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Mars Needs Mechanics Game Review (prepublished version)
By Cyrus | September 20, 2012 - 8:33 am | October 6, 2013 Reviews
Please Take Note: This is a review of the game's final prototype. The art, game bits, and the rules discussed are all subject to change. The game is being reviewed on the components and the rules provided with the understanding that "what you see is not what you might get" when the game is published. If you like what you read and want to learn more, we encourage you to visit the game's web page or visit the game's Kickstarter campaign. Now that we have all that disclaimer junk out of the way, on with the review!
For ages 8 and up (publisher suggests 10+)
For 2 to 4 players
Approximately 45 minutes to complete
Geek Skills:
Counting & Math
Logical & Critical Decision Making
Pattern/Color Matching
Risk vs. Reward
Hand/Resource Management
Auctioning, Bidding, & Trading
Learning Curve:
Child – Easy
Adult – Easy
Theme & Narrative:
Prove to your peers that your scientific mind and engineer skills make you the best candidate for a Mars expedition…in the 1800's
Gamer Geek approved!
Parent Geek approved!
Child Geek approved!
I, say! Have you heard, old boy? Those well-to-dos at the British Royal Academy of Space Exploration are at it again! They've got it in their heads that Mars is the next great land for us to tread on. I even hear that the Queen, of all people, is backing this lunacy! I don't know about you, but those so-called "scientists" are messing with technology we cannot hope to understand or control! Dangerous, if you bloody well ask me. But think of the glory if it could be done! Mars! You know, I might have just talked myself into joining this little competition of theirs. After all, it's all for a good cause and I would look simply smashing in a space suit!
Mars Needs Mechanics, by Nevermore Games, is comprised of 1 game board that represents the current market price of specific mechanical parts needed to build technology, 64 Component cards (that includes scrap metal, wire, aether tubes, piping, lenses, magnets, boilers, and gears), an assortment of Mechanism cards (that includes an Aether Drive, a Difference Engine, a Rocket Booster, and X-Ray Goggles), 7 Component tokens, 7 Component Value markers, an assortment of Cogs in different values (used as money and victory points), and a First Player marker. The entire design of the game is themed in the late 1800's Victorian Steampunk era…that didn't ever exist, which is a shame.
Note: It has come to our attention that our prototype game copy did not have all the components that will be part of the final release. Not included in this review are Player Markers, which are used to identify which Mechanism cards the player has built and has access to. Their use in the game is not mentioned here because this specific game component was not used by us, nor was it noted in our copy of the rules. It is important to mention them as they will make the use of Mechanism cards easier for players.
Game Set Up
To set up the game, first place the game board in the middle of the playing area. Most of the game will be taking place directly in front of the players, but the board will need to be within easy reach of everyone at the table.
Second, randomly distribute the 7 Component tokens to the outside order line track of the game board on the first 7 spaces that have numbers. Place the 7 Component Value markers on their matching component row in the starting column value position of "5".
Third, give each player 30 Cogs (placing all unused Cogs to the side of the game board) and 2 scrap metal Component cards (remove unused scrap metal Component cards from the game).
Fourth, shuffle the remaining Component cards and deal out 3 to each player. Players should keep these cards hidden from their opponents and add the previously dealt scrap metal Component cards to it to bring their total hand size to five cards. Deal out 8 Component cards, face-up, in a line below the game board. These represent the starting available components for purchase and is referred to as the market line. Place the Component deck to one side of the market line.
Example of some of the Component cards in the game
Fifth, select 4 Mechanism cards and place above the game board. These are the only Mechanisms the players can use during the game. Remove unused Mechanism cards for the duration of the game.
Example of one of the Mechanism cards in the game
That's it! Time to play! Determine who the first players is, give them the First Player marker, and get to work.
Let the Contest Begin!
The game is played in rounds with each player taking up to two actions during their turn in the round. Once a player's turn is over, it is the next player's turn going clockwise. This continues until the end of the round condition is met. The actions are as follows and can be taken in any order:
Primary Action
This is a mandatory action that must be taken by all players on their turn. A player may either purchase one component currently in the market line or pass.
To purchase a component, the player pays the amount the component is currently worth according to the matching Component Value marker on the game board. All Cogs are paid directly to the pile and a player is welcome to make change, but can never borrow Cogs or go in debt. All purchased Component cards go directly into the player's hand. The player may now take an optional action.
Purchased Component cards are not replaced on the market line at this time. As soon as a Component card is purchased, the matching Component token is sent to the front of the order line, essentially leaping over all the other Component tokens to be put in the front, signifying that those Components are now in demand. By doing so, the market will adjust the Component's value at the end of the round. Essentially, this means the players are directly controlling the price and demand for Components, but they have no influence on the supply.
To pass, the player need only politely decline to take their primary action and go directly to their optional action.
Optional Action
The player has two available optional actions that they can take. These are building a mechanism or breaking down a mechanism.
To build a mechanism, the player announces which available Mechanism card they want to build and show the required Component cards needed (these are indicated on the Mechanism card). Players can only build a mechanism once per turn. The Component cards they use to build the mechanism are set aside at this time and are no longer available to the player while they are using the mechanism, but nor are they discarded. This Mechanism card is now available to be used by the player, but is not owned by them. By building a mechanism, the player gains the right to use it. The function of the mechanisms are widely diverse and the players are in charge of knowing when and how best to use them, in accordance to the Mechanism card's instructions.
To break down a mechanism, the player collects the Component cards used to build it and places them back into their hand. Players can only break down a mechanism once per turn. The Mechanism card's function is now unavailable to the player.
Note that a player can build, break down, or do both to a mechanism at anytime during their turn, but not to the same Mechanism card. Players are limited to only building one mechanism at a time, unless otherwise noted by another Mechanism card.
Ending the Round
The round ends when one of the two following conditions are met:
All Component cards on the market line have been purchased (wherein the currently active player must complete their turn before the round ends)
All players pass as their primary action
Once the round ends, the following steps are completed in sequential order:
Step 1: Adjust Component Values
The Component values are now adjusted. This is done by first sliding all the Component tokens on the order line back so as to create a single line of Component tokens as it first appeared when the game was set up. The first seven squares in the order line have a numerical value. These are used to adjust the matching Component Value markers by either decreasing the value by one, not adjusting the value at all, or increasing the value by 1 in its current row.
Note: There is one exception to this step that only occurs during the final price adjustment of the game. When one of the two endgame conditions are met, the round is completed but the component values can only be increased if the component was purchased during the last round. Adjust the other component values as normal.
Step 2: Sell Sets
The players may now sell sets of Component cards they have collected based on the new market values. A set is 3 or more cards of the same component. The player shows the table their matching Component cards and then collects a number of Cogs based on the component's current market value. For example, if the player showed 4 wire components that were currently worth 5 Cogs each, the player would collect 20 Cogs (4 x 5 = 20). A single scrap metal Component card can be used to complete a set, but do not have any value. Meaning, if a scrap metal Component card is used to complete a set of 3 cards, the player would only collect Cogs for the two non-scrap metal Component cards. The newly acquired Cogs are immediately added to the player's pile of Cogs. Sold sets are discarded for the duration of the game.
Step 3: Market Restock
The market line is now restocked with whatever the market currently has available. This is done by randomly drawing 8 Component cards from the deck. A new round of play now begins with the First Player marker being given to the next player going clockwise.
Ending the Game
The game ends when either one of the two conditions are met:
There are no Component cards left in the deck when restocking the market line
No players purchased components from the market line for 2 consecutive rounds
At the end of the game, all the players now count their Cogs. The player with the most Cogs wins, demonstrating to the British Royal Academy of Space Exploration they have the "right stuff" for being sent to Mars.
To learn more about Mars Needs Mechanics, visit the game's web page or visit the game's Kickstarter campaign.
My little geeks are just now starting to get into games where victory is dependent on how well they can buy, trade, and make money. We have played many games of Settlers of Catan and way too many games of Monopoly. In all cases, my little geeks are starting to demonstrate a basic understanding of what an item is worth, both in the short-term and the long-term. This is an excellent geek skill to start working on as soon as possible, as it helps the little geeks start to understand the value of money, time, and most importantly, patience.
Mars Needs Mechanics reads like a very easy game where the goal is to simply collect as many victory points as possible by trading in 3 or more cards of the same type. But this is an exceedingly rudimentary glance that does not do the game justice. Dig a bit deeper and you quickly see that this is a game of subtle market manipulation and crackerjack timing. Since the players must spend victory points to gain victory points, it is already understood that there is a real need to spend victory points wisely to obtain the biggest gain. This is only done by buying low and selling high. Simple economics 101, really. What makes it a little more complex is that the demand and price will go up for a component, but the market won't necessarily provide that component based on the player's needs. This means that components with a lot of activity will quickly go up in price and those that don't, will quickly drop. This creates a very strange market wherein the prices are constantly fluctuating, but the supply never meets the demand.
This all sounds very complex, but because the component values are always visible, as well as what is available in the market, the players have a great deal of information. Unfortunately, no player has a crystal ball to help them see into the future, so all the decisions they make are rooted in the current round. This makes the game more complicated in the long-term, but exceptionally manageable and accessible to new players. Players are welcome to try to guess how the market will look, but they can only see how the market is shaping up to be in the next round; not several rounds into the future. And they have no idea what will be available in the market. Players need only focus on the "here and now" and make the best choices they can with the single goal of making the most Cogs as possible.
Teaching the game didn't take long to any of our test group members. A player's turn is very simple and a round is over fairly quickly. Players are limited by their card hand and their total Cogs. A player knows their total value and where they stand in terms of proximity to the winner's circle at all times, since all the player's Cogs are visible. This helps players keep track of not only their place in the game, but also how much more or less they need to start risking their position. For my 5-year-old, I'm afraid this game is a bit too advanced. We are still learning the subtle art of trading Sheep for Brick and why Park Place isn't necessarily the best property to buy. For my 8-year-old, this is a great "next step" in games that involve an economic element.
