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Saturn's Rings are Young
Saturn is the second largest planet in our solar system and the sixth planet from the sun. Having 60 known moons, Saturn has been known since ancient times and was named after a Roman god. The most intriguing feature of Saturn is its rings, which are the most complex of any ring system in the solar system. The NASA Voyager 1 space probe provided detailed images of Saturn and its rings in 1980. Before this scientists assumed that the rings were uniform from the many collisions by the particles in the rings over billions of years. However, Voyager provided detailed images of Saturn's rings that showed that the rings are "highly structured and probably young." Evolutionists have countered by explaining that the rings could be a collision with a comet or meteorite impact and a moon. However, this possible event could have happened within thousands of years and does not imply ages in the millions and billions of years. The fact that these rings have not dissipated and remain structured cast doubt that these rings are aged at the supposed time of billions of years. In addition, the fact that other gas-based Jovian planets such as Jupiter, Uranus, and Neptune also have rings still in existence that have not dissipated gives strong evidence of the youth of these rings and the planets in which they rotate around. While Saturn's rings have been known for a long time because of their thickness, the rings of the other three planets were not discovered until the 1970's when space probes captured more detailed images. Even evolutionists admit that Saturn's rings are young, particularly less than 200 million years within their proposed 4.5 billion year age for the solar system. However, creationists believe that Saturn's rings and the other planet rings are unstable and could not have lasted for more than a few thousand years. NASA scientists have also made the observation that Saturn's rings are "bright and shiny" as if they were new and the little moons embedded among the rings should have been "flung away" from the many collisions between ring particles. NASA has also observed that the rings are spreading and that the rate of spreading does not match the evolutionary age of Saturn. According to NASA, Saturn's moons are being "chipped away" by the ring particles at a rapid rate that would question their proposed 4.5 billion year age.
The Real Lord of the Rings. Science @ NASA. Posted on nasa.gov February 12, 2002, accessed April 22, 2009.
Colwell, J. Unraveling the Twists and Turns of Saturn's Rings. NASA/JPL multimedia report. Cassini-Huygens Analysis and Results from the Mission (CHARM) Presentation, April 25, 2006, Slide 33.
NASA Science Solar System Exploration. Saturn. https://solarsystem.nasa.gov/planets/saturn/in-depth/.


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British Special Forces Soldiers Run Out of Bullets, Destroy ISIS Terrorists With Their Bare Hands
Totally badass.
Steve Huff
Ambushed by up to 50 jihadis in an ISIS attack in Mosul, Iraq, members of the British Special Air Service (SAS) ran out of ammunition. They decided there was only one way to go. When all was said and done one terrorist had been drowned and many others were dead at the wrong end of a bayonet.
The SAS is an elite British Army Unit comparable to the US Navy SEALs, and they're often first in line to go head-to-head with terrorists. The Daily Star reports this unit was pulling out of an operation gathering intel near Mosul when the ISIS operatives attacked.
A battle ensued in the scrub around the Iraqi city and eventually the special ops soldiers realized they were out of bullets.
"They knew that if they were captured they would be tortured and decapitated," a source told the tabloid, "Rather than die on their knees, they went for a soldier's death and charged the IS fighters who were moving along the river bed. They were screaming and swearing as they set about the terrorists."
Then it was warfare from over 100 years ago as wielding blades and bare knuckles, the British soldiers waded in on what they apparently assumed was a suicide mission.
ISIS flag / Getty Images
ISIS wasn't prepared. The SAS men proceeded to slash and beat their way through the hapless jihadists. One man beat an opponent with a rock then drowned him in mud, while another "killed three of the fighters by using his assault rifle as a club," according to the Daily Star source.
At least 12 from the ISIS unit were dead when their comrades finally went into total retreat. The SAS men were wounded, some had been shot, but the Star reports the majority were back in the field just a couple of days later.
If someone had to learn the hard way that you never go hand-to-hand with any special forces operative, it couldn't happen to a more appropriate enemy than a murderous psycho working for ISIS.
h/t Daily Star
MilitaryBritishnewscombatISISTerrorismSpecial ForcesSAS
Deputy Digital Editor

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A Writer's Home
Biography of Sarah Orne Jewett
The Jewett family retained a small staff: one or two women for housekeeping and cooking, and a man for general purpose work, such as household maintenance, care of the horses, and driving. Sarah Orne Jewett's letters to family and friends make mention of staff members with affection and the family-staff relationship appears to have been a comfortable one.
In a few cases, Jewett domestic staff stayed with the family for decades. This would have been unusual in an era when workers were drawn to cities and to mills for job opportunities.
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Tag Archives: Pythagoreans
What is the Truth behind the 47th Problem of Euclid?
