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game based learning Top 5 Most Popular Chinese Dramas Among South Koreans: Empresses in the PalaceThe Ukrainian president said the use of a ballistic missile to hit Dnipro was a “clear and severe escalation in the scale and brutality of this war” and he warned that Russian president Mr Putin would attack or destabilise other countries unless stopped. Mr Putin said the use of the new weapon was in response to the UK and US allowing missiles they have supplied to Ukraine to be used to strike targets in Russia. “In response to the use of American and British long-range weapons on November 21 of this year, the Russian armed forces launched a combined strike on one of the facilities of the Ukrainian defence industry,” Mr Putin said in a televised address. “One of the newest Russian medium-range missile systems was tested in combat conditions, in this case, with a ballistic missile in a non-nuclear hypersonic warhead.” He added: “We consider ourselves entitled to use our weapons against military facilities of those countries that allow their weapons to be used against our facilities.” But Mr Zelensky urged world leaders – his “dear partners” – not to be cowed by Mr Putin’s actions otherwise there will be “endless Russian strikes” and “not just against Ukraine”. Today, Putin admitted to taking a second step this year toward escalating and expanding this war. A new ballistic missile was used. Putin struck our city of Dnipro, one of Ukraine’s largest cities. This is a clear and severe escalation in the scale and brutality of this war—a... — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) November 21, 2024 “A lack of tough reactions to Russia’s actions sends a message that such behavior is acceptable,” the Ukrainian president said on X, formerly Twitter. “This is what Putin is doing. Putin must feel the cost of his deranged ambitions. “Response is needed. Pressure is needed. Russia must be forced into real peace, which can only be achieved through strength. “Otherwise, there will be endless Russian strikes, threats, and destabilisation-not just against Ukraine.” The UK is believed to have allowed its Storm Shadow missiles to be used by Ukrainian forces within the Kursk region of Russia, while the US has given permission for its ATACMS weapons to be fired at targets in Mr Putin’s country. Mr Putin confirmed Russia has tested the new intermediate-range weapon in an attack on Dnipro in response. The US said the weapon was a new, experimental intermediate-range missile based on Russia’s existing RS-26 Rubezh intercontinental ballistic missile. In Westminster, the Prime Minister’s official spokesman said: “My understanding is that it is the first time that Russia has used a ballistic missile in Ukraine with a range of several thousand kilometres.” Defence Secretary John Healey said it was “yet another example of Putin’s recklessness”. He said: “Since the illegal invasion of Ukraine began, Russia has consistently and irresponsibly escalated the conflict while Ukraine continues to fight in self-defence for a democratic future.” The missile’s range far outstrips that of newly authorised US and British-supplied weapons, which can hit targets around 250-300km away. The distance from Moscow to London is around 2,500km, suggesting the range of the new missile could threaten the UK. Mr Healey said the UK knew Russia had been “preparing for months” to fire a new ballistic missile. Downing Street and the Ministry of Defence have repeatedly declined to comment publicly on Ukraine’s use of Storm Shadow. “It risks both operational security and in the end the only one that benefits from such a public debate is President Putin,” Mr Healey told MPs. I had a meeting with the UK delegation led by Chief of the Defence Staff @AdmTonyRadakin_ . We discussed defense cooperation between Ukraine and the United Kingdom, focusing on developing and enhancing the technological capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Particular... pic.twitter.com/EcjqfTuR49 — Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) November 21, 2024 The head of the UK’s armed forces, Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, met Mr Zelensky in Kyiv to discuss the war on Thursday. Mr Zelensky said: “We discussed defence co-operation between Ukraine and the United Kingdom, focusing on developing and enhancing the technological capabilities of the armed forces of Ukraine. “Particular attention was given to Ukraine’s current military needs and the continued support from our partners.”Bowling Green 61, New Mexico St. 60

Fei Xiang, Ma Dongxi, and Song Xiaobao are all well-loved figures in the Chinese entertainment industry, known for their impeccable comic timing and unique sense of humor. Their individual talents have endeared them to audiences of all ages, and fans have long awaited the opportunity to see them share the screen together.Ohhhh man! Major drama in the hip hop world! Legendary rap mogul Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson has suggested that the NFL could potentially dump his counterpart Shawn “Jay-Z” Carter and find somebody else to be the producer of their Super Bowl halftime shows, doing so after the latest allegations that accuse Jay-Z of raping a 13-year-old girl . The claims are a part of the sex-trafficking investigation centered around Sean “Diddy” Combs. #JayZ is speaking out after a woman accused him in a civil lawsuit of raping her with she was 13 along with Sean “Diddy” Combs. pic.twitter.com/Vj63jamlQ5 — E! News (@enews) December 9, 2024 Since 2019 , Jay-Z has been partnering with the NFL to produce Super Bowl halftime shows, hiring him in the middle of a tense social justice movement that was going on then. And Jay-Z has not only been working with the league on the Big Game — he’s also been involved with their social justice activities. But now Jay-Z is facing allegations of raping a minor and his rival 50 Cent is taking full advantage. (RELATED: Panthers’ Bryce Young Seen On Camera Praying For Injured Eagle C.J. Gardner-Johnson In Truly Wholesome Moment) On Instagram, the rapper posted, “Ok I don’t know what’s going on, but are we gonna still have the Super Bowl. *worried emoji* I’m just asking for a friend!” A post shared by 50 Cent (@50cent) As a Drake fan and a semi-hater of Kendrick Lamar (he’s got a few slaps), I can’t lie. I’m absolutely loving this!

