray option. Metal parts on the D5300, such as the microphone cover and plate over the mode dial, have also been designed with a surface finish that gives the camera an elegant appearance.

About Nikon

Pricing and Availability

The Nikon 5300 will be available in three colors (Black, Red and Gray), starting in November 2013 at the suggested retail price (SRP) of AED 3,999. For more information on the new Nikon D5300 and other Nikon products, please visit http://www.nikon-mea.com.

Nikon, At the Heart of the Image. Nikon is the world leader in digital imaging, precision optics and photo imaging technology and is globally recognised for setting new standards in product design and performance for its award-winning consumer and professional photographic equipment. Nikon Singapore Pte Ltd distributes consumer and professional digital SLR cameras, NKKOR optics, Speedlights and system accessories; Nikon COOLPIX compact digital cameras; Nikon sports optics as well as the Nikon 1 advanced cameras with interchangeable lens system in over 50 countries.

For more information, visit http://www.nikon-mea.com. Connect with Nikon and other photographers on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/NikonMEA and get the latest news and information from Twitter by following @NikonMEA.

SOURCE Nikon Corporation

* Read more articles by Nikon Corporation

Source: Sacbee

Nikon D5300 Rumors, Specs, Price and Release Info: Camera Company Recently Releases Full Specs

<Nikon D5300 Couponsp>Nikon has recently come out with a full list of specs for the new D5300.

The latest model of the DX-format DSLR has 24.2 megapixels, a DX-format CMOS sensor with no optical low-pass filter, built-in Wi-Fi capabilities, a built-in GPS, a durable light body, a 3.2-inch 1037k-dot vari-angle LCCD monitor with wide viewing angle, NAL-1 features for zoom/focus assist, and more.

It also has a full-HD 1920x1080/60p capability for movies, where selection can range from 24, 25, 30,50, and 60p. There are also 9 special effects for creative expression.

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As previously reported, Nikon Rumors reports that the Nikon D5300 is expected to be introduced before the Photo Plus show in NYC at the end of the month or the CES show in Las Vegas in January.

It is reported that this will be the first camera to get the new EXPEED 4 processor. Some other rumored specs include 24 Megapixels, 39 AF points, built-in Wi-Fi and built-in GPS.

Photography Bay reports that the D530 will be introduced as an entry-level APS-C format camera. There are no reports yet of whether or not it will have better image quality over the D5200, but it would make sense to add additional video features to the D5300.

No prices have been reported yet either, but Inferse reports that it may be priced lower than the D5200 was when it first was released.

Source: Designntrend

Nikon Df full-frame DSLR with 16.2-megapixel sensor launched at Rs. 1,83,950 | NDTV Gadgets

<Nikon D5300 Cheapp>

Nikon India has announced the release of the Nikon Df, a light and smaller-size full-frame DSLR equipped with mechanical dials for setting shutter speed, ISO sensitivity, exposure compensation, exposure mode and release mode independently, that offers users great flexibility and control.

The Nikon Df features a 16.2-megapixel full frame CMOS sensor and the EXPEED 3 image processing engine, with an ISO range of 100-12800 (expandable from 50 to 204800). The camera features a shutter release mode that enables users to capture images at approximately 5.5 frames per second. In addition, as the first Nikon digital SLR camera equipped with a collapsible metering coupling lever, the Df allows photographers to make use of the full range of Nikon lenses, including non-AI lenses. The camera is also compatible with the SDXC and UHS-I standard memory cards1, as well as the Eye-Fi cards.

Speaking on the announcement, Mr. Hiroshi Takashina, Managing Director, Nikon India said, "The New Nikon Df leads Nikon's innovation of providing advanced imaging capabilities, without having to compromise on the form factor. The Df is made for Photo enthusiasts who want to expand their creative horizon with a camera that offers high image quality of an FX-Format and superb portability. We at Nikon continue to set new benchmarks in the world of photography. The new Nikon Df impeccably combines remarkable features of Nikon's milestone cameras and highlights exceptional imaging technology in a compact form factor."

The body of the Nikon Df measures approximately 143.5 x 110 x 66.5 mm and weighs about 710 grams. Nikon Df comes with power-up time of just 0.14 seconds and a release time lag of approximately 0.052 seconds. The camera also features a 3.2-inch LCD monitor with a resolution of approximately 921,000 pixels and a Multi-CAM 4800 autofocus sensor module, bringing about a unique 39-point Autofocus (AF) system.

Nikon Df is priced at Rs. 183,950 for the body only, while the Nikon Df with AF-S NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Special Edition kit lens will be available for Rs. 199,950. The camera will be available across India from December 2013.

Source: Ndtv

The Camera Bag: Nikon Japan is giving away this insane Nikkor alarm clock

<Nikon D5300 Couponsp>by Tim Barribeau

We've seen some pretty wacky things made to look like lenses over the years, but this is a first. Not only is this alarm clock an incredible facsimile of the Nikon 20-70mm f/2.8, but it will also wake you to the sound of a shutter firing. And even better than that - it's being given away by Nikon itself.

