Nikon D5300 First Look Preview

<Nikon D5300 Offersp>It's just under a year ago since we witnessed the arrival
of the D5200 and Nikon has announced the Nikon D5300. Slotting in above the D5200 in the Nikon line-up, the D5300 is designed to appeal to aspiring users looking to upgrade from a compact, as well as what Nikon terms 'networkers', which hints at its Wi-fi functionality, but more on that shortly.

While it shares a virtually identical resolution to the D5200, Nikon claims the 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor inside the D5300 is newly developed and like its big brother the D7100, the sensor does away for the need of an anti-aliasing filter for improved sharpness.

New EXPEED 4 image processor

The D5300 is the first Nikon DSLR to feature the EXPEED 4 image processor, improving the performance of the camera in a number of areas over its predecessor, including better Auto White Balance control and ISO performance at higher sensitivities - the D5300 sports a native ISO range up to ISO 12,800, but can be expanded to an ISO equivalent of ISO 25,600.

One of the strengths of the D5200 is its relatively sophisticated AF system, and it's no surprise to see the 39-point Multi-CAM 4800DX unit transfer across to the D5300. We've been impressed with its performance in the past, particularly the 3D tracking system that's linked to the D5300's Scene Recognition System to cleverly track your subject across the frame, so it shouldn't through up any nasty surprises on the D5300.

Interestingly though, where Canon has made efforts to improve the live view AF performance of the EOS 700D by adding phase-detect photosites onto the sensor, the D5300 continues to rely solely on contrast-detect AF during live view and video capture. We'd have welcomed some innovation here from Nikon or at least built-in phase-detect photosites on the sensor as this in the past where some Nikon DSLRs have struggled - not only against the likes of the 700D, but the growing range of system camera rivals too.

Wi-fi Connectivity

With the trend for built-in Wi-fi connectivity increasing on new cameras, it's nice to finally see a Nikon DSLR offering this built-in functionality, rather than as a optional accessory as we've seen with both the D3200 and D5200 for example. Expect easy transfer of images from the camera to your iOS or Android device via the dedicated free Nikon App to share in social networking sites, as well as offering the ability to remotely shoot, with feed from the D5300 transmitted to your smart-device.

At the rear of the camera, the vari-angle screen remains, but increases in size to 3.2in with an aspect ratio of 3:2 and a boosted resolution of 1037k-dots. Curiously, while touchscreen functionality is becoming more wide-spread on cameras in this sector, the D5300 goes without.

There's also a dedicated HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode that captures two images in quick succession at different exposures before merging them together in a single image with a much broad range of shadow and highlight detail compared to a single exposure. The Active D-Lighting mode has also been tinkered with, now with a specific Portrait mode to balance the exposure.

As the D5300 is likely to be used as a dual-role camera for both stills and movies, you'll find Full HD 1080p video capture at either 60/50p, while there's a built-in stereo microphone too.

Nikon revealed that the D5300 is based around a new monocoque construction that does away with the need for a separate chassis and is formed from a new material that Nikon remained tight-lipped on on what it actually was. That said, if you've handled a D5200, you'd be hard-pushed to differentiate the look and feel of the D5300 once in the hand.

First Thoughts

While we've seen a fair bit of innovation recently across the market, Nikon plays it much safer with the D5300. Looking at the specification and at first glance at least, appears to be a suitable upgrade of the D5200,though there are still some areas that we feel need attention if it wants to be the best there is for the aspiring photographer. We can't make any real judgements though until we've gott our hands on a final production sample to find out how it really performs.

The Nikon D5300 is expected to be available mid-November
with a body-only price of £729, and a kit price of £829 with the 18-55mm VR lens.

Watch our First Look video preview:

Source: Whatdigitalcamera

Capture, Create, Connect: The Nikon D5300 D-SLR Lets Photographers Do It All With Confidence

<Nikon D5300 Discountp>Related:

MELVILLE, N.Y., Oct. 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ Today, Nikon Inc. announced the latest addition to its legendary digital SLR lineup, the Nikon D5300. Offering the benefits of SLR performance with the versatility of wireless connectivity, the D5300 allows users to easily capture and share amazing images and videos. Though compact and lightweight, the Nikon D5300 packs an enhanced 24.2-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor, EXPEED 4 image processing and the convenience of built-in Wi-Fi 1. Users now have the power to take both frame-worthy and share-worthy photos and HD videos with one device no matter where they are.

"With the Nikon D5300, we are continuing our commitment to delivering unparalleled performance and image quality while addressing the importance of staying connected and sharing images with ease," said Masahiro Horie, Director of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc. "By answering the need to share high quality photos, the Nikon D5300 allows photographers to capture their memories in astounding clarity and share them with family and friends moments after they happen."

Advanced Performance for When it Matters Most
Making memorable moments even better, the Nikon D5300 offers stunning image quality with sharp, crisp detail to preserve life's precious memories. The enhanced 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor delivers stunning images and HD videos with heightened clarity and detail due to the removal of the optical low pass filter (OLPF). From planned family portraits to candid moments, the D5300 has the performance, along with easy and intuitive features, to help users capture photos confidently, including:

• Amazing Low Light Performance For clean, sharp details even in the most challenging lighting conditions including night games and dimly lit restaurants, the Nikon D5300 covers a wide ISO range of 100-12,800 and is expandable to ISO 25,600.
• EXPEED 4 Image Processing Nikon's most recent image processing engine drives the rapid response and swift performance of the D5300, while maximizing energy efficiency, reducing image noise and delivering true-to-life colors.
• Scene Recognition System To further help users capture the image they intend, the Nikon D5300 features Nikon's Scene Recognition System and 2,016-pixel RGB metering system to analyze and recognize the scene. Utilizing these systems results in adjustments to exposure, AF and white balance to deliver the best photo possible, whether it's a landscape or portrait.
• 39-Point AF System Nikon's quick and precise 39-point AF system works with the Scene Recognition System to accurately acquire and track subjects throughout the frame, resulting in tack-sharp images. Kids too active to pose for a photo or pets chasing after a toy are easily captured in brilliant sharpness for memorable photos.
• 5 Frames-Per-Second While using the optical viewfinder or in Live View, capture great moments that would have otherwise been missed with the D5300's 5 frames-per-second (fps) rate.

Share Like Never Before
The D5300 is Nikon's first D-SLR to feature built-in Wi-Fi, allowing the user to share high quality photos instantly. The Nikon D5300 sends images to the user's smart device, allowing them to share their D-SLR quality photos through e-mail and social media. From a winning touchdown to a surprise proposal, friends and family can now see these important moments clearly captured right after they happen. The Nikon D5300 also includes built-in GPS, another first for Nikon D-SLRs. Now the user can geotag images and allow others to see where life has taken them.

Features for Creativity and Versatility
Compact and lightweight (16.9 oz.), the Nikon D5300 can easily be packed for a day trip or a planned getaway. The small body of the D5300 affords the photographer the freedom to travel while still being easy to handle and comfortable to use. In addition to being able to capture amazing images anywhere, the D5300 is also packed with additional features to promote creativity and versatility, including:

• 3.2-inch Vari-Angle LCD monitor Whether shooting above a crowd or getting low to capture the details of a flower, users can explore new shots from a dramatic point of view with the large 3.2-inch Vari-angle LCD monitor. This super sharp (1,037K-dot) screen allows photographers to easily make camera adjustments and read menus, while also allowing them to compose the photo they want clearly when shooting from high or low angles. The rotating LCD makes it easy to capture "selfies" at an arm's length away or frame creative perspectives when capturing still photos and HD video.
• Full HD 1080p Video Capture Create movies fit for the big screen with Full HD 1080p video capture at 60p with built-in stereo, wide ISO range for high quality videos in any light and improved full-time AF to keep the subject in focus.
• NIKKOR Compatibility The Nikon D5300 is compatible with Nikon's legendary NIKKOR lenses and powerful system accessories, further adding versatility and creativity.

October 2013 for the suggested retail price (SRP) of $1,399.95*. To complement consumers' preferences, the Nikon D5300 will be available in Black, Red and Gray. For more information on the new Nikon D5300 and other Nikon products, please visit Price and Availability
The Nikon D5300 kit with the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR lens will be available in www.nikonusa.com.

Press Release, News
Source: Broadwayworld

Joyful Jersey Boys hits all the right notes

"Jersey Boys" opened at the Marcus Center Wednesday. (PHOTO: Marcus Center)

It's kind of amazing that since its debut in 2005, "Jersey Boys" has yet to be adapted for the big screen. It's vibrant. It's infectiously fun. It's visually exciting and dynamic. And, most importantly, it wouldn't require Hollywood big wigs to strain their brains and come up with one of those dreaded "original ideas."

While there is an adaptation currently set for next year (Clint Eastwood is directing because ... sure, why not; it's gotta be better than "J. Edgar"), for the time being, "Jersey Boys" is stuck on the stage. But if the performance Thursday night at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts was any sign, it's doing just wonderfully staying on the stage.

