The Mess That Is The USA
Has anyone noted the state of the United States especially during the last five-six years.
Not helping that the USA is the leader of the "free world" which includes NZ.
So they have a huge political upheavel which could spill over and very nearly did on January 6, 2021 and we had Trump laying a foundation for Russia to brutally invade Ukraine and there is still a high possibility of an extension of this war beyond the boundaries of the Ukraine.
And all this time the numbers of USA internal shootings and killings by gunfire going up and up. In 2020 there were over 46,000 deaths by gunfire in the USA. And already this year there have been more than 200 mass shootings (four or more shot or killed) in the USA which is more than one a day. Nowhere else in the world is this happening says President Biden. If he meets with our Jacinda Ardern on her current American trip this will be a major subject.
Of course the USA could simply amend their Second Amendment of their Constitution which says a lot of "baloney" about gun rights. And they can take a course of action Ardern and her Govt did within 9 days of the Christchurch massacre.
It doesn't help that there are many more guns - perhaps upwards of 100 million more - out in the public domain and outside of gun shops and online stores in the USA than the population of the USA(335 million).
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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76.6% Yes
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22.1% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
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.
Kapiti Coast Distilled: A Family and Friends' Foraged Gin
In an exciting development for local spirits enthusiasts, Elsewhere Gin has released a limited edition Kapiti expression that truly captures the essence of our coastal region.
This unique gin, priced at $95 per bottle, is the result of a heartwarming collaboration between Elsewhere Gin and Mark Rose's parents and their friends in Kapiti who embarked on a community foraging adventure, handpicking an array of native botanicals including kohekohe, kauri tips, strawberry guava, horopito, and kawakawa. These locally sourced ingredients were combined with classic gin botanicals, lemon, and rosemary to create a spirit that is both familiar and distinctly Kapiti.
The gin offers a sensory journey through our coastal landscape. It opens with subtle vanilla notes from the kohekohe, followed by the sweetness of strawberry guava. The addition of horopito lends a peppery kick, while kawakawa adds a unique herbal complexity. The finish showcases the zesty lemon and aromatic rosemary that grow abundantly in our region.
"This gin is a love letter to Kapiti," says Rose. "It's not just my creation, but a true community effort. Every sip tells a story of our unique ecosystem, our shared knowledge, and the incredible flavors we have right here in our backyard."
With only a small batch produced, this Kapiti gin is expected to sell out quickly. It's more than just a drink; it's a bottled experience of our local terroir and community spirit, perfect for those who appreciate the finer aspects of craft spirits and the beauty of our coastal home.
Available exclusively through Elsewhere Gin, please contact Michael Anderson for this limited edition gin that offers a rare opportunity to taste the Kapiti coast - and its community - in a glass.
Michael Anderson
021 620 065
Email; michael.anderson@xtra.co.nz
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