As part of its 80th anniversary celebrations, Nikon Japan is giving this incredible clock as a prize to its lucky customers. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem to be eligible to those of us on other shores. But if you're a Nikon user in Japan, and own one of a library list of lenses, you can offer your proof of purchase and warranty information to Nikon in order to enter to win the alarm clock.

And when it comes time for you to wake up in the morning? Then this is the sound that greets you.

We've seen lens shaped stools, cushions, mugs and more. But this is the first we've seen from the lens manufacturer itself. And this thing is so cool, that we really hope Nikon takes a hint from the coverage it's getting, and starts selling the things. It could be the perfect present for the Nikonist in your life.

(via PetaPixel, Nikon Rumors)

Source: Imaging-resource

Nikon D5300 specs, features, and price

<Nikon D5300 Cheapimg src="http://www.associatednews.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/nik530.jpg">

TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the D5300, the first Nikon DX-format digital SLR camera to offer built-in Wi-Fi and GPS functions.

The Nikon D5300 will be available November-mid onwards across India in Black, Red and Grey color variants at an MRP of Rs. 54,450 for the body only, Rs. 59,950 with 18-55mm VR lens, and Rs. 75,950 with 18-140mm VR lens.

The Nikon D5300 features an effective pixel count of 24.2-megapixels and a Nikon DX-format CMOS sensor. Measuring 125 x 98 x 76 mm (4.9 x 3.9 x 3 inches) and weighing 530 g (1 lb 2.7 oz) the D5300 is slightly smaller and lighter than its predecessor.

The D5300′s built-in Wi-Fi connectivity feature can be used for transmitting images to a smart device for sharing as well as for remote shooting.

Built-in GPS also means images can be geotagged with latitude, longitude, and altitude data, without the use of external adapters. Full HD 1080p video can now also be recorded at 60/50 fps and a new pentamirror increases viewfinder magnification to approx. 0.82x.

Speaking on the announcement, Hiroshi Takashina, Managing Director, Nikon India said that the D5300 features Nikon's latest innovative technologies, allowing users to instantly shoot, store and share images.

Sajjan Kumar, Vice President-Imaging, Nikon India, elaborated explaining that It's also been upgraded to use the Nikon EXPEED 4 image processing engine which enables a larger ISO range of 100 to 12,800 (expandable to 25,600 equivalent) though the camera still has a top continuous burst speed of 5 frames per second.

Source: Associatednews

Nikon Unveils D5300 DSLR With WiFi, GPS

By Greg Tarr On Oct 17 2013 - 10:59am

Nikon's Nikon D5300 Discount ($799 body only) is the company's first DSLR to incorporate WiFi and GPS geotagging.

Melville, N.Y. - Nikon introduced Thursday its D5300 D-SLR, offering an enhanced 24.2 megapixel CMOS sensor and a Nikon-first built-in Wi-Fi and GPS.

The company also added an AF-S NIKKOR 58mm f/1.4G lens prime lens.

Nikon's D5300, which will be available in October for a $799.95 (body only) suggested retail price or $1,399.95 for a kit including the camera and an AF-S Nikkor 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens , is the company's first D-SLR with built-in Wi-Fi and GPS functionality to provide instant photo sharing with smartphones or tablets, and to enable geotagging images.

The camera incorporates a 24.2-megapizel DX-format CMOS sensor and is features a compact, lightweight ergonomically body design.

Other key features include a 3.2-inch swiveling Vari-angle LCD display; a 39-point AF system with 9 cross-type sensors; 5 fps continuous shooting, FullHD 1080p video capture with built-in stereo microphone; intuitive scene recognition and a variety of image efects and in-camera editing tools.

The D5300 will be available in a choice of black, red and gray body colors.

The AF-S Nikkor 58mm f/1.4G lens, which will be available in October for a $1,699.95 suggested retail price, will accommodate both FX and DX format cameras offering high quality low-light shooting performance.

Nikon said the unusual 58mm focal length is ideal for portraits, landscapes and street photography.

Source: Twice

New Gear: Nikon D5300 DSLR With WiFi, GPS

In addition to their new high-end lens, Nikon also has a new DSLR to unveil today in the form of the Nikon D5300 Cyber Monday Deal. It's not a huge leap from the D5200 that came before it, but it does add a few enhancements to keep it competitive with other mid-level DSLRs like the new Ricoh Pentax K-3, and Canon's fancy-focusing 70D.

The D5300 has a 24.2-megapixel sensor, which works in concert with Nikon's latest Expeed 4 image processor. That gives it a maximum ISO of 25,600 and the ability to shoot 5 fps in both live view and with the optical finder. The AF system has 39 points and the D5300 also uses Nikon's Scene Recognition System for metering.