"Journey of Discovery" is not merely a cinematic spectacle but a poignant reflection of the challenges and aspirations faced by today's youth. Through the protagonist's quest for truth and meaning, the film prompts viewers to ponder their own perceptions of reality and the impact of technology on human connections. Dong Jie's directorial prowess combined with Sun Yang's compelling performance offers a compelling narrative that transcends genres and resonates with audiences on a universal level.ANKENY, Iowa (AP) — ANKENY, Iowa (AP) — Casey's General Stores Inc. (CASY) on Monday reported fiscal second-quarter net income of $180.9 million. The Ankeny, Iowa-based company said it had net income of $4.85 per share. The results beat Wall Street expectations. The average estimate of five analysts surveyed by Zacks Investment Research was for earnings of $4.24 per share. The convenience store chain posted revenue of $3.95 billion in the period, which missed Street forecasts. Five analysts surveyed by Zacks expected $4.01 billion. Casey's shares have risen 52% since the beginning of the year. In the final minutes of trading on Monday, shares hit $418.24, a climb of 52% in the last 12 months. This story was generated by Automated Insights ( http://automatedinsights.com/ap ) using data from Zacks Investment Research. Access a Zacks stock report on CASY at https://www.zacks.com/ap/CASYA court challenge over a Stormont vote on extending post-Brexit trading arrangements for Northern Ireland has been dismissed, and the Assembly debate will go ahead as planned on Tuesday. Ruling on Monday after an emergency hearing at Belfast High Court, judge Mr Justice McAlinden rejected loyalist activist Jamie Bryson’s application for leave for a full judicial review hearing against Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn. The judge said Mr Bryson, who represented himself as a personal litigant, had “very ably argued” his case with “perseverance and cogency”, and had raised some issues of law that caused him “some concern”. However, he found against him on the three grounds of challenge against Mr Benn. Mr Bryson had initially asked the court to grant interim relief in his challenge to prevent Tuesday’s democratic consent motion being heard in the Assembly, pending the hearing of a full judicial review. However, he abandoned that element of his leave application during proceedings on Monday, after the judge made clear he would be “very reluctant” to do anything that would be “trespassing into the realms” of a democratically elected Assembly. Mr Bryson had challenged Mr Benn’s move to initiate the democratic consent process that is required under the UK and EU’s Windsor Framework deal to extend the trading arrangements that apply to Northern Ireland. The previously stated voting intentions of the main parties suggest that Stormont MLAs will vote to continue the measures for another four years when they convene to debate the motion on Tuesday. After the ruling, Mr Bryson told the court he intended to appeal to the Court of Appeal. Any hearing was not expected to come later on Monday. In applying for leave, the activist’s argument was founded on three key grounds. The first was the assertion that Mr Benn failed to make sufficient efforts to ensure Stormont’s leaders undertook a public consultation exercise in Northern Ireland before the consent vote. The second was that the Secretary of State allegedly failed to demonstrate he had paid special regard to protecting Northern Ireland’s place in the UK customs territory in triggering the vote. The third ground centred on law changes introduced by the previous UK government earlier this year, as part of its Safeguarding the Union deal to restore powersharing at Stormont. He claimed that if the amendments achieved their purpose, namely, to safeguard Northern Ireland’s place within the United Kingdom, then it would be unlawful to renew and extend post-Brexit trading arrangements that have created economic barriers between the region and the rest of the UK. In 2023, the UK Supreme Court unanimously ruled that the trading arrangements for Northern Ireland are lawful. The appellants in the case argued that legislation passed at Westminster to give effect to the Brexit Withdrawal Agreement conflicted with the 1800 Acts of Union that formed the United Kingdom, particularly article six of that statute guaranteeing unfettered trade within the UK. The Supreme Court found that while article six of the Acts of Union has been “modified” by the arrangements, that was done with the express will of a sovereign parliament, and so therefore was lawful. Mr Bryson contended