Local Rotary Clubs raise $22,000 for Medical Research.
Graeme Blick proudly introduced Dr Swee Tan and thanked the Rotary Clubs of Eastern Hutt, Johnsonville, Karori, Petone, and Tawa for their contributions in raising $22,000 for the Institute to provide a scholarship for Erin Paterson to attend the Salk Institute in San Diego for six weeks. The research is about creating embryonic stem cells from mature cells. Scientists can create these cells so they are specific to a disease (DiPSCs). The technology means that the cells can be expanded and grown at will, so it can be a lot easier to study disease models and to run lab and human drug trials. Mitch and Swee Tan
District Governor Mitch Brown presented a cheque for $22,000 to Dr Swee Tan on behalf of the clubs. He said it is important to recognise what these people do for humanity and noted that New Zealand was one of the best places in the world to undertake research because of the reduced amount of bureaucracy compared to most other countries.
In reply, Dr Swee Tan said that the Institute “aspires to relieve human suffering” and that this will be closer to achievement because of our support. He also commented that Dr Tinte Itinteang – Chief Scientific Officer had given up a successful medical career to do full-time stem cell research.
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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85.5% Yes
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13.3% No
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1.1% Other - I'll share below
Railing planters
To gain extra growing space, make and hang these easy-to-build planters on almost any wooden fence or deck railing. Use Resene FX Blackboard Paint so you can easily identify what plants are in each. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.