The D5300 has built-in Wifi, so it can beam images directly to a mobile device. it's also the first Nikon DSLR to have internal GPS for geotagging images in real time. The 3.2-inch screen articulates and has 1.037K dots. In this section, the press release goes out of its way to explicitly mention "selfless" so take that for what it's worth.

The D5300 will be available later this month as part of a kit with the 18-140mm F/3.5-5.6 ED VR lens for $1,399.

While it's not a huge jump from the already-solid D5200, these do seem like worthy upgrades to be made. With 24-megapixel images, it might be a bit taxing on the built-in Wifi, so if you're dreaming of transferring full-res JPEGs to your phone in real time, you might find it cumbersome after a short time.

This segment of the market and slightly above should stay pretty interesting for a while, though. These step-up DSLRs have a ton of potential, so we're excited to see where it goes from here.

Source: Popphoto

Nikon D5300 specs, features, and price

<Nikon D5300 Cheapimg src="http://www.associatednews.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/nik530.jpg">

TOKYO - Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the release of the D5300, the first Nikon DX-format digital SLR camera to offer built-in Wi-Fi and GPS functions.

The Nikon D5300 will be available November-mid onwards across India in Black, Red and Grey color variants at an MRP of Rs. 54,450 for the body only, Rs. 59,950 with 18-55mm VR lens, and Rs. 75,950 with 18-140mm VR lens.

The Nikon D5300 features an effective pixel count of 24.2-megapixels and a Nikon DX-format CMOS sensor. Measuring 125 x 98 x 76 mm (4.9 x 3.9 x 3 inches) and weighing 530 g (1 lb 2.7 oz) the D5300 is slightly smaller and lighter than its predecessor.

The D5300′s built-in Wi-Fi connectivity feature can be used for transmitting images to a smart device for sharing as well as for remote shooting.

Built-in GPS also means images can be geotagged with latitude, longitude, and altitude data, without the use of external adapters. Full HD 1080p video can now also be recorded at 60/50 fps and a new pentamirror increases viewfinder magnification to approx. 0.82x.

Speaking on the announcement, Hiroshi Takashina, Managing Director, Nikon India said that the D5300 features Nikon's latest innovative technologies, allowing users to instantly shoot, store and share images.

Sajjan Kumar, Vice President-Imaging, Nikon India, elaborated explaining that It's also been upgraded to use the Nikon EXPEED 4 image processing engine which enables a larger ISO range of 100 to 12,800 (expandable to 25,600 equivalent) though the camera still has a top continuous burst speed of 5 frames per second.

Source: Associatednews

Nikon Unveils D5300 DSLR With WiFi, GPS

By Greg Tarr On Oct 17 2013 - 10:59am

Nikon's Nikon D5300 Deals ($799 body only) is the company's first DSLR to incorporate WiFi and GPS geotagging.

Melville, N.Y. - Nikon introduced Thursday its D5300 D-SLR, offering an enhanced 24.2 megapixel CMOS sensor and a Nikon-first built-in Wi-Fi and GPS.

The company also added an AF-S NIKKOR 58mm f/1.4G lens prime lens.

Nikon's D5300, which will be available in October for a $799.95 (body only) suggested retail price or $1,399.95 for a kit including the camera and an AF-S Nikkor 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens , is the company's first D-SLR with built-in Wi-Fi and GPS functionality to provide instant photo sharing with smartphones or tablets, and to enable geotagging images.

The camera incorporates a 24.2-megapizel DX-format CMOS sensor and is features a compact, lightweight ergonomically body design.

Other key features include a 3.2-inch swiveling Vari-angle LCD display; a 39-point AF system with 9 cross-type sensors; 5 fps continuous shooting, FullHD 1080p video capture with built-in stereo microphone; intuitive scene recognition and a variety of image efects and in-camera editing tools.

The D5300 will be available in a choice of black, red and gray body colors.

The AF-S Nikkor 58mm f/1.4G lens, which will be available in October for a $1,699.95 suggested retail price, will accommodate both FX and DX format cameras offering high quality low-light shooting performance.

Nikon said the unusual 58mm focal length is ideal for portraits, landscapes and street photography.

Source: Twice

Newtown Victim Shouted For Classmates To Run

<gay halloween costumes couplep>HARTFORD, Conn. -- HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - A 6-year-old boy killed in the massacre in Sandy Hook Elementary School shouted for his classmates to run while the gunman paused to reload and was shot moments later, the boy's mother said Friday.

The boy, Jesse Lewis, had just seen his teacher shot and urged the others to flee while the gunman, Adam Lanza, put a new clip into his semi-automatic rifle.

"He yelled, 'Run!' Adam reloaded and shot him in the head," said Scarlett Lewis, who learned details of the events inside the classroom from investigators who gathered accounts from children who survived.