that amendments made to the Withdrawal Agreement earlier this year, as part of the Safeguarding the Union measures proposed by the Government to convince the DUP to return to powersharing, purport to reassert and reinforce Northern Ireland’s constitutional status in light of the Supreme Court judgment. He told the court that it was “quite clear” there was “inconsistency” between the different legal provisions. “That inconsistency has to be resolved – there is an arguable case,” he told the judge. However, Dr Tony McGleenan KC, representing the Government, described Mr Bryson’s argument as “hopeless” and “not even arguable”. He said all three limbs of the case had “no prospect of success and serve no utility”. He added: “This is a political argument masquerading as a point of constitutional law and the court should see that for what it is.” After rising to consider the arguments, Justice McAlinden delivered his ruling shortly after 7pm. The judge dismissed the application on the first ground around the lack consultation, noting that such an exercise was not a “mandatory” obligation on Mr Benn. On the second ground, he said there were “very clear” indications that the Secretary of State had paid special regard to the customs territory issues. On the final ground, Justice McAlinden found there was no inconsistency with the recent legislative amendments and the position stated in the Supreme Court judgment. “I don’t think any such inconsistency exists,” he said. He said the amendments were simply a “restatement” of the position as set out by the Supreme Court judgment, and only served to confirm that replacing the Northern Ireland Protocol with the Windsor Framework had not changed the constitutional fact that Article Six of the Acts of Union had been lawfully “modified” by post-Brexit trading arrangements. “It does no more than that,” he said. The framework, and its predecessor the NI Protocol, require checks and customs paperwork on goods moving from Great Britain into Northern Ireland. Under the arrangements, which were designed to ensure no hardening of the Irish land border post-Brexit, Northern Ireland continues to follow many EU trade and customs rules. This has proved highly controversial, with unionists arguing the system threatens Northern Ireland’s place in the United Kingdom. Advocates of the arrangements say they help insulate the region from negative economic consequences of Brexit. A dispute over the so-called Irish Sea border led to the collapse of the Northern Ireland Assembly in 2022, when the DUP withdrew then-first minister Paul Givan from the coalition executive. The impasse lasted two years and ended in January when the Government published its Safeguarding the Union measures. Under the terms of the framework, a Stormont vote must be held on articles five to 10 of the Windsor Framework, which underpin the EU trade laws in force in Northern Ireland, before they expire. The vote must take place before December 17. Based on the numbers in the Assembly, MLAs are expected to back the continuation of the measures for another four years, even though unionists are likely to oppose the move. DUP leader Gavin Robinson has already made clear his party will be voting against continuing the operation of the Windsor Framework. Unlike other votes on contentious issues at Stormont, the motion does not require cross-community support to pass. If it is voted through with a simple majority, the arrangements are extended for four years. In that event, the Government is obliged to hold an independent review of how the framework is working. If it wins cross-community support, which is a majority of unionists and a majority of nationalists, then it is extended for eight years. The chances of it securing such cross-community backing are highly unlikely.

Stock market today: Nvidia drags Wall Street from its records as oil and gold riseAs the summit concluded, Nature Republic Group expressed its gratitude to Guanyuan for hosting a remarkable event that has inspired and empowered companies to embrace the transformative power of data intelligence and artificial intelligence in driving business growth and success.Argentina's Racing wins its first Copa Sudamericana championship by beating Brazil's Cruzeiro 3-1

Hate your boss but can’t quit? Here are eight things to do insteadAs we look towards the future, the implications of this groundbreaking technology are truly game-changing. The ability to render HDR scenes at such unprecedented speeds opens up a world of possibilities for creative professionals and developers, empowering them to bring their visions to life with greater ease and efficiency.