26 Oct 2020 By universalfreemasonry in Freemasons, Universal Co-Masonry Tags: Co-Freemasonry, Co-Masonry, Euclid, Freemasonry, Geometry, Mason, Masonry, Mathematics, Pythagoras, Pythagoreans	Leave a comment
Containing more real food for thought, and impressing on the receptive mind a greater truth than any other of the emblems in the lecture of the Sublime Degree, the 47th problem of Euclid generally gets less attention, and certainly less than all the rest. Just why this grand exception should receive so little explanation in our lecture; just how it has happened, that, although the Fellowcraft's degree makes so much of Geometry, Geometry's right hand should be so cavalierly treated, is not for the present inquiry to settle. We all know that the single paragraph of our lecture devoted to Pythagoras and his work is passed over with no more emphasis than that given to the Bee Hive of the Book of Constitutions. More's the pity; you may ask many a Mason to explain the 47th problem, or even the meaning of the word "hecatomb," and receive only an evasive answer, or a frank "I don't know – why don't you ask the Deputy?"
The Masonic legend of Euclid is very old – just how old we do not know, but it long antedates our present Master Mason's Degree. The paragraph relating to Pythagoras in our lecture we take wholly from Thomas Smith Webb, whose first Monitor appeared at the close of the eighteenth century. It is repeated here to refresh the memory of those many brethren who usually leave before the lecture:
The 47th problem of Euclid was an invention of our ancient friend and brother, the great Pythagoras, who, in his travels through Asia, Africa and Europe was initiated into several orders of Priesthood, and was also Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason. This wise philosopher enriched his mind abundantly in a general knowledge of things, and more especially in Geometry. On this subject he drew out many problems and theorems, and, among the most distinguished, he erected this, when, in the joy of his heart, he exclaimed Eureka, in the Greek Language signifying "I have found it," and upon the discovery of which he is said to have sacrificed a hecatomb. It teaches Masons to be general lovers of the arts and sciences.
Some of facts here stated are historically true; those which are only fanciful at least bear out the symbolism of the conception. In the sense that Pythagoras was a learned man, a leader, a teacher, a founder of a school, a wise man who saw God in nature and in number; and he was a "friend and brother." That he was "initiated into several orders of Priesthood" is a matter of history.
That he was "Raised to the Sublime Degree of Master Mason" is of course poetic license and an impossibility, as the "Sublime Degree" as we know it is only a few hundred years old – not more than three at the very outside. Pythagoras is known to have traveled, but the probabilities are that his wanderings were confined to the countries bordering the Mediterranean. He did go to Egypt, but it is at least problematical that he got much further into Asia than Asia Minor.
He did indeed "enrich his mind abundantly" in many matters, and particularly in mathematics. That he was the first to "erect" the 47th problem is possible, but not proved; at least he worked with it so much that it is sometimes called "The Pythagorean problem." If he did discover it he might have exclaimed "Eureka" but he sacrificed a hecatomb – a hundred head of cattle – is entirely out of character, since the Pythagoreans were vegetarians and reverenced all animal life.
Pythagoras was probably born on the island of Samos, and from contemporary Grecian accounts was a studious lad whose manhood was spent in the emphasis of mind as opposed to the body, although he was trained as an athlete. He was antipathetic to the licentiousness of the aristocratic life of his time and he and his followers were persecuted by those who did not understand them. Aristotle wrote of him: "The Pythagoreans first applied themselves to mathematics, a science which they improved; and penetrated with it, they fancied that the principles of mathematics were the principles of all things."
It was written by Eudemus that: "Pythagoreans changed geometry into the form of a liberal science, regarding its principles in a purely abstract manner and investigated its theorems from the immaterial and intellectual point of view," a statement which rings with familiar music in the ears of Masons.
Diogenes said "It was Pythagoras who carried Geometry to perfection," also "He discovered the numerical relations of the musical scale." Proclus states: "The word Mathematics originated with the Pythagoreans!"
The sacrifice of the hecatomb apparently rests on a statement of Plutarch, who probably took it from Apollodorus, that "Pythagoras sacrificed an ox on finding a geometrical diagram." As the Pythagoreans originated the doctrine of Metempsychosis which predicates that all souls live first in animals and then in man – the same doctrine of reincarnation held so generally in the East from whence Pythagoras might have heard it – the philosopher and his followers were vegetarians and reverenced all animal life, so the "sacrifice" is probably mythical.
Certainly, there is nothing in contemporary accounts of Pythagoras to lead us to think that he was either sufficiently wealthy or silly enough to slaughter a hundred valuable cattle to express his delight at learning to prove what was later to be the 47th problem of Euclid.
In Pythagoras' day (582 B.C.), of course, the "47th problem" was not called that.
It remained for Euclid, of Alexandria, several hundred years later, to write his books of Geometry, of which the 47th and 48th problems form the end of the first book. It is generally conceded either that Pythagoras did indeed discover the Pythagorean problem, or that it was known prior to his time, and used by him; and that Euclid, recording in writing the science of Geometry as it was known then, merely availed himself of the mathematical knowledge of his era.