After opening with a jarring French cover of "December, 1963 (Oh, What a Night)" - apparently a real thing - the show tells of the tuneful exploits of the '60s rock band The Four Seasons. Pulling a page out of "Rashomon," each band member is given a different season to take over the narration and tell the story they way they remember it.

Tommy DeVito - played with just the right amount of cocky Jersey brashness by Nicolas Dromard - starts them all off with their origin story, a gaggle of guys trying to get a band together in between jail visits. He eventually discovers the angel-voiced Frankie Valli (Nick Cosgrove), takes the young talent under his somewhat protective wing and makes him the centerpiece of their fledgling band.

For a while, the group flits haplessly around with different names, identities and group members. With the help of Joe Pesci (yes, that Joe Pesci. And yes, he will amuse you and make you laugh), they finally come across the missing link: Bob Gaudio (Jason Kappus), a sweet teenaged songwriter with a hit - "Short Shorts" - already under his belt. The boys settle on a name - The Four Seasons - Gaudio takes over narration duties, and they're soon flying to stardom, dishing out hit ("Sherry") after hit ("Big Girls Don't Cry") after incredibly addictive hit ("Walk Like a Man").

The first act of "Jersey Boys" plays like greased lightning, fast-talking through plot points and zipping through musical numbers with an almost reckless abandon. It's borderline dangerous, with characters and payoffs potentially lost in the rush. Luckily, the show's energy is contagious, thanks in large part to the likeable cast and production's bright pop art style, from Jess Goldstein's costumes to Howell Brinkley's striking lighting schemes.

And then, of course, there's the music. The Four Seasons' hits are just as compulsively toe-tapping and fun as they were when they were first released nearly half a century ago. Each number is two to three minutes of slick, harmonious joy, performed with youthful vigor by the lead quartet. A Four Seasons musical needs to have a solid Frankie Valli, and the rubber-faced Cosgrove fits the bill. He's got the lovely crooner's voice down pat, and his falsetto suitably soars

Bands back in the day, including the Four Seasons, wouldn't likely be accused of having a particularly diverse catalog of sounds, so director Des McAnuff does a nice job of finding new and clever costume play on words ways to keep the performances fresh.

On a few numbers, the boys perform facing some cameras to the side of the stage, and the large video board backdrop plays the footage in grainy black-and-white TV footage. Another number has the boys with their backs to the crowd, playing in front of a black screen constantly flickering with popping camera bulbs. For the more traditional performances, the audience still gets that classic, wonderfully cheeky dance choreography.

Sometimes, it's just the small things or a perfect linking of music and story, like when Bob plays a song for the boys for the first time. It starts off as just him, but part by part, the rest of the band comes over and joins in seamlessly while bar patrons slowly get hooked by the tune. It's a sweet look at the creation of music and the way it happily infects others. It's one of the first act's few slower moments, as well as one of its finest.

After the first act, it'd be easy to dismiss "Jersey Boys" as a simple popcorn jukebox musical, a crowd-pleaser and that's all. Of course the band starts falling apart in the second act, with seemingly inoffensive vices and struggles coming to the surface (just once I'd like to see a music bio where a band becomes famous, and they're just really pleasant together and end up living totally happy lives. I suppose that'd be a really boring bio, though, so never mind).

Though it follows the musical biopic formula pretty comfortably, it still hits with a weighty emotional punch and a surprising amount of character. The songs are still great, hitting notes both poppy and souful. And when the band's bassist Nick Massi (Brandon Andrus) takes over the narration early in act two, it becomes clear that Andrus is quietly the show's star. He's both hilariously deadpan but also sadly wearied from years of reserved emotional angst and baggage, the price of being the quiet observer. It's a truly magnetic performance of few words but large payoff.

Even when things are predictably falling apart, "Jersey Boys" hits the right notes, both with the comedy and drama. It's sweet and earnest about the guys' love for the music, for performing, for life and for each other. The audience can't help but join in on the love fest.

"Jersey Boys" is running at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts through October 27. Visit the Marcus Center's website for more information on showtimes and tickets.
Source: Onmilwaukee

Community Calendar: Heart of Glenview Halloween Festival, library events

Submissions for the Community Calendar are required 10 days preceding the date of publication. Send email to bthomas@pioneerlocal.com; fax (312) 321-9310. Pioneer Press office is at 350 N. Orleans St., Chicago, IL 60654. Benefits

Heart of Glenview Halloween Festival

The Glen Town Center will host the Heart of Glenview Halloween Festival with two days of fun, family activities on Oct. 27 and 28. Festivities include a Pet Costume Parade, Zombie Run for the Heart and the Kids' Heart of Glenview "Dinner and a Movie." Proceeds from the festival will benefit the Glenview Giving Foundation.

The festival kicks off at 2 p.m., Oct. 27, with the Pet Costume Parade at the Glen Town Center Navy Park. Pets (and their owners!) will parade through the park in creative Halloween costumes. Prizes will be awarded to the pets with the best and most creative costumes. There is a $25 registration fee per pet; register online at glenviewgivingfoundation.org.

The "Zombie Run for the Heart" takes place at 4 p.m. on Oct. 27 in the Glen Town Center. Run as a Zombie (or from them!) in this 5K run or one mile walk/run around Lake Glenview. Registration is $40 for the 5K or one mile walk/run; $60 for the 5K or one mile walk/run with a Zombie hair and makeup makeover (provided for the first 100 registered participants). Register to race at glenviewgivingfoundation.org.

After the run, the Zombies and survivors are invited to partake in an apocalyptic party with live music and fire pits in Navy Park. Cold beer, pizza and ice cream will be available for purchase.

The festivities conclude with the Kids' Heart of Glenview "Dinner and a Movie" on Oct. 28 at the Regal Glen Stadium 10. Start with great dinner selections from 30 participating restaurants with food stands located throughout the theatre. The film festival includes ten screens, five showing classic Halloween movies and five screens with new releases. The film festival begins at 3 p.m. and runs until 12 a.m., ending with a screening of The Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Dinner is provided by local restaurants from 5 to 7 p.m. Tickets are $40 for adults, $20 for kids and include dinner and one film. Receive free entry for a child by bringing a decorated pumpkin and a paid adult ticket. Register online at glenviewgivingfoundation.org.

Community

OLPH 32nd Annual Holly Fair and Shop 'Til You Drop Night

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church Women's Club announces Shop 'Til You Drop Night' to kick off the holiday season 6-10 p.m. Oct. 24, with a chance to win a diamond from Daniel's Jewelers. Gigi's Closette fashion show of the latest Fall/holiday apparel modeled by OLPH parishioners. Excerpt from the hilarious standup comedy show Mamaphobia. Fabulous Get Merry premium raffle which includes two nights at the Grand Hotel, a Tory Burch purse, monogramed necklace and spa packages.

Make-up demonstrations by beauty expert Laura Gorman; Wine, Harvest Organic Vodka Merrytini and delicious food from local purveyors available for purchase.

Admission is $10 per person, which includes a Holly Fair raffle ticket with all of the above fun.

OLPH Holly Fair is open noon-5 p.m. and 6-10 p.m., Oct. 24 and 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Oct. 25 at the OLPH Playdium, 1776 Glenview Road, Glenview. General admission is $5 for adults, $1 for students, and children 6 and younger are free.

The OLPH Holly Fair is a quality mart that features artisan's works and specialty items for women, family and friends. There are more than 50 booths. In addition to the vendors there will be the Extreme Candy Cane Café and the ever-popular Cookie Walk.

For more information, contact Karen Daniels, Holly Fair Chair at karendaniels99@gmail.com or (248) 210-3811.

The Holly Fair raffle is separate from the Get Merry premium raffle. The Holly Fair raffle will be drawn Friday and winners need not be present.

HEALTH

The Medicine Mix: Learn what you need to know about prescription and over-the-counter medications

North Shore Village and Midwest Palliative and Hospice CareCenter are presenting an informative program, which is free and open to the public, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Oct. 25 at Midwest Palliative & Hospice CareCenter, 2050 Claire Court, Glenview. There will be an opportunity for an individual consultation. Bring all medications as well as supplements, topical creams, ointments, shots you may be taking, and over-the-counter remedies. To reserve a seat, call Linda Rockwell (847) 556-1778 or email to info@northshore-village.org, with "Medicine Mix" in the subject line.

Library The following programs are offered at the Glenview Public Library, 1930 Glenview Road. Call (847)729-7500. Library Announcements

* Library Closing - Oct. 25. The library will be closed for Staff Training Day. Book drops will be locked; no materials will be due.

Library Highlights

* Peek-A-Boo Halloween Parade & Party (up to age 6 with an adult) - Oct. 26, 10-10:30 a.m. Trick or Treats; 10:30-11:30 a.m. Parade & Party. Gather in Youth Services 10:15 a.m. Trick-or-Treat your way to Youth Services, and then gather for the parade. Costume Parade kicks off promptly at 10:30 a.m. followed by stories, craft, games, and a visit from Little Red Riding Hood. Don't forget your camera. Register at the Youth Services Desk, (847) 729-7500 x 7900, or glenviewpl.org/register.