Digital Arrest: Woman Stripped On Video Call By Fake Cops For 'Body Verification'; Scammed Of Rs 1.78 LakhThe RAND Corporation’s report explores how artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) can transform the Space Domain Awareness (SDA) mission of the U.S. Space Force (USSF). This mission, critical for ensuring the safety of orbital activities, involves monitoring space objects and assessing potential threats. Researchers highlight the pressing need for AI/ML solutions to address the growing complexity of space operations, from tracking mega-constellations to identifying maneuverable and non-cooperative satellites. Existing systems like the Space Defense Operations Center (SPADOC) were not designed to cope with today’s dynamic space environment, making them insufficient for the modern warfighting domain. AI/ML offers opportunities to enhance SDA operations, optimize sensor tasking, improve data integration, and refine orbit determination processes. Legacy Systems Struggle with Modern Demands The SDA mission has evolved significantly with the exponential increase in space activities. Satellite launches occur with unprecedented frequency, mega-constellations deploy hundreds of satellites at once, and non-cooperative operators introduce new challenges. Designed decades ago, SPADOC remains the backbone of SDA but was built primarily for cataloging space objects rather than supporting today’s operational tempo and complexity. This aging system struggles to keep pace with the growing number of satellites and debris, limiting its ability to deliver timely and accurate situational awareness. The shift from a relatively static environment to a contested and congested space domain necessitates the use of more advanced tools. AI/ML technologies can bridge this gap by automating repetitive tasks, identifying patterns in vast datasets, and providing predictive insights, enabling SDA to address these challenges more effectively. Enhancing Sensor Tasking and Observation Efficiency A critical area where AI/ML can make a profound impact is in optimizing sensor tasking and utilization. SDA relies on a network of ground- and space-based sensors to monitor space objects, but these resources are limited and often overwhelmed. AI/ML tools can dynamically prioritize sensor observations, ensuring high-interest objects are adequately tracked while maintaining overall situational awareness. For instance, an AI-driven tasking system could allocate sensors more efficiently during events like satellite maneuvers or fragmentation incidents, which require rapid response. Higher revisit rates enabled by AI/ML tools would reduce the likelihood of losing track of objects, thereby mitigating the problem of uncorrelated tracks. By automating sensor calibration and tasking, AI/ML can also improve data quality and free up analysts to focus on higher-priority tasks. Revolutionizing Data Integration and Orbit Determination Data integration and orbit determination are foundational to SDA operations, yet current systems face significant limitations. SPADOC’s outdated architecture hampers the ability to process and fuse data from diverse sources, including commercial and international sensors. AI/ML can revolutionize this process by enabling more seamless integration and real-time analysis of vast datasets. Neural networks, for example, have shown promise in rapidly approximating complex orbital models, allowing for more frequent updates to orbital records. Such improvements are critical for maintaining the High Accuracy Catalog (HAC), which underpins many SDA processes, including collision avoidance. By improving orbit determination accuracy and timeliness, AI/ML tools can enhance predictive capabilities, reducing the risk of collisions and enabling more effective decision-making. Overcoming Implementation Barriers Despite their potential, implementing AI/ML solutions for SDA is not without challenges. Legacy systems, such as SPADOC, lack the computational power and flexibility required to support modern AI/ML applications. Moreover, the development of effective tools hinges on the availability of high-quality training data, which is often limited due to non-cooperative operators and the lack of standardized datasets. Human expertise is another critical factor; the technical nature of SDA tasks demands skilled personnel to develop, validate, and operate AI/ML tools. However, the USSF faces constraints in retaining such expertise, as personnel often transfer before mastering the complexities of SDA operations. Addressing these barriers will require investments in infrastructure modernization, data management, and workforce development. The deployment of the Advanced Tracking and Launch Analysis System (ATLAS) is a promising step toward enabling AI/ML integration, though its success depends on aligning tool development with future architectural capabilities. Paving the Way for a Modernized SDA Mission The RAND report emphasizes that while AI/ML tools cannot solve all the challenges of the SDA mission, they serve as invaluable force multipliers. These technologies can automate routine tasks, such as sensor calibration and uncorrelated track processing, allowing analysts to concentrate on strategic priorities. By increasing the responsiveness and accuracy of SDA processes, AI/ML tools can address the demands of a more contested and congested space domain. The report also highlights the importance of aligning tool development with the anticipated modernization of SDA infrastructure, ensuring that these technologies remain relevant and impactful in the long term. Building high-quality datasets, fostering collaboration with commercial and international partners, and investing in test and validation platforms will be crucial for realizing the full potential of AI/ML in SDA. With these advancements, the USSF can maintain a strategic edge, ensuring the security and sustainability of orbital operations in an increasingly complex environment.

