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Budget Blinds Announces Strategic Changes to Executive Leadership TeamMusk isn't helping Trump out of the goodness of his own heart. Brandon Bell/Pool/AP A news clip making the rounds Sunday morning had CNN’s Dana Bash talking with Chris Sununu, New Hampshire’s Republican governor, about Elon Musk’s potential conflicts of interest. Here, after all, we have a hecto-billionaire with massive federal contracts via SpaceX—and whose carmaker, Tesla, likely wouldn’t have survived without generous state and federal subsidies—serving as an advisor to an incoming president on how the government should be spending its money , or not. Sununu told Bash he liked that Musk is an “outsider”—an interesting choice of words—who is “not looking for anything.” When she challenged that notion, he responded, “The guy is worth $450 billion” and therefore is “so rich he’s removed from the potential financial influence.” “I don’t think he’s doing it for the money,” Sununu said. “He’s doing it for the bigger project and the bigger vision of America.” The exchange is worth a listen: BASH: One of the concerns is that Elon Musk has billions tied up in govt contracts. You don't see a conflict of interest?CHRIS SUNUNU: Everyone has a conflict of interestBASH: But that's a pretty big oneSUNUNU: He's so rich he's removed from the potential financial influence What this tells me is that Sununu doesn’t understand the mentality of excessive wealth and he probably shouldn’t be on the air talking about it. He’s correct, in one sense, that Musk is not doing it for the money. I mean, the guy could probably afford to buy Greenland. But “the greater project and the bigger vision”? That’s the sort of nonsense Col. Potter from the old TV series M.A.S.H. would have called “horse hockey”— among other things . Musk is doing this for the power —the opportunity to dominate his peers. Let’s not forget that joining forces with Trump put Musk’s wealth, at least on paper, on a very steep upward trajectory. I haven’t done the math, but I’m pretty sure he’s now the richest person who has ever lived on our planet. He doesn’t need money to buy stuff. He needs it to nourish his narcissism. I interviewed quite a few super-rich folks, and people in their close orbits, while researching my 2021 book , Jackpot , and we talked a lot about these kinds of matters. It became clear that, once a person attains a certain level of wealth, any further accumulation of assets is like a game. It’s all about score-keeping and social comparisons—and also maintaining one’s dynastic position by creating trusts to circumvent gift and estate taxes and pushing to maintain stupid loopholes like the discounted tax rate on carried interest, which even one private equity guy admitted to me was “bullshit,” though he was part of a group that made an annual pilgrimage to DC to lobby for it. Here’s a abridged snippet from one of my interviews with Richard Watts, an attorney in Southern California who serves as a consigliere for some of America’s wealthiest families. Here he was talking about a conference he’d just spoken at—an annual shindig hosted by Mitt Romney and attended by loads of Fortune 500 CEOs and billionaires with names you’d know, in addition to former presidents and senators and other power players. “I’m very well off, so I certainly don’t need to be working and doing all that stuff, and I’ve got a beautiful home down by the ocean. But when I spend the weekend with people that probably have a minimum net worth of $500 million, at some point I just have to leave, because you can feel in the discussion the measure is how big you are... In those situations it’s always about what spectacular thing have you done, invented, created: What do you do? “Well, I own 35 mobile home parks free and clear, and we built them, and we’re going green with all of them. And it’s really been a great, wonderful thing.” And the guy’s 40 years old, and that’s a true story... Now, if you’re Jamie Dimon, everybody kind of wants to see what you’re thinking and you know, “Hey, that’s a good guy. I want to be around him.” And then if it’s the governor of Maine, or let’s say it’s Mitt or it’s Paul Ryan, these are really interesting people. And the interesting thing is they kind of don’t want to have that discussion, but everyone has it with them. So, it’s like, “Hey Paul, since you’ve been out of the Speaker of the House, what is it you’re doing this year?” “Oh my god, I’m on the board of Fox News.” (And of course Murdoch was there lecturing as well.) And it’s just this feeling that the only measure in the room—I don’t mean that they always stay this way, I’m just saying when they group together—it’s about who’s got the biggest boat, and I can say that in a lot of different ways that are nasty, but the biggest boat is pretty quickly identified. One month prior to the election, Elon Musk’s estimated net worth was about $263 billion . Now, at year’s end, it is $437 billion . The “biggest boat” has been identified. It’s Elon and it ain’t even close and Musk would like to keep it that way and his relationship with Trump helps him do that. So Sununu can spare us the “greater project” nonsense. This is a dick-measuring contest, no more, no less.Jimmy Carter: A brief bio