It is probably the most extraordinary of all scientific matters that the books of Euclid, written three hundred years or more before the Christian era, should still be used in schools. While a hundred different geometries have been invented or discovered since his day, Euclid's "Elements" are still the foundation of that science which is the first step beyond the common mathematics of every day. In spite of the emphasis placed upon geometry in our Fellowcrafts degree our insistence that it is of a divine and moral nature, and that by its study we are enabled not only to prove the wonderful properties of nature but to demonstrate the more important truths of morality, it is common knowledge that most men know nothing of the science which they studied – and most despised – in their school days.
If one man in ten in any lodge can demonstrate the 47th problem of Euclid, the lodge is above the common run in educational standards!
And yet the 47th problem is at the root not only of geometry, but of most applied mathematics; certainly, of all which are essential in engineering, in astronomy, in surveying, and in that wide expanse of problems concerned with finding one unknown from two known factors. At the close of the first book Euclid states the 47th problem – and its correlative 48th – as follows:
47th – In every right angle triangle the square of the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides.
48th – If the square described of one of the sides of a triangle be equal to the squares described of the other two sides, then the angle contained by these two is a right angle.
This sounds more complicated than it is. Of all people, Masons should know what a square is! As our ritual teaches us, a square is a right angle or the fourth part of a circle, or an angle of ninety degrees. For the benefit of those who have forgotten their school days, the "hypotenuse" is the line which makes a right angle (a square) into a triangle, by connecting the ends of the two lines which from the right angle.
For illustrative purposes let us consider that the familiar Masonic square has one arm six inches long and one arm eight inches long. If a square be erected on the six-inch arm, that square will contain square inches to the number of six times six, or thirty-six square inches. The square erected on the eight-inch arm will contain square inches to the number of eight times eight, or sixty-four square inches. The sum of sixty-four and thirty-six square inches is one hundred square inches.
According to the 47th problem the square which can be erected upon the hypotenuse, or line adjoining the six and eight-inch arms of the square should contain one hundred square inches. The only square which can contain one hundred square inches has ten-inch sides, since ten, and no other number is the square root of one hundred. This is provable mathematically, but it is also demonstrable with an actual square. The curious only need lay off a line six inches long, at right angles to a line eight inches long; connect the free ends by a line (the Hypotenuse) and measure the length of that line to be convinced – it is, indeed, ten inches long.
This simple matter then is the famous 47th problem. But while it is simple in conception it is complicated with innumerable ramifications in use.
It is the root of all geometry. It is behind the discovery of every unknown from two known factors. It is the very cornerstone of mathematics. The engineer who tunnels from either side through a mountain uses it to get his two shafts to meet in the center. The surveyor who wants to know how high a mountain may be ascertains the answer through the 47th problem.
The astronomer who calculates the distance of the sun, the moon, the planets, and who fixes "the duration of time and seasons, years and cycles," depends upon the 47th problem for his results. The navigator traveling the trackless seas uses the 47th problem in determining his latitude, his longitude, and his true time. Eclipses are predicted; tides are specified as to height and time of occurrence, land is surveyed, roads run, shafts dug, and bridges built because of the 47th problem of Euclid – probably discovered by Pythagoras – shows the way.
It is difficult to show "why" it is true; easy to demonstrate that it is true. If you ask why the reason for its truth is difficult to demonstrate, let us reduce the search for "why" to a fundamental and ask "why" is two added to two always four, and never five or three?" We answer "because we call the product of two added to two by the name of four." If we express the conception of "fourness" by some other name, then two plus two would be that other name. But the truth would be the same, regardless of the name. So it is with the 47th problem of Euclid. The sum of the squares of the sides of any right-angled triangle – no matter what their dimensions – always exactly equals the square of the line connecting their ends (the hypotenuse). One line may be a few 10's of an inch long – the other several miles long; the problem invariably works out, both by actual measurement upon the earth and by mathematical demonstration. [Image Credit: 47th Problem of Euclid by Peter Savant]
It is impossible for us to conceive of a place in the universe where two added to two produces five, and not four (in our language). We cannot conceive of a world, no matter how far distant among the stars, where the 47th problem is not true. For "true" means absolute – not dependent upon time, or space, or place, or world or even universe. Truth, we are taught, is a divine attribute and as such is coincident with Divinity, omnipresent.
It is in this sense that the 47th problem "teaches Masons to be general lovers of the art and sciences." The universality of this strange and important mathematical principle must impress the thoughtful with the immutability of the laws of nature. The third of the movable jewels of the Entered Apprentice Degree reminds us that "so should we, both operative and speculative, endeavor to erect our spiritual building (house) in accordance with the rules laid down by the Supreme Architect of the Universe, in the great books of nature and revelation, which are our spiritual, moral and Masonic Trestleboard."
