text:
Page Tools
Sheila McLaren has been left angry and wounded.
Photo: Craig Sillitoe
A "terrible dull sadness" haunts Sheila McLaren, the legacy of a trial in which a jury rejected her claims of sexual assault. Peter Ellingsen examines the case for reform of a legal system that leaves victims feeling doubly abused.
She clutches her arms to her sides and tries to speak. But even now, two months after the trial that regurgitated the most horrifying episode of her life, the words fall away. Like the autumn light outside her kitchen window, they have journeyed too far; been stretched too thin. That is the problem with rape trials - they slice your story so savagely it is no longer yours. Sheila McLaren knows what happened to her that night three years ago. But a jury did not believe her, or doubted her enough to acquit the accused, and that has left her angry and wounded. It has also left this 62-year-old so uneasy in the company of men that she must open the front and back doors of her tiny flat before she can find the words to describe her ordeal.
Hers is no sob story. It is more one of bewilderment. Perched on one of just two stools in the single-bedroom city apartment she fled to after the Ballarat trial, she still struggles with the "terrible dull sadness" of seeing the man she accused walk free. There is a lot of anguish about how the justice system treated her. As often happens in sexual assault trials, the defence took fragments of her life - in her case a depression that she suffered some years back after losing her job - and dramatised it, accusing her of being "delusional" and "dissociated".
Both terms are linked to mental illness. "Delusional" suggests psychosis. But McLaren, a South African nurse who migrated to Australia in 1968, is not mad - just fragile. It is a state common to the 7000 or so Victorians, mainly women and children, who report some form of sexual assault each year. It is the most under-reported of crimes. Victim surveys suggest the real number is seven times greater. McLaren was one of those who delayed reporting. She saw her doctor immediately after that night in November 2002, but like so many others, shied away from lodging a complaint. "I just couldn't handle it," she says in a far-away voice.
Victims know that in court they will be put through the worst part of it.
The incident took place in the early hours of the morning. It left her devastated. The last thing she wanted was to confront police and retell the story. She visited the local sexual assault centre, but found that resolved nothing. Then the flashbacks began. All she could think of was suicide. It landed her in hospital, and later, in the care of a local Catholic priest. After an overdose of sleeping tablets, she had counselling and finally felt able to go home. But even with a hammer under her pillow, the house where the incident occurred, with its large and much-loved garden, did not feel safe. McLaren, who had lived in the Daylesford area for 20 years, put the property up for sale, and rang the police.
Senior Constable Brian Mallick
Photo:Pat Scala
They were optimistic. Detective Senior Constable Brian Mallick from the Bacchus Marsh criminal investigation unit listened to McLaren's story and saw a strong case. He encouraged her to proceed, but knew it would not be easy. "The law works against a conviction," he says. Then, there is the problem that, in country areas, trial dates are uncertain. It meant that Mallick, 43, had to keep trial witnesses "geed-up" for about a month. "You have got to show confidence to the victims," he says. "A lot of the time, they just want it all to go away. They know that in court they will be put through the worst part of it."
Like the three other investigators covering the eight police stations in the greater Daylesford area, north-west of Melbourne, Mallick spends most of his case load - he reckons 80 per cent - on sexual crime. It is a thankless job. Many of those who face court in sexual abuse matters get off. The acquittal rate is the highest of all types of offences that reach the nation's higher courts. Partly, this is because 85 per cent of the accused plead not-guilty and partly, it is because of the difficulty of proving a crime that invariably does not have witnesses. In nearly all cases, it is the victim's word against that of the accused. Usually the victim is a young woman, and the accused is an older man, more often than not a relative. While the complainant can have her past scrutinised, the accused - unless he (or very occasionally she) takes the stand - won't be cross-examined, and so will not be questioned about past behaviour, including prior offences. The onus is on the complainant to prove sexual assault took place, and that is not easy, particularly when children are involved. The Gatehouse Centre child abuse support service at the Royal Children's Hospital had some 150 new referrals about sexual abuse each month of last year, and only 2 per cent resulted in convictions.
Only a small number of the hundreds of rape complaints in Victoria each year result in a trial. As Mallick says: "A lot don't make it to court because there's not enough evidence." There is also the problem of costs. Mallick says defence lawyers have threatened to "go for costs" if police proceed with prosecution. "It's tantamount to blackmail," he says. Police Chief Commissioner Christine Nixon agrees that costs are an issue, and says it is being addressed through a review of the Police Regulation Act. Nixon has no doubt that the system works against victims. "We do have to criticise the system," she says. "The evidence is overwhelming." Nixon says that the way the courts treat sexual abuse cases is not a search for truth, and can result in key evidence (including DNA) being excluded from trials. "Evidence is excluded in pursuit of getting people off," she says.
The result for police at the coalface is traumatic. Mallick, who has spent 13 years investigating serious crime, was so jolted when McLaren's testimony did not lead to a conviction that he considered resigning. "It knocked me for six," he says. "I questioned what I was doing. I was ready to toss it in." But McLaren, who praises the police, was not so surprised. After days of gruelling cross-examination, in which her past was scrutinised, but the personal history of the accused, who pleaded not guilty, was off-limits, she felt ripped apart. She wanted to write a letter to the local paper telling rape victims: "Don't bother to report assault."
Mallick does not agree, though he does worry about the high price victims pay when they go to court. Worst of all, he says, is the effect on children. "It's very hard with kids, because kids don't understand what's going on," he says. "Why do they have to go to court, and again explain what happened, to 12 people they don't know?"
STATE Attorney-General Rob Hulls is confident the system will be reformed so that victims, especially children, are better protected. And the president of the criminal bar, Lex Lasry, QC, says there is an agreement to introduce a once-only, taped, cross-examination of children, so that the trauma they experience is minimised.
In the opinion of some, such reform can't come soon enough, as a sexual abuse case heard in the County Court in 2002 reveals. A 15-year-old girl accused her stepfather of multiple counts of incest and sexual penetration going back to when she was 10. The judge at first agreed to let the girl testify via closed-circuit television outside the court, rather than face her alleged abuser. He reversed the decision when the defence barrister saw the girl outside the court wearing what he said was provocative clothing, and argued that the jury needed to see how she was dressed and her "body reactions". "She had the tightest of fitting, some sort of jersey material, white pants, the high heels," the defence barrister said. "We would say even more provocative in the way she dressed, with an outline of her G-string . . . I mean, it's most important that the jury get a full appreciation of this cold girl's attitude and the way she conducts herself, and which includes her clothing."
Defence counsel also argued that as the girl had not "broken down", she would be able to testify in the courtroom. Though the prosecutor said that the trial was taking place in summer and the girl was dressed similar to any other teenager, the judge ruled the girl continue her testimony in court, agreeing that the defence barrister could ask her what she wore the previous day. After answering a string of questions - many of which demanded she recount in detail the precise nature of the penetrative act - the girl became distressed and ran from the court shouting "f---ing arsehole, how could you do that to me?" at the defendant.
Addressing the lawyers, the judge said: "Gentlemen, I must say I thought that things were proceeding a lot more expeditiously until that just occurred. My associate tells me she has gone off to the lift. I don't know whether she's gone full stop, or whatever . . ." The prosecutor said the girl was "very upset" and suggested she not give any more evidence that day. The judge agreed. The defence barrister demurred, commenting: "All I'm saying is I'd like to get this case rolling . . . but I understand she shouldn't be forced in this situation if she says she needs the day." The next day the prosecution renewed its request that she be allowed to testify via closed-circuit television because of the distress she was suffering from being in the presence of the defendant, but this was denied. The stepfather, who pleaded not guilty, was convicted and sent to prison.
Reformers such as Ballarat University's Dr Caroline Taylor say incidents like this show that defendants, usually women, are routinely placed in a "lascivious legal narrative" that stereotypes them as blameworthy. "The prosecutor is often forced to follow and accommodate a legal narrative defined by the presiding judge, often at the behest of the defence counsel," she says. Taylor, herself a sex abuse victim, argues that legal justice is unjust and causes harm to women and children. In a new book, Court Licensed Abuse, she quotes a Sydney judge in a sex offence trial saying that truth "is being hidden from juries", and recalls the former chief justice of the Victorian County Court, Glenn Waldron, describing the cross-examination of many victims of crime as "trial by ambush". Her critique echoes that of legal ethicist David Luban, of Harvard and Yale law schools, who told an Australian conference that lawyers are often required to "check in their morals at the courtroom door". Taylor cites a Victorian case in which the defence lawyer had a woman, who accused her father of abuse, threatened with contempt if she continued to say that he had raped her. The lawyer preferred the term "incest". Ballarat Detective Sergeant Kevin Carson was with the woman at the time and recalls the threat. "The lawyer came up and said the complainant must stop using the word 'rape' or she could be charged with contempt," he says. "But that's how she spoke. She told me: 'He raped me'."
Carson says that 60 per cent of investigative work in the Ballarat area concerns sexual abuse, but despite legislative reform in the early 1990s, victims still go through the same ordeal as when he began such work 25 years ago. "We know as investigators what's ahead for the victims and we have to try and soften the blow of the judicial system," he says. Like Mallick, Carson finds the legal system disappointing. "I find it very difficult nowadays to take the oath because we don't tell the whole truth," he says. "So much is cut out of the evidence by judges and legal argument. We're not telling the truth. But juries don't know. We can have evidence that is crucial but can't use it. It's very difficult to work in this area because you know how tough it is going to be." Like Nixon, Carson praises Caroline Taylor as a "courageous reformer".
Criminal barristers were affronted when Taylor accused them of deriving "mastubatory pleasure" from cross-examining women complainants. Lex Lasry says the vast majority of criminal lawyers "get no pleasure from cross-examining complainants, particularly children". He concedes "some lawyers" may bring the profession into disrepute by beating up on the victim in court, but says 90 per cent of lawyers regard such tactics as unproductive. "We're not a trade union," he says. "We can't direct lawyers how to act. Of course, you can pick particular cases and make it all seem terrible. But in any case where you have a traumatised victim and the prospect of a prison-traumatised client, the defence lawyer has a job to do. There will be a collision between these two parts of the process, and as long as we have this system of justice, you can't escape it."
Lasry agrees with the need for cultural change, but defends the system in which lawyers act on instructions from their client, refusing, he says, to make any judgement about their guilt or innocence. The point of the trial is not to discover the truth of every bit of evidence, but to establish guilt to a certain standard of proof. "People should be acquitted when the case against them can't be proved," he says. "There are cases where children and other witnesses lie."
DEFENCE barristers, as one QC explains, are "cabs for hire", and while the going rate for silks in sexual abuse cases does not rival that of commercial lawyers, it can be $6000 a day, which means an abuse trial can cost a defendant $40,000 to $50,000. Police like to refer to those defending sexual abuse cases as working "on the dark side", but that is not how the profession sees it. Phillip Priest, a QC who has specialised in defending sex abuse cases, says he has never known a defence lawyer to "gratuitously beat up" a complainant. "Sure, it happens," he says, "but not in my experience. We are in the real world. We have children too. Every barrister I know approaches these cases with a degree of sensitivity. So long as you have a proper grounding in ethics, you should never feel compelled to confront the question of whether your client is guilty or innocent."
Priest says he "can't conceive" that a victim's clothing could be relevant to a sexual abuse case. "I can't see how a jury would regard a G-string as relevant," he says, adding that a lot of anecdotal material on sex abuse would not "stand much scrutiny". The 2002 case may suggest otherwise. According to Dr Melanie Heenan, co-ordinator of the Australian Centre for the Study of Sexual Assault, this example indicates the gulf dividing reformers and those defending the status quo. "Defence barristers rely on their own experience. I challenge them to come up with real data for the debate." Heenan reviewed 34 rape trials in the late '90s and concluded that defence barristers were getting around legislative reforms introduced by the Kirner government in 1991.
A key change, provision 37A of the Evidence Act, was meant to protect the sexual history of complainants. It reads: "The court shall forbid any questions as to and shall not receive evidence to the general reputation of the complainant with respect to chastity." Heenan found that in 26 of the 34 rape trials she reviewed, sexual history was admitted. "It's still going on," she says. Provision 37A was raised in the 2002 case, with the objections about the defence's focus on the 15-year-old's clothing. "My learned friend seems to be suggesting that her clothing is indicative of permissiveness and rings of prostitution," prosecutor Tim Doherty said. Heenan found that, despite a tightening of the rules on cross-examination, women were still being told to hold up their underpants in front of the jury, and recite "dehumanising" details of penetration.
Such practices, reformers say, are subversive of fairness, and designed to unravel a complainant's testimony. This was the thrust of a report last year by the Victorian Law Reform Commission, which recommended 201 legislative changes. As commission chair Professor Marcia Neave says, the report showed the criminal justice system to be seriously flawed in dealing with people who report sexual assault. A number of the key recommendations are likely to be put to parliament this year, including the right of children and those with cognitive impairments to give evidence by closed-circuit television. It is also likely that the law will be changed to prevent accused sex offenders from personally cross-examining their alleged victims. But a central recommendation - that hearsay evidence from children, what they have told others, usually adults, be admitted - is being ferociously resisted by the criminal bar. This is despite the fact that rape convictions have fallen over 10 years, from 46 per cent in 1988-89 to 24 per cent in 1997-99. Just 7 per cent of rape allegations result in convictions. One problem, says Neave, is that trials are an exercise in strategy, not truth. "There are some ethical issues, and while we await change, trauma goes on along with unfair outcomes."
Sheila McLaren knows all about trauma. She is not able to work, and still fears another assault. "I can't breath when a man is in the house with me," she says. "So I open all the doors." It is very difficult for her to feel safe. Leaning on the granite bench of her neat kitchen, she resembles a tentative, wounded bird. Her eyes retain a bright, almost childlike quality, but the crevices in her pale face suggest the strain of the past two years.
She has her books, and the computer she bought to write letters and keep track of the details of the trial that still haunts her. Inside her small, sparsely furnished flat, everything is carefully ordered, and so minimal it feels almost empty. There is the fading light outside, her shoes on the mat by the door, and nothing out of place. She speaks clearly but in a tiny voice, like someone who can't afford to be noticed.
Get The Age home delivered for as little as $2.70 a week*