THE NHS has issued a "stay home" warning as cases of norovirus surge - and common protection won't work. The contagious stomach bug spreads easily through close contact and eating food prepared by infected people - a stomach-turning prospect as families gathered together for festivities. Cases of norovirus surged by 33.2 per cent in the two weeks between November 18 and December 1, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said. The total amount of infections reported was more than double the number of cases usually seen at this time of year - amounting to an 114 per cent increase. Now the NHS provided an update to social media on Friday. It advised: "Norovirus is a stomach bug that causes diarrhoea and vomiting. "It can be very unpleasant, but usually goes away in about 2 days. If you catch it; stay home, rest and have plenty of fluids." Common symptoms of the dreaded bug include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. Often accompanied with these symptoms is a high fever, headaches, and limb pains. These tend to appear one or two days after infection. The key guidance also stresses the importance of avoiding work or school until those affected are symptom-free for 48 hours. This is especially important without vomiting or diarrhoea due to the contagious nature of the virus in this timeframe. It is also recommended to stay away from hospitals and care homes to prevent any more spreading of the virus. The NHS has also stressed the importance of hand washing with soap and water to stop norovirus from spreading. Alcohol-based sanitisers aren't effective against it, which is important to note. The virus can usually be managed at home with enough rest and hydration. However it's advised to call 111 if you're concerned about a baby under one years old. UKHSA said multiple factors could be behind the surge in norovirus cases, including the increased use of PCR multiplex technology for testing - which is capable of detecting multiple gastrointestinal pathogens in one test - as well as changes to the bug after the Covid-19 pandemic. The health watchdog also noted "the emergence of an unusual norovirus genotype" dubbed GII.17. So far into the 2024/2025 norovirus season, a whopping 89 per cent of samples belonged to norovirus genogroup 2 (GII). Of these, 66.3 per cent of cases were attributed to the GII.17 genotype. "An increase of this variant has also been observed in other counties during 2024 and is being closely monitored," UKHSA noted. "At present there is no indication it leads to more severe illness." The health watchdog said there were probably more norovirus cases than data indicates. "Lab reports represent just a small proportion of total norovirus cases," UKHSA explained. "It has been estimated that for every case of norovirus reported to national surveillance in the UK there are about 288 in the community that go unreported, representing an annual burden of around 3 million cases." Norovirus symptoms tend to inclue nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea. But sufferers can also be struck with a high temperature, stomach pain and aching limbs. People can be at risk of dehydration after getting infected with norovirus, especially young children and older or immunocompromised people. If you do get ill it is important to drink plenty of fluids during that time, to replenish those lost through diarrhoea and vomiting. Symptoms tend to strike suddenly but you will usually start to feel better within two or three days. It's important that you stay off school or work until you have not been sick or had diarrhoea for at least two days, as this is when you're most infectious. If you think you have norovirus, stay hydrated, rest, and eat bland foods when you feel better. Wash hands often, disinfect surfaces, and avoid contact with others until 48 hours after symptoms stop. Seek medical advice if symptoms are severe or prolonged. When it comes to treatment, focus on staying hydrated with water or electrolyte drinks. Rest as much as possible. Eat bland foods like toast or crackers, rice, pasta. For symptom relief, consult your doctor about over-the-counter options. Symptoms should go away in one to three days. If you or your child experiences the following, you should call 999 or go to A&E: Source: Dr Bruno Silvester Lopes, Lecturer in Microbiology at Teesside University and NHS

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It’s a smart piece of stage management to have Australia as Ireland’s opponents for the IRFU’s 150th anniversary commemoration next Saturday. Putting Andy Farrell and Joe Schmidt in direct opposition acts as a precursor to next summer’s Lions tour. More relevantly, it brings together the two most successful coaches in Irish rugby history. At the time when they set the game up, our stage managers probably also saw it as a fairly safe win for the home team too. Australia’s stock had plummeted disastrously before Schmidt’s arrival earlier this year, when they were tenth in the world rankings — an all-time low. And now? The Wallabies can leap-frog the Scots into sixth if they win in Edinburgh on Sunday afternoon. After playing some irresistible rugbyNone

AP News Summary at 6:26 p.m. ESTCambodia year-end review 2024: Making its presence felt

BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) — Justice Shoats had 18 points in Siena's 66-53 victory against Canisius on Sunday. Shoats shot 6 of 15 from the field, including 2 for 5 from 3-point range, and went 4 for 6 from the free-throw line for the Saints (5-5, 1-1 Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference). Brendan Coyle scored 17 points and added nine rebounds. Major Freeman had 14 points and shot 5 for 9 (2 for 6 from 3-point range) and 2 of 3 from the free-throw line. Paul McMillan IV led the Golden Griffins (0-10, 0-2) in scoring, finishing with 22 points and four assists. Jasman Sangha added 11 points and two steals for Canisius. Tana Kopa finished with six points. The Golden Griffins have lost 11 consecutive games, dating to a 72-56 defeat at the hands of Quinnipiac in the 2024 MAAC Tournament. The Associated Press created this story using technology provided by Data Skrive and data from Sportradar .Cycling Market Overview and Leading Players: Cannondale Bicycle Corporation, BMC Switzerland AG, Felt Bicycles, Trek Bicycle Corporation, Specialized Bicycle Components, Merida Industry, Shimano Inc., Raleigh Bicycles 12-08-2024 09:44 PM CET | Tourism, Cars, Traffic Press release from: STATS N DATA Cycling Market New York, December 2024 - The cycling market is experiencing a significant transformation, driven by a confluence of factors that are reshaping the landscape of this vibrant industry. As cycling becomes an increasingly popular mode of transportation and recreation, the market has broadened its relevance and scope, catering to a diverse range of applications, including recreation, fitness, sports, and adventure racing. The recent technological advancements