President Biden says "we can't, we must not go down" the road of political violence in America after attempted Trump assassination

President Biden emphasizes the importance of avoiding political violence in America following an attempted assassination of former President Trump. He stresses that the nation must not go down the path of political violence, highlighting the need for unity and stability.

Simple (And Cheap) Plastic Tote Greenhouse For Seed Starting

A plastic tote greenhouse is an affordable and space-efficient solution for early seed starting, ideal for gardeners with limited space and budget. The article provides a step-by-step guide on creating a mini greenhouse using a clear plastic storage container, emphasizing the importance of good air flow, temperature monitoring, and choosing the right location. The portability of the plastic tote greenhouse allows it to be moved to follow the sun or brought indoors during freezing temperatures.

Simple (And Cheap) Plastic Tote Greenhouse For Seed Starting

A plastic tote greenhouse serves as an easy and inexpensive method for starting seeds early, particularly useful in areas with short growing seasons like Northern Michigan. It functions as a cold frame, keeping plants warm even when outdoor temperatures are low. The article provides a step-by-step guide on creating a mini greenhouse using a clear plastic storage container, emphasizing the importance of good air flow, temperature monitoring, and choosing the right location for the greenhouse to prevent issues such as mold and overheating. The portability of the tote greenhouse allows for adjustment to changing weather conditions.

OPINION: Poor mental health is one of New Zealand’s biggest societal issues, it’s not a political management tool

The article by Laura Walters criticizes the National Party of New Zealand for using mental health issues as a shield to avoid scrutiny over the misconduct of its members. The recent incident involves MP Andrew Falloon, who sent an unsolicited indecent image to a teenager. The National Party, including its new leader Judith Collins, initially focused on Falloon's mental health challenges rather than the severity of his actions. This approach is seen as disingenuous and damaging to the public's trust in the party, which is already suffering from a series of resignations and scandals. The author argues that mental health should not be exploited for political management and that accountability is essential, regardless of personal challenges.

NZ finally joins its Five Eyes partners in strongly opposing Hong Kong’s new national security law

New Zealand is reevaluating its relationship with Hong Kong following the imposition of a controversial national security law by Beijing, which is seen as a threat to the 'one country, two systems' principle and civil liberties in Hong Kong. The law criminalizes acts of secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign powers, with potential life imprisonment sentences. New Zealand's government, which had been criticized for its mild response compared to its Five Eyes partners, has now issued a stronger statement and is reviewing policies including extradition arrangements and export controls. Meanwhile, pro-Chinese Communist Party leaders in New Zealand have expressed support for the law. The article also discusses New Zealand's broader relationship with China, including trade and the response to human rights issues, and suggests that New Zealand is looking to diversify its trade partners in light of China's assertive foreign policy.

Select Committee at odds over drug reform

The Health Select Committee in New Zealand is divided over the Misuse of Drugs Amendment Bill, which is the most significant drug reform in the country since the 1970s. The contention centers around a clause that gives police discretion to prosecute for possession and personal use of controlled drugs, favoring therapeutic approaches. National opposes what it sees as de facto decriminalization, while Labour and New Zealand First highlight the bill's tougher measures against synthetic drug suppliers. Green Party spokesperson Chlöe Swarbrick argues the government is not being secretive about its intentions to decriminalize personal drug use. The bill aligns with the government's health-based approach to drugs and its international commitments. Despite political challenges, the bill represents a significant shift towards a health-centered approach to drug policy in New Zealand.

AUT cancels Tiananmen Square event after Chinese consulate intervention

Auckland University of Technology (AUT) cancelled a Tiananmen Square anniversary event after being contacted by Chinese Government officials who opposed the event. Despite AUT claiming the cancellation was due to a booking issue, emails released under the Official Information Act revealed that the Chinese Consulate General in Auckland had expressed their opposition to the event. Vice Consul General Xiao Yewen met with AUT's Vice Chancellor Derek McCormack, after which the event was cancelled. The university maintains that academic freedom is a core value, but the incident has raised concerns about the influence of the Chinese Government on New Zealand's academic institutions and freedom of speech. China expert Anne-Marie Brady and China business expert Rodney Jones criticized AUT's decision, suggesting it was influenced by financial considerations and the desire not to offend the Chinese Government. Foreign Minister Winston Peters emphasized the importance of upholding political and civil rights.

Calls to decolonise the justice system

Laura Walters reports on the need to decolonise New Zealand's justice system, highlighting the disproportionate representation of Māori in the system and the calls for transformation. The article discusses the impact of institutional racism, the history of police and justice systems in relation to Māori, and the recent global Black Lives Matter movement's influence on local discourse. It features insights from advocates like Julia Amua Whaipooti and organisations such as Te Hunga Rōia Māori o Aotearoa and JustSpeak. The article critiques the government's lack of significant policy change despite numerous reports and recommendations for reform. It also outlines JustSpeak's policy proposals for the upcoming election, emphasizing decolonization, decarceration, and investment in prevention and rehabilitation services. The article is the first in a three-part series leading up to the general election, aiming to explore barriers to justice and potential transformations of the justice system.

Young ACT continues to lose members amid allegations of ongoing sexual harassment and issues with rape culture

The article by Laura Walters reports on the crisis within Young ACT, the youth wing of the ACT Party in New Zealand, where multiple members have resigned due to ongoing sexual harassment and a pervasive rape culture. The situation escalated after the public resignation of the vice president, Ali Gammeter, who cited months of sexual harassment and slut-shaming. Despite the ACT Party's efforts to address the issues, including an investigation by employment lawyer Andrea Twaddle, former members claim that the toxic culture persists. The article details the experiences of several individuals who resigned and criticizes the organization's failure to enforce its equity and wellbeing policies. ACT Party leader David Seymour and other officials have limited their comments while the investigation is ongoing, but Seymour has defended the party's response to the allegations.

Media's role in reporting terror: A balance between information and responsibility

The article discusses the media's coverage of the Sri Lankan bombings, which were initially reported as a retaliatory act for the Christchurch mosque attacks. It highlights concerns over the veracity of these claims, noting that the Sri Lankan government official who suggested the connection did not provide evidence. New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern emphasized the lack of intelligence to support such an assessment. Media commentator Gavin Ellis criticized international media for not providing sufficient context and urged for responsible reporting. The article also touches on the broader implications of media coverage on terrorism, the potential for a perceived legitimacy of retribution, and the need for a coordinated global response to terrorism. It underscores the importance of verified and responsible journalism, especially in the wake of terror events.