text:
Two Benedictine students awarded scholarships by Chinese government
August 24, 2011
Phil Brozynski
(630) 829-6094
Lisle, Illinois ~ Kathleen Thomas of Plainfield and Jasmine Ni of Richmond, Ohio, have been awarded full scholarships by the Chinese Government to study Chinese language and culture at a prestigious Chinese university for a semester.
The scholarships cover tuition, lodging, medical insurance, living allowance and learning materials. Thomas and Ni are the third and fourth Benedictine University students, respectively, to be awarded the scholarships.
Thomas, a senior Biology major and the daughter of Joyce Thomas of Plainfield and Gregory Thomas of Berwyn, will leave in late August for five months at Hohai University in Nanjing, China to study Chinese Language at the College of International Education.
"I had always wanted to study abroad, but figured I would travel to somewhere in Western Europe," Thomas said. "I traveled to China earlier this summer through a couple of my classes at Benedictine, and am really excited to return. I figure the next couple of months will be pretty challenging, but also a great opportunity."
Hohai University is the first institution of higher education in China that focused on a wide array of engineering subjects, particularly water resources. Hohai has more than 33,000 students including more than 9,000 graduate students.
Ni, a sophomore majoring in International Business and Economics and the daughter of Eddie and Ling Ling of Richmond, Ohio, will leave in February 2012 for five months at Southeast University (SEU) in Nanjing, China, to study Advanced Chinese at the College of International Students.
Founded in 1902, SEU is administered by the Ministry of Education and is one of the top 10 scientific research and development universities in China. SEU has more than 27,000 students of whom 10,000 are postgraduates.
The Chinese Government Scholarship program was established by the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China in accordance with exchange agreements reached between the Chinese government and other countries, organizations and educational institutions to provide scholarships to international students and scholars.
The scholarship program is administered by the China Scholarship Council and aims to develop educational and cultural exchanges and economic and trade cooperation between China and other countries, and strengthen the friendship and understanding between Chinese people and the people of other countries.
Thomas and Ni follow in the footsteps of Benedictine graduates Joy Holowicki of Franklin Park and Adam Baldocchi of Glen Ellyn, who studied in China during the 2010-2011 academic year.
"Adam and Joy both benefited significantly from the Chinese Government Scholarship Program," said Elsie Yuan, director of the Asia Institute at Benedictine University. "We thank the Chinese Government and the Consulate General of the People's Republic of China in Chicago for the generous scholarship and their incredible support."
Benedictine University is an independent Roman Catholic institution located in Lisle, Illinois just 25 miles west of Chicago. Founded in 1887, Benedictine provides 53 undergraduate majors, 13 graduate and four doctorate programs. Benedictine University is ranked among "America's Top Colleges" by Forbes magazine and as a "Top School in the Midwest - Master's Universities" by U.S. News & World Report.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Council officers are investigating ways to revamp buckled and uneven paving in Kingston town centre.
The brick road surface in Wood Street, between John Lewis and the Bentall Centre, has been damaged over the years by bus traffic.
Buckled: the paving in Wood Street
Councillor David Cunningham, cabinet member for transport, said: "I think it's stood the test of time for 20 years, but it's looking a bit tired.
"I don't think there's anything stucturally wrong with the road, but it in need of some TLC."
A council spokesman said: "We are aware the paving is uneven due to heavy usage by buses.
"We are working with our contractor to find a robust solution that can withstand the high volume and weight this section of the road is subjected to."
- What do you think? Comment below or email firstname.lastname@example.com.