Friends of the Glenview Library

* The Friends of the Glenview Library Annual Meeting & Luncheon Program: The History of Glenview - 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Nov. 13. Local historian Beverly Dawson will delve into the history of Glenview from its early settlers and homes to the major changes that ushered in modern day Glenview, including the Library, Glenview Naval Air Station, and The Glen. Get to know fellow library supporters and learn about the organization's mission. $15 for members/$20 for contributing members & guests. RSVP: (847) 657-8870.

Art in the Library

* Barnscapes: Land, Sky & Silo - through Nov. 3. This series of paintings takes on a subject that is solidly Midwestern. The barn is viewed as an iconic structure, placing it center stage and exploring its subtle relationship to land and sky. In artist Anne Kauff's words, "Walking out to the fields to paint as the sun was coming up was a transformative experience. I fell in love with the empty land and simple dignified structures associated with farm life." Gallery Talk - 6:30 p.m., Oct. 29. Meet artist Anne Kauff in the Library Lobby for a tour of the exhibit.

Adult Enrichment Please register at glenviewpl.org/register, call 847-729-7500 x 7600, or visit the Readers Services Desk. & Concerts

* Lyric Opera of Chicago Lecture Series - 7-8:30 p.m., Oct. 30. Tales of intrigue, love, and death from the 2013/14 Lyric Opera season. Moderated by Lyric Opera docents. The selection for Oct. 30 is Parsifal by Richard Wagner and for Nov. 13, La Traviata by Giuseppe Verdi..

* Smooth Sounds &Mellow Moments: The Soundtrack of a Generation - 7 p.m., Nov. 5. Music defined the Sixties. Our Sixties mini-series begins with The Oracles, a duet showcasing memorable soft rock & folk tunes. Performing artists Rick Esser and Tony Delgrosso will treat you to special arrangements for acoustic guitar, piano, and vocals. Sponsored by Viccino's Pizza of Glenview. Enjoy a tasty slice of pizza.

Special Adult Services

* Frightfully Delightful: An Old-Time Radio Spooktacular - 7 p.m., Oct. 29. Conjure up the dark side with vintage vignettes from old-time radio. Those Were the Days Radio Players provide the tricks with authentic sound effects and original scripts - treat will be provided. Great entertainment for all ages; families welcome.

Adult Book Discussion Groups Book selections are available at the Reader Services Desk one month prior to meetings. New members are always welcome; just drop in.

* Free Adult Literacy Class - 9:15 a.m.-12:15 p.m. Tuesdays & Thursdays, through Nov. 26 at Glenview Library. A unique opportunity for native and non-native English speakers to improve their reading and writing skills. A small, friendly group, led by a teacher and volunteer tutors. Conducted by Oakton Community College. Call (847) 635-1426 for details.

* Page Turners - 1 p.m., Nov. 4. The November selection is A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier by Ishmael Beah. Meets monthly.

GlenVIEWINGS Film Series

* Book Bites * Reading Social - 7 p.m., Nov. 7. Location: The Glenview House, 1843 Glenview Road, Glenview. The November selection is Room by Emma Donoghue. Co-sponsored by the Niles Public Library. Visit facebook.com/nilesglenviewbookbites for details. Meets monthly.

Computer Workshops Registration and Glenview Library card required unless otherwise noted. Visit or call the Reference Services Desk at (847) 729-7500, ext. 7700 to register.

* Before Sunrise (101 min/R/1995) - 2 & 6:30 p.m., Nov. 1 & Before Sunset (80 min/PG-13/2004) - 1:30 p.m., Nov. 3. A chance meeting on a train in Budapest between Celine, a student from Paris, and Jesse, an American backpacker, is the innocent beginning of a film trilogy that has now spanned two decades...and an acting/writing/directorial partnership that has developed, like the aging of a fine wine, in tandem with the characters. November is a chance to catch up on the originals, then save-the-date for the newest chapter, Before Midnight (148min/R/2013), 2 & 6:30 p.m., Dec. 20.

* Company & Investing Information Online -2-3:30 p.m., Oct. 30. Research company profiles and investment information using the Library's online resources - from the comfort of your own home.

* Introduction to WORD 2010 - 10-11:30 a.m., Nov. 5. Overall introduction to this popular word processing software.

* Intermediate Internet Searching - 6:30-8 p.m., Nov. 12. Spend less time searching and more time finding what you need. Basic search skills required.

Exploring eBooks Workshops Please register at (847) 729-7500 x7600, the Reader Services Desk, or glenviewpl.org/register. Glenview Library card required. & Tutorials

* Files & Folders - 10-11:30 a.m., Nov. 13. Master file organization and storage.

* MyMediaMall & Zinio in the Lobby - 6-8 p.m., Oct. 24. Explore the Library's digital book and magazine collections, MyMediaMall and Zinio. Learn about downloading eBooks, eAudiobooks, and eMagazines to your portable device. Sessions will be held in the Library Lobby. Just drop in.

Genealogy Please register at glenviewpl.org/register, (847) 729-7500x7700, or the Reference Services Desk.

* MyMediaMall Individual Appointments - 10 a.m.-noon, Oct. 28, Nov. 4 and Nov. 11. Meet with trained Library staff and/or volunteers for a 30-minute one-on-one session to learn how to download an eBook or eAudiobook to your portable device. Glenview Library card required. Register at (847) 729-7500 x 7600 or the Reader Services Desk.

* Introduction to MyMediaMall: The Website & eReaders - 2-3:30 p.m., Nov. 12. Learn how to access MyMediaMall, browse the collection of digital materials, and checkout/download eBooks to a computer or eReader.

For Teens Register at glenviewpl.org/register, call (847) 729-7500, ext. 7600 or visit the Reader Services Desk.

* Genealogy First Tuesdays - 2-4:30 p.m., Nov. 5. Genealogy First Tuesdays is designed to help genealogy enthusiasts break down their "brick walls." Informal, unstructured meetings allow participants to explore topics and tools in genealogy, including books, library databases, and websites. Share tips and tricks with others in a relaxed environment.

* Discover FamilySearch.org - 10-11:30 a.m., Nov. 8. Discover the impressive free database and extensive online services offered by this nonprofit genealogy organization. Glenview Library card required.

Unless otherwise noted, registration required at glenviewpl.org/register, call (847) 729-7500, ext. 7900, or visit the Youth Services Desk.

* Top Gourmet - Battle of the Teen Chefs - 1-3 p.m., Nov. 2. Test your competitive cooking skills in a professional kitchen - at Whole Foods Market Northbrook. Demonstrate your culinary prowess with a chance to win great prizes. Register with a team of three or sign up as an individual and we'll place you on a team. Spectators welcome - cheer on your favorite team or just watch our chefs battle head-to-head to win the title "Champion of the Kitchen." Special thanks to Whole Foods Market Northbrook for sponsoring this event. Location: Whole Foods Market, 840 Willow Road, Northbrook. Limit 24 participants. Grades 9-12.

* Gamer's Paradise - 5-9 p.m., Nov. 8. Play with the Library's Nintendo Wii, XBOX360, Playstation 3, and game collection. Big screens and boomchairs make this a gamer's paradise. Special thanks to Village Inn Pizzeria and Jake's Pizza for generously donating pizza to fall teen game nights. Register by Nov. 7. Ages 13-18.

* Northern Lights Fall Homework Help Center (grades 1-8) - Sessions: 6-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Dec. 10. High School volunteers can help shine a light on your student's homework. Thirty-minute sessions for homework, reading, and math skills practice will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Children may be grouped by subject and grade level. Just drop in.

* Character Counts Week (grades K-8) - Oct. 20-26. Visit Youth Services to tell how you show good character and be entered in a prize drawing.

* Drop-In Chess Club (up to grade 8) - 7-8:30 p.m., Nov. 1.

Volunteer chess instructor Steve Levenson lends his excellent instruction and advice. Children ages 8 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

* Kids Club Special Event: Steve Beno Live! - 10:30-11:15 a.m., Nov. 2. Singer/Songwriter Steve Beno strums his guitar with lively original tunes and old favorites. Especially for ages 2-6. Co-sponsored by the Glenview Public Library and The Glen Town Center. Location: The Book Market at Hangar One, 2651 Navy Boulevard. Registration required; space is limited. Registration: theglentowncenter.com.

* Craft Club (grades 3-6) - 4-5 p.m., Nov. 7. Make a fun craft and hang out with friends. The November craft is Worry Dolls. Space is limited.

* Game Central (grades 3-5) - 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. or 2-4 p.m., Nov. 8. Calling all gamers! Play with the Library's Wii, XBOX 360, and PS3 on our GIANT screens. You may bring your own games with an ESRB rating of Everyone or E10.