Greatest among "the rules laid down by the Supreme Architect of the Universe," in His great book of nature, is this of the 47th problem; this rule that, given a right angle triangle, we may find the length of any side if we know the other two; or, given the squares of all three, we may learn whether the angle is a "Right" angle, or not. With the 47th problem, man reaches out into the universe and produces the science of astronomy.
With it, he measures the most infinite of distances. With it, he describes the whole framework and the handiwork of nature. With it, he calculates the orbits and the positions of those "numberless worlds about us." With it, he reduces the chaos of ignorance to the law and order of intelligent appreciation of the cosmos. With it, he instructs his fellow-Masons that "God is always geometrizing" and that the "great book of Nature" is to be read through a square.
Considered thus, the "invention of our ancient friend and brother, the great Pythagoras," becomes one of the most impressive, as it is one of the most important, of the emblems of all Freemasonry, since to the initiate it is a symbol of the power, the wisdom and the goodness of the Great Artificer of the Universe. It is the plainer for its mystery – the more mysterious because it is so easy to comprehend.
Not for nothing does the Fellowcraft's degree beg our attention to the study of the seven liberal arts and sciences, especially the science of geometry, or Masonry. Here, in the Third Degree, is the very heart of Geometry, and a close and vital connection between it and the greatest of all Freemasonry's teachings – the knowledge of the "All-Seeing Eye."
He that hath ears to hear – let him hear – and he that hath eyes to see – let him look! When he has both listened and looked, and understood the truth behind the 47th problem he will see a new meaning to the reception of a Fellowcraft, understand better that a square teaches morality, and comprehend why the "angle of 90 degrees, or the fourth part of a circle" is dedicated to the Master!
~ From, SHORT TALK BULLETIN – Vol.VIII, October 1930, No.10.
The Sacred Tetractys: Why do Freemasons connect the dots?
3 Aug 2018 By Pamela McDown in Freemasons Tags: Ancient Greece, Brother C.W. Leadbeater, Builders, Co-Masonry, Co-Masons, Divine Patterns, Equilateral Triangle, Freemason, Freemasonry, Freemasons, H.P. Blavatsky, Manly Palmer Hall, Mason, Masonry, Masons, Master Builders, Mysticism, Prestonian Lectures, Pythagoras, Pythagoreans, Sacred, Samos, Science of Number, Secret Doctrine, Tetractys, The Secret Teachings of all Ages, Triangle	Leave a comment
If Pythagoras found himself transported to the modern world, he would have much to learn about technology, science, and human thought. But is there something Pythagoras can still teach us today in his symbol of the tetractys? What do the dots reveal? How is it significant to Freemasonry?
To start with, tetractys refers to a symbol of the Pythagoreans which consists of four rows of dots containing one, two, three, and four dots respectively which form an equilateral triangle. Many have found the tetractys full of sublime meaning.
When did the tetractys first come about? To answer this question may be more difficult. Very little is known about the real Pythagoras, or rather too much is "known" about him, but most of it is surely mistaken. The biographical trail is scattered with contradictions. It combines the sublime, the absurd, the inconceivable, and the just plain weird.
The teachings are elusive because he never wrote anything down. His treatises are only known to us through other Greek researchers. Consequently, it is up to present-day scholars (and there are many) to sift through these works in order to find a common thread that can be genuinely ascribed to Pythagoras.
We do know that Pythagoras was born in Samos in the sixth century B.C.E. Pythagoras was both a mystic and a scientist, although some scholars tend to praise his mathematical prowess while looking away with embarrassment at his perceived "mysticism." For Pythagoreans, they were one and the same.
The Science of Number was the cornerstone of the Pythagoreans. It describes, if not yet everything, at least something very important about physical reality, namely the sizes and shapes of the objects that inhabit it.
The Pythagoreans influenced the world by the simple expression:
"All is number." – Pythagoras
What Did Pythagoras mean by this famous motto "All is Number?"
Is it possible to listen to this message today afresh, with Pythagorean ears? What teaching does the tetractys offer a Freemason?
The Tetractys: A Masonic Lecture by William Preston (1772)
Freemasons in earlier times thought highly of Pythagorean philosophy. Brother Manly Palmer Hall, a 33° Mason dedicated an entire chapter in his work "The Secret Teachings of all Ages" to the both mystical and philosophical qualities of Pythagorean numbers.
Hall wrote:
"The ten dots, or Tetractys of Pythagoras, was a symbol of the greatest importance, for to the discerning mind it revealed the mystery of universal nature."
Hall states that if one examines the tetractys symbolically a wealth of otherwise hidden wisdom begins to reveal itself.
The Prestonian Lectures (1772) give us further insight into some of the possible masonic thinking on the tetractys in the 1800's. It was the subject in one of the series of lectures written by Brother William Preston for instruction and education of the Lodge members.