and strategic collaborations have further propelled the market's growth, offering consumers innovative products that meet their evolving needs. This press release provides an in-depth analysis of the current state of the cycling market, key growth drivers, competitive landscape, opportunities, and challenges. You can access a sample PDF report here: https://www.statsndata.org/download-sample.php?id=376772 The cycling market has witnessed remarkable growth over the past few years, with a surge in consumer interest driven by a growing awareness of health and environmental benefits associated with cycling. As urban areas become more congested, cycling has emerged as a sustainable alternative to traditional modes of transportation, leading to increased demand for bicycles. Moreover, the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has intensified this trend, as people seek outdoor activities that promote physical fitness while adhering to social distancing guidelines. Recent developments in the cycling market are largely influenced by technological innovations. Electric bicycles (e-bikes), for instance, have gained immense popularity as they combine traditional cycling with modern conveniences. Furthermore, collaborations between bicycle manufacturers and tech companies have led to the integration of smart technologies, enhancing user experience and safety. These advancements have positioned the cycling market at the forefront of sustainable transport solutions, making it a key player in the global shift towards greener practices. Key Growth Drivers and Trends Several critical factors are shaping the demand for bicycles today. Sustainability is at the forefront, as consumers increasingly prioritize eco-friendly transportation options. With a heightened awareness of climate change and urban pollution, cycling is viewed not only as a recreational activity but also as a viable solution to reduce carbon footprints. Digitization is another trend influencing the cycling market. The rise of e-commerce has transformed how consumers shop for bicycles and accessories, leading to a surge in online sales. As consumers become more tech-savvy, they are seeking personalized experiences, which has prompted manufacturers to offer customizable products, catering to individual preferences. Emerging technologies are also playing a pivotal role in the evolution of the cycling market. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) into cycling products is revolutionizing how cyclists interact with their bikes. From smart helmets that provide real-time data on performance to apps that track fitness metrics, technology is enhancing the overall cycling experience. Market Segmentation The cycling market can be segmented into several categories, each reflecting different consumer preferences and usage patterns: - By Type: - Road Bikes - Mountain Bikes - Hybrid Bikes - Cruiser Bikes - BMX Bikes - By Application: - Recreation - Fitness - Sports - Adventure Racing - By Frame Material: - Aluminum - Carbon Fiber - Steel - Titanium - By Distribution Channel: - Bicycle Shops - Online Retailers - Department Stores - Mass Merchants This segmentation allows stakeholders to tailor their marketing strategies and product offerings to meet specific consumer demands, ultimately driving sales and market growth. Get 30% Discount On Full Report: https://www.statsndata.org/ask-for-discount.php?id=376772 Competitive Landscape The cycling market is characterized by a competitive landscape featuring several key players who are instrumental in shaping trends and driving innovation. Leading companies include: - Cannondale Bicycle Corporation: Known for its innovative designs, Cannondale has made significant strides in the performance bike segment, introducing cutting-edge technology in their products. - BMC Switzerland AG: With a focus on high-end bicycles, BMC has established a strong brand presence by consistently delivering quality and performance. - Felt Bicycles: Felt has garnered a reputation for its road and triathlon bikes, emphasizing aerodynamics and speed in its designs. - Trek Bicycle Corporation: As one of the largest bicycle manufacturers globally, Trek is recognized for its commitment to sustainability and innovation, producing a wide range of bicycles for various applications. - Specialized Bicycle Components: Specialized offers a diverse product line, focusing on high-performance bicycles and accessories, and is known for its extensive research and development efforts. - Merida Industry: Merida is a key player in the global cycling market, producing a broad spectrum of bicycles that cater to different riding styles and preferences. - Shimano Inc.: Primarily known for its components, Shimano plays a crucial role in the cycling industry, providing advanced gearing and braking systems that enhance bicycle performance. - Raleigh Bicycles: With a rich history in cycling, Raleigh continues to be a prominent name, offering a range of bicycles that combine tradition with modern technology. - Kona Bicycle Company: Kona is well-regarded for its mountain bikes, which are designed for durability and performance on rough terrains. - Colnago: As a luxury bicycle brand, Colnago is synonymous with precision engineering and craftsmanship, appealing to high-end consumers. - Giant Manufacturing Co. Ltd.: One of the largest bicycle manufacturers in the world, Giant produces a diverse range of bikes, emphasizing quality and affordability. - Santa Cruz Bicycles: Renowned for its mountain bikes, Santa Cruz focuses on performance and innovation, capturing the attention of serious cyclists. - Focus Bikes: Focus specializes in performance-oriented bicycles, particularly in the racing segment, showcasing advanced engineering. - Devinci Cycles: Devinci is noted for its unique designs and technology, particularly in mountain biking and cycling performance. - Bianchi S.p.A.: With a history dating back to 1885, Bianchi is one of the oldest manufacturers, known for its iconic designs and high-performance road bikes. - Pinarello S.p.A.: Pinarello is synonymous with racing excellence, providing high-end