As the fire continued to spread, the sheer scale of the disaster became apparent, with reports of extensive damage to critical infrastructure and servers within the data center. The loss of data and resources sparked concerns about the potential impact on businesses and organizations that relied on Alibaba's cloud computing services.

How major US stock indexes fared Monday, 12/9/2024Anantnag, Nov 23: Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kashmir Zone, Vidhi Kumar Birdi Wednesday said that the Jammu and Kashmir Police was committed to combat drug abuse and its adverse impact on society. Speaking to media persons during the inaugural ceremony of a ‘Police Martyrs T20 Cricket Tournament’ in Anantnag, the IGP vowed to take stringent action against those involved in drug trafficking. “Those who push drugs into our society and target our youth will face the full force of the law,” the IGP said. Expressing concern over the rising drug addiction among youth, he stressed the need for collective and timely interventions to address this social challenge. “Drug abuse is a grave threat to the fabric of our society, especially to our youth, who represent the future of this region,” the IGP said. He highlighted the police’s dual approach in tackling the issue: addressing the root causes of substance abuse while taking strict legal action against those propagating it. The IGP stressed that initiatives like sports tournaments play a crucial role in providing youth with a constructive outlet. “Through such activities, we aim to offer healthy alternatives, helping young people stay away from harmful distractions while channelising their energy into positive pursuits,” he said. The IGP described sports as a transformative tool, promoting physical health, discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and leadership among youth. “These events also help foster personal development and strengthen the relationship between the police and the community,” he said. “The Police Department is dedicated to building trust and mutual respect with the youth. By organising such initiatives, we aim to break barriers and ensure better communication and cooperation.” Calling for collective action, the IGP urged families, communities, and local organisations to support such initiatives, which he described as crucial for nurturing a drug-free and progressive environment. “By working together, we can ensure our youth have the opportunities they need to grow, succeed, and contribute positively to society. This is just the beginning of many efforts aimed at empowering our young generation,” he said. The IGP said that the Police plan to increase the frequency of sports and other constructive activities across districts to ensure every young person has access to these opportunities. “We are committed to making these initiatives not just about entertainment or competition but essential tools for building a healthy, active, and empowered community,” he said. The T20 cricket tournament, inaugurated by the IGP, witnessed enthusiastic participation from local youth. Many expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage in a well-organised and spirited event. “We are determined to continue supporting our youth through similar platforms, fostering an environment where they can thrive and stay away from negative influences,” the IGP said. DIG South Kashmir, Javid Iqbal Matoo; SSP Anantnag, G V Sundeep, other Police officials besides Deputy Commissioner (DC) Anantnag, Syed Fakhrudin Hamid were also present on the occasion.

Caprock Group LLC Has $658,000 Stock Holdings in Dimensional International High Profitability ETF (BATS:DIHP)Vail Resorts Reports Fiscal 2025 First Quarter and Season Pass Sales Results, and Announces 2025 Capital PlanStartled, large flocks of pheasants burst into flight, exploding with colorful fuss and flutter from thickets of wild grass and fallen leaves. But this was decades ago, when California’s autumnal landscape was a mosaic of fallowed fields, diverse crops and weedy stubble – and the handsome birds were abundant, including in the Bay Area. Now the inconceivable is happening: Pheasants are vanishing. To understand why, the state’s wildlife biologists are taking tiny tissue samples from the tongues of hunted birds in California wildlands, hoping that a map of the species’ genetic diversity will help explain their loss, and suggest a solution. Birds will be sampled at seven different refuges over the weekend. Since November 2023, the scientific team has collected an estimated 330 to 350 samples; when the study wraps up after pheasant hunting season ends on Dec. 22, it hopes to have a total of 400 samples. Increasingly isolated from each other due to fragmented habitats, the birds may be suffering from dangerous inbreeding. Or perhaps wild birds are breeding with weaker farm-raised and released birds, creating less resilient offspring. Prized game animals, “they were so common at one time, and part of a longstanding traditional hunting heritage in California,” said Ian A. Dwight, principal investigator at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife . The research may inform future survival strategies, such as moving wild pheasants from one part of the state to another to increase genetic mixing. The state is also providing incentives to private landowners to improve the birds’ habitat. Their loss is part of a larger emptying out of our skies. Nearly one-third of wild birds in the United States and Canada have vanished since 1970, according to a comprehensive study in the journal Science by a team of scientists