text:
September was the ninth month of the Human year.
H.G. Wells was born on September 23rd, 1866. (DS9: "Far Beyond the Stars"; VOY: "The 37's"; ENT: "Similitude")
The science fiction stories "Me, Android" (by Albert Macklin) and "Hazardous Images" (by Herbert Rossoff) were written for the September 1953 issue of Incredible Tales magazine. (DS9: "Far Beyond the Stars")
The World Trade Center was hit by two airplanes in a terrorist attack on September 11th, 2001. (ENT: "Storm Front, Part II")
The events of the Bell Riots took place in San Francisco in early September of 2024. (DS9: "Past Tense, Part I", "Past Tense, Part II")
Gabriel Bell was killed in Sanctuary District A in San Francisco on September 3rd, 2024. (DS9: "Little Green Men")
Malcolm Reed was born on September 2nd, in the 2100s. (ENT: "Silent Enemy")
On September 1st, 2151, the subspace amplifiers Echo One and Echo Two were destroyed by an unknown alien vessel. (ENT: "Silent Enemy")
Jeremy Lucas and Phlox exchanged mail discussing issues and events of their respective postings in September of 2151. (ENT: "Dear Doctor")
On September 12th, 2152, Retellians kidnapped the intern Kriosian First Monarch Kaitaama to hold her for ransom. The crew of Enterprise NX-01 helped rescue her. (ENT: "Precious Cargo")
Takret soldiers attempt to take over Enterprise on September 18th, 2152, but are foiled in their efforts. (ENT: "The Catwalk")
The Delphic Expanse spheres were first encountered by the crew of Enterprise in September of 2153. (ENT: "Anomaly")
Enterprise visited a trellium mining planet in September of 2153 to gain information from the Xindi Kessick. (ENT: "The Xindi")
In September of 2153, Jonathan Archer was transformed into a Loque'eque, and was subsequently cured by Phlox. (ENT: "Extinction")
Enterprise visited the Xanthan homeworld in the Delphic Expanse to do business with one of its inhabitants in September of 2153. (ENT: "Rajiin")
A resident of the Caldos colony, Vader, died on the 21st of September, 2242. (TNG: "Sub Rosa")
Miles O'Brien was born in September, 2328. (DS9: "Whispers")
Thomas Raymond was born on September 27th, 2329. (TNG-R: "The Neutral Zone", okudagram)
"Commander Kieran MacDuff", the alias of a Satarran infiltrator, was born on September 27th, 2334. (TNG: "Conundrum")
Leah Brahms was born in September, 2336, in Damascus City, Alpha Delphi IX. (TNG: "Booby Trap")
Carolyn L. Raymond, daughter of Thomas Raymond, was born on September 17th, 2351. (TNG-R: "The Neutral Zone", okudagram)
In September of 2373, Keiko O'Brien became inhabited by a Pah-wraith while visiting the Fire Caves on Bajor. (DS9: "The Assignment")
|Months of the year
|Earth months: January • February • March • April • May • June • July • August • September • October • November • December
|Qo'noS months: Maktag • nay'Poq
|Vulcan months: Tasmeen
Appendices Edit
Background Information Edit
According to the Stellar Cartography: The Starfleet Reference Library ("The Dominion War: Strategy and Battles, 2373-75"), the Battle of Betazed was won by the Dominion in September 2375.
Apocrypha Edit
Some of the events of the Eugenics Wars novel The Rise and Fall of Khan Noonien Singh, Volume 2 took place on September 10th and September 30th, 1993 and the 5th and 7th of September, 1995.
The events of the Pocket DS9 novel Unity took place in September of 2376.