bicycles that have won multiple championships. - Scott Sports SA: Scott offers a diverse range of bicycles, including mountain and road bikes, and is recognized for its commitment to innovation. - Cube Bikes: Cube's product range caters to various cycling categories, focusing on performance and value. - Canyon Bicycles GmbH: Canyon has gained popularity for its direct-to-consumer model, offering high-quality bikes at competitive prices. - Fuji Bikes: Fuji is known for its versatile range of bicycles, catering to both recreational and competitive cyclists. - Wilier Triestina S.p.A.: Renowned for its racing bicycles, Wilier combines tradition with modern technology to deliver high-performance products. - Cervelo Cycles Inc.: Cervelo is a leader in road cycling technology, focusing on aerodynamics and speed. - Polygon Bikes: Polygon offers a wide variety of bicycles, emphasizing affordability and quality. - Orbea S. Coop.: Orbea is known for its customizable bicycles, allowing consumers to create bikes that fit their specific needs. These companies are not only driving market trends but also fostering innovation through product development, partnerships, and market expansions. Opportunities and Challenges The cycling market presents numerous opportunities for growth, particularly in untapped regions such as Asia-Pacific and Latin America. As urbanization increases in these areas, the demand for sustainable transportation solutions is expected to rise, offering manufacturers a chance to expand their market presence. Additionally, evolving consumer preferences towards fitness-oriented and eco-friendly products provide a fertile ground for new product development. However, the market also faces challenges that could hinder growth. Regulatory constraints regarding safety standards and environmental regulations can pose obstacles for manufacturers. Operational inefficiencies, often stemming from supply chain disruptions, can affect production timelines and costs. Furthermore, the cycling industry faces a talent shortage, particularly in engineering and design roles, which can impact innovation. To address these challenges, companies can focus on streamlining their operations and investing in human resources. Collaborating with educational institutions to develop training programs can help bridge the talent gap, ensuring a steady influx of skilled professionals into the industry. Technological Advancements The cycling market is rapidly adopting cutting-edge technologies that are redefining the cycling experience. Artificial intelligence (AI) is being integrated into bicycle design and performance analytics, allowing cyclists to receive real-time feedback on their riding habits and efficiency. Smart bicycles equipped with IoT capabilities enable connectivity with smartphones, providing access to navigation, performance tracking, and safety features. Virtual tools, such as augmented reality applications, are enhancing the way consumers interact with products, offering immersive experiences during the purchasing process. Moreover, advancements in materials science have led to the development of lighter and more durable frame materials, such as carbon fiber and titanium, enhancing performance while reducing overall weight. These technological innovations are not only improving the functionality of bicycles but also appealing to a tech-savvy consumer base that values performance and efficiency. Research Methodology and Insights STATS N DATA employs a rigorous research methodology to provide accurate and comprehensive insights into the cycling market. Utilizing both top-down and bottom-up approaches, our team gathers data from a variety of sources, including industry reports, market surveys, and expert interviews. Primary research involves direct engagement with key stakeholders, while secondary research encompasses a review of existing literature and market analysis. Our triangulation process ensures that insights are validated and reliable, providing stakeholders with a clear picture of market dynamics. As the cycling market continues to evolve, STATS N DATA remains committed to delivering accurate, actionable insights that empower stakeholders to make informed decisions. The potential for growth in this vibrant market is immense, driven by sustainability, technology, and changing consumer preferences. With a keen eye on emerging trends and challenges, we are poised to support the future of cycling as it accelerates towards a more sustainable and innovative horizon. For customization requests, please visit: https://www.statsndata.org/request-customization.php?id=376772 https://www.statsndata.org/report/cycling-market-376772 Get more information about recently published reports by STATS N DATA below: You can then follow this with links or a list of the specific reports The Rise of Video Streaming Software: Changing How We Watch and Connect : https://www.statsndata.org/blog/209/the-rise-of-video-streaming-software-changing-how-we-watch-and-connect Elevating Customer Experience: The Growing Role of Live Chat Software : https://www.statsndata.org/blog/210/elevating-customer-experience-the-growing-role-of-live-chat-software How Digital Twins Are Changing the Way We Work and Innovate : https://www.statsndata.org/blog/211/how-digital-twins-are-changing-the-way-we-work-and-innovate Finding the Right Marketing Automation Software: A Comprehensive Guide with Real-World Insights : https://www.statsndata.org/blog/212/finding-the-right-marketing-automation-software-a-comprehensive-guide-with-real-world-insights John Jones Sales & Marketing Head | Stats N Data Phone: +1 (315) 642-4324 Email: sales@statsndata.org Website: www.statsndata.org STATS N DATA is a trusted provider of industry intelligence and market research, delivering actionable insights to businesses across diverse sectors. We specialize in helping organizations navigate complex markets with advanced analytics, detailed market segmentation, and strategic guidance. Our expertise spans industries including technology, healthcare, telecommunications, energy, food & beverages, and more. Committed to accuracy and innovation, we provide tailored reports that empower clients to make informed decisions, identify emerging opportunities, and achieve sustainable growth. Our team of skilled analysts leverages cutting-edge methodologies to ensure every report addresses the unique challenges of our clients. At STATS N DATA, we transform data into knowledge and insights into success. Partner with us to gain a competitive edge in today's fast-paced business environment. For more information, visit https://www.statsndata.org or contact us today at sales@statsndata.org This release was published on openPR.Investors look to Fed move for momentumAI firms in Greater Manchester are 'hungry for growth' as sector dominates latest Tech Climbers list