* Minecraft Club (grades 4-8) - 6-8 p.m., Nov. 15. "Get your game on" by entering the many worlds of Minecraft. Come with your favorite servers, your own accounts, and get ready to build.

parks

* Baby Signs®: FAMILY SIGN, SAY & PLAY™ (ages birth to 5) - 11 a.m.-noon, Nov. 16. Pre-readers learn sign language with their families-new vocabulary, songs, and play activities each month. Led by Jamie Stevens, ASL interpreter and certified Baby Signs® instructor. Just drop in.

* Fall Book Discussion (grades 4-8): How They Croaked: The Awful Ends of the Awfully Famous - 2-3 p.m., Nov. 17. Poisoned? Drowned? Death by dirt? Find out the real scoop on how cleopatra makeup images, King Tut, Albert Einstein and others met their final end. Nominated for the 2014 Rebecca Caudill Award.

* Support Perk Center Cafe! Participate in the Heart of Glenview Halloween Festival Weekend Oct. 27-28.

The Heart of Glenview Halloween Festival is happening Oct. 27 and 28. This year, Glenview Giving Foundation is hosting its community wide Halloween event benefiting four charities including Perk Center Cafe. 100% of the proceeds are given to the charities. Below is a list of the ghoulish events:

Enter your pooch or other favorite animal in the pet costume parade being held on Oct. 27 starting at 2 p.m. at Glen Town Center Navy Park, 1951 Tower Drive. There is a $25 entry fee per pet. Prizes will be awarded to the top three best dressed pets.

Love to RUN or WALK! Participate in the Zombie 5K Run/Walk for the Heart on Oct. 27 beginning at 4 p.m. at the Glen Town Center, 1951 Tower Drive. The entry fee is $40 and includes a T-shirt. Or, $60 to be a zombie with hair and makeup done for the first 100 zombie participants.

Dinner and a Halloween Movie! Enjoy dinner and a movie at the Kids' Heart of Glenview Halloween Film Festival from 3 p.m. until midnight on Oct. 28 at Regal Glen Stadium 10 Theatres, 1850 Tower Road, Glenview. Dinner will be 5-7 p.m. Movies as scheduled 3 p.m.-12 a.m. Five screens will feature Halloween movies and five screens will feature first run movies. This is a great opportunity to taste signature dishes from more than 30 local restaurants and watch current and scary Halloween movies. There will be a midnight viewing of the "Rocky Horror Picture Show." Tickets to the event are $40 for adults and $20 for kids (through high school age). Child entry free with decorated pumpkin and a paid adult.

Tickets or entry fees must be purchased in advanced. Purchase all tickets by either visiting Perk Center Cafe in-person or buy online at www.perkcentercafe.org. Email perkcentercafe@gmail.com with any questions about the event.

Perk Center Cafe, located inside the lobby at Park Center, 2400 Chestnut Ave., is a non-profit food service concept whose focus is to train and employ individuals with disabilities.

* Interested in Paddle Tennis? American Platform Tennis Association (APTA) Free Pure Beginner Clinic and Exhibition at Glenview Prairie Club, 5:30-9 p.m., Nov. 1. Stop by to learn more about playing the game of paddle tennis and also watch some of the best players in the country during an exhibition. The first sixteen people to RSVP will participate in the pure beginner clinic from 5:30-7 p.m. If interested, contact Tony Marino at tony.marino@glenviewparks.org or (224) 521-2025. Following, around 7:15 p.m., four pros will exhibit their skills in a fast-paced match. The exhibition is open to the public. Food and beverage will be available for purchase at the Glenview Prairie Club.

* FREE Pumpkin Smash and Bash, 3:30-4:30 p.m., Nov. 2. Don't throw Halloween pumpkins away! Bring them to the Flick Park Sled Hill, 3600 Glenview Road, for the first-ever Pumpkin Roll competition. Afterwards, have fun smashing your pumpkins and turning them into compost that will help nourish plants in the spring. This is a "green" activity for the entire family. Please remove any candles and glow stick beforehand. Call the Weather Hotline at (847) 724-3337.

* The Grove's Arts & Craft Faire, Nov. 7-10 and Nov. 14-17. The annual Craft Faire features more than 55 juried artisans from the Midwest displaying a selection of handcrafted items for Christmas, Hanukkah and fall. Visit the magnificent selection of contemporary crafts, distinctive accessories, unique seasonal decorations, personalized items and creative gifts. Admission is $5 per visit for adults, $1 for children age 12 and under. Hours are 10 a.m.-8 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. The Holiday Craft Faire is sponsored by the Glenview Park District and the Grove Heritage Association to benefit The Grove. For more information, visit www.groveartscraftfaire.com.

* East Wing Holiday Bazaar, Nov. 6, 7 & 8. Find a unique sampling of heirloom skills and handcrafts. Choose from handmade gifts and crafts, art work, baked goods and more. There will also be a raffle! Hours are 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Nov. 6 & 7 and 9 a.m.-noon on Nov. 8. Lunch is available on Wednesday from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Call the Glenview Senior Center at (847) 724-4793 for more information.

Activities and events at Park Center, 2400 Chestnut Ave., GlenviewRegistration for programs at Park Center is going on now. Call (847) 724-5670 or go online to glenviewparks.org.

* Fieldhouse reservations - The Glenview Park District's 13 fieldhouses are ideal for hosting birthday parties, family reunions, picnics, Scout troops and meetings. They are conveniently located right in the neighborhood, plus there is always plenty of parking! Reservations for dates through April 30, 2014 are being accepted now and must be made in person at Park Center, 2400 Chestnut Ave. For information on park hours, rental rates and usage rules, call (847) 724-5670.

Activities and events at Glenview Park Golf Club, 800 Shermer Road

* Last Chance! Join Park Center Health & Fitness in October and Initiation Fee is Waived! That's a savings of up to $75 depending on the type of membership purchased. Offer valid for first-time memberships only and some restrictions may apply. For information, call (847) 657-3249.

Activities and events at Glenview Prairie Club, 2800 W. Lake Ave.

* Baby sitting Clinic, for ages 11-15, Nov. 9-Dec. 7. Registration is going on now. Learn how to be the safest and most dependable baby sitter in the neighborhood. Get the knowledge and confidence you need to safely and responsibly provide basic child and infant care as well as first aid. Participants receive a CD-ROM with templates for business cards and resumes, a database for organizing client information and a booklet of activities, games and much more. The fee is $108 for residents and $135 for nonresidents.

* Register now for the Together We Tri Indoor Triathlon, 7 a.m., Nov. 10 at Park Center, 2400 Chestnut Ave. This fun fitness challenge includes a 10-minute swim, a 20 minute bike ride on spin bikes and a 15 minute run on the indoor track. Race in 1, 2 or 3 waves! Suitable for all levels age 14 years or older. For one wave, entry fee is $35 for TWT alumni and PCHF members; $45 all others. For double challenge, entry fee is $55 for TWT alumni and PCHF members; $65 all others. For triple challenge, entry fee is $70 for TWT alumni and PCHF members; $80 all others. All participants receive fantastic giveaways, a post-race expo and a chance to win a 12-week summer training program. For race registration and information call 866-88-WE-TRI or visit www.togetherwetri.com.

* Golf-toberfest all month long at the Glenview Park Golf Club. Visit the course through the end of October and check out the festive decorations. Find clearance merchandise in the golf shop, food and beverage specials in The Cafe and other online specials at www.golfglenview.com. Reduced Green Fees are now in effect. Call the Glenview Park Golf Club at (847) 724-0250 or visit golfglenview.com.

Activities and events at Glenview Ice Center, 1851 Landwehr Road, Glenview Registration for programs at the Glenview Ice Center is going on now at Park Center, 2400 Chestnut Ave. or online at glenviewparks.org. Call (847) 724-2800 for details.

* Fall Green Fees are underway! Get a round of Fall golf in and save money. For further information, call (847) 657-1637 or visit golfglenview.com.

* Paddle Tennis prime season is underway. Hours of operation are Mondays through Sundays, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. Subject to change based on facility demand. Introductory/Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced Fall lesson sessions are underway and Session 2 begins the week of Nov. 11. Don't forget to purchase your 2013-2014 membership at glenviewpaddle.com or stop by Glenview Prairie Club. For information, call (847) 657-1637.

Activities and events at Glenview Tennis Club, 1800 Wagner Road, Glenview

* Junior Paddle & Pizza, for ages 8-12 years old. Kids are the future of this great game and never too young to learn paddle tennis. This is a weekly, 90-minute class focusing on basic fundamentals and stroke production through fun drills and games. Pizza and pop is provided each week. Fall session 2 is held 4-5:30 p.m. on Tuesdays, beginning Nov. 12 and 4-5:30 p.m. on Wednesdays, beginning on Nov. 13. The fee is $200 for residents and nonresidents.

Activities and events at Kent Fuller Air Station Prairie/The Tyner Center, 2400 Compass Road, Glenview. Registration for programs at Kent Fuller Air Station Prairie/The Tyner Center is going on now at Park Center, 2400 Chestnut Ave., or online at glenviewparks.org. Call (847) 299-6096 for details. The Tyner Interpretive Center is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays through October. Exterior exhibits and walking trails through the prairies are open to the public daily from sunrise to sunset.