And so, after teaching the game to my little geek, who had some excellent questions about price gauging and artificially inflating the market (which are terms he doesn't know, but he does understand the concepts), we were ready to play the game. But before we did so, I asked him his thoughts on the game so far.
"This looks like a pretty easy game, but I know you, Dad. This game probably has some sneaky way of suddenly being really hard." ~ Liam (age 8)
Hard? Hardly. But the game is very dynamic in nature and a player must be ever vigilant to ensure they get the best deals. Let's see if the time and focus we spend on the game is a good investment or if we end up spending our time poorly.
As my little geek predicted, he was surprised by at the game's hidden complexity. He made a lot of poor choices and purchased components when they were too high, quickly losing his buying power. In fact, we scrapped the first game because he put himself in a very poor position within 3 rounds of play. I cannot fault him for this as I did the exact same thing when I first played the game at Gen Con 2012 with the game designer, Mr. Ben Rosset. Mr. Rosset explained the game very well and even warned me about new player's quickly chasing buys instead of looking at the long term investment. Apparently, I was the only one who didn't listen at the table as I quickly lost most of my ability to purchase Component cards I needed. Luckily for my little geek, I saw it happening to him, too, and helped him out. Mr. Rosset, while being an excellent fellow, only smiled at me during the game and was more than happy to sit back and watch me spend myself into a hole.
Thanks for the help, Ben….
Games two and three were much improved and by the time the third game was coming to a close, he was doing exceptionally well. He had improved his ability to purchase intelligently, worked on multiple sets at a single time, but not too many, and even grabbed a Mechanism card to provide him with a perk or two during his turns. I was most pleased and his performance clearly demonstrated that the game can be taught and played to a little geek as young as 8-years-old.
For the Parent Geeks, they were blown away with how quickly the game snuck up on them and shouted, "SURPRISE! I'M HARDER THAN I LOOK!" Like me, they seemed to not listen to early hints that this was a game that was going to shift quickly. For those who don't pay attention early on, the shift would feel rather violent. Halfway through the game, I had several Parent Geeks raise their hands into the air and say, "OH, NOW I GET I!" After the game was over, they wanted to play it again and talked excitedly about it. Non-gamers were the same, and one non-gamer (who is a professional accountant – yes, he won the game) said, "this is a game where the market is a lot of fun to play in". Well, heck…if an accountant says the market dynamics in the game are fun, you know it must be true.
Gamer Geeks were perhaps the most enthralled. I'd even go so far to say they were downright giggly about how much they were enjoying the game. They quickly saw how the market was manipulated, how easy it was to see problems coming, but how complicated it was to avoid them if you didn't focus. The excellent mix of game information and high level of logical and critical thinking was like sweet-sweet candy to them and they gobbled it up. They wanted more when it was over. Much more.
My little geek gives me his best "I have no idea how to win this game" look – I have the same look, often
Gamer Geeks, this is an excellent game that plays light, plays fast, and will kick you in the teeth if you don't watch what you are doing. This is a thinking game where its true nature is masked by the smooth game play. This is not a game you can win easily and the level of difficulty is based on two very important elements: the randomness of the market line and the gaming ability of your opponents. These two forces will work either for you or against you in the game, but never to a point where you are winning with ease. Even during games with our children, we had to think about what we wanted to do and how best to do it. The end result is a game we know you will love, will think about in detail, and be very impressed with. Based on your peer groups reaction to Mars Needs Mechanics, you need to get this game, as in get it "now".
Parent Geeks, while your peer group's reaction was significantly less geeky, the game was very well received and enjoyed. Parent Geeks very much liked the casual game play and the smooth transition from one round to the next. Parent Geeks never said the game felt too long, too short, to little, or too much. It was, in their opinion, an excellent game that challenged and entertained in equal measure. Non-gamers also enjoyed it, had no idea what "Steampunk" was, but didn't care, either. They were having too much fun buying and selling to make points and giving their peers with more game play experience a run for their Cogs.
Child Geeks, this game will be a little difficult to understand at first. Not the game play, mind you, that's pretty easy. In fact, you'll understand how to play the game after only one turn. What you will not understand (and, honestly, still eludes me) is how to win the game. You must watch, at all times, the price of the components, take note what is being purchased by your opponents, and determine the probability of how the market will shift in the near and long term. Or, don't and still have a wonderful time making the best choices you can based on what information you have available to you. Either way will work, honestly, but only one requires you to have a brain the size of a basketball.Based on your peer groups level of enjoyment with this game, we think Mars Needs Mechanics will entertain and challenge you.
There are a number of games I greatly enjoy playing but am absolutely no good at. Mars Needs Mechanics is one of those games. I'll never turn down a chance to play it and will hardly ever walk away from the table the winner. But I don't care – the game play experience is wonderful fun and the joy I get out of playing it far exceeds the momentary high I'd get from a victory. Although, let's be honest, it does feel great to win.
Mars Needs Mechanics is a smart game. Smart in its design, smart in its presentation, and smart in its ability to adjust accordingly to the groups overall gaming skill. It has just enough weight to be a "thinker" and is not nearly light enough to be a game you can breeze through. It is casual but all the players will be thinking hard throughout the entire game, but not a point where the game is out of reach of any player. The end result is a deceptively simple and highly entertaining hand management and market manipulation game that is easy to teach, quick to learn, and downright difficult to master. Perfect!
If you are in the mood for a set collecting, commodity speculation, and market manipulation game, then do invest in Mars Needs Mechanics. We think it's a smart buy.
This game was given to Father Geek as a review copy. Father Geek was not paid, bribed, wined, dined, or threatened in vain hopes of influencing this review. Such is the statuesque and legendary integrity of Father Geek.
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Tagged Father Geek Approved, Gamer Geek Approved, Parent Geek Approved, Prepublished Games. Bookmark the permalink.
About Cyrus
Editor in Chief, Owner/Operator, Board Game Fanatic, Father of Three, and Nice Guy, Cyrus has always enjoyed board, card, miniature, role playing, and video games, but didn't get back into the hobby seriously until early 2000. Once he did, however, he was hooked. He now plays board games with anyone and everyone he can, but enjoys playing with his children the most. Video games continue to be of real interest, but not as much as dice and little miniatures. As he carefully navigates the ins and outs of parenting, he does his very best to bestow what wisdom he has and help nurture his children's young minds. It is his hope and ambition to raise three strong, honorable men who will one day go on to do great things and buy their Mom and Dad a lobster dinner. Cyrus goes by the handle fathergeek on Board Game Geek. You can also check him out on CyrusKirby.com. Yes, he has a URL that is his name. His ego knows no bounds, apparently....
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Tag Archives: atmosphere
Music video week | Contributor Top 3 | Michael Mand
As part of Music Video Week here on PPH, we've asked our contributors to nominate their Top 3 music vids of all time along with a few words to explain their choices. Here are Michael Mand's choices. He can be followed on Twitter @Grindermand.
3. 'Tomorrow' – Morrissey (Zack Snyder, 1992)
A particular pattern has emerged in cinema in recent years, as film directors increasingly come from the world of music video, underlining the impact that the form has had since the launch of MTV thirty years ago. The suitability of this as a proving ground is debatable – McG's video for the Basement Jaxx track 'Where's Your Head At?' is far superior to his execrable feature film output – but there have been some successes.
Zack Snyder dabbled in both music video and advertising before making his full length debut with 2004's Dawn of the Dead remake and hitting pay dirt with 300, Watchmen and the forthcoming Superman reboot, Man of Steel. His first foray into the music world came with Morrissey's 1992 track, 'Tomorrow'; the single, tracking shot following our hero as he wanders the backstreets of Nice, his band in pursuit, singing direct to camera. Eschewing the special effect wows and irrelevant storylines of much MTV fare, Snyder succeeds in capturing Morrissey at his charismatic peak, all film star looks and semi-repressed sexuality.
2. 'Star Guitar' – The Chemical Brothers (Michel Gondry, 2001)
Perhaps the most successful director to have combined work in both the music video and feature film formats is France's Michel Gondry, who won an Oscar for the screenplay of 2004's Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind. Gondry has a formidable track record in the music world, having directed many of Bjork's innovative videos, as well as memorable clips for the likes of Daft Punk and The White Stripes but, for me, his finest achievement is his accompanying film for The Chemical Brothers' 2001 single, 'Star Guitar'.
Taking its title from the sample of David Bowie's 'Starman' around which it is based, 'Star Guitar' is an aural account of a train journey, a journey brilliantly mirrored by Gondry in his ground breaking video. Gondry himself filmed the view from the train between Nimes and Valence, taking the trip ten times to gather footage at different times of day, before digitally enhancing the continuous shot to ensure that each musical and rhythmic element of the track is reflected in the passing scenery. The result is a wonderful example of a music video working alongside, rather than distracting from a piece of music.
1. 'Atmosphere' – Joy Division (Anton Corbijn, 1988)
A filmmaker from an entirely different background is Dutchman Anton Corbijn, who made his name during the 1980s as a photographer for the New Musical Express. Corbijn's iconic, black-and-white shots of Joy Division and their singer Ian Curtis won him particular acclaim and ultimately led to him directing the 2007 Curtis biopic, Control.
In between, Corbijn was charged with directing the video for the 1988 re-release of Joy Division's classic 'Atmosphere'. Drawing on the visual style of his original photographs, the director created a spine-tingling tribute to Curtis, complete with strange obelisks, barren American landscapes (which somehow reflected the post-industrial Manchester wasteland of JD's roots) and hooded figures resembling Star Wars' Jawas.
The atmosphere (pun intended) of the clip perfectly mirrored the gloomy grandeur of the music, while the closing shot of the 'Jawas' carrying a huge Corbijn portrait of Curtis along a desolate beach was perhaps the final act in the singer's canonisation. Rarely has an outsider been so responsible for the visual definition of a band.
Want to join the conversation? Find us on Twitter @PPlasticHelmet and use the hashtag #MusicVideoWeek.
This entry was posted in Music video week and tagged Anton Corbijn, atmosphere, Joy Division, Michel Gondry, Morrissey, Star Guitar, Tomorrow, Zack Snyder on May 23, 2012 by Ashley Clark.
This has nothing to do with film, but while I get my next post together…
…enjoy a particularly terrible mash-up of 'Atmosphere' by messrs. Division, Joy and Abbott, Russ. The sheer arbitrariness of the whole concept is matched only by the slackness of the execution, which, in its own way, is totally suitable. In other words, its fucking hysterical.
This entry was posted in Bits and pieces and tagged atmosphere, Joy Divison, Justin Bieber, Russ Abbott on September 17, 2010 by Ashley Clark.