Sabres get power-play goals from Zucker and Thompson in 4-2 win over the Blues( MENAFN - Newsroom Panama) Although Panama has experienced remarkable economic growth in recent years, the employment outlook is facing serious problems. Unemployment has risen alarmingly, climbing from 7.4% to 9.5% in the last year. This has left thousands of Panamanians struggling to find formal, stable jobs, and many have been forced to turn to informal employment, which offers no benefits or job protection. Despite being a country that stands out for its economic growth thanks to its strategic location, the Panama Canal and the boost in sectors such as logistics and construction, this development has not sufficiently improved the labor market. The increase in unemployment in the last year is a worrying sign for the country's economy. This situation raises a big question: how can a country grow economically while more and more people are left out of the benefits of that growth? Experts suggest that the current development model is not prioritizing the creation of formal jobs or social inclusion. To change this, it is urgent to implement policies that promote job training, support small and medium-sized businesses, and strengthen sectors such as technology and sustainable tourism. Economic growth must be inclusive, offering opportunities for all. Only in this way will Panama be able to achieve sustainable and equitable development for all its citizens. MENAFN27122024000218011062ID1109036226 Legal Disclaimer: MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.

NoneST. LOUIS (AP) — Jason Zucker scored a tiebreaking power-play goal with 9:30 remaining and the Buffalo Sabres notched their third straight victory by beating the St. Louis Blues 4-2 on Sunday. Jiri Kulich extended Buffalo’s lead with a breakaway goal that went between Blues goalie Jordan Binnington’s legs with 3:41 to play. Tage Thompson had a goal and an assist against his former team as the Sabres won in St. Louis for just the second time in 12 years to sweep the season series. Zucker had a goal and an assist, and Jack Quinn had two assists for Buffalo. Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen stopped 35 shots. Brayden Schenn and Nathan Walker scored for the Blues. Binnington had 12 saves. Buffalo scored on two of its first three shots, including its first of the game. Takeaways Buffalo: After a 13-game losing streak (0-10-3), the Sabres have scored 17 goals while winning three straight. St. Louis: The Blues, who are tied for an NHL-low five power-play goals at home, went 0 for 4 with the man advantage. Key moment After Walker pulled the Blues even with 14:04 left in the game, rookie Zack Bolduc took a cross checking penalty midway through the third period that led to the decisive goal. Key stat The Sabres had scored on only six of 43 road power plays (14%) this season before going 2 for 3 on Sunday. Buffalo ranked 27th out of 32 NHL teams. Up next The Blues play Chicago in the Winter Classic on Tuesday at Wrigley Field. Buffalo will play at Dallas on Tuesday night. ___ AP NHL: https://apnews.com/hub/nhl Jeff Latzke, The Associated Press

Blues forward Zack Bolduc on the potential baseball origins of his one-timer: 'Maybe it’s linked, maybe it’s not'ROSEN, LEADING INVESTOR COUNSEL, Encourages Unisys Corporation Investors to Inquire About ...

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Tweet Facebook Mail A man has been rushed to hospital after a suspected drug overdose on day one of Beyond The Valley, the first festival in Victoria to trial pill testing . The man in his 20s was treated by paramedics at the festival, held outside of Geelong, about 4.40pm on Saturday, before being taken to Geelong University Hospital in a serious but stable condition. He was discharged yesterday morning. READ MORE: Former US President Jimmy Carter dies at 100 Festivalgoers at Beyond The Valley can access to the state's first trial of a mobile pill testing service. (Photograph by Chris Hopkins) More than 35,000 people are expected to attend the four-day festival, which runs until Wednesday. The Victorian government announced last month that the festival would be the first of 10 events to implement pill testing . It is not yet known if the man accessed the pill testing service, which is anonymous. The mobile service has been operating between 1pm and 7pm throughout the festival, with test results returned within 30 minutes. During the trial, at least 200 drug samples will be tested each day. It follows the passing of recent laws in Victoria which give dedicated support to pill testing. If high-risk substances are detected, the pill testers will work with festival management to alert festivalgoers. The festival has introduced a pill testing facility. (Photograph by Chris Hopkins) Volunteers from DanceWize, a peer-based harm reduction service, have been on hand to help festivalgoers. Experts have been calling for urgent pill testing reforms after eight people were put into induced comas following suspected MDMA drug overdoses at Melbourne's Hardmission Festival in January. Another two women were taken to hospital days later after suspected drug use at Juicy Fest. DOWNLOAD THE 9NEWS APP : Stay across all the latest in breaking news, sport, politics and the weather via our news app and get notifications sent straight to your smartphone. Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play .