"When I heard he used his last few seconds on earth to try to save his friends, I was not surprised," she said. "I am so incredibly proud of him."

The boy's actions were first reported by The Hartford Courant.

Lanza shot his way into the school on Dec. 14 and killed 20 first-grade children and six women in one of the worst school shootings in U.S. history. He also killed his mother earlier in the day and committed suicide as police arrived at the school building.

A report on the Newtown shooting by investigators is due to be released soon. Investigators have not disclosed a possible motive for the massacre.

In Jesse's classroom, which was led by teacher Victoria Soto, 11 students survived, including some who ran past Lanza when he stopped to reload. In the classroom led by Lauren Rousseau, only one child survived. Both teachers were killed.

Scarlett Lewis said several people emerged as heroes that day, but her understanding is that some of the survivors ran because of what her son did to help them.

Lewis has dedicated herself recently to the Jesse Lewis Choose Love Foundation, which promotes ways for communities to "choose love over anger, gratitude over entitlement, and forgiveness and compassion over bitterness." The foundation was inspired by a message that Jesse had left on their kitchen chalkboard with the words "nurturing," ''healing" and love."

Earlier on HuffPost:

Source: Huffingtonpost

Canaccord: iPhone 5S is No. 1 at all U.S. carriers; 5C is No. 2 or 3

Only Samsung's Galaxy S4 is outselling the iPhone 5C, and only at Verizon and T-Mobile.

FORTUNE -- "Our September surveys indicated very strong initial sales and back orders for the iPhone 5s iphone cases otterbox defender video and strong iPhone 5c sales at the four tier-1 U.S. carriers and also in international markets."

So wrote Canaccord Genuity's T. Michael Walkley in a note to clients Friday that included the first published chart of where Apple's ( AAPL) new iPhones stood last month with respect to their competition at each of the major carriers.

That the iPhone 5S was selling briskly was no surprise.

What was a surprise, given initial reports of a " glut" of unsold units, is how well the iPhone 5C was doing. The Canaccord survey found it out-selling Samsung's Galaxy S4 at AT&T ( T) and Sprint ( S) despite shortages in certain colors and memory configurations.

The Galaxy S4, however, is still the No. 2 seller at Verizon ( VZ) and T-Mobile, thanks in part, according to Walkley, to price cuts that Samsung initiated in June.

Below: Canaccord's full chart.

Source: Fortune Tech: Technology blogs, news and analysis from Fortune Magazine

Legal Advocates Want Overhaul Of Public Defender System

Prominent members of the legal community are pressuring the Obama administration to do more to ensure that poor criminal defendants have access to a lawyer, a situation that Attorney General Eric Holder has already likened to a national crisis.

Calls to create a bipartisan White House commission began earlier this year, with the 50th anniversary of the landmark Supreme Court case Gideon v. Wainwright that first insured a public defender for persons accused of non-capital offenses. This week, advocates traveled to Washington to meet with Associate Attorney General Tony West to push the idea of the commission beyond the talking stage, NPR has learned.

Former Alabama Supreme Court Justice Sue Bell Cobb, former Vice President Walter Mondale, New York indigent legal services director William Leahy, and Equal Justice Initiative Director Bryan Stevenson wrote a letter to the Justice Department earlier this year expressing concern that many defendants charged with minor offenses were not getting legal counsel and that others were not being properly served by overworked and underpaid public defenders.

"The right to counsel is a precious right that goes to the core of who we are as a people," the letter said.

They said work needs to be done in the areas of reducing the use of cash bail, which can be unaffordable for the poor, appointing a lawyer earlier in the criminal process, ensuring defenders are truly independent from judges who appoint them, getting rid of some low level and non-violent 5s iphone cases defender vs commuter otter box youtube through treatment and other programs, counseling defendants on the impact of waiving their rights and studying the fiscal and psychological costs of over-incarceration. They want the Obama administration to establish a National Commission on the Fair Administration of Justice for the Indigent Accused.

David Carroll, executive director of the Sixth Amendment Foundation, describes the scope of the problem this way. "The most prevalent form of right to counsel services in America is for an attorney to handle an unlimited number of cases for a single flat fee under contract to a judge or county manager. This model produces a financial conflict of interest in which the less amount of resources or effort the attorney puts into the case, the more he puts in his own pocket. And, judges often appoint only those attorneys who contribute to their political reelection campaigns. Over 64% of counties (1,900 of 3,033) in the U.S. operate under this model."

Attorney General Eric Holder has given a series of speeches on reorienting the Justice Department away from non-violent drug offenders, making use of compassionate release programs for sick and elderly inmates, and other steps to reduce the nation's overcrowded prisons. But advocates say one issue that cuts across all those problems is the lack of defense attorneys for people facing criminal charges.