An excerpt of the Lecture (1772) goes as follows:
"The Pythagorean philosophers and their ancestors considered a Tetractys or No. 4:
1st as containing the decad;
2nd as completing an entire and perfect triangle;
3rd as comprising the 4 great principles of arithmetic and geometry;
4th as representing in its several points the 4 elements of Air, Fire, Water and Earth, and collectively the whole system of the universe;
Lastly as separately typifying the 4 external principles of existence, generation, emanation, creation and preservation, thence collectively denoting the Great Architect of the Universe Wherefore to swear by the Tetractys was their most sacred and inviolate oath."
In other words, it is taught to Freemasons that a four-fold pattern permeates the natural world, examples of which are the point, line, surface and solid and the four elements earth, water, air and fire. Musically they represent the perfect consonants: the unison, the octave, the fifth and the fourth.
The Divine Creator in Freemasonry is sometimes referred to as The Great "Architect" or Grand "Geometrician" always building the universe through the creative tools of the geometer. Tetractys itself can be interpreted as a divine blueprint of creation.
Some say that Pythagoras and his successors had two ways of teaching, one for the profane, and one for the initiated. The first was clear and unveiled, the second was symbolic and enigmatic. In order to achieve mastery of this universe, a person has to discover the veiled meaning of numbers hidden in all things.
I have often wondered if we could hypothetically peer into the mind of the Grand Geometrician, and the veil was lifted, what design would we see?
The Grand Design
Perhaps we would see how the Master Builder has ordered all things by measure and number and weight. Throughout the structure of the universe the properties of number are manifested. Geometry is fundamental to the work of the masonic builders. It is engaged with the first configurations of the Plan upon which the form is erected and the idea materialized.
Examining numbers symbolically, they represent more than quantities; they also have qualities. Brother H. P. Blavatsky in the "Secret Doctrine" tells us the numbers are entities. They are mysterious. They are essential to all forms. They are to be found in the realm of essential consciousness. They are clues to our evolution.
Blavatsky emphasizes that the study of numbers is not only a way of understanding nature, but it is also a means of turning the mind away from the physical world which Pythagoras held to be transitory and unreal, leading to the contemplation of the "real."
Personally, I find that the masonic teachings in all their many symbolic forms a good way to study numbers. The reason I continually come back to Pythagorean philosophy is the tradition of music theory. In music, the Divine patterns of the Grand Geometrician are expressed in musical ratios. Harmony through sound, therefore, can be applied to all phenomena of nature, even going so far as to demonstrate the harmonic relationship of the planets, constellations, elements and everything, really. The reason being that all life vibrates, like the string.
Why do Freemasons connect the dots? Like many symbols, the tetractys can lead a craftsman down a rabbit hole of self-discovery. By rabbit hole, I mean a portal into a mysterious and infinite wonderland of formulas filled with beauty, confusion and intrigue – a place to encounter all sorts of adventures with concepts beyond our wildest dreams that keeps us coming back for more.
"The more deeply we study the processes of nature the greater in every direction becomes our admiration for the wonderful work of Him who made it all."
– C.W. Leadbeader
Note: The full Prestonian Lecture on the Tetractys and Masonic Geometry can be referenced in Ars Quatuor Coronatorum, Volume 83.


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Editors Comment : The political approach to NZ Superannuation
By kaspanzweb	 September 1, 2017 2 Comments
Alec Waugh is the chairman of the Consumer organisation known as Kaspanz (Kiwi Saver, Annuities, New Zealand Superannuation Protection Association Incorporated). He chairs U3A Takapuna Finance and Investment Group. He has a Master of Public Policy and Bachelor Degree in New Zealand History. He retired as a Police Superintendent in 2006 after 38 years of service.
WHY CHANGE THE AGE OF ELIGIBIITY ETC FOR NZ SUPERANNUATION
New Zealand leads the world with its twin model of NZ Superannuation and Kiwi Saver schemes. Recognized as the smart country by many offshore analysts in its approach to pension policy, New Zealand Superannuation current costs and future projections costs out to 2060 continue as one of the lowest in the OECD. As Susan St John and Clare Dale in their 2016 paper said "The projected NZS expenditure appears modest, especially if net rather than gross spending is counted, and when compared to current pension spending in other countries." Why then the proposal by the National Party to change the age of eligibility from 65 years to 67 years?
Part of the answer is a lack of knowledge on the topic. Only Auckland University has a very small dedicated Retirement Policy and Research Centre. Another complexity is the perception that longevity is increasing, when the real issue is individual quality of life in senior years. Some people may live a couple more years, but it's the illness and injuries and inability to work that is the real issue. Economists have not helped with their crisis rhetoric and superficial comments. Developing social and public policy is not the expertise of these so-called experts, and their assumptions and long-term projections are often flawed. Further, the lack of comparative overseas research and information is often missing from the debate.