text:
Iceland!! (May 2011)
Volcanoes, Glaciers, Craters, Geysers, Hot Springs, Waterfalls and Sexy Stockings.
Iceland - WOW! It's amazing. As we were flying from Seattle to Iceland a fellow passenger who was connecting on asked us..."Iceland?!? Why?!? What's to see in Iceland worth staying for?!?" Well....let me tell you:
We arrived at 6:25AM Iceland time after a 7 hour flight and a 7 hour time difference. So when we arrived in Iceland we were operating as if it was midnight but we had to adjust to the fact that it was 6:30AM not yet having had a wink of sleep. Ouch. But guess what - worth it!!
Day 1. Arrived very jet legged, went straight into Reykjavik via fly bus. The drive in was spectacular in itself. It's one big volcano! The land all around is broken, black volcanic rock. Growing moss in some areas is the only bit of green. It's different than anything I've ever seen before. At the apartment we woke up our friend Greg (who arrived the day before) to announce our arrival. Then we went to sleep for an hour or so (sorry Greg! haha!). SO hard to get up but I guess that's what it takes to get into the local time zone. We had some food at Cafe Paris (I know this is a little funny but it turned out to be a good choice). We poked around Reykjavik for a bit and in the afternoon the boys had some beers and I went for another nap (while Ash and Greg were yelling at me not to be a wimp). In the eve we went for traditional Icelandic food with fish stew, Icelandic Haggis, dried/salted fish and Minke Whale. I tried the Whale and I didn't really like it. Gamey tasting and not cooked enough for me. The fish stew was just ok and I choose not to try the rest of the items. I think Greg enjoyed it which is good. Just not for me I guess!
Day 2: Super Jeep Tour!!! 8am start. Me, Ash, Greg, a girl Stupa from Czech Republic and the Tour Guide Ali. What a day. It was the most beautiful, scenic hike I've ever done. Not to mention the steaming lava at the top!!! Yup, we saw the lava from last years eruption up close and personal. And it's still steaming from the eruption a year ago!! Getting to the beginning of the 20km hike was a blast in itself. The guide drove us in a super jeep with super jacked up tires. Around the boulders and rivers?!?...nah, over em!!! haha. It was AMAZING.
Þórsmörk Volcano Hike - Iceland
Day 3: Golden Circle Drive. Ash, Greg and I rented a car and hit the road. Good 'ole Vivian (our GPS lady voice) took us on the ultimate tour. I'm pretty sure the GPS must have been set on "scenic route" or perhaps "slowest route". Anyway, we didn't mind. Viv's directions just made the drive that much more interesting. An extra few kilometers and dirt roads to get to our destinations – no big deal!
First stop = Gullfoss (Golden Falls). A beautiful waterfall that plummets down into a crevice. What amazed me here was the very low (about knee height) rope barrier located very close to the edge of the rock. I was shocked at how close we were able to get to the falls with no restrictions. A little scary but allowed for a great view!
Second Stop: Strokkur Geyser (a water spouting hot spring). There were many hot springs and geysers in this area including the 2nd largest called Geysir which erupts after earthquakes and last erupted in 2000. Strokkur Geyser however, erupts every 8-10 minutes so we had a chance to see it spout water at least a few times. What an amazing site!
Third Stop – Þingvellir. The continental divide between North American and European tectonic plates. One of the few places where the divide can be clearly seen by massive cracks or faults in the earth. This was a very cool view of what the earth can do during quakes and just over time in general. A little unnerving if you think about it while you are there though because it's probably about the last place you want to be if a quake happens. Sorry, no pic - camera battery died, boo.
OK…on to Reykjavik nightlife! Wow…the girls are TALL! And many very blonde (naturally!). And the current ladies fashion trend in Iceland without a doubt is – fancy stockings and an incredibly short skirt. And I mean every girl was wearing this. There was one girl in the bar wearing jeans - it was me! Haha. I really didn't fit in with my backpacker style! I still very much enjoyed a couple of local beers - Gull and Thule. Yum! On the way home from a night out just a little before 2am the sun was already well on its way up. So strange!
On our way to the airport we stopped at the Blue Lagoon. It's a geothermal spa and probably the most relaxing place on the face of the earth. I just LOVED it! The mineral rich water leaves your whole body feeling relaxed and your skin feeling soft! For any future trips to Europe I will definitely try to organize a quick stop in Iceland just to go to the lagoon. We only had a few hours but I could have stayed all day.
Interesting Icelandic tidbits:
Approx population of 300,000 and about 200,000 of those folks live in Reykjavik. That makes for lots of room for quiet exploring! I recommend Arctic Adventure tours they have it all and our jeep tour/volcano hike was amazing
The Icelandic language is one of the closest to the original Viking language. They are one of the few who can read the original Viking writings.
They have the 2nd largest Geyser in the world which only goes off aftert earthquake activity. Another large Geyser in the same area (Sukkor) goes off every 8-10 minutes.
Iceland was amazing!! GO visit!
Off to the Middle East!
Denise & Ash
More Iceland pictures at:


text:
Man in jail after cross-county high-speed chase
April 9, 2013
A Sacramento man ended up in county jail after allegedly leading law enforcement on a chase across two counties at speeds exceeding 100 mph.
California Highway Patrol officers tried to stop a silver Lincoln just before 1 a.m. Sunday in Grass Valley near Brunswick Road, according to dispatch reports. The Lincoln was described as having no plates and was being driven at about 90 mph.
The vehicle failed to yield, however and allegedly picked up speed as it drove westbound on Highway 20. By the time it passed Ponderosa Way, the Lincoln was going about 120 mph, according to the dispatch log. It was subsequently reported as passing other vehicles over the double yellow line. A helicopter was dispatched, and a spike strip was requested.
The Lincoln was reported as crossing the Yuba County line within seven minutes, still driving at speeds between 70 and 120 mph. Officers in pursuit reported they were losing sight of the Lincoln around the curves and were far behind it at the Parks Bar bridge.
At 1:20 a.m., the Lincoln was reported to have rolled over in a field and crashed into a power pole on Ramirez Road northeast of Marysville. The occupants fled on foot.
According to a CHP dispatcher, two people were arrested.
Melvin Lewis Dillon, 40, was arrested on suspicion of felony reckless evasion of a peace officer, and resisting arrest. He was booked into county jail in lieu of $25,750 bail. The second person reportedly was cited and released on unknown charges.
To contact Staff Writer Liz Kellar, e-mail email@example.com or call 530-477-4229.
Recommended Stories For You
Trending In: Local News
- UPDATE: 1 charged with murder in Penn Valley death
- HOMICIDE: Friends say Penn Valley murder suspect appeared to be deteriorating, kept guns in home
- ATV theft takes strange turn, leads authorities from Newtown Road to Penn Valley Drive
- Woman kidnapped from Alta Sierra home, Nevada County authorities say
- Nevada County authorities say bones found near Lake Spaulding belong to Ruendi Ibarra, 26, of Stockton
Trending Sitewide
- UPDATE: 1 charged with murder in Penn Valley death
- HOMICIDE: Friends say Penn Valley murder suspect appeared to be deteriorating, kept guns in home
- Nevada City police: Suspect found with suspected drugs, $17K in cash
- ATV theft takes strange turn, leads authorities from Newtown Road to Penn Valley Drive
- Top 10 ways you know you're a Grass Valley/Nevada City local


text:
The striker pounced to head over Roddy McKenzie and into the net after the goalkeeper failed to gather a cross.
Robert Snodgrass had earlier been denied by a superb save from Well goalkeeper Graeme Smith and then missed another chance to give Livi the lead.
Smith also made a point-blank save to deny Colin Healy, but Livi had to clear twice off the line before the winner.
It justified wholesale changes by Motherwell boss Terry Butcher, who brought in Steven McGarry, Marc Fitzpatrick, Mark Reynolds, Paul Quinn and Robert Donnelly.
Home manager John Robertson also showed his fustration at his side's recent performance by making five changes to his relegated team.
There was a first-team debut for 19-year-old striker Gary Miller, who replaced the injured Sam Morrow.
Snodgrass, Paul Tierney, Steve Hislop and Martin Scott also came into the starting line-up.
And Livingston created the first real chance of the game after Hislop's effort from a low cross was blocked.
Snodgrass picked up the rebound, but his shot was brilliantly saved by the feet of goalkeeper Smith from close range.
Motherwell had offered little in attack until Jim Hamilton's neat flick set up Brian Kerr after 26 minutes, but the midfielder dragged his shot wide of McKenzie's goal.
Hislop set up the onrushing Snodgrass at the other end, but the striker lifted his shot well over the bar from 16 yards eight minutes before the break.
The hosts continued to look the more dangerous and Healy was guilty of missing a sitter on the hour mark, although credit went to Smith for making a point-blank save.
Scott's deep cross was headed across the six-yard box, but Healy's low shot was brilliantly blocked by the goalkeeper.
Motherwell's latest escape seemed to spur the visitors on and Livingston defender Miller twice had to clear the ball off his line before Clarkson made the breakthrough following a Martyn Corrigan cross.
Jim Paterson sent a powerful shot just wide as Well took heart - and control - from their goal and held out for victory.
Livingston: McKenzie, Mackay, Pinxten (Strong 52), Dorado (Adams 71), Tierney, Brittain, Miller, Healy, Hislop, Snodgrass (Weir 75), Scott. Subs Not Used: Woods, Dorrans.
Booked: Scott.
Motherwell: Graeme Smith, Fitzpatrick, Reynolds (McBride 80), McLean, Robert Donnelly, Paul Quinn (Corrigan 72), Kerr, Paterson, Hamilton (Hammell 64), McGarry, Clarkson. Subs Not Used: Meldrum, Connolly, Coakley, Soutar.
Goals: Clarkson 74.
Att: 2,283
Ref: I Brines


text:
Decision makers
- Lifetime network's show Pretty Wicked MomsLifetime Television Network
- Lifetime network's show Pretty Wicked MomsA&E Networks
take this show off the air, stop paying these "moms" and save these kids!
These mothers are getting paid to treat their kids VERY poorly and exploiting these kids. They admit that they will not go to a playdate with their kids without alcohol being served, they say "they worst part of being a mom is keeping that human alive", and it only seems to get worse. This show DOES NOT need publicity and these women DO NOT need to be paid to act in this manner and to treat their kids the way they do. PLEASE help these kids!!! If you need to see it or yourself look at the "preview" on their site : http://www.mylifetime.com/shows/pretty-wicked-moms
- Lifetime Television Network
Lifetime network's show Pretty Wicked Moms
- A&E Networks
Lifetime network's show Pretty Wicked Moms
Take this show off the air, stop paying these "moms" and save these kids!
Amanda Crutchley started this petition with a single signature, and now has 1,164 supporters. Start a petition today to change something you care about.
Report abuse
Please report any content that may violate Change.org's Terms of Service or Community Guidelines.
Thank you for taking the time to report content. Our team will review your claim and contact you if we need more information.


text:
Lamest reason ever to get arrested? An expired dog license
A Massachusetts woman ended up in handcuffs for ignoring warnings to get her dog's license renewed.
The woman got a knock at the door after putting her kids to bed and was greeted by two cops who told her they had a warrant for her arrest. The warrant was from the town she had previously lived in. The town sent the woman 5 notices but she claimed to not get any of them.
Animal control said they issue about 70 criminal complaints per year but most don't end in warrants.


text:
Police have released the name of the man shot dead by officers in Carlisle on Saturday.
The dead man was Brendan John Lindsay, of Cloverdale.
Witnesses say the 38-year-old man entered a delicatessen and grabbed a knife from behind the counter before taking the store's manager outside and holding the blade to her throat.
Police say they shot him after attempts to negotiate failed.
He was hit several times and died at the scene.
The 37-year-old woman, who was a stranger to the knifeman, was also shot and is being treated in hospital for what are understood to be injuries to her leg.
Local Donald McCaw was inside the Carlisle deli when the man entered.
"This chap came from the front, bolted into the shop, grabbed knives then grabbed the boss and took her outside ... and threatened her," he told the ABC.
He said police fired up to eight shots, and "virtually had to shoot him".
"They were lucky to get shots in I think," he said.
Another man said he saw the man try to stab the woman twice before police opened fire.
The fatal shooting took place outside the Lunch Club delicatessan on Oats Street around 7.40am on Saturday.
Police Commissioner Karl O'Callaghan told reporters the man was not known to his victim.
She was also shot when police opened fire and is in hospital in a serious condition.
The Commissioner said police had been called to an incident in the area and when an officer arrived and saw the man holding the woman he called for back-up.
More officers were quickly on the scene and tried to get the man to let the woman go and put down the knife.
Maseray Kamara, who lives around the corner from the deli, saw the whole incident.
She said "the woman was crying and screaming for him to let her go. The police were shouting 'let her go, we can talk about this , just let her go'.
"The man was still shouting he was going to kill her and then he made a move with the knife at her throat and the police fired - I think maybe five or six shots."
The Commissioner said "the officers would have thought that the woman's life was in danger. Several officers opened fire.
"The police officers had to make a split second decision. They can use their firearms when someone's life is in danger. They reacted as they are trained to do."
Detectives from the Major Crime Squad are investigating the circumstances which led to the woman being attacked, while officers from Internal Affairs are investigating the conduct of the officers who opened fire.
- with AAP
WAtoday on Twitter @WAtoday