* Friday Night Meltdown, 8:15-10:15 p.m. through Dec. 13 at the Glenview Ice Center. Come to the coolest spot in town for a night of public skating to top dance hits. A live DJ will host on scheduled Fridays throughout the fall and winter. The Glenview Ice Center is also open for public skating sessions from noon-2 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday; 10 a.m.-noon on Tuesday and Thursday; 1:30-3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $6.50 on weekdays, Saturdays and Sundays, $7.50 on Friday nights and Holidays. Or, purchase a season skating pass. Children ages 5 and under skate free when skating with an adult. Skate rental is $4.50.

* Open Hockey "Rat Time" - 12:15-2 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. The Glenview Ice Center sets aside time for pickup hockey games. Players must be at least 18 years old and wear full equipment to participate. Admission is $9 or $80 for a 10-time Rat pass. Goalies play for free!

* Get Into the Swing of Things This Fall with Cardio Tennis, 6:30-7:30 a.m. Monday-Friday. Looking for a great new way to get in shape, burn calories and get your heart pumping? Try Cardio Tennis, a fun fitness workout for adult intermediate to advanced players that combines aspects of a regular tennis workout with aerobics. The drop-in fee is $16 for members and $20 for non-members. Call the Glenview Tennis Club at (847) 724-1570 for information and to reserve your spot.

Activities and events at Wagner Farm, 1510 Wagner Road Registration for programs at Wagner Farm is going on now at Park Center, 2400 Chestnut Ave., or online at glenviewparks.org. Call (847) 657-1506 for details.

* Restoration Work Day - 9 a.m. Dec. 14 in The Tyner Interpretive Center. Anyone ages 8 and up is welcome. No advance registration necessary. Bring work gloves if you have them. Note: work parties may be cancelled in the event of inclement weather. Air Station Prairie is located at 2400 Compass Road.

* Free Trail Walk - 11 a.m. Oct. 26, guided trail walk at the Air Station Prairie, ideal for families and individuals. Registration not necessary.

* Along Came a Spider for ages 4-adult, 10-11 a.m., Oct. 27. Discover the secret lives of spiders and why they are so important to have around. Our spider investigation will include a draft and an outdoor trail walk, so please dress for the weather. Advance registration required. The fee is $12 per resident adult-child pair ($6 for each additional child) and $15 for non-resident adult-child pair.

* The Heritage Center and grounds are open daily. Stop by between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. Sundays. The Heritage Center features interactive stations, milking parlor, greenhouse, authentic 1930s store and museum store.

The Grove, 1421 Milwaukee Ave. Registration for programs at The Grove going on now at Park Centall (847)299-6096 or go online at glenviewparks.org.

* Wagner Farm Sweets & Treats! Wagner Farm's old-fashioned soda fountain, located inside the Heritage Center is open on weekends only, noon-5 p.m. Saturdays and noon-3 p.m. Sundays. Call (847) 657-1506 for details.

* Autumn on the Farm Sales Going On Now! - Purchase your fall merchandise. Pumpkins, cornstalks, Indian corn, gourds and more are for sale. Sale hours are 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Mon.-Fri. and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sat. & Sun.

* I Scream...You Scream...We All Scream for Ice Cream! Dairy Detectives for ages 4-adult, 3:45-5 p.m., Oct. 24. Do you love dairy products? Check out Wagner Farm's milking parlor and participate in a live milking demonstration and explore the many ways people use dairy. The fee is $12 for residents and $15 for non-residents.

religion

* Natural Science Classroom - Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays, celebrating dinosaurs/fossils in October.

* The Grove Restoration Work Day, Nov. 2 - Help the Grove's restoration team collect seeds and make way for native wildflowers, grasses and trees by removing invasive, non-native plants. Anyone ages 8 and up is welcome. No advance registration necessary. Meet in The Grove's Interpretive Center at 9 a.m. and bring work gloves if you have them. Please note work parties may be cancelled in the event of inclement weather.

Seniors The following activities sponsored by the Glenview Park District Senior Center are held in the east wing of Park Center, 2400 Chestnut Ave. Call (847) 724-4793. FRIDAY

* Hay Rides at The Grove, Oct. 26. Take in fall's splendor from a tractor-drawn wagon filled with bales of hay. Then roast some marshmallows and pop corn over a roaring campfire. Advance registration required. The fee is $7 for residents and $8.75 for non-residents. Call The Grove at (847) 299-6096 for specific times.

Congregation Ahavat Olam

Is an all inclusive Reform congregation without walls, where all are welcome. Erev Shabbat Services are held at 7:30 p.m. the second Friday of each month at Christ United Methodist Church, 600 Deerfield Road, led by Spiritual Leader/Rabbinic Student, Cantor Nancy Diamond Landsman. For more information, including membership, contact Alan Posner at ahavat-olam@hotmail.com or call (847) 409-4848.

9:30 a.m.: Depart Senior Center for Jewelry Show in Rosemont

MONDAY

10:30 a.m.: Men's Roundtable discusses current events in the Senior Center game room (until noon)

Noon: AARP Driving; Men's Pinochle

1 p.m.: Scrabble

9:30 a.m.: Cribbage (until 11:30 a.m.)

10 a.m.: Advisory Meeting

TUESDAY

11 a.m.: Poker (until 4:30 p.m.)

noon: Halloween Event

1 p.m.: Woodcarving in the craft room (until 3 p.m.); Chess

9 a.m.: Crafts/Charity work (until noon)

9:30 a.m.: Drop-in glucose testing

10 a.m.: Drop-in Bridge, 50 cent fee, no partner needed, Senior Center membership required (until 3 p.m.)

WEDNESDAY

10:30 a.m.: Advanced Mah Johngg ($5 fee, until 3:30 p.m.)

11:45 a.m.: Duplicate Bridge. Senior Center membership required (until 3:30 p.m.)

Noon: Pinochle ($1 fee, until 2:45 p.m.); Rummikub

9:30 a.m.: Gin rummy (until 11:30 a.m.)

10:30 a.m.: Poker (until 4:30 p.m.)

THURSDAY

10:45 a.m.: Depart Senior Center for Drury Lane Oak Brook

Noon: Pinochle (until 4 p.m.)

1 p.m.: Woodcarving (until 3 p.m.)

11 a.m.: Blood pressure testing (until 11:55 a.m.)

Support

11:30 a.m.: Rummikub; Drop-in Bridge, 50-cent fee, no partner needed, Senior Center membership required (until 3 p.m.)

noon: Canasta, Room 108A (until 3:30 p.m.); Poker (until 4:30 p.m.)

1 p.m. Social Service

Helping Hands of Glenview

Celebrating 25 Years of Service to Glenview's Seniors. They are always in need of volunteer drivers to provide rides. If interested, visit www.helpinghandsofglenview.org.~.

Source: Suntimes

Halloween happenings lurk around every corner

Halloween is next week and haunted happenings are in high gear. Hayrides, haunted houses and trick-or-treating events can be found from one end of Downriver to the other.

The following calendar highlights many of the Halloween happenings taking place throughout the News-Herald's coverage area.

For more information on a particular event, check the paper's weekly listings or contact the city or organization holding the event. To list a Halloween event, email information by 5 p.m. Oct. 24 to Andrea Blum at ablum@heritage.com.

Gilead Baptist Church, 23700 Outer Drive, Allen Park, hosts a Trunk or Treat and carnival from 4 to 6 p.m. Oct. 20. There will be free food, games, a costume contest, and trunk or treating.

Call 1-313-274-8600 for details.

An Evening Hayride and Bonfire is set for 6 p.m. Oct. 25 at Oakwoods Metropark in Huron Township.

Visitors can explore the rich history of local cemeteries during the evening.

The event costs $3. Call 1-734-782-3956 or visit metroparks.com for more information.

Spirit of Truth Family Church, 22144 Huron River Drive, Rockwood, holds a Trunk or Treat event from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Oct. 25.

Visit sotfamilychurch.com to learn more.

Lake Erie Metropark hosts a Haunted Hayride from 7 to 11 p.m. Oct. 25 and 26.

Tickets are $10 a person and will be sold each night at the wave pool concession building with no entry fee to the park. A $1 off coupon is available at bpffu.org.

Food and beverages also will be sold. All proceeds benefit the Brownstown Professional Firefighters Union Local 4112 and its charities, the Brownstown Goodfellows' Toys for Tots program.

Children can join the Downtown Trick or Treat from 5 to 8 p.m. Oct. 25 in downtown Wyandotte.

Select businesses with pumpkins outside will hand out treats to little ones during the three-hour period.

Visit Wyandotte.net for more information.

The Woodhaven Recreation Department will host the 9th annual Hallohaven event from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 25 at the Community Center, 23101 Hall Road.