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


By Kathy Jackson and [email protected] . Published on February 11, 2008.
SAN FRANCISCO (AdAge.com) -- Barely two months after being promoted to CEO of Kia Motors America, Len Hunt has resigned, company officials told dealers at a Kia meeting yesterday during the National Automobile Dealers Association conference, according to a report in Automotive News.
Mr. Hunt joined the company in October 2005 as chief operating officer. Officials also confirmed to dealers that Ian Beavis, VP-marketing, also has left the company. In an e-mail to Automotive News on Saturday, Mr. Beavis said he could not comment. Mr. Hunt did not return phone calls.
It is not immediately known why Messrs. Hunt and Beavis left their positions.
On Feb. 5, Kia announced that Byung Mo Ahn had been named to the newly created position of chairman and group CEO of Kia Motors America and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia, the automotive plant currently under construction in West Point, Ga. Mr. Ahn most recently held the position of CEO of Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia.
"Ahn was appointed to this position due to the importance of the United States market to the automotive industry and in terms of Kia's global operations. He will be based at KMA's corporate campus in Irvine, Calif.," Kia said in a prepared statement.
The statement further said that "Ahn brings to the organization more than 30 years experience with the Hyundai-Kia Automotive Group. Ahn has held various positions within Kia Motors Corp. and Hyundai Motor Co., including president and CEO of Kia Motors America from 1999 through 2001 when he guided the company through unprecedented growth and record sales of more than 40 percent during his tenure."
Mr. Hunt replaced Peter Butterfield, who was fired as CEO of Kia Motors America at a dealer meeting in October 2005. Mr. Butterfield was hired by Mr. Ahn.
Kia's sales had risen under Mr. Hunt, and that's why he was promoted to CEO, the company wrote in a release Nov. 12, 2007.
"This decision reflects a solid vote of confidence in the leadership of Len Hunt," E.S. Chung, president-CEO of Kia Motors Corp. wrote in the statement. "He has put together and empowered a team of seasoned professionals to help Kia flexibly meet the changing U.S. market situation, and he is the right choice to lead the company going forward."
Kia's sales were down 5.2% to 21,355 units in January 2008 compared to January 2007. All car nameplates were up except the full-sized Amanti sedan. Truck sales were down 30.7%.
Kia will begin selling the Borrego, its first midsized V8 powered SUV in the U.S. in late spring or early summer as a 2009 model.
Mr. Hunt, 51, had been exec VP of VW of America before joining Kia as COO. Before that, he was VP of Audi of America. Mr. Hunt joined Kia because he did not want to accept a VW position that would have required him to go to Europe to oversee worldwide marketing for Bentley.
Mr. Beavis, 54, joined Kia in May 2005 after leaving Mitsubishi Motors North America in November 2004 as VP-marketing. Beavis also worked in marketing at Ford of Australia and Lincoln-Mercury Division in the U.S. He worked on the Toyota account at Saatchi & Saatchi and headed the San Francisco and Seattle offices for Foote Cone & Belding on the DaimlerChrysler account.
The Koreans have been at odds with their American executives in this country.
In addition to Mr. Butterfield being fired in 2005, Bob Cosmai, the CEO of Hyundai Motor America, was fired in January 2006. He was replaced by Steve Wilhite, who was hired as the COO in August 2006. Mr. Wilhite left the company in September 2007.
Kathy Jackson is a reporter for Automotive News.


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I had a great experience with Wait on You servers. I would recommend and use them again.
We have used Helena's staff two years in a row for our company picnic and we could not have been more satisfied. The server and griller, Markens and Karen, were friendly, punctual and helpful. All around, a wonderful experience and we hope to use them every year. Being able to bring our own food saves us money and gives us flexibility in what we can serve, and not having to prepare or serve it ourselves allows us all to enjoy the party. Highly recommend!
We were very happy with your service & our event was a great success! Your assistance allowed me to relax & enjoy my event, thanks for your help!
I hired the company last minute for my husbands 30th birthday BBQ. I not only was impressed they were able to send someone last minute, but I was beyond satisfied with our server. Sue was helpful, willing and so comforting! I would not only rehire this company again, I would specifically ask for Sue again!


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← 12 Years a Slave (2013)
The Place Beyond the Pines (2013) →
Thor: The Dark World (2013)
Loosely based off the Norse mythology, Marvel's hammer-wielding hero isn't exactly the easiest character to relate to even as a superhero. Thor is a god after all. Not to be outdone, the man is also royalty, next in line to be king, so he's in a special class of privilege. And yet 2011's Thor was a pleasant surprise, a superhero movie that didn't take itself too seriously, had modest aims, and embraced its sci-fi fantasy mélange. It was a movie where the sillier it got the better it worked. Now Thor: The Dark World, a.k.a. Thor 2, is ready to dominate the fall box-office and prove that Joe and Jane Popcorn can cheer for a pagan god.
Following the events of The Avengers, Loki (Tom Hiddleston) is taken back to his home world of Asgard and put in prison. Loki's brother, Thor (Chris Hemsworth), is trying to get back to Earth to reunite with his love, scientist Jane Foster (Natalie Portman). Thor is being groomed for the throne of Asgard by his father, Odin (Anthony Hopkins). Meanwhile, the nine worlds are nearing a convergence and dimensional gateways are opening, including one that infects Jane with an ancient biological weapon, the aether. The aether was used as a weapon by the dark elves, a race of creatures that was long ago defeated but its general, Malekith (Christopher Eccleston), has been dormant and in hiding. Alterted, he assembles his surviving army to attack Asgard, kidnap Jane Foster, retrieve the aether, and destroy all life in the universe.
Thor is still a second tier character when it comes to Marvel superheroes (the guy just isn't that interesting) but his franchise has, in only two starring films, become the most interesting. The scope of the Thor movies seems infinite. Whereas the other Marvel heroes are Earthbound and straightforward, Thor transports an audience to all sorts of alien worlds/cultures/conflicts, all of which open up more tantalizing storytelling avenues. Nothing seems out of place in a setting such as this, and so the surprises are more satisfying. I thought the best parts of 2011's Thor were the Asgard moments, less the strained fish-out-of-water comedy of Thor assimilating on Earth. Thankfully, almost all of Thor 2 takes place off Earth save for a rousing, creative, inter-dimensional hopscotch of a climax. The realm of Asgard is given suitable scope thanks to the screenwriters and first-time feature film director Alan Taylor, who worked in TV for years. Taylor's notable work on HBO's Game of Thrones is probably what got him this gig, and his vision with fantasy is given significant breadth here. The Thor universe is an interesting mix of fantasy and sci-fi, reminiscent of Star Wars, and Taylor provides the necessary sweeping visuals, exciting action, and glorious shirtless close-ups we come to expect from our fantasy vistas. I was consistently impressed with Taylor's command of visuals and shot selection, particularly how the man was able to juggle the various tones and needs of the script while still keeping an exposition-heavy film fun and light.
With rainbow bridges, dark elves, and enchanted hammers, thank goodness that Thor 2 keeps a steady and welcome sense of humor, never getting too serious even with the end of existence on the line. This jovial tone is refreshing when properly executed and contributes to the overall fun of the picture. We've had such sturm und drang when it comes to our superhero movies, particularly last summer's Man of Steel misfire. I appreciate a dark and gloomy superhero tale like Nolan's Batman films, or a satirical swipe like the original Kick-Ass, but we need stories that fit with their tone. When it comes to Thor, he's still saving the world, rescuing his damsel, but the attitude, while on its face regal and serious, is anything but. The Thor movies accept the absurdities of its setting and just shrugs, plowing along. And now with Jane on Asgard, the fish-out-of-water comedy gets a different perspective. She gets to meet Thor's parents (awkward) and an Asgardian who has a thing for the hunky Norseman (double awkward… I'll stop the 90s catch phrases now). Thor 2 also gives Jane Foster much more to do, placing her front and center as a person integral to the stability of the universe. During the snazzy climax, she gets to run around and contribute in a meaningful manner. The there's the plucky Kat Dennings (TV's 2 Broke Girls) who gets to rattle off one-liners like a pro, many of them grounding the elevated levels of silliness. Much of the humor comes from the cocksure characters and their quips, particularly Loki.
And that's as good as any place to interject my notion that Thor isn't truly the main character in this film, despite what the title preceding the colon may lead you to believe. That honor goes to Loki, the greatest villain in any modern Marvel movie by far. He's got the clearest arc in the movie, going through arguably the most personal pain, coming to a crossroads, and his conclusion certainly sets up sizable ramifications down the road for the presumptive Thor 3. Played by Hiddleston (War Horse), the character draws you in, even when he's throwing his self-aggrandized temper tantrums you want to spend more time with him. He's far and away the most developed and interesting character onscreen, and Hiddleston has such a gleeful malevolence to him that makes the character all the more electric and unpredictable. Thor 2 is really the story of Loki coming to terms with his life's choices, the choices his adopted parents made, his sense of self and birthright, and moving forward, becoming his own man again. This is why Thor 2 ascends another entertainment rung by tying Loki into the main story, forcing him and Thor to work together against a common enemy.
In a film dominated by a charismatic Loki, it's no wonder that Thor 2's real bad guy falls woefully short. Malekith is a confusing and altogether lackluster antagonist in every conceivable way. He has no personality to him; he's simple-minded with the goal of eradicating the universe. I don't know about you, but my bad guys better have a pretty good reason for destroying the universe since they kinda live there too. This is one of the lazier villain plot devices because it has no nuance, no shading. Apparently before there was a universe there were dark elves. I don't want to get caught in a chicken-egg paradox here, but was there a universe before the universe, cause I look at the universe like existence's garage. The cars inside may change but the garage was standing before it all. Anyway, Malekith wants to destroy all life because he wants to, because certainly you'd think there would be enough space in space. He's not even that threatening or given any particular advantage beyond some firepower. It's no wonder that Loki runs circles around this chump in the villain department. Eccleston (Unfinished Song) is not at fault. The heavy makeup he's under smothers the actor's ability to polish this terrible character.
The rest of the acting fares better. At this point, we know what we're getting with Hemsworth (Snow White and the Huntsman) as the title character. He's a sturdy leading man with just enough appeal to satisfy, though part of it is that Thor is just dull as a hero. He was more entertaining when he was cocky and irresponsible. Portman (Black Swan) holds her own though the romance between her and Thor feels more forced. Hopkins (Red 2) strikes the right mix between regal and camp. While their roles aren't exactly integral, it's nice having a superhero movie stuffed with great actors like Idris Elba, Ray Stevenson, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje, Clive Russell, and there's even an amusing appearance by Chris O'Dowd, who effortlessly oozes charm (take note, Thor).
This a superhero movie that separates itself by its sheer sense of fun. Thor: The Dark World takes what worked in the previous movie and provides more of it. The campy, silly Asgard stuff is given even more time, the mischievous sense of humor is renewed, the fantasy worlds given more depth and better action/effects, and fan favorite Loki gets a big starring role this time with extra brotherly bickering. It's not the best superhero movie, nor is it the best Marvel film of recent years, but Thor 2 knows what kind of movie it wishes to be and how to best achieve this. It's a loopy, droll, and rather imaginative big-budget superhero film, while still finding ways to be somewhat generic with its overall plotting and character turns. While the action is suitably epic, it's the character interactions that are the most enjoyable aspect. It seems excessively lazy to say that if you enjoyed the first Thor, you'll probably enjoy the second one as well, but there it is. Perhaps next time the storyline won't be as convoluted and we can get even more Loki. Barring that, I'll accept additional Chris O'Dowd screen time.
Posted on November 10, 2013, in 2013 Movies and tagged action, alan taylor, anthony hopkins, chris hemsworth, chris o'dowd, comic book, fantasy, idris elba, kat dennings, marvel, natalie portman, sci-fi, sequel, stellen skarsgard, super hero, tom hiddleston. Bookmark the permalink.	Leave a comment.