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Photo: RNZ By Farah Hancock of RNZ More than half the government's key targets are behind track or at risk of not being met, the latest progress update shows. The number of people on the Jobseeker benefit has increased especially significantly, while a recent change to how school students' mathematics progress is measured has placed the academic achievement target at risk. RNZ has launched a series of graphics that track progress towards each of the nine targets, based on official data provided by the government agencies being measured. The graphics will be updated each quarter, with the most recent progress report covering July to September 2024. While the educational achievement and Jobseeker targets are classified as 'at risk', three other health and crime targets are considered 'feasible' - meaning they are still possible but are behind schedule and face "major risks and/or issues''. In other areas, including reducing the number of people in emergency housing and near-term greenhouse gas emissions, targets were either 'on track' or 'probable'. Photo: RNZ The nine targets were selected to focus the public sector on achieving better results in health, education, law and order, work, housing and the environment. Progress is reported quarterly, and each responsible agency assigns a status, ranging from on track to unachievable. Progress toward reaching a target can still be classed as feasible, even if there are major risks or issues in meeting it, as long as the agency in charge believes these can be resolved. In September, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon snapped at a reporter during questioning about crime rates and the national gang list, saying: "It's not about the frickin' targets, it's actually about the outcomes." The nine targets are set to be delivered by 2030, beyond the current political term. This is the second quarterly update the government has issued - so how has progress come along since the previous report? Health Photo: RNZ Achieving the goal for 95 percent of patients to be admitted, discharged or transferred from an emergency department is still some way off. The latest period of reporting shows only 71.2 percent of patients were seen within that timeframe. This is a slight increase from the last quarter when 70 percent of patients were seen in that timeframe. When setting this target, officials warned there was a risk it would not be achievable in the short term. "Most ED [emergency departments] nationwide are over capacity most of the time," a briefing to ministers read. It said wait times were affected by resourcing, community services, bed availability and seasonal changes, such as increased demand during flu season. Attempting to reduce wait times would require significant system-wide change in hospitals, primary care and aged care, the briefing said. "There would be a risk the target is achieved by focusing resources intensively in ED at the expense of other areas of the health system. This may result in improved ED wait times in the short term, but - through reduction in the quality of care elsewhere - would likely result in worse health outcomes and ultimately higher ED presentations in the medium to long term." Te Whatu Ora's approach to reach the target included plans to discharge patients promptly, and encouraging patients to seek help elsewhere such as telehealth services, GPs and community care. It also wanted ambulance staff to deal with more patients without transferring them to a hospital. Growing the health workforce was also listed as a priority. Reaching the 95 percent goal by 2030 is classed as feasible, meaning there are major risks to achievement. Photo: RNZ The target for 95 percent of people to receive elective treatment within four months is a long way away from being achieved, although tacking in the right direction. At the moment 61.4 percent of people needing elective treatments, such as hip or cataract surgeries, are seen within four months. This is slightly higher than the 56.3 percent reported in June. However, the actual percentage of people waiting for elective procedures could be worse, as RNZ revealed some patients who are referred for surgery have not been added to wait lists. A June progress report noted the appointment of Health Commissioner Lester Levy was among the actions taken to speed up access to treatment. Other activities included increasing bed and theatre capacity. The private sector is also being used to plug some of the public sector gap. A minimum of 20,000 general, 2000 orthopaedic and 3000 cataract surgeries are outsourced, according to the previous quarter's update. Delivery of this target is classified as feasible, indicating there are still major risks. Crime Photo: RNZ The number of serious and persistent youth offenders has decreased by 95 percent since the last quarterly report, but the total number still sits above the target number of 900. For a youth offender to be classed as a serious or persistent offender they must have committed three or more offences in the past 12 months, with at least one of them having a maximum penalty of seven years' imprisonment or more. Hitting the targeted 15 percent reduction by 2030 is considered probable, meaning it needs "constant attention" to ensure any risks to the target do not develop into major issues. Bootcamps are listed as one way the government is hoping to turn behaviour around, as is improving school attendance. Other initiatives aimed at addressing offending include better response systems from police and Oranga Tamariki. Photo: RNZ The goal to reduce crime is classed as "feasible" but the current number of victims is sitting at almost 40,000 more than the target. This target was kept as one of the nine government targets, despite officials suggesting it would be difficult to achieve and should be replaced with something easier to reach. The goal to reduce the number of victims of assault, robbery, and sexual assault by 20,000 by 2030 is based on data from the New Zealand Crime and Victims' Survey. Officials warned the survey data had a high margin of error and was more suitable for showing long-term trends. The survey includes crimes that victims might have experienced up to two years prior. Work to reduce the number of victims includes increasing police numbers and implementing a package of measures the government believes will increase the chance of offenders being "held to account". The