States already have been moving to try to address that concern. Texas overhauled its system for defending the poor more than 10 years ago. Earlier this summer, Michigan's Republican Gov. Rick Snyder signed bipartisan legislation in that state to create an indigent defense commission, an idea pushed by Tea Party state lawmakers and the Texas branch of the American Civil Liberties Union.

And public defenders in 47 out of 50 states have been writing Holder all summer to urge the Justice Department to take a broader role. For instance, Carlos Martinez, a public defender in Miami, wrote "for hundreds of thousands of Florida residents, the right to counsel is a hollow right."

Martinez said many misdemeanor defendants get no legal assistance at all, and in other cases, defendants run through an "assembly line" guilty plea mill with little of the "adversarial testing of the evidence" that undergirds the American justice system.

It's a familiar as far away as South Dakota.

"The fact that we do not have a statewide public defender system leaves us with no support when it comes to advocating for equal funding," wrote Traci Smith, the chief public defender in Minnehaha County, South Dakota. "Due to excessive caseloads and staffing shortages, it has become incredibly difficult to keep qualified attorneys on staff. ... Unfortunately whenever there is a shortfall, the Public Defender education and training is always the first line item that gets cut."

In Missouri, whose indigent defense system has long been cited for its triage-level workloads, Cat Kelly of the state public defender's office and Chief Justice Richard Teitelman of the Missouri Supreme Court wrote this plea: "As a nation, we daily pledge our allegiance to 'liberty and justice for all' while collectively closing our eyes to the horrific gap between that ideal and the reality of our justice system."

Earlier this year, in what officials at the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers called a milestone, the Justice Department weighed in to affirm a federal interest in the smooth and fair operations of public defender functions in two towns near Seattle.

The issue is drawing attention on Capitol Hill, too. Florida Democratic Rep. Ted Deutch is preparing to introduce legislation that would create a permanent, national center for the right to counsel, a nonprofit group that would provide financial support and training for public defense systems. The idea is modeled on the Legal Services Corporation, which helps provide legal aid in civil cases, according to a draft summary of the bill obtained by NPR.

Update at 10 a.m. on Oct. 3: 'Time To Stop Studying These Problems'

Not everyone who works on public defense for the poor thinks spending time and money to study the problem is a good idea. A group of lawyers and activists told the Justice Department earlier this week there's virtually no debate on the key point: that more money and training need to be provided to public defenders nationwide.

"We believe it is time to stop studying these problems and to do something about them," wrote a group that includes Stephen Bright of the Southern Center for Human Rights, David Bruck of the Washington and Lee University School of Law, Sherrilyn Ifill of the NAACP Legal Defense & Educational Fund and Virginia Sloan of the Constitution Project.

"Whatever resources the federal government is willing to commit to the right to counsel for poor people accused of crimes should be immediately spent funding people and programs working in states and communities where there is the greatest need to make Gideon a reality," they added.

Source: Npr

Security, innovation, mobility: New HP EliteBook notebooks make serious business statement

<notebookimg src="http://cdn.itproportal.com/photos/SAM_0731_contentfullwidth.JPG">

ITProPortal was this week invited to beautiful Barcelona, to witness the launch of HP's latest line-up of business products.

The overall theme of the autumn event was 'The new style of IT' and the company made it clear from the outset that its new devices were built with four very clear themes - or "megatrends" - in mind: cloud, security, big data and mobility.

As HP correctly pointed out, the world of business has transformed over the last few years, and is still undergoing massive changes, which solutions providers need to adapt to.

"We want to make our customers successful in their business," said Herbert Koek, senior vice president of printing and personal systems at the EMEA branch of HP. Though the firm showed off a vast number of design and hardware changes, it time and time again stressed that there have been no compromises with regards to security.

And for good reason too, it seems. According to HP, on average, information theft costs corporations a staggering $5.5 million per incident. While innovation, design, durability, experience and the creation of new form factors to enable "working in different ways" are important to staying up-to-date, security, HP claims, is absolutely paramount.

The undoubted stars of the big show were the business notebooks that make up the new EliteBook 800 series. These computers come in three different sizes: the 12.5in EliteBook 820, the 14in 840 and the 15.6in 850, which can offer up to 33 hours of battery life. The machines, which are encased in a tough magnesium unibody chassis, are up to 40 per cent thinner and 28 per cent lighter than their predecessors, the EliteBook 8000 series, and all three models run Windows 8 as standard.

HP says the computers are intended to bring an "Ultrabook experience" to the office. The entire series is available across the EMEA now, from a basic price of £899.

"IT decision makers today are faced with history's most diverse and technically savvy workforce, and their demands for devices that reflect personal style and productivity preferences present a unique business challenge," said Enrique Lores, senior vice president and general manager of commercial PCs at HP.

We managed to get our hands on all three of the new EliteBook notebooks. Follow the link above to find out what they're like in practice.