A magician, Chris Linn, also will be performing at 6:30 and 6:55 p.m. The free event will also include a trick or treat village in the center's Safety Town as well as crafts for kids.

Do the time warp again as "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" comes to the big screen courtesy of The Downriver Actors Guild and the Wyandotte Jaycees.

Screenings of the 1975 cult comedy starring Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon and Barry Bostwick are set midnight Oct. 25 and 26 at Out of the Box Theater, 1165 Ford Ave., Wyandotte. Tickets are $10. No one younger than 16 is permitted without a parent. No outside food, drinks or props are allowed. Prop goodie bags will be available for purchase. Call 1-313-3033-5269 for more information.

The annual Great Pumpkin Festival runs through Oct. 26 in Trenton.

The event challenges the community to set a Trenton record for the most lit jack-o-lanterns in one place. Families, churches, scout troops, classes, clubs or groups are asked to carve pumpkins to help set the record.

Carving lessons will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 26 at the Trenton Cultural Center, 2427 West Road. The goal for 2013 is to exceed last year's total of lit jack-o-lanterns on display during the Oct. 26 DTE Energy "Community Nite Lite."

The official pumpkin count and lighting ceremony of the tower of pumpkins will be held at 7 p.m. at the Trenton Cultural Center.

For every pumpkin received, DTE Energy will donate $1 to First Step, a nonprofit agency assisting women and children affected by domestic abuse.

For more information, call 1-734-675-7300. The event is sponsored by the Trenton Firefighters Charities, Trenton Exchange Club and Trenton Senior Citizens.

Learn about Halloween History at 10 a.m. Oct. 26 at Lake Erie Metropark in Brownstown Township.

Find out about the holiday's relatively short history in the United States, and learn how pumpkins, costumes and trick-or-treat became part of the tradition.

The event costs $3. Call 1-734-379-5020 or visit metroparks.com for more information.

The third annual Halloween Family fun halloween drinks Day takes place Oct. 26 at the Heinz C. Prechter Educational and Performing Arts Center on the Wayne County Community College District's Downriver campus, 21000 North Line Road, Taylor.

The fun includes a chance for children to paint windows with Halloween scenes at 12:30 p.m.; a mask-making workshop (registration required) at 1 p.m.; and a live performance of "Jack and the Bean-stalk" at 2 p.m. by Wild Swan Theater.

The day ends at 3 p.m. with an onstage costume parade and trick-or-treating around the campus.

Costumes are encouraged. The event is free and open to the public. For more information or to register for the workshop, call 1-734-374-3200.

The Heritage Park Petting Farm, 12803 Pardee Road, Taylor, will host Boo Barn from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 26 and 27.

The family friendly event will feature Copper Tom will performing for the children. The Tri-County Two-Cylinder Tractor Club of Michigan also will be on hand with its antique tractor display.

Decorate apples for a sweet Halloween treat and visit with characters that stop in at the farm for a surprise visit.

Get your face painted like a ghost, vampire or any other spooky creation for an additional fee. Enjoy free cider and doughnuts or purchase other refreshments.

Costumes are encouraged. Regular admission rates apply. Call 1-734-374-5946 for more information.

Trinity Lutheran Church, 465 Oak St., Wyandotte, will host its annual Trunk or Treat event from 3 to 5 p.m. Oct. 26.

Children are welcome to dress in their favorite non-scary costumes and get candy from the decorated car trunks. There also will be crafts and refreshments.

Call 1-734-282-5877 or visit tlmwyandotte.org for more information.

The community is invited to Trinity Lutheran Church, 465 Oak St., Wyandotte, for a free non-scary Halloween event from 3 to 5 p.m. Oct. 26.

Children will enjoy trunk-or-treating between decorated vehicles, refreshments and crafts. Non-scary costumes are encouraged.

First United Methodist Church, 72 Oak St., Wyandotte, will host a family friendly Trunk-or-Treat, along with a cupcake walk and other Halloween-themed activities, from 6 to 8 p.m. Oct. 26.

The event is free.

Trick or treat from 1 to 3 p.m. Oct. 26 on the first floor of the Bacon District Memorial Library, 45 Vinewood, Wyandotte.

The event is free.

The Woodhaven Recreation Department will host a 5K Monster Mash Run/Walk at 10 a.m. Oct. 27 at the Woodhaven Community Center, 23101 Hall Road.

Costumes for participants are encouraged, and prizes will be given away for best costume.

Online registration is available at www.everalracemgt.com.

Proceeds will benefit Shop with a Cop and the Woodhaven Community Foundation.

For more information, call 1-734-675-4926.

DownRiver United Methodist Church, 12601 McCann, Southgate, will host a free Trunk or Treat event so children and their loved ones may gather candy safely from 4 to 6 p.m. Oct. 27

Refreshments, including cider and donuts, will be provided. In addition, children in their costumes may get their photo taken in adecorated photo venue.

Visit drumc.org for more information.

Evangel Baptist Church, 16994 Telegraph, Taylor, will host its Trunk or Treat event from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30.

The event will be a safe, family environment to enjoy collecting candy and playing games. There also will be music, a photo booth, snacks and more.

The church also will hold a winter coat giveaway for those in need.

All are welcome. Call 1-734-946-5680 to learn more.

Greenfield Village hosts its annual Hallowe'en celebration Oct. 25 to 27.

A path lit by 900 hand-carved jack-o-lanterns and occupied by characters adorned in elaborate costumes inspired by the Hallowe'en party pamphlets of the early 1900s will guide guests through the village to experience the holiday as it was celebrated at the turn of the century.

Guests will come face-to-face with characters from classic literary works come to life, such as "Treasure Island," "Hansel and Gretel" and "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow" at stops along the way.

Listen to a chilling retelling of Edgar Allen Poe's "The Tell-Tale Heart," and stroll through the Sleepy Hollow Forest, all the while on the lookout for the infamous headless horseman, or enjoy classic 1930s-era cartoons near the Sarah Jordan Boarding House.

There will be a variety of treats for guests to enjoy, including hot cider, doughnuts, and Greenfield Village brewed beer for the adults.

Time slots are available every half hour from 6:30 to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays and 6:30 to 8 p.m. Sundays.

Tickets cost $12.75 for members and $15 for non-members. Children ages 2 and younger get in for free. Purchase tickets at thehenryford.org or by calling 1-313-982-6001.

Farmer Charley's in Monroe offers a full fall experience, from hayrides and corn mazes to pig races and cider and doughnuts.

One of the biggest draws is the Corn Maze Adventures, which feature a different theme each Halloween. This year's intricate cornfield maze takes on a "Superheroes" theme. Flashlight Nights, which involve navigating the mazes in the dark with flashlights, and haunted hayrides also are a big draw.

Admission is $10.95 for adults and $9.95 for senior citizens. Children ages 3 and younger get in free. Tickets are all-day passes. Visitors can return for free as long as they leave their wristbands on.

Hours are 5 to 10 p.m. Thursdays, 5 to 11 p.m. Fridays, noon to 11 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 10 p.m. Sundays.

Farmer Charley's Corn Maze Adventures is open weekends through Nov. 3 and is located at 6421 N. Stony Creek Road, Monroe. Visit farmercharleys.com for more information, directions and coupons.

Corn mazes hosted by J. Webb Farm, 4262 Post Road, in Newport, are open from 5 to 10 p.m. Fridays, 2 to 10 p.m. Saturdays, and 1 to 7 p.m. Sundays throughout October.

Free games are included with maze admission and many free children's activities are available at the farm. Farm animals, varieties of pumpkins and Indian corn, gourds, squash, straw bales, and corn stalks are all part of the experience.

Corn maze tickets are $5 for ages 13 and older and $4 for ages 4 to 12. Children ages 3 and younger get in free. Prices include admission to two mazes.

Other activities include scenic hayrides for $3 each and evening bonfires. Call 1-734-652-4287 for group rates and reservations, and visit jwebbfarm.com for more in-formation.

Source: Thenewsherald

iPad 5 and iPad mini 2 to be unveiled on October 22 alongside new Mac Pro | Apple | Geek.com

Dell M210X 720p Mobile Series Projector

With Apple's smartphone line up now settled for another 12 months, the company's focus can turn to tablets, and the next generation of both the 5s iphone ipad 2 cases for girls hello kitty and iPad mini. We expected both tablets to be updated before the end of the year, and now it looks as though Apple has decided to unveil the iPad 5 and iPad mini 2 before the end of the month.

AllThingsD has been told that Apple is set to hold an event on Tuesday, October 22 where the iPad and iPad mini hardware refresh will be the main focus. However, it is also thought that Apple will be rolling out the new design of the Mac Pro as well as OS X Mavericks.

We fully expect Apple to have matched the design of the iPad 5 with the iPad mini 2 while at the same time making the iPad smaller without compromising on screen size. We also expect the Touch ID sensor to be used, A7 processors in both tablets, and iOS 7 on board. What we aren't sure about if whether the iPad mini 2 will make the jump to a Retina display resolution. It would seem crazy not to when you compare the current iPad mini to the competition.