text:
This event is in the past.
June 16, 2014 | 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m.
Category: Special Event
Location: Law School Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights
Cost: Free
Calendars: Wayne Law, Main Events Calendar, Damon J. Keith Center
Audience: Alumni, Community, Current Graduate Students, Current Undergraduate Students, Faculty, Staff
A free opening reception with refreshments is planned for Boycott! The Art of Economic Activism, an exhibition featuring posters from more than 20 historical and contemporary boycott movements.
The reception is planned from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, June 16. Reservations are requested for the reception. To register, call (313) 577-3620 or email email@example.com.
The exhibit will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, June 17, through Friday, June 20, in Room 1244.
For more information about this event, please contact the Damon J. Keith Center for Civil Rights at 313-577-3620 or email@example.com.


text:
Faculty/Staff Spotlight: Elizabeth Shareef
Elizabeth Shareef joined Saint Augustine's University in July of 2011 as the administrative assistant for the Right of Way Program. Shareef earned a bachelor's degree in Public Policy Analysis from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a MBA from North Carolina Central University.
She has worked in the banking and pharmaceutical industries, yet has a passion for the education field. Coming from a family of educators, it's no surprise that while in graduate school, Shareef worked for a dean at Central. "I was taught that if you truly want to make a difference in someone's life educate them," stated Shareef. "That's why I enjoy working at this university."


text:
Hannah Elizabeth is a photographer and writer based in London, UK.
Hannah has written numerous features and shot for national magazines including Photo Professional, Advanced Photographer and Olympus User. Her still life photography has been featured in magazines such as Grazia.
She is the Director of food and fitness blog The Green Machine, bi-monthly contributor to Kit Magazine and a contributor to StockFood.


text:
Nike: Men's Haul Sunglasses
You need some serious shades to play short stop. Hopefully, Elvis Andrus will be bringing his best game as well, as he jockeys for a permanent spot on the Texas Rangers roster.
Not quite as sweet as slipping into your own Braves uniform, but, perhaps these shades designed with the Braves in mind will keep rookie pitcher Tommy Hanson geared up until he gets that long-awaited call to the Show.Tags: sunglasses, sports, baseballs, Oakley, mlb, sports sunglasses, Atlanta Braves, rookie, 2009 MLB SeasonAdded 9 Years Ago from Oakley, Inc
Rookie pitcher Chris Tillman may still be a non-roster invitee of the Baltimore Orioles, but I bet he already has his bags packed. Here is one more item to add to his gear: a pair of slick, shatterproof shades.Tags: sunglasses, rookie, baltimore orioles, 2009 MLB Season, rookies, NRI, Paragon Sports, baseball sunglasses, BangerzAdded 9 Years Ago from Paragon Sports
Treat yourself to a new pair of shades, Reid Brignac. Your future with the Tampa Bay Rays is looking brighter than ever . . .Tags: sunglasses, sports, baseballs, Adidas, mlb, Sport Sunglasses, 2009 MLB Season, minor league, major leagueAdded 9 Years Ago from Shop Adidas


text:
GOVERNMENT changes in planning law will increase democracy at grassroots level, according to West Dorset MP Oliver Letwin.
Mr Letwin said the introduction of neighbourhood plans would re-engage local people in the planning process.
He was speaking about the subject at a meeting organised by the West Dorset group of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE).
Mr Letwin said: "If you put forward a plan for a new home and it complies with the neighbourhood plan, it should be approved in a matter of ten minutes in the future.
"Equally, if it does not fit in with what the plan outlines, it will be equally speedily rejected."
Mr Letwin cited Cerne Valley and Puddletown as examples where the process was already underway.
He said: "At parish level, people do care intensely. Across Britain, there are now 900 areas involved in preparing neighbourhood plans and this is where I place my faith in the future.
"These plans are meaningful and they can work."
He added: "It's astonishing but true that we are now re-empowering people to have a say in their future where they live through neighbourhood plans."
At the same meeting, Mr Letwin took a number of questions from the audience on other topics.
He defended young people by suggesting they were generally among the most committed to the protection of the environment.
He also argued for a 'mixed economy' of energy supply in the future.
Whilst renewable energy would be important, Mr Letwin added that it wouldn't be the only solution to meeting future energy needs.
Other speakers at the meeting raised concerns about farmland and redundant farm buildings being converted into housing.
They argued that more and more farmland was being taken out of production because it was more profitable to sell the land for housing.
Nearly 50 people attended the annual meeting at Stratton village hall, which also saw Reg Hanbury re-elected chairman of the group.


text:
Hair by CATWALK by TIGI Global Creative Director Nick Irwin
Bonjour belle! The French bourgeois of yore have got nothing on these delicate, youthful curls. Nick Irwin shows us how to make waves:
- Prep roots with Curlesque strong mousse.
- Forget taming those tresses! Curl your locks in random sections using a curling wand. Set curls with duck-bill clips. Spritz Sleek Mystique Look Lock hair spray through hair for hold.
- All set? Not for long. Remove clips and gently brush out curls to achieve the desired shape.
- Set with Sleek Mystique Look Lock hair spray. For an added dose of shine, try Your Highness Weightless shine spray. Now all you need is a steamy French man on your arm!


text:
Most listings are in the $10's per square foot per year. The Spotsylvania County region is seeing a decrease in rates. In the last 3 months, the median rate fell $9 per sqft per year. That's a 35% decrease in rent.
In the last 90 days, 26 listings have come on the market, which means new listings most likley are going fast. You'll want to be prepared to tour spaces as quick as possible. About 169% of the available leases in the Spotsylvania County are subleases, so you might be able to snag a great spot on a short term. There aren't many listings below 2,000 square feet available, so finding a space for a small business might be tough.
The standard measurement for office space in this area is around 2,240 sqft. Most properties in this area are close to 2 floors. Most buildings in this region were built in 2001 and are Class B.
Trends and status of the commercial real estate market in Spotsylvania County.
Market Report
Real time and historical data on commercial real estate listings in Spotsylvania County.


text:
|Draft Animal Cloning Risk Assessment
|FDA Comment Number :
|Submitter :
|Mr. Daniel McNeice
|Date & Time:
|01/04/2007 09:01:54
|Organization :
|Mr. Daniel McNeice
|Category :
|Individual Consumer
|Issue Areas/Comments
| I feel that the food derived from cloned animals or their offspring should be labeled, so that the consumer will have the ability to make a choice if they want to use these products or not.
There are times when problems that were not expected or anticipated in food products or medicine turn up in future generations.
It appears that today many more children have food allergies, to peanuts, eggs, beef etc... So it is important for parents and care givers to these young children to be able to screen what types of food they are to consume.
If labeling is implemented from the start it will allow industries to set up the procedures in advance.