In 1897, author H.G.Wells released upon the world his planatery invasion of The War Of The Worlds. This startling novel of an alien invasion upon Earth by the inhabitants of Mars was the forerunner of todays science fiction. Whats makes the story so real are the many places mentioned throughout the novel, actual places that exsisted as H.G was writting the novel, places he and others new so well, and it was because of this that bought the horror of the invaders into our world. Here for the first time you will read parts of the story and see what was the reality of 'The War' to end all wars - The War Of the Worlds as seen through the eyes of the author, and all in original period pictures of 'old' Woking.
"From the railway-station in the distance came the sound of shunting trains, ringing and rumbling, softened almost into melody by the distance - It all seemed so safe and tranquil."
"He saw Henderson, the London journalist, in his garden, he called over the palings and made himself understood."
"One can imagine them, covered with sand, running up the little street in the bright sunlight, just as the shop folks were taking down their shutters and people were opening their bedroom windows."
"I rose and walked unsteadily up the steep incline of the bridge."
"I saw the tops of the trees about the Oriental College burst into smokey red flame and the tower of the little church beside it slide down into ruin."
"I started off at once for the Spotted Dog for I new the landlord had a horse and dogcart."
"In another moment we were clear of the smoke and noise, and spanking down the opposite slope of Maybury Hill towards Old Woking."
"At first I regarded little of the road before me - and then, in a flash like daylight, the red masses of the Orphanage near the crest of the hill, the green tops of the pine-trees, and this problematical object came out clear and sharp and bright. And this thing I saw! How can I describe it? A monstorous tripod, higer than many houses, striding over the young pine-tress, and smashing them aside in its career."
"At the corner turning up towards the post-office a little cart, filled with boxes and furniture, and horseless, heeled over on a broken wheel. A cash box had been hastinly smashed open, and thrwon under the debris. Except the lodge of the Orphanage, which was still on fire, none of the houses had suffered very greatly here. The Heat-Ray had shaved the chimney-tops and passed."
"By Byfleet Station we emerged from the pine trees, and found the country calm and peaceful under the morning sunlight."
"Byfleet was in a tumult, people packing, and a score of hussars, some of them dismounted, some on horseback, were hunting them about. Three or four Goverment wagons, with crosses in white circles, and an old omnibus, amoung other vehicles, were being loaded in the village street."
Thanks for that HC. Really cool stuff!
Be good to see one of your Tripods lurking over that church Lonesome.
No wonder the Curate thought they were demons, god tends to smite that sort of thing.
I dreamt last night that there were Fighting Machines walking down the streets, passing by my house! I and my friends have gathered at my place, since it was one of the few houses that remained unharmed!
Were the fm's creations of your own subconscious mind or did they look like ones you have already seen?
They were the same as I had seen in the PC Game and on pictures of Jeff's Musical. Even Jeff's music was played!
good dream. I once dreamt about the martians themselves. in my dream they resembled squids. and could not come up off the ground at all. They would try and get me and others by wizzing along the ground towards you. And I had to keep jumping to avoid them. It was a constant barrage.
I once dreamt that gravity played no role to me, so I could jump as high as I want, or even float in the air! I managed to escape from a Black Smoke canister using these abilities in a dream.


Residents across Stockton-on-Tees could secure big savings on their energy bills by taking part in a collective switching scheme.
The inaugural Simplyhealth Great Tees 10k is just around the corner and time is running out to secure your spot.
Booklovers of all ages are invited to Stockton Book Fair for magical themed activities this weekend.
Calling all budding entrepreneurs – fancy taking your business idea to market?
Traditional markets across Stockton-on-Tees will welcome a new generation of traders with the introduction of a new course.
How did Stockton Borough's students do in their GCSEs?
Young people across Stockton-on-Tees are celebrating another strong set of GCSE results.
HOT on the heels of our lean (and squeaky clean) guide to what food hygiene ratings actually mean, we bring you this interview with Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's recently-appointed Environmental Health Service Manager, Steve Donaghy.
Is your child's car seat safely fitted?
Have you ever wondered if your child's car seat is fitted properly and securely?
FEW things get people talking more than photographs of stomach-churning conditions in dirty takeaways and restaurants.
Residents are urged to look out for canvass letters in the post which were posted to all properties at the beginning of August.
Magic, mystery and memory making will be brought to life when a best-selling children's novel by David Walliams is performed outdoors.
SIRF18 came to a dramatic close last night as a stunning pyrotechnic show left crowds feeling both moved and exhilarated.
Calling all teddy bear owners!
Your teddy bear and you are invited to the annual Preston Park Museum Teddy Bears' Picnic.
Stockton International Riverside Festival (SIRF) got off to a flying start last night (Thursday 2 August) with an epic launch event, 'This Is Not For You' from theatre company Graeae.
The wait for Stockton International Riverside Festival (SIRF) is nearly over.


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Rugby Malta > News > Domestic > Men > Stompers Re/Max claim Cisk League Trophy following unbeaten Campaign
Stompers Re/Max claim Cisk League Trophy following unbeaten Campaign
Last game day of the CISK league saw Stompers breaking a sweat to finish the league unbeaten when they faced Kavallieri, who riddled with injuries, were forces to put in a relatively different front row than usual. Kavallieri, kept their spirit throughout the game and while Stompers scored all their points in the first half, they were kept at bay by the men in black who added two more tries in the second half to end the season on an encouraging note. The clubs will face each other on the last Saturday of April with the final of the MeDirect Cup. Stompers 31 Kavallieri 17
Meanwhile, earlier in the day, the second place in the league table was contested between Falcons and Overseas. The equation was like this: Overseas needed a victory with a bonus point and not letting Falcons getting any bonus point. For Falcons the equation was simpler: a win or draw would see them retaining second place. A defeat with a combination of factors, would still see Falcons get that second place.
This was quite a physical game with Overseas setting the pace early in the first half, scoring three tries by James Widdop, Dimitri Dubern and the returning Vincent Stivala in the first quarter of the match, giving Overseas a dream start, leading 15 – 0. Falcons were incessantly being put on the back foot by a strong Overseas defense and by some poor decision making from their side. Overseas extended their lead with another try, on the 29th minute, by James Widdop, converted by himself, making the score 22 – 0. With their part of the job done to get second place, Falcons needed an urgent reaction to halt Overseas' momentum and bring some hope back. They finally managed to score a try by Ciaran Mullan just before Sam Ramage whistled the end of the first half with the score 22 – 5 to Overseas.
The second half saw the Falcons trying to put a collective effort in getting back into the game, with some good drives forward by Jean Zarb and Brendan Dalton, with the same Jean Zarb touching down the ball in the corner for a try. With the game now at 22 – 10 to Overseas, a regained spirited Falcons were putting all their determination to get within 7 points, which would see them getting the second place, despite losing the match. They scored again on the 60th minute, with a Liam Scicluna try, converted by Liam Davis. With the score at 22 – 17, the pressure was now on the side of Overseas, with all possible scenarios being calculated. The final issue of the game came from Gaston Perez intercepting a pass by Brendan Dalton, and scoring under to posts. With Widdop converting the try, Overseas were 12 points clear and so Falcons had to regroup and get back in the battle. They threw their last efforts, but it was too late as the referee ended the match with the final score being 29 – 17 in favour of Overseas.
Click Here to see Gamesheet
Author: Kirby Attard & Lionel Silva


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The Real Key West
There are two Key Wests. They occupy the same island but are worlds apart. The sham Key West is a show for tourists; the Real Key West belongs to those of us who live here. Come with us now ... to the Real Key West.
Yuccckkkk!
I got this picture from a member of the Key West Neighborhood Association via their Yahoo! Group. It came with this message:
Trash from the streets makes it's way to the stormwater piping and into the gulf or ocean.
Under Duval Street - A 42-inch stormwater pipe which outfalls to the Gulf of Mexico.
Storm water pollution is a serious problem presenting a real threat to Florida's waterways, communities and public health and safety. For this reason, the City of Key West has made reducing storm water pollution a top priority.
But we can't do it alone. We are all responsible for the problem, and we must all work together to fix it.
Remember to place trash in a container!
Posted by Robert Kelly at 5/15/2006 12:23:00 PM
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Key West Links
Key West Diary
Good Morning Key West
Key West Travel Guide
Key West the Blog (Blog of the Week 6/20/08)
Captain Outrageous Blog
My Life in Key West
Key West Chronicle
Last Stand Web Site
Bahama Village Blog
George Crosby - Maine Ahrt-ist
Coffee Plantation Key West
Truman Annex Master Property Owners News (Inactive)
Rock Trueblood's Watchworld
90 Miles to Key West
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TASK TOOLS provides quality products, exceptional customer service, award-winning packaging & merchandising, and the industry's best warranty support to hardware and building supply retailers across North America.
© 2015 Task Tools. All Rights Reserved.


