Ron Marks
Last evening we had the pleasure of hearing his story, in particular because, from the age of three, he had grown up in various foster homes, and made the best of it.
He was only able to discover his history when the law changed in 1996, giving people such as Ron access to their personal files.
His mother had abandoned him and his sister, so they were made wards of the state. He was then fostered by several families in Pahiatua and northern Wairarapa, until he was 16. His foster family experiences were mixed, but along the way he learned to ride, shoot, trap possums and catch eels. Ron’s schooling was patchy and he was often in trouble.
Nevertheless, he was accepted into the army to train as a mechanic, and this led to a career which suited him very well. He was eventually commissioned, and served the UN in Sinai and in the Sultan of Oman’s army.
He entered politics and was elected mayor of Carterton before entering parliament in 1996 for the NZ First party. He is currently Minister of Defence and Veterans’ Affairs. At the same time, he champions and mentors foster parents.
Ron’s approach to life is simple: it (life) throws up challenges and setbacks, but the essence of a person is in how they respond. Every day starts like a blank sheet of paper, and each of us has to decide how to fill it up.
Poll: How do you feel about dogs being allowed indoors in cafes?
For most of us, seeing a friendly doggo while out and about instantly brings a smile to our faces. But how do you feel about cafes welcoming pups inside?
Cast a vote and share your thoughts below.
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28% I love it!
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31.1% Only in designated areas
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40.9% No, it should be outdoors only.
Mental Health Awareness Week - support a community organisation
Today, the Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand encourages you to tautoko a community organisation. It’s no secret that the pandemic, rising costs and extreme weather events have made things tough for our organisations over the past few years. We have hundreds of volunteer roles on our website which will help you do to do this! Check out this small selection and head to our website to find more and to register your interest:
www.volunteerwellington.nz...
Happy Tuesday, neighbours, can you figure out today's riddle rush 🏃♂️
A bus driver goes the wrong way down a one-way street. He passes the cops, but they don’t stop him. Why?
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