text:
Submit News
Report: Google Working on Android Game Console, Smart Watch
Tiffany Kaiser
June 28, 2013 2:00 PM
Recipient E-mail
Sender E-mail
Google is trying to stay ahead of Apple
Google is reportedly looking to expand its Android offerings to the video game console and smart watch markets.
According to
The Wall Street Journal
, Google is looking to launch a slew of new products as early as this year, such as a video game console, a smart watch and the Nexus Q media device.
Google wants to make an Android-based video game console that allows users to not only play Android games on their smartphones and tablets, but also a full-powered system like the upcoming Xbox One or PlayStation 4. No hardware or software details are available at this point.
OUYA Inc.
recently released its own Android-based video game console, which sports Android 4.1 Jelly Bean, a 1.7 GHz quad-core ARM Cortex-A9 CPU, NVIDIA Tegra 3, 1GiB DDR3 SDRAM, NVIDIA ULP GeForce graphics and a $99 introductory price.
Google is reportedly looking to release a console of its own as a response to rumors that Apple is looking to do the same with its Apple TV release at some point.
The search giant also wants to release
a smart watch
, which would run the Android mobile operating system and sync with Android smartphones via Bluetooth. This is yet another attempt by Google to stop Apple from being the first to release such devices.
Apple's wearable device is due to be released later this year. Not many details have been released as of yet, but
a patent application
for a
"Bi-stable spring with flexible display" --
filed by Apple
in 2011 -- described a
bi-stable spring that would be made out of thin steel and wrapped in fabric covering, then heat-sealed. The display would be located on one side of the bracelet (overlaid with an adhesive) and the logic board and battery would be placed on the other side.
It also showed a universal fit, a plethora of onboard sensors, wireless charging, etc.
In addition to a game console and a smart watch, Google wants to finally release the next version of its Nexus Q media device this year. The first version was introduced last year, but after users complained about the high $299 price tag, the public release was cancelled.
Nexus Q
is a cloud-based social streaming media player that can stream Google Play Music, Google Play Movies/TV, and YouTube content to your tablet, smartphone, or TV. The new version is expected to be cheaper.
Google also has some other Android offerings in the works, such as a Hewlett-Packard built laptop running Android. This is meant to compete more with the likes of touch laptops running Windows 8.
Google is set to release its new version of Android -- dubbed "Key Lime Pie" -- this fall.
The Wall Street Journal
"If you can find a PS3 anywhere in North America that's been on shelves for more than five minutes, I'll give you 1,200 bucks for it." -- SCEA President Jack Tretton
Related Articles
Apple's Wearable Device to be Released Later this Year
March 4, 2013, 1:09 PM
Apple Patent for "Slap Bracelet" Wearable Device Discovered
February 21, 2013, 11:17 AM
Nexus Q Delayed; Google Giving Free "Preview" Versions to Pre-Order Customers
July 31, 2012, 7:30 PM
Latest Headlines
HTC & Qualcomm Collaborate on Stand-Alone VR Headset
July 27, 2017, 7:25 AM
Roomba Vacuum – iRobot's hidden data source.
July 26, 2017, 7:45 AM
Huawei Watch 2 – Porsche Designed Special Edition
July 25, 2017, 7:40 AM
Moto E4 from Sprint.
July 24, 2017, 6:00 AM
Essential PH-1 – Coming to North America, Western Europe and Japan.
July 20, 2017, 7:40 AM
Nokia 8 – Speculated to arrive on July 31st
July 18, 2017, 6:54 AM
More Headlines
Most Popular Articles
Apple Watch Series 3 – Here is what we found so far.
July 23, 2017, 7:30 AM
Meet the VR ONE– Thinnest & Lightest VR Backpack PC
July 22, 2017, 6:51 AM
NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 Gaming Z 8G – Unprecedented Performance & Power
July 24, 2017, 7:00 AM
Lyft Steps into the Autonomous Car Market
July 22, 2017, 7:02 AM
Comparison: Rock64 vs Raspberry Pi 3
July 11, 2017, 6:53 AM
Latest Blog Posts
Facebook TV shows may start in August
Saimin Nidarson
Jul 28, 2017, 6:00 AM
Google Pixel 2 and 2 XL – Say Goodbye to the Headphone Jack
Elroy Bethell
Jul 27, 2017, 7:50 AM
Nokia's First Android Phone launching in August
Nenfort Golit
Jul 26, 2017, 6:00 AM
Raspberry Pi Powered Laptop.
Nenfort Golit
Jul 25, 2017, 6:00 AM
Microsoft HoloLens 2 - Featuring custom built AI Coprocessor
Elroy Bethell
Jul 24, 2017, 7:06 AM
LG Robots – Keeping Korean Airports nice and clean
Elroy Bethell
Jul 23, 2017, 7:50 AM
Gigabyte the new Raspberry Pi competition
Nenfort Golit
Jul 22, 2017, 6:00 AM
Really into Gaming? Get Ready for the Gaming Smartphone
Elroy Bethell
Jul 21, 2017, 7:25 AM
LG G6 Plus is Now Available for Purchase on Amazon
Nenfort Golit
Jul 20, 2017, 6:00 AM
Say Hello to Google Glass for the second time.
Elroy Bethell
Jul 19, 2017, 6:00 AM
Snap Chat Releases Snap Publisher
Nenfort Golit
Jul 18, 2017, 6:00 AM
New FlatScope may Restore Eyesight.
Elroy Bethell
Jul 17, 2017, 7:35 AM
Sprint offers enticing new cell phone plans.
Elroy Bethell
Jul 16, 2017, 7:21 AM
Amazon – Developing new Messaging App called Anytime
Elroy Bethell
Jul 15, 2017, 6:55 AM
Laid-off Microsoft workers get a Saleforce chance
Elroy Bethell
Jul 14, 2017, 8:21 AM
Google Home new streaming Feature.
Nenfort Golit
Jul 13, 2017, 6:48 AM
Storm 4 – The robot that can perform a biopsy.
Elroy Bethell
Jul 12, 2017, 8:15 AM
Microsoft Plans on Bringing Better Broadband Internet to Rural America.
Nenfort Golit
Jul 11, 2017, 6:48 AM
Facebook Drops price of Oculus Rift to Match PlayStation VR
Elroy Bethell
Jul 10, 2017, 7:57 AM
Android users be cautious, CopyCat malware on the prowl
DailyTech Staff
Jul 9, 2017, 8:00 AM
More Blog Posts
Copyright 2017 DailyTech LLC. -
RSS Feed
About Us
Terms, Conditions & Privacy Information
Kristopher Kubicki


text:
The man that taught me taxidermy used formaldehyde to Preserve the skin of a turkey. However, I do not have access to this chemical. What can I use other than this that will preserve the skin or where can I get formaldehyde or some other equivalent. Any comments would be greatly appreciated. thanks Matt Z.
Return to Category Menu
I don't have a clue what you were taught that for, but you need a book or video on mounting turkeys (geese/ducks/gamebirds and of the above). Formaldehyde could be used as an injection fluid but hardly for preserving hides.
Formalin/formaldahye will set the skin and not allow the feathers to ever be moved. In a human corpus it removes most of the water content and causes the corpse to harden, I once enbalmed a gator that lasted 15 years.
BUY A BOOK or Video!