What was perhaps even more interesting, however, was the unveiling of HP's new Sure Start technology, which features on the 800 series notebooks. This is a hardware-based security solution which "detects and remedies malware and security attacks to the BIOS."

HP says the system can sense the effects of an attack and replace "the corrupted BIOS Boot Block with a clean copy from the secure memory," thus keeping downtime to a minimum.

Also on the menu was an interesting little product called the Security Smart Jacket for ElitePad (pictured above). As the name suggests, this is a lightweight outer cover built for HP's ElitePad tablet, designed to make it one the safest professional slates on the market.

It offers multi-factor authentication, via an inbuilt smart card reader and fingerprint sensor, meaning that only employees pre-approved for tablet access can get inside the ElitePad's system.

"HP is leading the transformation of the workplace with innovative and mobile business PCs designed for style, but built for security and reliability," added Lores.

Source: Itproportal

Lunatik TAKTIK cases for iPhone 5s: Extreme peace of mind

Summary: Lunatik has issued updated versions of its ultra-protective, extreme lifestyle 5s iphone cases otterbox x2 for the iPhone 5s.

Anyone who follows this blog knows that I am a huge fan of protective cases for mobile devices. Recently, I looked at OtterBox's latest Defender case designs for the iPhone 5s and 5c.

While I still believe that OtterBox is one of the better cases on the market, recent design changes in the product to accommodate the Touch ID sensor in the new iPhone 5s may have reduced the effectiveness of some of its protection.

So if you really want to add a little bit more fudge factor to your active lifestyle and increase your peace of mind when carrying these expensive devices, there's another solution on the market: The Lunatik TAKTIK.

Lunatik has two cases on the market to address active as well as extreme lifestyles. The TAKTIK Strike, for both iPhone 5s and iPhone 5, is a multi-layered, machine screw-sealed and thick "sarcophagus" enclosure for your mobile device.

The bezels are made out of an impact-resistant polymer, which is surrounded by a silicone, 9mm-thick impact truss, accompanied by PVD-coated steel hardware with aluminum port covers. This is a case designed to take the rigors of daily use and abuse and then some.

What I most like about the case is the tight fit from screwing the enclosure shut, as well as the high elevation of the bezel from the screen area, which is critical for protecting the screen from damage if it happens to fall flat towards the display area. At $60 for both the white or black versions, I happen to think the price is right for what you are getting, which is a lot of peace of mind for an otherwise fragile and slippery device.

Unlike the OtterBox Defender, the TAKTIK Strike does not have a permanent screen protector, but I don't think this is a major deficiency in the product's design.

For those of you with "extreme" lifestyles, there is the TAKTIK Extreme for the iPhone 5s and 5, which adds a secondary layer of Corning Gorilla Glass. This doubles the price of the case ($124) and it also, in the case of the 5s, completely covers the Touch ID sensor, leaving it usable as a home button only and thus requiring the traditional pin-code screen unlock and password entry for App Store purchases.

However, my guess is that anyone wanting to use this case on a 5s probably doesn't care about this issue.

Have you pre-ordered your TAKTIK Strike or Extreme for your iPhone 5s? Talk back and let me know.
Source: Zdnet

Lunatik TAKTIK cases for iPhone 5s: Extreme peace of mind

Summary: Lunatik has issued updated versions of its ultra-protective, extreme lifestyle 5s iphone cases otterbox defender yellow for the iPhone 5s.

Anyone who follows this blog knows that I am a huge fan of protective cases for mobile devices. Recently, I looked at OtterBox's latest Defender case designs for the iPhone 5s and 5c.

While I still believe that OtterBox is one of the better cases on the market, recent design changes in the product to accommodate the Touch ID sensor in the new iPhone 5s may have reduced the effectiveness of some of its protection.

So if you really want to add a little bit more fudge factor to your active lifestyle and increase your peace of mind when carrying these expensive devices, there's another solution on the market: The Lunatik TAKTIK.

Lunatik has two cases on the market to address active as well as extreme lifestyles. The TAKTIK Strike, for both iPhone 5s and iPhone 5, is a multi-layered, machine screw-sealed and thick "sarcophagus" enclosure for your mobile device.

The bezels are made out of an impact-resistant polymer, which is surrounded by a silicone, 9mm-thick impact truss, accompanied by PVD-coated steel hardware with aluminum port covers. This is a case designed to take the rigors of daily use and abuse and then some.

What I most like about the case is the tight fit from screwing the enclosure shut, as well as the high elevation of the bezel from the screen area, which is critical for protecting the screen from damage if it happens to fall flat towards the display area. At $60 for both the white or black versions, I happen to think the price is right for what you are getting, which is a lot of peace of mind for an otherwise fragile and slippery device.

Unlike the OtterBox Defender, the TAKTIK Strike does not have a permanent screen protector, but I don't think this is a major deficiency in the product's design.