We encourage owner-operated, with a hands-on leadership at the helm. In order to team-build and create the proper culture in your store you need to be a confident, motivating "people person" with the ability to build the perfect team.
It is imperative for you to be able to take direction as well as give it. We have a proven system for one reason: it works. We recruit people who are skilled at recruiting and motivating staff, somewhat analytical, can follow a system and who understand the basics of business.
1. What is the process of opening a franchise?
Once you've completed our request for information, an initial phone call and review of our franchise disclosure document, which includes detailed information and steps required to open your store. Then upon approval, we will provide you with detailed financial requirements and the steps to find a suitable location to open your store. After the franchise agreement and lease is signed you will be provided with training in one of our existing stores for a week.
2. How much is the franchise fee?
Our Franchise Fee is $30,000 and is only paid once, upon signing your Franchise Agreement.
3. How much will buying a Smart Drinks & Nutrition franchise cost?
4. How much are Smart Drinks & Nutrition royalties?
Yes, there are several obligations. The Royalty Fee is 6% of gross sales. There are also monthly fees for Advertising at 3%, Local Advertising at $900 or 2% of Gross Revenues, whichever is greater, per month and a Technology Fee at $150. All are explained in our Franchise Disclosure Document.
5. Does Smart Drinks & Nutrition provide financing?
We do not directly offer financing for any part of your initial investment. However, we do have relationships with several national companies specifically offering financing for franchises. If needed and at the appropriate time we will make the necessary introductions.
6. Do I need food service experience?
No. Through our training process and our store process manual we can show you everything you need to know.
7. How does Smart Drinks & Nutrition differ from their competition?
Smart Drinks & Nutrition offers both a full line of specialty drinks plus a complete line of tried and true sports nutrition products. Our competitors may offer a full line of smoothies but don't offer a complete line of tried and tested sports nutrition products.
8. How long does it take to open a store?
In general, 6-9 months is typical, but it will vary depending on a number of factors, including, your commitment to finding and building out a site and the availability of local real estate.


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Family Solicitor, 5 years PQE
Russell-Cooke
Black Country Family, Drug and Alcohol Court launched
The UK's 10th Family, Drug and Alcohol Court (FDAC) was launched this week in the Midlands. The Black Country FDAC, which covers the Walsall, Sandwell and Dudley areas, was officially opened on 28 September.
First piloted in London in January 2008, the UK now has 10 specialist FDAC teams, working in 13 venues and serving families in 20 local authorities. In them, a specialist multi-disciplinary team works closely with the judge and other professionals to provide intensive treatment and support for parents wishing to turn their lives around, helping them abstain from drugs and alcohol, thus enabling more children to be reunified with their parents.
At the event, District Judge Gailey, Chair of the FDAC Steering Group, welcomed Mrs Justice Knowles and Mr Justice Keehan, Family Liaison Judges for the Midland Circuit, alongside local councillors and stakeholders.
Mrs Justice Knowles said:
"FDACs are the formative problem-solving courts – intensive and time limited within family proceedings, they work with families to facilitate change and ultimately safeguard the welfare of children. FDACs require a significant commitment from both local authorities and the judiciary as families have intensive multi-disciplinary support throughout the process and they meet with Judges every fortnight to ensure that progress is monitored. During the last decade FDACs have continued to demonstrate positive outcomes for families in Family Care proceedings and are now well recognised as an important alternative for these difficult cases.
"Evaluation of FDACs is ongoing but has to date demonstrated the long term benefits as more children stay with their parents, 35% compared with 19% in non FDAC proceedings. Families also return to court less often with research finding that a year after care proceedings concluded 25% of FDAC families were reporting further neglect or abuse compared to 56% of comparison families. FDAC outcomes will be evaluated independently as part of the Department for Education's programme Supporting Families: Investing in Practice."
By April 2021, there are expected to be 20 FDACs across 35 Local Authorities and 13 Family Courts.


Tonight, the Red Bulls face their biggest rival in a match that will have a serious impact on New York's postseason fate.
Fabian Espindola and Luis Silva vs. Roy Miller, Jamison Olave, Armando, and Chris Duvall (and Luis Robles).
In DC's two-nil victory over New York eleven days ago, United sent long ball after long ball at the center of New York's defense hoping that the Red Bulls would make mistakes. Well, New York made two mistakes, and DC scored both times. On Wednesday in Vancouver, Espindola took four shots at the Whitecaps' goal, putting only one on target. Silva didn't take a shot in DCU's scoreless draw. Eddie Johnson, who scored DC's second goal two weeks ago, is out with concussion-like symptoms. New York withstood a 17-shot barrage against Kansas City on Saturday, and Luis Robles needed a superlative save on Dom Dwyer to keep Sporting off the scoreboard in the first half. Armando played a competent last 25 minutes after Sekagya went off with an injury. Both Olave and Sekagya (if he plays of course) will be suspended after their next yellow card. Duvall had another strong match for New York, but DC will be focused directly at the centerbacks tonight.
Thierry Henry and Bradley Wright-Phillips vs. Taylor Kemp, Steve Birnbaum, Bobby Boswell, and Sean Franklin (and Bill Hamid).
Ho hum. BWP scores, Henry scores. The two have combined for 71 percent of New York's goal output this season. Petke's 4-2-3-1 against Sporting allowed was supposed to generate more offense for New York, but the Red Bulls only put five shots on net against Kansas City. DC's defense is stingier than Sporting (30 goals allowed v 34), and United hasn't conceded a goal in 195 minutes. On August 31st, DC didn't allow any shots on Bill Hamid's net between the 56th and 86th minute, frustrating the heck out of the Red Bulls. If New York is going to score against DC for the first time this year, the Red Bulls obviously have to finish the few chances they create, and maximize opportunities on set pieces.
Eric Alexander, Dax McCarty, Peguy Luyindula, and Lloyd Sam v David Estrada, Perry Kitchen, Davy Arnaud, and Nick DeLeon.
While Cahill will surely want to start, Petke should give the nod to Luyindula (4G/1A), who only played during injury time in DC two weeks ago. Given DC's attack towards New York's center, McCarty and Alexander will again be deployed twin defensive midfielders in front of Olave and Armando. Given DC's long ball strategy against New York, United's midfield was often bypassed on August 31st during attacks, but frustrated the Red Bulls with long stretches of possession during the second half. DC will be buoyed by the return of Chris Pontius to the lineup for the first time in 2014. Pontius, who loves to score against the Red Bulls, has finally recovered from hamstring surgery and will surely come on as a substitute. Chris Rolfe is out with a fractured left arm.
Petke did well to re-align his team for the challenge that Sporting provided, and apparently has had a heart-to-heart with Henry to get him engaged for the stretch run. As the seven-match slog continues, the New York coach must find a way to get his under-performing Australian asset to make a difference. After a well-fought road draw on the weekend, Olsen's team can open an eight-point advantage over SKC with a win tonight. DC is in contention for the Shield, which is a tremendous achievement given when the club was a season ago. Olsen will have his club pumped to put a real monkey-wrench in New York's playoff hopes.
New York hasn't scored on DC this season. If the Red Bulls are unable to score on Wednesday, it'll be the first time in history that New York goes goalless against DC in a single season. New York turned the trick on DC in 2010 (winning 2-0 and drawing 0-0). Henry, who has picked up four career goals against DC, hasn't scored against United since April of last year, three matches ago. After a slow start at home, the Red Bulls now boast an impressive 6-2-4 record in Harrison with a plus-10 goal differential. DC is a very respectable 5-6-2 on the road with only a minus-two differential. Given that the school year has begun, and the late 8pm kickoff, the Red Bulls cannot expect a large crowd tonight at Red Bull Arena. Tickets on Stubhub are going for far less than face value, a signal that many season ticket holders will forgo tonight's match. That's a shame, because tonight's weather will be perfect: partly cloudy skies, zero chance of rain, and seventy degrees at kickoff.
Even during New York's victory on Saturday, one got the notion that the Red Bulls could lose their lead at any moment. Though DC's offensive weapons are less effective than Sporting's, the Red Bulls' propensity for defensive meltdowns makes predicting a win difficult. New York played well enough at RFK to earn at least a point. I think they'll break through Bill Hamid at home, but I can't see New York shutting out their rival. Though the match will be played in front of an embarrassingly small crowd, the vocal fans in attendance will lift the Red Bulls to a 1-1 draw.