A range of New Zealand mostly male right- wing commentators compound both the facts and perceptions. These include David Seymour, Guyon Espiner, John Roughan. Peter Lyons, Matthew Hooton, Mike Hosking, Larry Williams, Leighton Smith, Brian Farrow and last but not least female commentator Fran O'Sullivan , who all make comments on NZ Superannuation which sound profound at first glance, but too often do not cut it upon subsequent examination. The voices of calm reason and substantial evidence flow from Susan St John, Martin Hawes, Michael Littlewood, Roger Hurnard and Mary Holm; while Diana Clements and Carmel Fisher also offer balanced views, with Bernard Hickey often writing provocatively, but has a depth of knowledge. John Gascoigne displays a wealth of understanding and income trends over time. The less said about the editorial stance of the New Zealand Herald on NZ Superannuation the better, superficial at best.
Judgments hopefully rest upon thoughtful and careful assessment of many issues. Be wary of those calling for policy change from just one perspective. The reality is no other alternative model of Superannuation outside of the current set up exists, a model which has assisted women and kept the elderly from poverty for generations. When you add in the fact that with retirement income issues there has not been a task force since 1991, and political parties have no accord between each other on retirement income policy, the potential for poor decisions is profound. There is no reason why NZ Superannuation does not continue for the generations to come!
The announcement by Prime Minister English contained elements of sound pragmatic political decision making. No changes for 20 years, and then a move upwards from 65 to 67 years. The change in residency entitlement (10 years residency to 20 years to qualify) is appealing to many New Zealanders. Our country has often had a liberal edge with that particular rule. English met the essential element of allowing for a long lead-in time, allowing consumer's time to adjust both thinking and saving patterns.
But the announcement failed to address the Section 70 spousal issue of overseas pensions and a number of other minor adjustments could have been included which would have made the Prime Ministers' announcement more substantial. It is of course a political announcement, vote for us and you will receive this offer.
Labour Party has announced the Status quo will continue. The issue here is that the Labour Party has recently changed position on this topic; the current position has the smells of electioneering vote seeking. Ironically their position is valid and sustainable, but a U turn is always likely on past performance. To date the new leader has been left off the hook, re her position on this matter, during the current campaign. Voters want consistency on pension policy and Labour to date has proven to be flakey.
What was needed, and would have provided a buffer for the Government announcement, was a task force report, similar to the Tax Working Group 2010. A political party making a policy call on New Zealand Retirement Income Policy without such material is risky policy.
What we do know is that over 40% of New Zealanders 65 years and over relies on our superannuation as their sole means of income. This statistic has remained basically unchanged for a long time and will continue to be a future trend. Kiwi Saver savings are not substantial enough to make a lot of difference. The intergeneration tensions are a red herring; history shows many look back with rose tinted glasses and those looking forward often predict doom and gloom.
Every generation makes adjustments to the challenges faced, but the research on the topic indicates it all evens out. A rising problem for those in the 40-60 years group is they are on the retirement income treadmill, continually being pulled in multiple directions, saving plans in reverse, as they financially support adult children, and also looking after frail parents. Pre-occupied by others needs is the trend for this group, their own retirement savings eroded.
This group is aptly called the "sandwich generation". Work-place pension's schemes have diminished rapidly over the last 25 years, and defined contribution schemes like Kiwi Saver have camouflaged retirement income gaps. Research suggests that providing child care for those less than 5 years old, is now the dominant responsibility of grandparents. They are also coping with their children not departing the family home and becoming independent, but staying longer (nesting) and an emerging trend of children having experienced study and work experience, returning to the family home in their later years, seeking cheaper living costs. Parental hospitality, parental loans/guarantees to their children are everywhere.
Today's reality for many parents is they are supporting their siblings financially, detrimentally affecting their own retirement nest eggs. Its imperative parents ensure their own retirement income needs come first.
In summary the current model is sound, tweaking and minor adjustments are the only modifications required, and for any party suggesting rising the age entitlement of NZ Super, substantial lead in time (2 decades) provided , so saving habits and commitments can be realigned appropriately.
This article was written by kaspanzweb
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2 thoughts on "Editors Comment : The political approach to NZ Superannuation"
Jan McKeogh says:
Excellent overview Alec.
For now leave it alone. Good sensible piece Alec.


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Racing Track
The 2020 Canadian Grand Prix in Montréal with exclusive access through one of our Official Ticket PackagesTHU 11 JUN - SUN 14 JUN 2020
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The 2020 Canadian Grand Prix
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Canadian Grand Prix 2020: History, Preview, and Potential Champions
The Canadian Grand Prix is one of the most unpredictable stages in the Formula 1 online casinos calendar. Races on the Montreal track are always incredibly exciting and usually full of surprises. It is rarely possible to predict the winner because often the favorites here are forced to abandon the fight, and the racers, who do not claim the title, enter the podium.
