The kids are [mostly] all right Opinion

from Wairarapa Midweek Wed 19th April

Rural

media can provide a counterbalance. Teens can be self-absorbed — and community-minded. Teens can be obsessed with their phones — and with their hobbies and special interests. Teens’ brains aren’t always great at forethought — and yet they have ideas on how to leave the world in better shape. Are adults willing to listen?

I know I can do better. The positives may not sell as many papers. But teens are full and complete people. And the full picture deserves to be reported.

To all the young people who have shared their stories with Midweek — thank you. Apologies for the nerves — I’m working on it.

FIVE MINUTES WITH ...

KYLIE ALEXANDER, founder and former owner of Laughing Owl Fudge, photographer and teacher aide

As a child, I spent a lot of time…

Growing up on a farm and climbing trees.

My friends and loved ones always say I am… A bit nuts.

The famous New Zealander [living or

Contact Us

dead], I’d like to have a meal with is…

Billy T James.

The most delicious ice cream ˜ avour is… Hokey Pokey.

I would love more time to…

Slow it down!

My favourite local shop is…

Cahoots Cafe in Greytown. The family member I most admire is…

My husband

A song I know all the words to is…

None...I can’t sing.

You may share your opinion in print and online. To comment online, message our Facebook page and feel free to comment on any of the stories. Please email letters to midweek@age.co.nz or post to Wairarapa Midweek letters, P.O. Box 445, Masterton. Include name, address, and phone number. Noms de plume are not accepted. Letter writers’ town of origin will be published with the letter. Letters should be no more than 250 words, and may be edited for space and clarity.

Midweek Photos

Have you got a photo you want to share with Wairarapa?

Whether it’s a reader photo, a cutie, or a snap of you with your Midweek, email it to midweek@age.co.nz with ‘Midweek Photo’ in the subject line, and it could be featured in this segment.

Cuties Of The Week

Wairarapa needs…

To improve the road to the Cape Palliser Lighthouse. The best accompaniment to a cup of co° ee or tea is… Fudge!

Reader Aimee sent in this beautiful shot of her 13-week-old puppies, Scooby [with white on his nose] and Parker. Sadly, both pups recently became sick with canine parvovirus, and Scooby passed away just before Easter. Parker, however, made a full recovery – which Aimee said the vet called “a little miracle”, as the virus is almost always fatal in young dogs. Parker, a Sta˜ y-Huntaway cross, now lives with Aimee’s nephew Chance – and is his pride and joy.