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package com.amazonaws.services.lookoutmetrics.model.transform;

import javax.annotation.Generated;

import com.amazonaws.SdkClientException;
import com.amazonaws.services.lookoutmetrics.model.*;

import com.amazonaws.protocol.*;
import com.amazonaws.annotation.SdkInternalApi;

/**
 * UpdateAlertRequestMarshaller
 */
@Generated("com.amazonaws:aws-java-sdk-code-generator")
@SdkInternalApi
public class UpdateAlertRequestMarshaller {

    private static final MarshallingInfo<String> ALERTARN_BINDING = MarshallingInfo.builder(MarshallingType.STRING).marshallLocation(MarshallLocation.PAYLOAD)
            .marshallLocationName("AlertArn").build();
    private static final MarshallingInfo<String> ALERTDESCRIPTION_BINDING = MarshallingInfo.builder(MarshallingType.STRING)
            .marshallLocation(MarshallLocation.PAYLOAD).marshallLocationName("AlertDescription").build();
    private static final MarshallingInfo<Integer> ALERTSENSITIVITYTHRESHOLD_BINDING = MarshallingInfo.builder(MarshallingType.INTEGER)
            .marshallLocation(MarshallLocation.PAYLOAD).marshallLocationName("AlertSensitivityThreshold").build();
    private static final MarshallingInfo<StructuredPojo> ACTION_BINDING = MarshallingInfo.builder(MarshallingType.STRUCTURED)
            .marshallLocation(MarshallLocation.PAYLOAD).marshallLocationName("Action").build();
    private static final MarshallingInfo<StructuredPojo> ALERTFILTERS_BINDING = MarshallingInfo.builder(MarshallingType.STRUCTURED)
            .marshallLocation(MarshallLocation.PAYLOAD).marshallLocationName("AlertFilters").build();

    private static final UpdateAlertRequestMarshaller instance = new UpdateAlertRequestMarshaller();

    public static UpdateAlertRequestMarshaller getInstance() {
        return instance;
    }

    /**
     * Marshall the given parameter object.
     */
    public void marshall(UpdateAlertRequest updateAlertRequest, ProtocolMarshaller protocolMarshaller) {

        if (updateAlertRequest == null) {
            throw new SdkClientException("Invalid argument passed to marshall(...)");
        }

        try {
            protocolMarshaller.marshall(updateAlertRequest.getAlertArn(), ALERTARN_BINDING);
            protocolMarshaller.marshall(updateAlertRequest.getAlertDescription(), ALERTDESCRIPTION_BINDING);
            protocolMarshaller.marshall(updateAlertRequest.getAlertSensitivityThreshold(), ALERTSENSITIVITYTHRESHOLD_BINDING);
            protocolMarshaller.marshall(updateAlertRequest.getAction(), ACTION_BINDING);
            protocolMarshaller.marshall(updateAlertRequest.getAlertFilters(), ALERTFILTERS_BINDING);
        } catch (Exception e) {
            throw new SdkClientException("Unable to marshall request to JSON: " + e.getMessage(), e);
        }
    }

}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


Diamond White Pearl 2018 Honda CR-V LX AWD CVT 2.4L I4 DOHC 16V i-VTEC AWD.
1Based on 2018 EPA mileage ratings. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary, depending on how you drive and maintain your vehicle, driving conditions, battery pack age/condition (hybrid models only) and other factors.


text:
As glaciers disappear, can we be far behind?
Climate scientists turn spotlight on mountains, and are appalled at the rate and scale of impact
Trapped between melting glaciers and a rising sea: UN
Lives of more than 1.4 billion people living in mountains, coasts and islands are in jeopardy due to an accelerated rise in sea levels and faster melting of the planet's ice cover, says the latest IPCC report
Manage land better to prevent catastrophic breakdown
Climate change and deforestation destroying food source, warn scientists from around the world
UN pleads for climate action, US remains sceptic
The annual climate summit opens in Katowice, Poland, with no sign of agreement over how much money industrialised countries may provide to combat climate change
India seeking ways to limit climate change after IPCC report
The Indian government has taken the latest IPCC report seriously and is committed to try to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees; this may require radical, expensive and painful changes
1.5 degree ambition demands radical change, UN warns
It will need fundamental change to keep global warming within 1.5 degrees, but not doing so will cost much more, warns Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change
The role of women in climate science
On International Women's Day two leading scientists involved in the work of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, talk about their work, the importance of diversity, challenges, and motivations
Threatened Himalayas: What do we know?
As scientists prepare for IPCC's sixth assessment report, they want more systematic information on the Himalayas and the rivers that flow down from there
Trump's move to dismantle climate policy will backfire
President Trump's order to review Obama's clean power plan is unlikely to bring back coal in the US where economics, not regulation, is killing the sector
India, world have to walk climate talk now
By ratifying the Paris Agreement, India has strengthened its position to ask rich nations to take immediate action to combat climate change. It will also have to start taking stronger action itself to meet its pledges


Welcome to next generation of signal strength testing - the AR world!
AR signal master is the first application to present the WiFi signal strength in AR (Augmented Reality) technology on your iPhone.
Open AR mode, Walk around in your living room, study-room, bedroom, bathroom and backyard. Meter the signal strength and record it in the real world.
Turn around and see the signal tags on your side, you can find out the best signal strength area easier than ever.
AR signal master takes you into augmented reality world.
Any feedback is warmly welcomed. and hope you enjoy it.


text:
#include <nautilus/nautilus.h>
#include <nautilus/cpuid.h>
#include <nautilus/cpu.h>
#include <nautilus/msr.h>
#include <nautilus/numa.h>
#include <nautilus/errno.h>
#include <nautilus/list.h>
#include <nautilus/percpu.h>
#include <nautilus/math.h>
#include <nautilus/paging.h>
#include <nautilus/mm.h>
#include <nautilus/atomic.h>
#include <nautilus/naut_string.h>
#include <nautilus/multiboot2.h>
#include <dev/apic.h>

#ifndef NAUT_CONFIG_DEBUG_NUMA
#undef DEBUG_PRINT
#define DEBUG_PRINT(fmt, args...)
#endif
#define NUMA_PRINT(fmt, args...) printk("NUMA: " fmt, ##args)
#define NUMA_DEBUG(fmt, args...) DEBUG_PRINT("NUMA: " fmt, ##args)

static inline uint32_t
next_pow2 (uint32_t v)
{
    v--;
    v |= v>>1;
    v |= v>>2;
    v |= v>>4;
    v |= v>>8;
    return ++v;
}

/* logical processor count */
static uint8_t
get_max_id_per_pkg (void)
{
    cpuid_ret_t ret;
    cpuid(1, &ret);
    return ((ret.b >> 16) & 0xff);
}

static uint8_t
amd_get_cmplegacy (void)
{
    cpuid_ret_t ret;
    cpuid(CPUID_AMD_FEATURE_INFO, &ret);
    return ret.c & 0x2;
}

static uint8_t
has_leafb (void)
{
    cpuid_ret_t ret;
    cpuid_sub(11, 0, &ret);
    return (ret.b != 0);
}

static uint8_t
has_htt (void)
{
    cpuid_ret_t ret;
    cpuid(1, &ret);
    return !!(ret.d & (1<<28));
}

static void
intel_probe_with_leafb (struct nk_topo_params *tp)
{
    panic("Intel CPUID leaf 0xB not currently supported\n");
}

static void
intel_probe_with_leaves14 (struct nk_topo_params * tp)
{
    cpuid_ret_t ret;
    if (cpuid_leaf_max() >= 0x4) {
        NUMA_DEBUG("Intel probing topo with leaves 1 and 4\n");
        cpuid_sub(4, 0, &ret);
        uint32_t eax_bits = (ret.a >> 26) & 0xff;
        tp->smt_bits  = next_pow2(get_max_id_per_pkg());
        tp->core_bits = next_pow2(eax_bits >> tp->smt_bits);
    } else {
        NUMA_DEBUG("Intel probing topo using leaf 1 only\n");
        tp->smt_bits  = next_pow2(get_max_id_per_pkg());
        tp->core_bits = 0;
    }
}

static void
amd_get_topo_secondary (struct nk_topo_params * tp)
{
    cpuid_ret_t ret;
    NUMA_DEBUG("Attempting AMD topo probe\n");

    cpuid(CPUID_AMD_BASIC_INFO, &ret);

    unsigned num_cores;
    unsigned max_num_cores;
    unsigned threads_per_core;
    unsigned cores_per_proc;

    if (ret.a >= CPUID_AMD_EXT_INFO) {
        NUMA_DEBUG("AMD probing topo using CPUID fn 8000_0008\n");

        cpuid(CPUID_AMD_EXT_INFO, &ret);

        tp->core_bits = (ret.c >> 12) & 0xf;

        num_cores = (ret.c & 0xff) + 1;

        if (tp->core_bits) {
            max_num_cores  = 1 << tp->core_bits;
        } else {
            max_num_cores = num_cores;
        }

        cores_per_proc   = num_cores;
        threads_per_core = amd_get_cmplegacy() ? 1 :
                                                 get_max_id_per_pkg()/cores_per_proc;
        NUMA_DEBUG("%u Cores per proc, %u threads per core (max logical count=%u)\n", cores_per_proc, threads_per_core,
                get_max_id_per_pkg());

        tp->smt_bits = ilog2(threads_per_core);

    } else {
        NUMA_DEBUG("AMD probing topo using CPUID FN 0x0000_0001\n");
        tp->core_bits = next_pow2(get_max_id_per_pkg());
        tp->smt_bits  = 0;
    }
}

static void
intel_get_topo_secondary (struct nk_topo_params * tp)
{
    if (cpuid_leaf_max() >= 0xb && has_leafb()) {
        intel_probe_with_leafb(tp);
    }  else {
        intel_probe_with_leaves14(tp);
    }
}

static inline void
get_topo_secondary (struct nk_topo_params * tp)
{
    if (nk_is_amd()) {
        amd_get_topo_secondary(tp);
    } else {
        intel_get_topo_secondary(tp);
    }
}

static void
get_topo_params (struct nk_topo_params * tp)
{
    if (has_htt()) {

        get_topo_secondary(tp);

    } else {
        NUMA_DEBUG("No HTT support, using default values\n");
        /* no HTT support, 1 core per package */
        tp->core_bits = 0;
        tp->smt_bits  = 0;
    }

    NUMA_DEBUG("Finished topo probe...\n");
    NUMA_DEBUG("\tcore_bits=0x%x\n", tp->core_bits);
    NUMA_DEBUG("\tsmt_bits =0x%x\n", tp->smt_bits);
}

static void
assign_core_coords (struct cpu * me, struct nk_cpu_coords * coord, struct nk_topo_params *tp)
{
    uint32_t my_apic_id = apic_get_id(per_cpu_get(apic));

    coord->smt_id  = my_apic_id & ((1 << tp->smt_bits) - 1);
    coord->core_id = (my_apic_id >> tp->smt_bits) & ((1 << tp->core_bits) - 1);
    coord->pkg_id  = my_apic_id & ~((1 << (tp->smt_bits + tp->core_bits)) - 1);

    NUMA_DEBUG("Core OS ID: %u (APIC ID=0x%x):\n", me->id, my_apic_id);
    NUMA_DEBUG("\tLogical Core ID:  %u\n", coord->smt_id);
    NUMA_DEBUG("\tPhysical Core ID: %u\n", coord->core_id);
    NUMA_DEBUG("\tPhysical Chip ID: %u\n", coord->pkg_id);
}