from seven research institutions in the United States and Canada. To study the pheasants, the wildlife department is sending staff to hunting “check stations” in the most rural swaths of the state, where game is inspected. A small tissue sample — the size of a pencil eraser — is cut from each bird’s pale red tongue, a muscle that is rich with genetic material. This does not harm the meat or feathers, which are of interest to hunters. The sample is placed in a protective vial and stored at a CDFW facility to be later shipped to the University of Nebraska lab of Robert Wilson, an expert in the genetics of game birds. Analyses will show whether the birds have long stretches of DNA where both copies of a gene are identical, indicating that they share a recent ancestor and are inbred. Gene variation is critical to a species’ healthy reproduction and immunity to disease. The study could also reveal to what degree, if any, birds are the offspring of domestic and wild mixing. Last autumn, the wildlife department collected tongue samples from pheasants at the Grizzly Island Wildlife Area in Suisun City and the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area in Davis. This year, it is collecting samples at Shasta Valley Wildlife Area, Honey Lake Wildlife Area, Upper Butte Basin Wildlife Area, North Grasslands Wildlife Area and the Delevan, Sacramento and Tule Lake national wildlife refuges. Pheasants are popular game birds because their meat has a richer and more wild flavor than chicken but is less “gamey” tasting than duck. Naturalists love their iridescent plumage. “They are a delight for the eyes,” said Kirsten Holmquist of Sunnyvale, who in 2023 spotted a male bird posing on the side of a levee at the Sunnyvale Baylands. “The male has such a rich profusion of color. The female has a lovely complex pattern.” Native to China, pheasants were imported in the late 1800s by the then-California Fish Commission. By 1912, the species was well-established in alfalfa fields and pastures of California, including Santa Clara, San Mateo, Alameda and Contra Costa counties. Historical records describe a massive flock of 150 birds near Morgan Hill and a smaller flock between Berryessa and Milpitas, according to William Bousman of the Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance. Even as orchards replaced grain fields, there remained ample habitat, writes Bousman. The population of the species, which is related to other game birds like wild turkey and California quail, likely peaked from the 1930s to 1950s. Then housing and light industry began to replace agriculture. Data from the North American Breeding Bird Survey shows that the number of pheasants in California has plunged by 94% since 1966, according to wildlife biologist Scott Taylor of Pheasants Forever Inc. Even in the early 1980s, “the birds were quite common in the Palo Alto Baylands, Sunnyvale ponds and other bayfront areas that were less travelled and grassy,” said Bird Alliance director Matthew Dodder. “Since then, they have had a steady decline.” Surviving birds can sometimes be spotted in some of the seasonal wetlands and grasslands of the San Francisco Bay Area, such as Harvey Marsh in Sunnyvale Baylands Park, East Palo Alto’s Ravenswood Preserve, Fremont’s Coyote Hills Regional Park and along eastern Contra Costa County’s Suisun Bay. What happened? In addition to urbanization, widespread stocking of the birds for hunting has slowed or stopped, said Dodder. And the intensity and efficiency of California agriculture has increased. Farmers no longer let land stand idle, so there’s less brush for birds’ shelter and food. Every pocket of land is put to use, eliminating the hedgerows between parcels, according to a 2016 study by a team led by Peter Coates of the U.S. Geological Survey’s Western Ecological Research Center in Dixon. A diversity of crop types once supported the birds throughout the season. But today’s monoculture farms typically have just one crop per year; in the winter, after harvest, the ground stands bare. Rice is replacing cereal grains like wheat and barley, and pheasants can’t nest in flooded rice fields, according to the study. Increasingly popular nut tree orchards don’t provide a vegetative understory. Finally, our new harvesters are ultra-efficient, so seed isn’t scattered. Modern mowing leaves little stubble. And new state regulations prohibit post-harvest burning, so fields are blanketed with weed-killing herbicide. All of these factors are creating smaller islands of suitable habitat, shrinking and isolating bird populations, Dwight said. Hunting is considered an insignificant factor in reducing numbers, because only males are shot. “Pheasant populations are becoming more and more fragmented,” said Taylor, who is coordinating the National Wild Pheasant Conservation Plan , a blueprint for restoring populations. “This kind of research will help us recognize the genetic implications of that process,” he said, “and, hopefully, the landscape conditions that may lead to population-level problems.” Where to find pheasants: If you’re lucky, pheasants can still be spotted in some of the seasonal wetlands and pastures of the San Francisco Bay Area. Hunting is prohibited or highly regulated in these areas. South Bay: Weedy fields along San Felipe Road in Gilroy or Harvey Marsh in Sunnyvale Baylands Park. Contra Costa County: Bay Point Regional Shoreline , Point Pinole Regional Shoreline and Jersey Island and Bethel Island in Oakley. San Mateo County: near Dumbarton Bridge in Ravenswood Preserve . Alameda County: Coyote Hills Regional Park in Fremont.

