New Zealand does have some advantages being an island nation. It helped during COVID, but ultimately, COVID and other world problems like immigration are an issue. It could be better.

Like many others, I arrived in New Zealand on a work visa. The country, with its diverse needs, welcomes people with a wide range of skills, from medical professionals to skilled tradespeople like carpenters.

I agree that what you buy from an IVY League education is not the education but the connections. The expense ensures that only the children of the rich can hobnob with the others who are already rich. It's not a level playing field at all.

Many states have set their own minimum wage because the federal standard is so low and set so long ago that it has yet to keep pace with the times. I am concerned that so many states still need to make this change.