/*
 *
 * to be called by all cores
 *
 */
int
nk_cpu_topo_discover (struct cpu * me)
{
    struct nk_cpu_coords * coord = NULL;
    struct nk_topo_params * tp = NULL;

    coord = (struct nk_cpu_coords*)malloc(sizeof(struct nk_cpu_coords));
    if (!coord) {
        ERROR_PRINT("Could not allocate coord struct for CPU %u\n", my_cpu_id());
        return -1;
    }
    memset(coord, 0, sizeof(struct nk_cpu_coords));

    tp = (struct nk_topo_params*)malloc(sizeof(struct nk_topo_params));
    if (!tp) {
        ERROR_PRINT("Could not allocate param struct for CPU %u\n", my_cpu_id());
        goto out_err;
    }
    memset(tp, 0, sizeof(struct nk_topo_params));

    get_topo_params(tp);

    /* now we can determine the CPU coordinates */
    assign_core_coords(me, coord, tp);

    me->tp    = tp;
    me->coord = coord;

    return 0;

out_err:
    free(coord);
    return -1;
}

static void
dump_mem_regions (struct numa_domain * d)
{
    struct mem_region * reg = NULL;
    unsigned i = 0;

    list_for_each_entry(reg, &(d->regions), entry) {
        printk("\tMemory Region %u:\n", i);
        printk("\t\tRange:         %p - %p\n", (void*)reg->base_addr, (void*)(reg->base_addr + reg->len));
        printk("\t\tSize:          %lu.%lu MB\n", reg->len / 1000000, reg->len % 1000000);
        printk("\t\tEnabled:       %s\n", reg->enabled ? "Yes" : "No");
        printk("\t\tHot Pluggable: %s\n", reg->hot_pluggable ? "Yes" : "No");
        printk("\t\tNon-volatile:  %s\n", reg->nonvolatile ? "Yes" : "No");
        i++;
    }
}

static void
dump_adj_list (struct numa_domain * d)
{
    struct domain_adj_entry * ent = NULL;

    if (list_empty(&d->adj_list)) {
        printk("[no entries in adjacency list]\n");
        return;
    }
    printk("[ ");
    list_for_each_entry(ent, &(d->adj_list), list_ent) {
        printk("%u ", ent->domain->id);
    }
    printk("]\n");
}

static void
dump_numa_domains (struct nk_locality_info * numa)
{
    unsigned i;

    printk("%u NUMA Domains:\n", numa->num_domains);
    printk("----------------\n");

    for (i = 0; i < numa->num_domains; i++) {

        struct numa_domain * domain = numa->domains[i];

        printk("Domain %u (Total Size = %lu.%lu MB)\n",
                domain->id,
                domain->addr_space_size / 1000000,
                domain->addr_space_size % 1000000);

        printk("Adjacency List (ordered by distance): ");
        dump_adj_list(domain);

        printk("%u constituent region%s:\n", domain->num_regions, domain->num_regions > 1 ? "s" : "");

        dump_mem_regions(domain);
        printk("\n");
    }
}

static void
dump_numa_matrix (struct nk_locality_info * numa)
{
    unsigned i,j;

    if (!numa || !numa->numa_matrix) {
        return;
    }

    printk("NUMA Distance Matrix:\n");
    printk("---------------------\n");
    printk("   ");

    for (i = 0; i < numa->num_domains; i++) {
        printk("%02u ", i);
    }
    printk("\n");

    for (i = 0; i < numa->num_domains; i++) {
        printk("%02u ", i);
        for (j = 0; j < numa->num_domains; j++) {
            printk("%02u ", *(numa->numa_matrix + i*numa->num_domains + j));
        }
        printk("\n");
    }

}

static void
__associate_domains_slit (struct nk_locality_info * loc)
{
    unsigned i, j;

    for (i = 0; i < loc->num_domains; i++) {
        for (j = 0; j < loc->num_domains; j++) {
            if (j == i) continue;

            struct domain_adj_entry * new_dom_ent = mm_boot_alloc(sizeof(struct domain_adj_entry));
            new_dom_ent->domain = loc->domains[j];
            if (list_empty(&(loc->domains[i]->adj_list))) {
                list_add(&(new_dom_ent->list_ent), &(loc->domains[i]->adj_list));
            } else {
                struct domain_adj_entry * ent = NULL;
                list_for_each_entry(ent, &(loc->domains[i]->adj_list), list_ent) {
                    uint8_t dist_to_j = *(loc->numa_matrix + i*loc->num_domains + j);
                    uint8_t dist_to_other = *(loc->numa_matrix + i*loc->num_domains + ent->domain->id);

                    if (dist_to_j < dist_to_other) {
                        list_add_tail(&(new_dom_ent->list_ent), &(ent->list_ent));
                        continue;
                    }
                }
                list_add_tail(&(new_dom_ent->list_ent), &(loc->domains[i]->adj_list));
            }

        }
    }
}

static void
__associate_domains_adhoc (struct nk_locality_info * loc)
{
    unsigned i, j;

    for (i = 0; i < loc->num_domains; i++) {
        for (j = 0; j < loc->num_domains; j++) {
            if (j == i) continue;

            struct domain_adj_entry * new_dom_ent = mm_boot_alloc(sizeof(struct domain_adj_entry));
            new_dom_ent->domain = loc->domains[j];
            NUMA_DEBUG("Adding domain %u to adjacency list of domain %u\n", j, i);
            list_add(&(new_dom_ent->list_ent), &(loc->domains[i]->adj_list));
        }
    }
}

static void
__coalesce_regions (struct numa_domain * d)
{
    struct mem_region * mem = NULL;
    unsigned i;

restart_scan:
    i = 0;
    list_for_each_entry(mem, &d->regions, entry) {

        if (mem->entry.next != &d->regions) {

            struct mem_region * next_mem = list_entry(mem->entry.next, struct mem_region, entry);
            ASSERT(next_mem);

            if (next_mem->base_addr == mem->base_addr + mem->len) {

                printk("Coalescing adjacent regions %u and %u in domain %u\n", i, i+1, d->id);
                struct mem_region * new_reg = mm_boot_alloc(sizeof(struct mem_region));
                if (!new_reg) {
                    panic("Could not create new coalesced memory region\n");
                }

                memset(new_reg, 0, sizeof(struct mem_region));

                /* NOTE: we ignore the flags, e.g. nonvolatile, hot removable etc */
                new_reg->base_addr = mem->base_addr;
                new_reg->len       = mem->len + next_mem->len;
                new_reg->domain_id = mem->domain_id;
                new_reg->enabled   = mem->enabled;

                /* stitch the coalesced region into the domain's region list */
                list_add_tail(&new_reg->entry, &mem->entry);

                /* get rid of the old ones */
                list_del(&mem->entry);
                list_del(&next_mem->entry);

                --d->num_regions;
                goto restart_scan;

            }

        }
        i++;
    }
}

/*
 * sometimes we end up with non-overlapping, adjacent regions
 * that, for our purposes, should be treated as one range of memory.
 * We coalesce them here to avoid overhead in the page allocator
 * later on.
 */
static void
coalesce_regions (struct nk_locality_info * loc)
{
    unsigned i;

    for (i = 0; i < loc->num_domains; i++) {
        __coalesce_regions(loc->domains[i]);
    }
}

static void
associate_domains (struct nk_locality_info * loc)
{
    if (loc->numa_matrix) {
        __associate_domains_slit(loc);
    } else {
        __associate_domains_adhoc(loc);
    }
}

struct mem_region *
nk_get_base_region_by_num (unsigned num)
{
    struct nk_locality_info * loc = &(nautilus_info.sys.locality_info);

    ASSERT(num < loc->num_domains);

    struct list_head * first = loc->domains[num]->regions.next;
    return list_entry(first, struct mem_region, entry);
}

struct mem_region *
nk_get_base_region_by_cpu (cpu_id_t cpu)
{
    struct numa_domain * domain = nk_get_nautilus_info()->sys.cpus[cpu]->domain;
    struct list_head * first = domain->regions.next;
    return list_entry(first, struct mem_region, entry);
}

unsigned
nk_my_numa_node (void)
{
    return per_cpu_get(domain)->id;
}

void
nk_dump_numa_info (void)
{
    struct nk_locality_info * numa = &(nk_get_nautilus_info()->sys.locality_info);

    printk("===================\n");
    printk("     NUMA INFO:\n");
    printk("===================\n");

    dump_numa_domains(numa);

    dump_numa_matrix(numa);

    printk("\n");
    printk("======================\n");
    printk("     END NUMA INFO:\n");
    printk("======================\n");
}

unsigned
nk_get_num_domains (void)
{
    struct nk_locality_info * l = &(nk_get_nautilus_info()->sys.locality_info);

    return l->num_domains;
}

/*
 *
 * only called by BSP once
 *
 */
int
nk_numa_init (void)
{
    struct sys_info * sys = &(nk_get_nautilus_info()->sys);

    if (arch_numa_init(sys) != 0) {
        ERROR_PRINT("Error initializing arch-specific NUMA\n");
        return -1;
    }

    /* if we didn't find any of the relevant ACPI tables, we need
     * to coalesce the regions given to us at boot-time into a single
     * NUMA domain */
    if (sys->locality_info.num_domains == 0) {
        int i;
        struct numa_domain * domain = mm_boot_alloc(sizeof(struct numa_domain));

        if (!domain) {
            ERROR_PRINT("Could not create main NUMA domain\n");
            return -1;
        }

        memset(domain, 0, sizeof(struct numa_domain));

        domain->id = 0;
        INIT_LIST_HEAD(&domain->regions);
        INIT_LIST_HEAD(&domain->adj_list);

        sys->locality_info.num_domains = 1;
        sys->locality_info.domains[0] = domain;

        for (i = 0; i < mm_boot_num_regions(); i++) {
            struct mem_map_entry * m = mm_boot_get_region(i);
            struct mem_region * region = NULL;
            if (!m) {
                ERROR_PRINT("Couldn't get memory map region %u\n", i);
                return -1;
            }

            if (m->type != MULTIBOOT_MEMORY_AVAILABLE) {
                continue;
            }

            region = mm_boot_alloc(sizeof(struct mem_region));
            if (!region) {
                ERROR_PRINT("Couldn't allocate memory region\n");
                return -1;
            }
            memset(region, 0, sizeof(struct mem_region));

            region->domain_id     = 0;
            region->base_addr     = m->addr;
            region->len           = m->len;
            region->enabled       = 1;
            region->hot_pluggable = 0;
            region->nonvolatile   = 0;

            domain->num_regions++;
            domain->addr_space_size += region->len;