As for the Mac Pro and OS X Mavericks, it makes sense to launch them together. Mavericks is v10.9 of OS X and promises improvements to Finder, more iCloud integration, and a range of new features for power users. The Mac Pro on the other hand is Apple's long overdue update to its most powerful desktop machine. It has a new and very different cylinder design and will ship with a range of processor options including a 12-core Intel Xeon part.

Apple will surely confirm the event date in the next week or so when the invites go out. It's also important to point out that October 22 is the date Microsoft will launch the Surface 2 and Nokia is holding its Innovation Reinvented showcase.

Now read: OS X Mavericks to release this October, reports say

Source: Geek

Kevin Shields of My Bloody Valentine blames the British government for 90s Britpop

<shindigzp>When I was in college, back in the late 90s/early 00s, if I had a break between classes on a nice day, one of my favorite things to do was grab a falafel sandwich from a food truck, park myself on a patch of grass in the campus courtyard and listen to the Lyndon LaRouche supporters shout a bunch of crazy through megaphones while handing out literature.

For the uninitiated, Larouche is a convicted felon who fancies himself a political philosopher. he also served time in prison for conspiracy to commit mail fraud and tax code violations. He also tends to get laughed right out of the DNC every time he tries to run for president.

The man's political beliefs are a mixed bag of batshit, but the ones I found the most entertaining were the ones regarding Great Britain's supposed conspiracy to cripple the world economy. One aspect of the theory involved the British Invasion of the 60s where the export of bands like The Beatles, The Troggs and The Dave Clark Five were part of an insidious covert operation to dilute the American cultural landscape with these British exports and make the American audience servile to their new British overlords with the culture of drugs and sex these bands brought with them.

So, you can imagine my delight when The Guardian published this bit of Britpop conspiracy theory and angry sniping from My Bloody Valentine's Kevin Shields today:

"Britpop was massively pushed by the government," he said. "Someday it would be interesting to read all the MI5 files on Britpop. The wool was pulled right over everyone's eyes there."

In the early years of Tony Blair's premiership, Britpop luminaries such as Noel Gallagher and Damon Albarn were vocal supporters of the Labour government, and visited 10 Downing Street. Shields said he would only have attended "on condition we could play a song."

It would have been interesting to see My Bloody Valentine play a song at government headquarters, mainly because the sheer decibel level of the band's live performance probably counts as some sort of assault.

Unfortunately, Shields doesn't elaborate on why a secret cabal of shadowy decision makers was allegedly choreographing the brothers' many public feuds, but I hope he does he gets the chance to flesh this out a little more. As Darrell Hammond said when he parodied Hardball host Chris Matthews on Saturday Night Live, "let's keep this crazy train rolling!"

Source: Deathandtaxesmag

Nexus 5 said to be 'half the price' of the iPhone 5S

A source says the new Google phone will come with an attractive price for those that have been hankering for a new Nexus.

(Credit: MacRumors)

The hype and rumors we're hearing around the upcoming Nexus 5, expected from LG and Google later this month, is that it could instantly become the new Android phone to beat. But the latest whisperings hint that it could also give the iPhone 5s iphone cases otterbox black hair a run for its money when it comes to how much of your money you have to shell out for one.

TechRadar says a "source familiar with Google" has told the site that the successor to the popular but LTE-less Nexus 4 will ship in the latter part of October and cost "half the price" of the iPhone 5S.

What's a little tricky about this is that the source seems to be referring to United Kingdom prices and ship dates, which can be different from what we see in the United States. If the Nexus 5 were to be half of what an unlocked iPhone 5S sells for at retail stateside (it starts at $649 for 16 GB contract-free with a T-Mobile SIM), that would mean we could see a new unlocked Nexus that, according to TechRadar's source, will meet the specs of the iPhone 5S, but for less than $350.

That would certainly be a welcome deal for Nexus fans hoping for a repeat of the $299 price tag for an unlocked Nexus 4 right out of the gate.

We'll see in the coming weeks if Google actually offers such a pre-holiday bargain on a top-flight phone, or if we've just caught wind of some sort of UK-only pricing scheme or just total bunk.

Be sure to read up on everything else we expect in a new Nexus, and let us know in the comments if you plan to get one of your own.

Source: Cnet

Otterbox Introduces New iPhone 5/5s Case With Space for Credit Cards and Cash

Otterbox has introduced iPhone case/wallet combination, the Commuter Series Wallet. The $45 case includes space for 3 credit cards and a single dollar bill, while coming in black, white/grey and pink/grey color combinations.

The new case competes against other wallet 5s iphone cases otterbox college like TwelveSouth's BookBook, as well as dozens of other wallet cases on the market.

- Multi-layer case guards against damage to your device
- Slimline design hides contents, keeping them safe and secure
- Self-adhering screen protector guards against scratches and scrapes to the glass display
- Access drawer holds up to three cards and one bill
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Source: Macrumors

Meet the Fantastically Bejeweled Skeletons of Catholicism's Forgotten Martyrs

Paul Koudounaris is not a man who shies away from the macabre. Though the Los Angeles-based art historian, author and photographer claims that his fascination with death is no greater than anyone else's, he devotes his career to investigating and documenting phenomena such as church ossuaries, charnel houses and bone-adorned shrines. Which is why, when a man in a German village approached him during a 2008 research trip and asked something along the lines of, "Are you interested in seeing a dilapidated old church in the forest with a skeleton standing there covered in jewels and holding a cup of blood in his left hand like he's offering you a toast?" Koudounaris' answer was, "Yes, of course."

At the time, Koudounaris was working on a book called The Empire of Death, traveling the world to photograph church ossuaries and the like. He'd landed in this particular village near the Czech border to document a crypt full of skulls, but his interest was piqued by the dubious yet enticing promise of a bejeweled skeleton lurking behind the trees. "It sounded like something from the Brothers Grimm," he recalls. "But I followed his directions-half thinking this guy was crazy or lying-and sure enough, I found this jeweled skeleton in the woods."

The church-more of a small chapel, really-was in ruins, but still contained pews and altars, all dilapidated from years of neglect under East German Communist rule. He found the skeleton on a side aisle, peering out at him from behind some boards that had been nailed over its chamber. As he pried off the panels to get a better look, the thing watched him with big, red glass eyes wedged into its gaping sockets. It was propped upright, decked out in robes befitting a king, and holding out a glass vial, which Koudounaris later learned would have been believed to contain the skeleton's own blood. He was struck by the silent figure's dark beauty, but ultimately wrote it off as "some sort of one-off freakish thing, some local curiosity."

But then it happened again. In another German church he visited some time later, hidden in a crypt corner, he found two more resplendent skeletons. "It was then that I realized there's something much broader and more spectacular going on," he says.

Koudounaris could not get the figures' twinkling eyes and gold-adorned grins out of his mind. He began researching the enigmatic remains, even while working on Empire of Death. The skeletons, he learned, were the "catacomb saints," once-revered holy objects regarded by 16th- and 17th-century Catholics as local protectors and personifications of the glory of the afterlife. Some of them still remain tucked away in certain churches, while others have been swept away by time, forever gone. Who they were in life is impossible to know. "That was part of this project's appeal to me," Koudounaris says. "The strange enigma that these skeletons could have been anyone, but they were pulled out of the ground and raised to the heights of glory."

His pursuit of the bones soon turned into a book project, Heavenly Bodies: Cult Treasures and Spectacular Saints from the Catacombs, in which he documents the martyred bones' journey from ancient Roman catacombs to hallowed altars to forgotten corners and back rooms. Though largely neglected by history, the skeletons, he found, had plenty to say.

Resurrecting the Dead

On May 31, 1578, local vineyard workers discovered that a hollow along Rome's Via Salaria, a road traversing the boot of Italy, led to a catacomb. The subterranean chamber proved to be full of countless skeletal remains, presumably dating back to the first three centuries following Christianity's emergence, when thousands were persecuted for practicing the still-outlawed religion. An estimated 500,000 to 750,000 souls-mostly Christians but including some pagans and Jews-found a final resting place in the sprawling Roman catacombs.

For hundreds of skeletons, however, that resting place would prove anything but final. The Catholic Church quickly learned of the discovery and believed it was a godsend, since many of the skeletons must have belonged to early Christian martyrs. In Northern Europe-especially in Germany, where anti-Catholic sentiment was most fervent-Catholic churches had suffered from plunderers and vandals during the Protestant Revolution over the past several decades. Those churches' sacred relics had largely been lost or destroyed. The newly discovered holy remains, however, could restock the shelves and restore the morale of those parishes that had been ransacked.

The holy bodies became wildly sought-after treasures. Every Catholic church, no matter how small, wanted to have at least one, if not ten. The skeletons allowed the churches to make a "grandiose statement," Koudounaris says, and were especially prized in southern Germany, the epicenter of "the battleground against the Protestants." Wealthy families sought them for their private chapels, and guilds and fraternities would sometimes pool their resources to adopt a martyr, who would become the patron of cloth-makers, for example.