Canadian Grand Prix moved to Montreal in 1978. The reason for this was the fact that the Motorsport Park, which hosted the Canadian stage from 1967 to 1977, was considered obsolete and too dangerous. Therefore, this year the Canadian stage will take place in Montreal, at Autodrome named after Gilles Villeneuve on June 11—14, 2020.
The track in Montreal is surprisingly harmonious, combining both long straight lines and slow corners. In this case, the track in Canada is wide enough and very favorable for overtaking. There are enough concrete walls along the route, so most of the overhangs pose a threat of the appearance of a safety car in a race. So the races here, as a rule, take place in a very tight fight. Particular attention in Montreal attracts, of course, the so-called "Wall of Champions", which got its name in 1999, when 3 world champions 'visited' it in one race weekend: Damon Hill, Jacques Villeneuve, and Michael Schumacher. Later the wall was moved away from the track.
The Canadian GP is considered one of the top races in the Formula 1 calendar. The history and the competitive nature have been some of the factors behind the enormous interest in this event, which is also called as the Montreal Grand Prix.
It was inducted into the Formula 1 World Championship in 1967. In the initial years, the event was staged at the Mosport Park in Ontario. During these days, F1 Montreal was also held at the Circuit Mont-Tremblant in Quebec. Since 1978, though, it has been permanently held at the Notre Dame Island in Montreal. Circuit Gilles Villeneuve, which hosts the event, is considered as iconic as the Canadian Grand Prix. Try new site oddsdigger.com – best bet UK with f1 grand prix predictions, odds from top bookmakers.
2020 Canadian GP Preview
As ever, Montreal F1 2020 will take place at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. The race will take place on June 6-11. Traditionally, it has always been held after the Monaco Grand Prix and the 2020 edition is no different. The Grand Prix Montreal schedule sees the event held just a fortnight after the Monaco Grand Prix, one of the iconic events. Formula 1 fans, thus, are treated to a spectacular schedule of races. The European Grand Prix took place after this race in the 2016 season, but 2020 edition will be following a different route with fans being treated to the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. It is different only in terms of nomenclature, as it will take place at the same Baku City Circuit in Baku.
Strengthening of the Field with Updates
Since the Montreal Grand Prix schedule for 2020 comes just after the Spanish Grand Prix, it is likely that the cars are going to be even faster. Several new upgrades are expected to be brought in by the teams prior to the Spanish Grand Prix, and this will only serve to make the cars faster. F1 2020 teams and drivers have been focused on making the cars faster with aerodynamics and powerful engines. This tactic has been hugely successful in the first few races with the entertainment quotient going up significantly. The Grand Prix weekend Montreal is also expected to witness a similar fare.
FAQ for Canadian Grand Prix Visitors
The Best Place to Stay
Grand Prix in Montreal is an annual auto racing event attracting the people from all over the globe.
The outskirts of Montreal are the best place to stay because the circuit can be found here. Montreal is a dynamic city where you can see a lot of things and which can satisfy all the tastes. This city combines ancient architecture and Art Deco buildings, making this place attractive for tourists worldwide.
If you are an avid shopper, Montreal won't disappoint you because the city has many luxury boutiques and brand shops. Art admirers won't be bored too. Montreal museums offer a wide range of Canadian and International art. You will be fascinated with a beautiful harbor at the Old Port where lots of small restaurants can be found. Nothing can be more pleasant than to sit in one of them over a cup of coffee, enjoying the stunning views of Parc Jean Drapeau. This park is very famous because the Formula 1 speedway track is situated here. Every quarter of this splendid city is unique and charming and you will never get bored walking there. This city will be ideal both for those who like cultural and leisure activities and those who like speed. You won't be bored here, for sure.
It's not a problem to find the lodging here but we advise you to book it in advance at a suitable price. It's obvious that prices will significantly rise before the sporting event.
International Visits
All internal and international flights are made from Montreal's Pierre Elliott-Trudeau International Airport. It's located 22km west of the city.
Visit our dedicated Hotels page to get more detailed info about lodging in the city.
How Can You Find the Race Track in Montreal?
This racing track is at an accessible distance from Montreal's center, that's why you are able both to savor the cultural sights of the city center and to amuse yourself with the speed of racing cars.
Can I Use the Underground to Reach the Race?
If you are planning to use the Underground, take the Yellow Line and get off at Jean-Drapeau station. After that, find the bus number 167 and it will take you to the races.
Can I Use My Auto to Reach the Race?
We warn you that it's not the most convenient way because there are often traffic jams and lack of parking spaces at the track. If you still have a strong desire to get there by your own car, take the "Parc Jean-Drapeau" route starting from the Jacques-Cartier Bridge. Some streets have really heavy traffic, especially during the race events. It's rather time-consuming and stressful to get to the race by automobile because of heavy traffic and lots of people.
What Other Races Are Expected?
You are lucky to enjoy four more race series which take place over the racing weekend. Check them in the timetable of racing events. Racing fans will like being here.