            /* add the mem region in order */
            if (list_empty(&domain->regions)) {
                list_add(&region->entry, &domain->regions);
            } else {
                struct mem_region * ent = NULL;
                list_for_each_entry(ent, &domain->regions, entry) {
                    if (region->base_addr < ent->base_addr) {
                        list_add_tail(&region->entry, &ent->entry);
                        break;
                    }
                }
                if (ent != (struct mem_region *)&domain->regions) {
                    list_add_tail(&region->entry, &domain->regions);
                }
            }

        }

        /* this domain is now every CPU's local domain */
        for (i = 0; i < sys->num_cpus; i++) {
            sys->cpus[i]->domain = domain;
        }
    }

    /* we now construct a list of adjacent domains for each domain,
     * ordered by distances obtained in the SLIT. If we didn't see a SLIT,
     * we add domains arbitrarily */
    associate_domains(&sys->locality_info);

    /* combine non-overlapping adjacent regions */
    coalesce_regions(&sys->locality_info);

#ifdef NAUT_CONFIG_DEBUG_NUMA
    nk_dump_numa_info();
#endif

    return 0;
}


text:
Finance Finance News Super raiding for obesity treatment signals a much bigger problem – so what is the government doing?
10:40pm, Jan 10, 2018 Updated: 2:55pm, Jan 18
Super raiding for obesity treatment signals a much bigger problem – so what is the government doing?
Superannuation is increasingly funding weight loss treatment. Photos: AAP / Getty
Leo D'Angelo Fisher
More Australians are dipping into their superannuation early to pay for medical bills and super purists warn this is not healthy. It's a quandary as old as Australia's compulsory superannuation system: should super funds be quarantined for the purpose of providing retirement income, or does the "it's their money" argument trump the ideal of a sacrosanct nest egg?
In 2000-2001, $42 million in super was released early on compassionate grounds, according to Treasury data; by 2016-17 this had surged to $290 million. While this is negligible in Australia's $2.5 trillion superannuation system, a discernible trend has some observers worried.
The number of people accessing their super early for medical expenses grew from 4000 in 2010-11 to 15,000 in 2016-17 with 56 per cent in the first quarter of 2016-17 withdrawing for weight loss surgery.
Obesity clinics, like Sydney-based agency SuperCare Australia, actively promote early access to super as a means of paying for treatment, creating a mini "advisory" industry. SCA charges clients a fee of $680 to facilitate applications to the Department of Human Services for the early release of funds for medical expenses.
Clients are usually referred by clinics or doctors.
"It is a great way of paying for surgery," CEO Zain Merhebe told The Australian.
The federal government is sufficiently concerned to launch a review into whether the rules of access need tightening.
The government is walking a tightrope on the issue as Financial Services Minister Kelly O'Dwyer acknowledged during a doorstop with journalists in Melbourne on Tuesday.
The minister agreed there had been "a significant increase" in the amount of money released early from super accounts but acknowledged legitimate compassionate grounds.
"It's critical that we protect [retirement incomes] but it's also important to note that there are times where people undergo severe stress and hardship," Ms O'Dwyer said.
"It's appropriate that in those circumstances people be given access to their money on an early basis."
However, she also observed the rules for early access haven't changed in 20 years and the review aims to ensure the government strikes "the right balance" between the integrity of the superannuation scheme and the legitimate needs of those who seek early access to "their money".
Increasing early access of superannuation funds for medical conditions – in particular weight loss surgery – raises questions over and above the integrity of the superannuation system.
Obesity is clearly a growing problem in Australia, as it is elsewhere in the world. At a time when the federal government is being pressured to introduce a sugar tax to tackle the obesity epidemic, the government might also consider ways of using tax concessions to subsidise weight loss surgery, which would improve the health of Australians while reducing early calls on superannuation. It must also ensure the public health system is adequately resourced to handle the obesity explosion.
As the president of the Australian Medical Association, Dr Michael Gannon, has noted, Australia's superannuation system was not designed to be a safety net for the health system. He argues people are accessing their super for weight loss surgery in the private system because of public hospital waiting lists of two to three years.
"There are very limited public hospital services in this important area …we want to see an expansion of the bariatric [weight loss] surgery options in the public system," Dr Gannon said.
The Turnbull government, which prides itself on its agility and policy smarts – not always evident to the naked eye – would do well to consider the issue of early access to super as the symptom of a much bigger problem.
Leo D'Angelo Fisher is a former associate editor and columnist with BRW and columnist for the Australian Financial Review. He was also a senior writer at The Bulletin magazine.
Keep up with the latest news in superannuation
As superannuation returns hit double figures a review could be timely


Wrinkles are minor lines and creases in the skin that begin to occur as we age. Most wrinkles appear on the face, neck, back of the hands, and top of the forearms, since these are the parts of the body where exposure to the sun is the greatest.
There are two major types of wrinkles: fine surface lines and deep furrows. The fine wrinkles are easier to treat with home remedies, while the deeper creases typically require other more invasive techniques such as plastic surgery or injections.
Smoking: this decrease oxygen and blood circulation to the skin, resulting in premature wrinkles.
Alcohol: excessive drinking causes the face to puff up, which temporarily stretches the skin. The subsequent shrinking can lead to wrinkles.
Sun exposure: excessive exposure to the midday sun can increase the rate at which wrinkles appear.
Tanning booths: similar to sun exposure, the rays in a tanning booth can lead to premature wrinkling.
Constant facial expression changes: excessive smiling or frowning causes the facial skin to stretch, leading to wrinkles.
Squinting: frequent squinting on sunny days can lead to wrinkles around the eyes. Sunglasses can help reduce this.
Beat 2 egg whites together (avoid the yolks).
Apply the egg white mixture over your whole face.
Wash off your face with cool water.
Pat your face dry, and you're ready!
Remember that this will only last for about an hour or two.
B-Complex Vitamins, which are commonly found in beef, chicken, eggs, and whole wheat, are great for maintaining healthy skin. Additionally, antioxidants such as Vitamins A, C, and E, (which can be found in many green leafy vegetables, carrots, and fruit) help to promote younger looking skin. Therefore, maintaining a healthy diet of foods or supplements rich in these vitamins can help prevent the premature onset of wrinkles.
Pomegranate is an excellent anti-oxidant that is high in many vitamins that can benefit wrinkles. Therefore, by simply drinking a glass of pomegranate juice each day you can help reduce wrinkles and make your skin look younger. You can also mix a small amount of pomegranate oil extract into your daily moisturizer cream for added benefits.
Research has shown that excessive washing and scrubbing of the face, particularly with hot water and harsh soaps, can dissolve the essential oils that help to nourish the skin. Therefore, a better alternative to prevent wrinkles is to wash with cool or lukewarm water, and use a mild soap such as Neutrogena.


How Do I Attend the Coaching Calls for Nourishing Thyroid Health?
Can't find your log in details?
Email reminders with your coaching call log in details are sent 1 DAY and 1 HOUR prior to each call. If you can't locate the email check your SPAM folder.
Still can't locate it, send an email to info@andreabeaman.com and we'll make sure you have the details.
Not free to attend a LIVE coaching call?
Have a question related to the topic of what was covered in the previous module? Send it to Andrea in advance at info@andreabeaman.com.
Andrea will answer your question on the call and we'll send you the recording the next day.
Need to catch the replay? You can access them in your program dashboard.
When are the modules released for Nourishing Thyroid Health?
How do I reset my password for Nourishing Thyroid Health?


A WannaBe DRAGONETTE™ is your unique buddy and champion available in various characters and sizes. You interact with your DRAGONETTE by setting goals and making wishes. Your DRAGONETTE™ helps bring your dreams to life.
A WannaBe DRAGONETTE™ wishes it had a cool row of jagged spikes down its back. Customize the DRAGONETTE™ spikes as you work towards making your wishes come true.
Actual item may vary from photo as a new piece of fabric will be cut.


Director Ed Wood's utterly preposterous 1959 masterpiece of poorly executed film-making -- PLAN 9 FROM OUTER SPACE -- is slated for a national theatrical reissue, in color for the first time. The film, part of THE ED WOOD FILM FESTIVAL includes other Ed Wood oddities including home movies and commercials directed by Wood.
San Diego, California-based Legend Films, Inc. has completed the most extensive restoration of PLAN 9 to date, including colorization of the film utilizing new, proprietary digital technology.
In addition to PLAN 9 FROM OUTER SPACE, the theatrical release also includes never-before-seen Ed Wood home movies (yes, see Ed model his famous angora sweater and fishnet stockings), rare Ed Wood commercials, the LOST PLANS 1-8, narrated by Mystery Science Theater 3000's Mike Nelson, and much more.
Los Angeles-based Holland Releasing will distribute the program theatrically.


text:
TIME Magazine has come out with a slideshow titled A Brief History of The Computer.
COLOSSUS: the world's first electronic computer
World-famous rebuild of the first modern computer
Colossus, the world's first electronic computer, had a single purpose: to help decipher the Lorenz-encrypted (Tunny) messages between Hitler and his generals during World War II.
The Colossus Gallery housing the rebuild of Colossus tells that remarkable story.
Colossus was preceded by several computers, many of them being a first in some category. Colossus, however, was the first that was digital, programmable, and electronic.
The first fully programmable digital electronic computer capable of running a stored program was still some way off - the 1948 Manchester Small Scale Experimental Machine.
The use to which the Colossi were put was of the highest secrecy, and Colossus itself was highly secret, and remained so for many years after the War. By the end of the war, 63 million characters of high-grade German communications had been decrypted by 550 people helped by the ten Colossus computers.
Not until 1975 when the first information about Colossus was declassified could the story begin to be told.
Colossus was not included in the history of computing hardware for decades, and Flowers and his associates were deprived of the recognition they were due for many years.
A short film (8.39) made by Google to celebrate Colossus and those who built it, in particular Tommy Flowers. Colossus was the world's first electronic computer, used for code-breaking at Bletchley Park during WW2.