For a small church, the most effective means of obtaining a set of the coveted remains was a personal connection with someone in Rome, particularly one of the papal guards. Bribery helped, too. Once the Church confirmed an order, couriers-often monks who specialized in transporting relics-delivered the skeleton from Rome to the appropriate northern outpost.

At one point, Koudounaris attempted to estimate in dollar terms how profitable these ventures would have been for the deliverymen, but gave up after realizing that the conversion from extinct currencies to modern ones and the radically different framework for living prevented an accurate translation. "All I can say is that they made enough money to make it worthwhile," he says.

The Vatican sent out thousands of relics, though it's difficult to determine exactly how many of those were fully articulated skeletons versus a single shinbone, skull or rib. In Germany, Austria and Switzerland, where the majority of the celebrated remains wound up, the church sent at least 2,000 complete skeletons, Koudounaris estimates.

For the Vatican, the process of ascertaining which of the thousands of skeletons belonged to a martyr was a nebulous one. If they found "M." engraved next to a corpse, they took it to stand for "martyr," ignoring the fact that the initial could also stand for "Marcus," one of the most popular names in ancient Rome. If any vials of dehydrated sediment turned up with the bones, they assumed it must be a martyr's blood rather than perfume, which the Romans often left on graves in the way we leave flowers today. The Church also believed that the bones of martyrs cast off a golden glow and a faintly sweet smell, and teams of psychics would journey through the corporeal tunnels, slip into a trance and point out skeletons from which they perceived a telling aura. After identifying a skeleton as holy, the Vatican then decided who was who and issued the title of martyr.

While there doubters within the Vatican, those on the receiving end of these relics never wavered in their faith. "This was such a dubious process, it's understandable to ask if people really believed," Koudounaris says. "The answer is, of course they did: These skeletons came in a package from the Vatican with proper seals signed by the cardinal vicar stating these remains belong to so-and-so. No one would question the Vatican."

The Dirt and Blood Are Wiped Away

Each martyr's skeleton represented the splendors that awaited the faithful in the afterlife. Before it could be presented to its congregation, it had to be outfitted in finery befitting a relic of its status. Skilled nuns, or occasionally monks, would prepare the skeleton for public appearance. It could take up to three years, depending on the size of the team at work.

Each convent would develop its own flare for enshrouding the bones in gold, gems and fine fabrics. The women and men who decorated the skeletons did so anonymously, for the most part. But as Koudounaris studied more and more bodies, he began recognizing the handiwork of particular convents or individuals. "Even if I couldn't come up with the name of a specific decorator, I could look at certain relics and tie them stylistically to her handiwork," he says.

Nuns were often renowned for their achievements in clothmaking. They spun fine mesh gauze, which they used to delicately wrap each bone. This prevented dust from settling on the fragile material and created a medium for attaching decorations. Local nobles often donated personal garments, which the nuns would lovingly slip onto the corpse and then cut out peepholes so people could see the bones beneath. Likewise, jewels and gold were often donated or paid for by a private enterprise. To add a personal touch, some sisters slipped their own rings onto a skeleton's fingers.

One thing the nuns did lack, however, was formal training in anatomy. Koudounaris often found bones connected improperly, or noticed that a skeleton's hand or foot was grossly missized. Some of the skeletons were outfitted with full wax faces, shaped into gaping grins or wise gazes. "That was done, ironically, to make them seem less creepy and more lively and appealing," Koudounaris says. "But it has the opposite effect today. Now, those with the faces by far seem the creepiest of all."

They are also ornately beautiful. In their splendor and grandeur, Koudounaris says, the skeletons may be considered baroque art, but their creators' backgrounds paint a more complicated picture that situates the bones into a unique artistic subcategory. The nuns and monks "were incredible artisans but did not train in an artisan's workshop, and they were not in formal dialogue with others doing similar things in other parts of Europe," he says.

"From my perspective as someone who studies art history, the question of who the catacomb saints were in life becomes secondary to the achievement of creating them," he continues. "That's something I want to celebrate."

In that vein, Koudounaris dedicated his book to those "anonymous hands" that constructed the bony treasures "out of love and faith." His hope, he writes, is that "their beautiful work will not be forgotten."

Fall from Grace

When a holy skeleton was finally introduced into the church, it marked a time of community rejoicing. The decorated bodies served as town patrons and "tended to be extremely popular because they were this very tangible and very appealing bridge to the supernatural," Koudounaris explains.

Baptismal records reveal the extent of the skeletons' allure. Inevitably, following a holy body's arrival, the first child born would be baptized under its name-for example, Valentine for a boy, Valentina for a girl. In extreme 5s iphone cases jeweled, half the children born that year would possess the skeleton's name.

Communities believed that their patron skeleton protected them from harm, and credited it for any seeming miracle or positive event that occurred after it was installed. Churches kept "miracle books," which acted as ledgers for archiving the patron's good deeds. Shortly after Saint Felix arrived at Gars am Inn, for example, records indicate that a fire broke out in the German town. Just as the flames approached the marketplace-the town's economic heart-a great wind came and blew them back. The town showered Felix with adoration; even today, around 100 ex-votos-tiny paintings depicting and expressing gratitude for a miracle, such as healing a sick man-are strewn about St. Felix's body in the small, defunct chapel housing him.

As the world modernized, however, the heavenly bodies' gilt began to fade for those in power. Quoting Voltaire, Koudounaris writes that the corpses were seen as reflection of "our ages of barbarity," appealing only to "the vulgar: feudal lords and their imbecile wives, and their brutish vassals."

In the late 18th century, Austria's Emperor Joseph II, a man of the Enlightenment, was determined to dispel superstitious objects from his territory. He issued an edict that all relics lacking a definite provenance should be tossed out. The skeletons certainly lacked that. Stripped of their status, they were torn down from their posts, locked away in boxes or cellars, or plundered for their jewels.

For local communities, this was traumatic. These saints had been instilled in people's lives for more than a century, and those humble worshipers had yet to receive the Enlightenment memo. Pilgrimages to see the skeletons were abruptly outlawed. Local people would often weep and follow their patron skeleton as it was taken from its revered position and dismembered by the nobles. "The sad thing is that their faith had not waned when this was going on," Koudounaris says. "People still believed in these skeletons."

The Second Coming

Not all of the holy skeletons were lost during the 18 th-entury purges, however. Some are still intact and on display, such as the 10 fully preserved bodies in the Waldsassen Basilica ("the Sistine Chapel of Death," Koudounaris calls it) in Bavaria, which holds the largest collection remaining today. Likewise, the delicate Saint Munditia still reclines on her velvet throne at St. Peter's Church in Munich.

In Koudounaris' hunt, however, many proved more elusive. When he returned to that original German village several years later, for example, he found that a salvage company had torn down the forest church. Beyond that, none of the villagers could tell him what had happened to its contents, or to the body. For every 10 bodies that disappeared in the 18 th and 19 th centuries, Koudounaris estimates, nine are gone.

In other cases, leads-which he gathered through traveler's accounts, parish archives and even Protestant writings about the Catholic "necromancers"-did pan out. He found one skeleton in the back of a parking-garage storage unit in Switzerland. Another had been wrapped in cloth and stuck in a box in a German church, likely untouched for 200 years.

After examining around 250 of these skeletons, Koudounaris concluded, "They're the finest pieces of art ever created in human bone." Though today many of the heavenly bodies suffer from pests burrowing through their bones and dust gathering on their faded silk robes, in Koudounaris' photos they shine once more, provoking thoughts of the people they once were, the hands that once adorned them and the worshipers who once fell at their feet. But ultimately, they are works of art. "Whoever they may have been as people, whatever purpose they served rightly or wrongly as items, they are incredible achievements," he says. "My main objective in writing the book is to present and re-contextualize these things as outstanding works of art."

Accomplishing that was no small task. Nearly all the skeletons he visited and uncovered were still in their original 400-year-old glass tombs. To disassemble those cases, Koudounaris thought, would "amount to destroying them." Instead, a bottle of Windex and a rag became staples of his photography kit, and he sometimes spent upward of an hour and a half meticulously examining the relic for a clear window through which he might shoot. Still, many of the skeletons he visited could not be included in the book because the glass was too warped to warrant a clear shot.

For Koudounaris, however, it's not enough to simply document them in a book. He wants to bring the treasures back into the world, and see those in disrepair restored. Some of the church members agreed with Koudounaris' wish to restore the skeletons, not so much as devotional items but as pieces of local history. The cost of undertaking such a project, however, seems prohibitive. One local parish priest told Koudounaris he had consulted with a restoration specialist, but that the specialist "gave a price so incredibly high that there was no way the church could afford it."

Still, Koudounaris envisions a permanent museum installation or perhaps a traveling exhibit in which the bones could be judged on their artistic merits. "We live in an age where we're more in tune with wanting to preserve the past and have a dialogue with the past," he says. "I think some of them will eventually come out of hiding."

Source: Smithsonianmag