Do I Need to Be Early at the Race?
We recommend you to be there at 8 in the morning because the auto races are held at this time. Obtain unforgettable emotions and breathtaking experience by visiting the races.
Do Tickets Include Seating Positions?
The answer is yes. Seating position is booked, so you won't have to run here and there in search for a place to occupy. But think about booking your tickets in advance.
Are there Conveniences for Disabled People?
There are specially constructed rostrums for handicapped persons. It's not a problem to buy a ticket for these rostrums.
Can I Get Eatables at the Track?
There are restaurants for rostrums ticket holders, but all visitors can also buy nice sandwiches and beverages from carts or take their own lunch.
The Items I can Take with Me to the Races?
Portability. Walking sticks, perambulators and invalid carriages are permitted. Portability continues to be a basic issue for disability groups.
Animals. Only service and seeing-eye dogs are permitted. Don't take your pets at the races.
Sunscreen. We offer you sunscreen and/or caps as a means of protection against the blazing sun.
What Do I Need for Noise Damping?
It's better to use earplugs or headphones if you don't want to go deaf because F 1 cars are earsplitting.
Photo Cameras/Camcorders/Binoculars
These items are permitted. Use them to enjoy a close-up view or to preserve incredible moments on photo footage.
What Is Forbidden?
Smoking and being without your shirt are forbidden. It's not a beach to walk here bare-chested. To occupy the stairs is also prohibited and if you stand up to take a picture, don't stand for a long time not to disturb other people.
How Many Circles Has the F1 Race in Montreal?
The race consists of 70 circles. Their total distance is 305.27km. It's amazing, isn't it?
Rating of applicants
GER FERRARI 86
GBR MERCEDES 73
FIN MERCEDES 63
FIN FERRARI 49
NED RED BULL RACING TAG HEUER 35
AUS RED BULL RACING TAG HEUER 22
MEX FORCE INDIA MERCEDES 22
BRA WILLIAMS MERCEDES 18
ESP TORO ROSSO 11
FRA FORCE INDIA MERCEDES 9
GER RENAULT 6
FRA HAAS FERRARI 4
DEN HAAS FERRARI 4
Iconic Aspects
One of the iconic aspects of the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve happens to be the 'Wall of Champions,' which is actually the last corner of the circuit. It gained this unique name after witnessing champions or former champions Michael Schumacher, Jacques Villeneuve, and Damon Hill crash into the corner in 1999. This corner also presents a great overtaking option in the Montreal F1 track. Here are the possible contenders who can make a difference in the Grand Prix du Canada 2020:
Lewis Hamilton is clearly one a mission to become the most successful driver when it comes to the le Grand Prix Montreal. After having won the race an incredible five times, the Brit is only two wins away from equalling the record held by Michael Schumacher, who has seven wins. Since 2010, Hamilton has managed four wins at the Grand Prix F1 Montreal. A big positive for Hamilton is the upcoming round of updates in the next few weeks. Mercedes are expected to go quicker from the Spanish Grand Prix onwards. Hamilton is also immensely successful when it comes to the F1 Canadian Grand Prix, a race that he has won five times.
Sebastian Vettel has had an excellent start to 2020 after opening up a lead over Lewis Hamilton in the world championship table. It will be interesting to see if the German will be able to maintain their advantage by the time the F1 weekend Montreal Grand Prix begins. Since becoming a major player in the sport, Sebastian Vettel has been able to enjoy success in just one Montreal Grand Prix weekend. His only success at this event was in 2013 when he was racing for Red Bull Renault. At that period, Red Bull Renault were significantly better than any other team on the grid.
Valtteri Bottas has so far surprised many by managing to show quite a lot of pace. His pole position at the Bahrain Grand Prix was a testament to his speed, and there can be no doubt that he will be one of the contenders during the Grand Prix Montreal dates. The 27-year-old has been performing well when it comes to the Montreal F1 race. While racing for Williams Martini, he has managed to finish third in the last two editions. His only finish below the 10th spot was in 2013 when he could only manage a 14th place finish.
Daniel Ricciardo is struggling in the World Drivers' Championship after only managing a fourth and fifth place finish in the Chinese and Bahrain Grand Prix. Yet, he has a pedigree when it comes to the Canadian Formula 1 Grand Prix, as he finished as the winner back in 2014. Once again, a significant amount of focus will go towards Red Bull Renault's vastly superior car back then. However, the Australian showed that he is more than capable of winning the GP Montreal when called upon. Those who have secured Montreal Grand Prix tickets should not dismiss the chances of the 27-year-old succeeding in the race.
The 2020 Canadian Grand Prix is pretty close and we are bound to see the big names in the F1 world fight for points in the Drivers' Standings. The fight between Mercedes and Ferrari is tougher than ever and we will see incredible moments as Hamilton is looking for ways to put a stark difference between him and the second place in the standings.
Canadian Grand Prix 2019
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