text:
2 colors
Stella McCartney 'Mini Falabella - Shaggy Deer' Faux Leather Tote
3.1 PHILLIP LIM 'Alix' Flap Shoulder Bag
A modern, clean-lined shoulder bag takes its cues from classic office supplies with gleaming corner bars that mimic the look of staples and a paperclip-inspired closure. Framed by smooth contrasting leather, this contemporary carryall in a smaller silhouette is sure to become your everyday essential. Color(s): black, fawn. Brand: 3.1 ... Learn More
3.1 PHILLIP LIM 'Mini Alix' Leather Shoulder Bag
Designed with sleek, custom hardware inspired by utilitarian objects such as staples and safety pins, this luxe little bag goes way beyond the everyday. A fashion-forward wide strap highlights the clean-lined style, which features a roomy, lined interior and supple leather exterior. Color(s): black. Brand: 3.1 PHILLIP LIM. Style Name:3.1 ... Learn More
CHLOÉ Nano Drew Calfskin Shoulder Bag
A smooth calfskin flap contrasts beautifully with the large grain leather exterior of this fan-favorite bag accented with gleaming hardware. With its super-compact saddle-bag silhouette, squared-off flap and knotted chain strap, this style is a modern classic. Color(s): black/white, powder beige/ mustard, tulip red. Brand: CHLOE. Style Name:Chloé Nano Drew ... Learn More
CHLOÉ Small Drew Leather Shoulder Bag
Chloé's newest take on the saddle bag is the epitome of relaxed modernity: a rounded silhouette mixes with a squared-off flap, while gleaming goldtone hardware highlights the bag's soft suede stripes and smooth leather.Pre-order this style today! Add to Shopping Bag to view approximate ship date. You'll be charged only ... Learn More
CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN 'Loubiposh' Spiked Calfskin Shoulder Bag
A beautiful calfskin-leather shoulder bag features matte spikes for an edgy-chic look. An optional chain-link strap lends versatile style, while red grosgrain lining adds understated signature appeal. Color(s): black/ gun metal, nude/ nude, nude/gold. Brand: CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN. Style Name:Christian Louboutin 'Loubiposh' Spiked Calfskin Shoulder Bag. Style Number: 5035562. Available in ... Learn More
FENDI Kan I Liberty Leather Shoulder Bag
Metallic flower appliqués and dimensional cone studs add to the sumptuous styling of a Kan I bag framed in dramatic scalloped edging. A detachable studded top handle and optional chain shoulder strap offer convenient carrying options to the head-turning look. Color(s): sky powder multi. Brand: FENDI. Style Name:Fendi Kan I ... Learn More
GIVENCHY Pyramid Faux Fur Shoulder Bag
A structured, geometric silhouette and lush faux fur make this sculptural bag an instant street-style star, while twisted shoulder straps enhance the textural intrigue.Pre-order this style today! Add to Shopping Bag to view approximate ship date. You'll be charged only when your item ships. Color(s): black. Brand: GIVENCHY. Style Name:Givenchy ... Learn More
GUCCI GG Marmont Matelassé Leather Shoulder Bag
Signature matelassé-quilted chevrons, complete with a stitched double-G at the back, showcase the elegant silhouette of a softly structured shoulder bag featuring a spacious interior and antiqued goldtone hardware. Color(s): clear sky blue, hibiscus red, mystic white, nero, perfect pink, porcelain rose. Brand: GUCCI. Style Name:Gucci Gg Marmont Matelassé Leather ... Learn More


text:
Countdown begins to extreme Police raft race
Countdown begins to extreme Police raft race
Expect double the enthusiasm at the annual New Zealand Police Association Raft Race in Rotorua on Friday (1 March) as competitors make up for the cancellation of last year's event caused by adverse weather.
Police staff from across the North Island will descend on the Kaituna River marking the 6th anniversary of the extreme sporting event. Its popularity continues to grow and this year has attracted 37 teams of four making it one of the largest police sporting events.
Even the chairman of the New Zealand Police Association, Greg O'Connor is taking the plunge for the first time this year.
As well as the regular whitewater rafting, whitewater kayaking and riversurfing categories it will be the inauguration of the Banshee Bungee Boarding.
The races are being held on a 1.2 kilometre stretch of the Kaituna River which includes seven sets of Grade Three rapids with names like The Abyss and Boiling Pot. Competitors will also need to navigate three waterfalls – one of which is the world's highest commercially rafted waterfall just to reach the start line.
Event organiser, Constable Aaron Holloway from Bay of Plenty District Headquarters, describes the event as "socially competitive and a great team-spirited event".
"It began life as nine teams and has now become a highly contested event. We are lucky to have the Kaituna River on our doorstep in a spectacularly scenic part of the country. It is a perfect location."
Competitive contact between the rafts is encouraged but there is to be no "grabbing" of other rafts. Teams enter the Kaituna River at Okere Falls, and raft to the official start line below the Tutea Falls. One member from each team stands on a metre high rock, jumping into the river and swimming to the raft to officially start the race.
Six whitewater rafting heats will be followed by two semi finals and the finals are expected to take place between 5pm and 6pm; a new format for this year.
There will be five heats of riversurfing with first and second placed going into the final. Riversurfing is when you navigate down the Grade 3 section of river with the aid of flippers and a riversurfing board. This event provides a very different experience to rafting as you are in the water and at the mercy of the rapids.
The hyper.co.nz banshee bungee event will take place at lunchtime with competitors getting the chance to experience what it is like to travel across the water at 50km per hour. The bungee is 7m long but will be stretched out to 40 meters and then released pulling the competitor across the water on a board and points will be award for best tricks (and crashes).
For those who prefer to stay on terra firma there is a Department of Conservation walking track running adjacent to the Kaituna River which provides excellent vantage points for supporters and members of the public.
Every year the New Zealand Police Raft Race tries to support a fellow officer who may need financial support to cover medical costs. This year donations made by competitors will go to support an officer in Hamilton who needs to go to Germany for specialist treatment.
During the event there will be regular updates
posted on the events Facebook (www.facebook.com/NZPARR) and
Twitter account (www.twitter.com/NZPARR). Postings will
include winners of the heats as well as photos and video
from the