This past weekend, the world of sports was set ablaze as 17-year-old freestyle skier, Gu Ailing, clinched the championship title at the X Games in Aspen, Colorado. Just a day after her incredible victory, she made headlines once again as she was spotted back at the University of Oxford attending her classes. Netizens around the world could not help but express their admiration for her remarkable dedication and unwavering commitment to both her athletic pursuits and academic responsibilities.

Canada Has Fewer Doctors, Hospital Beds Than Comparable Universal Health-Care Systems: ReportCitigroup Inc. lifted its position in Floor & Decor Holdings, Inc. ( NYSE:FND – Free Report ) by 27.2% in the third quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 77,568 shares of the company’s stock after buying an additional 16,569 shares during the quarter. Citigroup Inc.’s holdings in Floor & Decor were worth $9,632,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Several other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. CIBC Asset Management Inc raised its stake in Floor & Decor by 3.7% during the 3rd quarter. CIBC Asset Management Inc now owns 3,106 shares of the company’s stock valued at $386,000 after purchasing an additional 110 shares during the last quarter. King Luther Capital Management Corp raised its stake in Floor & Decor by 1.2% during the 2nd quarter. King Luther Capital Management Corp now owns 10,987 shares of the company’s stock valued at $1,092,000 after purchasing an additional 127 shares during the last quarter. Commonwealth Equity Services LLC raised its stake in Floor & Decor by 4.3% during the 2nd quarter. Commonwealth Equity Services LLC now owns 3,354 shares of the company’s stock valued at $333,000 after purchasing an additional 138 shares during the last quarter. Silver Coast Investments LLC increased its holdings in Floor & Decor by 5.1% in the 3rd quarter. Silver Coast Investments LLC now owns 3,074 shares of the company’s stock valued at $382,000 after buying an additional 150 shares during the period. Finally, Benjamin F. Edwards & Company Inc. increased its holdings in Floor & Decor by 7.7% in the 2nd quarter. Benjamin F. Edwards & Company Inc. now owns 2,371 shares of the company’s stock valued at $236,000 after buying an additional 169 shares during the period. Floor & Decor Stock Down 1.6 % Shares of NYSE:FND opened at $112.21 on Friday. Floor & Decor Holdings, Inc. has a 12 month low of $89.06 and a 12 month high of $135.67. The company’s 50-day moving average price is $109.85 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $108.03. The company has a quick ratio of 0.29, a current ratio of 1.16 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.09. The firm has a market cap of $12.03 billion, a P/E ratio of 62.34, a P/E/G ratio of 14.90 and a beta of 1.83. Analysts Set New Price Targets Several equities research analysts have issued reports on the stock. Wedbush reissued an “outperform” rating and issued a $110.00 price target on shares of Floor & Decor in a report on Friday, October 25th. Stifel Nicolaus boosted their price target on shares of Floor & Decor from $97.50 to $100.00 and gave the company a “hold” rating in a report on Monday, November 4th. Guggenheim lowered their price target on shares of Floor & Decor from $130.00 to $115.00 and set a “buy” rating on the stock in a report on Friday, August 2nd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their price target on shares of Floor & Decor from $99.00 to $92.00 and set a “neutral” rating on the stock in a report on Friday, August 2nd. Finally, Melius Research assumed coverage on shares of Floor & Decor in a report on Monday, September 23rd. They issued a “sell” rating and a $80.00 price target on the stock. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, twelve have assigned a hold rating and five have given a buy rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of “Hold” and an average target price of $104.37. View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Floor & Decor Floor & Decor Profile ( Free Report ) Floor & Decor Holdings, Inc together with its subsidiaries, operates as a multi-channel specialty retailer of hard surface flooring and related accessories, and commercial surfaces seller in Georgia. The company offers tile, wood, laminate, vinyl, and natural stone flooring products, as well as decorative accessories, wall tiles, and installation materials and tools; and vanities, shower doors, bath accessories, faucets, sinks, custom countertops, bathroom mirrors, and bathroom lighting. Featured Stories Want to see what other hedge funds are holding FND? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Floor & Decor Holdings, Inc. ( NYSE:FND – Free Report ). Receive News & Ratings for Floor & Decor Daily - Enter your email address below to receive a concise daily summary of the latest news and analysts' ratings for Floor & Decor and related companies with MarketBeat.com's FREE daily email newsletter .Apple's current dividend yield is 0.44% as of this writing, with a quarterly dividend payout of $0.25 per share. Berkshire Hathaway earns an impressive $75 million in quarterly income from Apple's $0.25 per share dividend, with 300 million Apple shares on its books as of the third quarter. Apple has raised its dividend for 13 consecutive years, with recent increases including $0.24 per share in May 2023, $0.23 per share in May 2022, and $0.22 per share in May 2021. Assuming Apple bumps its quarterly dividend to $0.26 in May 2025, the total annual dividend payout would be $1.03 per share in 2025, with a $0.25 payout in February and $0.26 payouts in May, August, and November. Apple's consistent dividend increases over the past 13 years suggest a high likelihood of another bump in May 2025, making it a potentially attractive investment opportunity for those looking to invest like Warren Buffett. With a market cap of over $3.4 trillion, Apple (NASDAQ: AAPL) is a titan of the tech world. As a member of the " Magnificent Seven ," Apple keeps company with tech heavyweights like Microsoft , Alphabet , Amazon , Nvidia , Meta Platforms , and Tesla . And like most of these all-stars, Apple sweetens the deal for investors with a dividend. All told, Apple's dividend isn't jaw-dropping. It's currently offering a yield of 0.44% as of this writing. However, it's still one of legendary investor Warren Buffett's top dividend holdings. With 300 million Apple shares on its books as of the third quarter (according to the latest filing), Berkshire Hathaway earns an impressive $75 million in quarterly income from Apple's $0.25 per share dividend. If you're looking to invest like Buffett, it's worth keeping an eye on what Apple has in store for next year. Start Your Mornings Smarter! Wake up with Breakfast news in your inbox every market day. Sign Up For Free » What will Apple pay in dividends in 2025? Let's rewind to 2024 for a moment. Apple kicked off the year with a quarterly dividend payout of $0.24 per share in February, then bumped it up to $0.25 per share for the May, August, and November payouts. That brought the total annual dividend to $0.99 per share in 2024. Apple has raised its dividend for 13 consecutive years, so there's a good chance we'll see another bump in May 2025. While future dividends are never guaranteed, recent trends might give us some clues about what might be next. Dividend increase payable Quarterly dividend raise May 16, 2024 $0.25 May 18, 2023 $0.24 May 12, 2022 $0.23 May 13, 2021 $0.22 Data source: Apple. Chart by author. Let's assume Apple bumps its quarterly dividend to $0.26 in May 2025. This would mean a $0.25 payout in February, followed by $0.26 in May, August, and November. That would bring the total annual dividend payout to $1.03 per share in 2025. Again, nothing is guaranteed, and Apple could choose a different direction next year. Be sure to do your research and consider your investment goals before diving in. Don’t miss this second chance at a potentially lucrative opportunity Ever feel like you missed the boat in buying the most successful stocks? Then you’ll want to hear this. On rare occasions, our expert team of analysts issues a “Double Down” stock recommendation for companies that they think are about to pop. If you’re worried you’ve already missed your chance to invest, now is the best time to buy before it’s too late. And the numbers speak for themselves: Nvidia: if you invested $1,000 when we doubled down in 2009, you’d have $380,291 !* Apple: if you invested $1,000 when we doubled down in 2008, you’d have $43,278 !* Netflix: if you invested $1,000 when we doubled down in 2004, you’d have $484,003 !* Right now, we’re issuing “Double Down” alerts for three incredible companies, and there may not be another chance like this anytime soon. See 3 “Double Down” stocks » *Stock Advisor returns as of November 18, 2024 Charlene Rhinehart has positions in Apple. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Apple. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy . How Much Will Apple Pay Out in Dividends in 2025? was originally published by The Motley Fool

4. Mishandling of Budget: There have been reports of financial mismanagement within the postal service under Baron Leopold's watch, leading to concerns about the misuse of funds and a lack of accountability.