September progress update notes 160 officers had been deployed to community teams and 77 officers had been assigned to target gangs. Employment Photo: RNZ The number of people receiving Jobseeker support increased by 8,800, to 204,800, since the June report, shifting the target from being 'feasible' to 'at risk'. This is nearly 14,000 above the forecast for September and almost 65,000 away from the overall goal of 140,000 or fewer people receiving support by 2030. The September progress report says economic conditions have contributed to the high number of unemployed people. A new traffic light system aimed at enforcing beneficiary obligations dramatically increased sanctions handed down to beneficiaries, with 14,400 people losing a percentage of their benefit during the June to September quarter, -133 percent higher than the same period in 2023. Most of the sanctions were for people not attending appointments which included work seminars. Education Photo: RNZ At 53.2 percent, Term 2's attendance rate is well below the target of 80 percent of students present for more than 90 percent of the term. This means students should take no more than five days off a term. The government's action plan to lift attendance rates to 80 percent includes reporting attendance daily, communications to raise awareness of the importance of attending school, issuing guidance to help parents know when an unwell child should be sent to school, and clarifying attendance expectations to school boards. It is also working on supporting the Ministry of Education to prosecute caregivers of students with low attendance. Absence is classed as either "justified" or "unjustified". Justified absences include illnesses, and other reasons which fall under school policy, such as suspensions. Unjustified absences include truancy, or taking holidays in term time. The government target of 80 percent makes no distinction between the two. Notes provided to Cabinet when the targets were being set said it would be difficult to meet the 80 percent target while Covid-19 is still circulating. The Ministry of Education said its estimated attendance levels until 2029 is not a "technical forecast" but is based on historical patterns of greater attendance drops during winter months due to illness. Since 2011, the highest percentage of students attending 90 percent of a school term was 72.8 percent, in Term 1 of 2019. The average over that time was 59.4 percent. Photo: RNZ Achievement rates for mathematics and reading are still well below the government target of 80 percent of Year 8 students being at or above the expected curriculum level. Currently 47 percent of students are at the expected level in reading and 22 percent in mathematics. Writing has not been assessed recently but the 2019 data put 35 percent of students at the expected level. A plan to raise mathematics achievement has been launched and structured literacy will be introduced for students from Year 0 to 6 in 2025. This target is measured annually, so there is no change since the last quarterly update. Housing Photo: RNZ Driving down the number of households in emergency housing is one target where progress streaked ahead of estimations. Starting from a baseline of 3141 households, the goal was to reduce the number by 75 percent, to 800 or fewer. The current number is 1179 - 1351 households ahead of forecasts and 379 away from the 2030 goal. Part of the plan to reach the target includes improving access to other forms of housing for emergency housing residents. Since a fast-track category for waitlists was created in April, 726 households have shifted from emergency housing, such as motels, to social housing. Criteria to be placed in emergency housing have also tightened despite warnings from officials that this could lead to an increase in rough sleepers. The government could not say where all households who have left emergency housing moved to, as it does not track that information. Around 200 households were unaccounted for. This target is classed as being on track to being achieved. Climate Photo: RNZ There are two targets New Zealand has committed to meeting as part of its net zero climate change goal. The first target is for total greenhouse gas emissions between 2022 and 2025 to be below 290 megatonnes. This target is on track to being achieved. Reaching the second target - for total emissions between 2026 and 2030 to be less than 309 mt - appears to be more of a challenge, though is still classified as probable. The next update on progress toward the nine targets, covering October to December 2024, will be released in 2025.Trump says he can't guarantee tariffs won't raise US prices and won't rule out revenge prosecutions WASHINGTON (AP) — Donald Trump says he can’t guarantee his promised tariffs on key U.S. foreign trade partners won’t raise prices for American consumers. And he's suggesting once more that some political rivals and federal officials who pursued legal cases against him should be imprisoned. The president-elect made the comments in a wide-ranging interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press” that aired Sunday. He also touched on monetary policy, immigration, abortion and health care, and U.S. involvement in Ukraine, Israel and elsewhere. Trump often mixed declarative statements with caveats, at one point cautioning “things do change.” Europe's economy needs help. Political chaos in France and Germany means it may be slower in coming BRUSSELS (AP) — Europe's economy has enough difficulties, from tepid growth to trade tensions with the U.S. Dealing with those woes is only getting harder due to the political chaos in the two biggest European countries, France and Germany. Neither has a government backed by a functioning majority, and France could take a while yet to sort things out. But some problems aren't going to wait, such as what to do about U.S. President-elect Donald Trump's America First stance on trade and how to fund stronger defense against Putin's Russia. ‘Moana 2’ cruises to another record weekend and $600 million globally “Moana 2” remains at the top of the box office in its second weekend in theaters as it pulled in another record haul. According to studio estimates Sunday, the animated Disney film added $52 million, bringing its domestic total to $300 million. That surpasses the take for the original “Moana” and brings the sequel's global tally to a staggering $600 million. It also puts the film in this year's top five at the box office. “Wicked” came in second place for the weekend with $34.9 million and “Gladiator II” was third with $12.5 million. The 10th anniversary re-release of Christopher Nolan's “Interstellar” also earned an impressive $4.4 million even though it played in only 165 theaters. Federal appeals court upholds law requiring sale or ban of TikTok in the US A federal appeals court panel on Friday unanimously upheld a law that could lead to a ban on TikTok as soon as next month, handing a resounding defeat to the popular social media platform as it fights for its survival in the U.S. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit ruled that the law - which requires TikTok to break ties with its China-based parent company ByteDance or be banned by mid-January — is constitutional, rebuffing TikTok’s challenge that the statute ran afoul of the First Amendment and unfairly targeted the platform. TikTok and ByteDance — another plaintiff in the lawsuit — are expected to appeal to the Supreme Court. Executive of Tyler Perry Studios dies when plane he was piloting crashes in Florida ATLANTA (AP) — The president of Atlanta-based Tyler Perry Studios has died when the small plane he was piloting crashed on Florida’s Gulf Coast. The studio confirmed on Saturday that Steve Mensch, its 62-year-old president and general manager, had died Friday. The crash happened in Homosassa, about 60 miles north of Tampa. Photos from the scene show the plane having come to rest upside down on a road. Mensch helped advocate for Georgia’s film tax credit of more than $1 billion a year. Perry hired Mensch to run his namesake studio in 2016. Mensch died as Perry released his war drama, “The Six Triple Eight." The film was shot at the Atlanta studio. US added a strong 227,000 jobs in November in bounce-back from October slowdown WASHINGTON (AP) — America’s job market rebounded in November, adding 227,000 workers in a solid recovery from the previous month, when the effects of strikes and hurricanes had sharply diminished employers’ payrolls. Last month’s hiring growth was up considerably from a meager gain of 36,000 jobs in October. The government also revised up its estimate of job growth in September and October by a combined 56,000. Friday’s report also showed that the unemployment rate ticked up from 4.1% in October to a still-low 4.2%. The November data provided the latest evidence that the U.S. job market remains durable even though it has lost significant momentum from the 2021-2023 hiring boom, when the economy was rebounding from the pandemic recession. Stock market today: Wall Street hits more records following a just-right jobs report NEW YORK (AP) — U.S. stocks rose to records after data suggested the job market remains solid enough to keep the economy going, but not so strong that it raises immediate worries about inflation. The S&P 500 climbed 0.2%, just enough top the all-time high set on Wednesday, as it closed a third straight winning week in what looks to be one of its best years since the 2000 dot-com bust. The Dow Jones Industrial Average dipped 0.3%, while the Nasdaq composite climbed 0.8% to set its own record. Treasury yields eased after the jobs report showed stronger hiring than expected but also an uptick in the unemployment rate. Killing of UnitedHealthcare CEO spotlights complex challenge companies face in protecting top brass NEW YORK (AP) — In an era when online anger and social tensions are increasingly directed at the businesses consumers count on, Meta last year spent $24.4 million to surround CEO Mark Zuckerberg with security. But the fatal shooting this week of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson while walking alone on a New York City sidewalk has put a spotlight on the widely varied approaches companies take to protect their leaders against threats. And experts say the task of evaluating threats against executives and taking action to protect them is getting more difficult. One of the primary worries are loners whose rantings online are fed by others who are like-minded. It’s up to corporate security analysts to decide what represents a real threat. Days after gunman killed UnitedHealthcare's CEO, police push to ID him and FBI offers reward NEW YORK (AP) — Nearly four days after the shooting of UnitedHealthcare CEO Brian Thompson, police still do not know the gunman’s name or whereabouts or have a motive for the killing. But they have made some progress in their investigation into Wednesday's killing of the leader of the largest U.S. health insurer, including that the gunman likely left New York City on a bus soon after fleeing the scene. The also found that the gunman left something behind: a backpack that was discovered in Central Park. Police are working with the FBI, which on Friday night announced a $50,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction. USDA orders nationwide testing of milk for bird flu to halt the virus The U.S. government has ordered testing of the nation’s milk supply for bird flu to better monitor the spread of the virus in dairy cows. The Agriculture Department on Friday said raw or unpasteurized milk from dairy farms and processors nationwide must be tested on request starting Dec. 16. Testing will begin in six states — California, Colorado, Michigan, Mississippi, Oregon and Pennsylvania. The move is aimed at eliminating the virus, which has infected more than 700 dairy herds in 15 states.The 22nd edition of Doha Forum, with the theme 'The Innovation Imperative' concluded Sunday, after attracting over 5,000 participants from 162 countries, including more than 350 speakers. Doha Forum 2024, inaugurated Saturday by His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, sparked powerful conversations, bold ideas, and game-changing collaborations. Preparations are already underway for the next edition, Doha Forum 2025, being held on December 6-7. Doha Forum’s mission is to provide a leading platform for world leaders, policymakers, business leaders, civil society representatives, and other stakeholders to come together, exchange ideas, and work towards solutions for the most pressing issues facing the planet. Its values are rooted in integrity, understanding, and innovation, valuing diverse perspectives while striving to foster a culture of mutual respect. Related Story Doha Metro records 200mn in ridership Technology at heart of Qatar’s industry; key growth to come from technology, AI and innovations: says al-Kuwari