For those of you with "extreme" lifestyles, there is the TAKTIK Extreme for the iPhone 5s and 5, which adds a secondary layer of Corning Gorilla Glass. This doubles the price of the case ($124) and it also, in the case of the 5s, completely covers the Touch ID sensor, leaving it usable as a home button only and thus requiring the traditional pin-code screen unlock and password entry for App Store purchases.

However, my guess is that anyone wanting to use this case on a 5s probably doesn't care about this issue.

Have you pre-ordered your TAKTIK Strike or Extreme for your iPhone 5s? Talk back and let me know.
Source: Zdnet

New casing strategy cultivates economy and ecology

<5s iphone cases zebra printimg src="http://www.packworld.com/playbooks-mod/54701/cover-image/playbook_enticement">

Download this free, 130-page Package Development Playbook jam-packed with strategies for success, best practices, and pitfalls to avoid. Learn more ""

Article | October 2, 2013

By

Companies in this article:

Source: Packworld

Pad & Quill's Moleskine-Style Case Is a 'Little Black Book' for Your iPhone

If you'd like to combine your new apple 5s iphone cases speck design and your wallet into a single device that looks like an old-fashioned mini datebook, Pad & Quill's Little Pocket Book is the case you want.

There's a whole category of gadget cases that aim to make your handset look like a Moleskine notebook. The cases like this aren't just clever, they add a little bit of sophistication to your device as well. They protect the corners while giving a piece of modern technology the classic air of a premium notebook.

P&Q's Little Pocket Book has a top-grain leather cover (the Luxury Pocket Book is identical but uses a finer full-grain leather). The flap, which is held closed by a thick elastic band, protects the iPhone's screen and doubles as a wallet. You can slip an ID, a few credit cards or passkeys, and a small stash of cash inside.

Pad & Quill has been handmaking Moleskine-style cases since the first iPad came out. Unlike San Francisco-based Dodocase, P&Q's cases use a heavier wood: birch instead of bamboo. These cases are not slim - the Little Pocket Book more than doubles the iPhone's thickness and makes it a good deal heavier. But people who primarily carry their phones in a purse, briefcase or a bag won't mind.

The Pad & Quill Little Pocket Book is available on the company's website for $60. It fits the iPhone 5 and the new 5s. Each purchase comes with a 25-year warranty on the leather. So if you're still using your iPhone 5 in 25 years, then bravo all around.

Photos by Josh Valcarcel/WIRED
Source: Wired

CD Review: 'ReJOYCE! The Best of Joyce DiDonato'

I try to catch mezzo-soprano Joyce DiDonato wherever she appears, whether at the opera house or concert stage. Her performance in the title role of Gaetano Donizetti's "Maria Stuarda" last season at the Metropolitan Opera was one of the year's high points. The Kansas native was just as effective at her Carnegie Hall concert performing arias from her "Drama Queens" album.

Erato/Warner Classics has just issued "ReJOYCE! The Best of Joyce DiDonato," a 2-CD halloween music collection cd of pieces culled from the Grammy Award-winning singer's first 10 years with the labels.

DiDonato had her admirers come up with the title of the album, select the material, and even provide the album cover photo (by Xenia Varelas). Fortunately, her fans have good taste, though it would be hard to find any sub-par recordings by the artist.

The 31 tracks show off the singer's extraordinary technical facility with florid music as well as her ability to convey the inner turmoil of many of her heroines.

In addition to baroque operas and bel canto works, she has had a fruitful professional relationship with American composer Jake Heggie. There are two selections from his opera "Dead Man Walking," which was one of the singer's early triumphs.

DiDonato portrayed Sister Helen Prejean, who ministered to a prisoner on Death Row. "You've been so good to him and all of us ... Who will walk with me?" is a duet with Frederica von Stade, a star mezzo of the previous generation. (Incidentally, Prejean wrote the words for a piece that Heggie set to music especially for DiDonato. She performed it at her Carnegie Hall solo debut concert.)

Other duet partners on "The Best of" set include Patrizia Ciofi on two Handel works: "Addio mio caro bene" from Handel's "Teseo" and "Io t'abbraccio" from "Rodelinda"; and Anna Netrebko on "Quis est homo" from Rossini's "Stabat Mater."

In fact, there is a generous sampling of Rossini, displaying his lighter ("Una voce poco fa" from "The Barber of Seville") and darker sides ("Tanti affetti in tal momento" from "La donna del lago").

The singer's graceful Mozart style is displayed on arias from "The Marriage of Figaro," "Don Giovanni," and "La clemenza di Tito."

The two show tunes from Rodgers and Hammerstein are the inspirational "You'll Never Walk Alone" from "Carousel" and "Climb Every Mountain" from "The Sound of Music." As with the Heggie pieces, they are reminders of the singer's clear articulation of language.

DiDonato ends the album, as she often does her concerts, with "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" from "The Wizard of Oz." The rendition on the set is a live recording with the Kansas City Symphony conducted by Michael Stern. The song has special meaning for DiDonato since it was the last piece her father heard her perform.

The liner notes contain photos of DiDonato and her fans as well as their comments about her. Personally, I would have preferred translations of the texts since words are especially important for this singer.

If you don't have any of her albums, this collection is a well-balanced introduction.

DiDonato's next New York appearance will be with James Levine conducting the Met Orchestra at Carnegie Hall on Oct. 13 at 3 p.m. The program will include Rossini's "Giovanna d'Arco" (orchestrated by Salvatore Sciarrino) plus Mozart's "Deh, per questo istante solo" and "Non più di fiori" from "La clemenza di Tito."

DiDonato will return to the Met next April and May in "La Cenerentola," Rossini's sparkling version of "Cinderella" with tenor Juan Diego Flórez.

Barry has been a music, theater, and travel writer for over a decade for various publications.

Source: Theepochtimes

Cruz says he

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Washington (CNN) - Texas GOP Sen. Ted Cruz took to the Senate floor on Tuesday afternoon for remarks on the shutdown debate that could potentially last through the night - a dramatic step in defense of his high profile, controversial plan to prevent any funding for Obamacare.

"I intend to speak until I am no longer able to stand," he said.

NEW YORK - The secret of Mariano Rivera's career is that he is not a closer, but a middle act. Metallica opens ninth innings at Yankee Stadium, Rivera does his maestro stuff on the mound, and then Frank Sinatra closes the show with "New York, New York," after Rivera's last pitch.

Metallica was at Yankee Stadium on Sunday, playing a live version of "Enter Sandman" as part of the Mariano Rivera Day festivities, and Rivera was masterful in his pitching work on the day he had his number retired, but it was not a typical set because Sinatra could not be heard until after the Yankees had made their final out, rather than after New York's opponents had made theirs.

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In a 2-1 loss to the San Francisco Giants, the Yankees stranded runners on second and third in the seventh inning, then had two runners thrown out at the plate in the eighth. So the sellout crowd of 49,197 and all the honored guests in the Bronx had to settle for merely watching a vintage Rivera performance without his usual closing act.

The Yankees' closer was called on to keep the game within reach after doubles by Pablo Sandoval and Tony Abreu gave the Giants the lead in the top of the eighth, and he was as dominant as ever. To get five outs, Rivera needed only 16 pitches -- and he would have needed even fewer if Robinson Cano had not made a throwing error to turn a sure double play into no outs in the ninth inning. Rivera would have pitched the 10th inning if there had been one, which was just as much a reminder of how good he has been, and what a different class he has been in than other closers, as the ceremony to honor him and retire his number before the game.

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"It means a lot to me, especially the guys that were there to me," Rivera said. "Seeing Geno (Gene Monahan), our trainer for a long time, Mr. Torre and Tino and Posada and Bernie and O'Neill and all the guys. It was outstanding. I don't know what to say. I thank God for that."

The Yankees don't have Tino Martinez, Jorge Posada, Bernie Williams, and Paul O'Neill in their lineup anymore. On Sunday, they had Mark Reynolds at first base, Chris Stewart and then J.R. Murphy catching, Curtis Granderson in center field, and Ichiro Suzuki in right field. Reynolds homered for the Yankees' only run, and Granderson and Suzuki are no slouches, but the Yankees who will be best remembered as Rivera's teammates were not wearing pinstripes. Rivera's presence in the bullpen still looms large over any game the Yankees play, but his team has to have the lead in order for him to protect it.

"I liked to try to get all the players in the All-Star Game, and I remember saying, 'Guys, let's score more runs,' because we had a one-run lead and I wanted to use everybody," Joe Torre said. "Somebody drags on my jacket from behind, and I turned around and it's Darin Erstad, who says, 'Who's pitching the ninth?' I said, 'Mariano Rivera,' and he said, 'You don't need any more runs.' That struck me, at that point in time, to give you an idea of the respect that he garnered throughout the game."

"I can't think of anybody who had more of an impact in the game just by the mere notion that he is available," said Bernie Williams. "Teams adjusted their lineups and were so unorthodox. Righthanders would hit, pinch-hitting against him (to try to neutralize the legendary cutter, which was more effective against lefthanders). He really made people get away from their comfort zone and do some crazy things because he was pitching. I can't think of anybody that had that much of an impact in the game being a non-position player."

Said Jorge Posada: "Teams would do anything to get to you in the seventh and eighth inning, because in the ninth, it was pretty much done."

On Mariano Rivera Day, that was what the Giants did. With nothing to save, Rivera could not get one, and just had to settle for being his usual brilliant self. It's still amazing to watch him work - "He mastered his craft as well as anyone I've ever seen," Joe Girardi said - but it's not the same without Sinatra playing him off.

Source: Sportingnews