Ben Folds is bringing his&nbsp;What Matters Most Tour&nbsp;to Salina in August.

Folds is scheduled to perform at 8 p.m. Aug. 11 in downtown Salina's Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue.

Tickets start at $69 and are scheduled to go on sale at noon Friday. Buy online at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org/">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling the Stiefel at 785-827-1998. The Stiefel box office is open for phone or walk-up sales from noon-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

About the artist from the Stiefel Theatre

Folds is widely regarded as one of the major music influencers of our generation.

He's created an enormous body of genre-bending music that includes pop albums with Ben Folds Five, multiple solo albums, and numerous collaborative records.

For over a decade he's performed with some of the world's greatest symphony orchestras and currently serves as the first-ever artistic advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center.

Folds released his first book - a collection of interrelated essays, anecdotes and lessons about art, life and music - in 2019, which debuted as a New York Times Best Seller, and he hosted a podcast series spinoff of his book titled Lightning Bugs: Conversations with Ben Folds. In addition to solo rock and orchestral touring, he's also developing a new unscripted tv series with Fred Rogers Productions, continues to appear in various film/tv guest starring roles, and is working on two new albums.

An outspoken champion for arts education and music therapy funding in our nation's public schools, Folds has served for more than five years as an active member of the distinguished Artist Committee of Americans For The Arts (AFTA) and serves on the Board of AFTA's Arts Action Fund.

By SALINA POSTBen Folds is bringing his&nbsp;What Matters Most Tour&nbsp;to Salina in August.Folds is scheduled to perform at 8 p.m. Aug. 11 in downtown Salina's Stiefel Theatre, 151 S. Santa Fe Avenue.Tickets start at $69 and are scheduled to go on sale at noon Friday. Buy online at:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.stiefeltheatre.org/">www.stiefeltheatre.org</a>&nbsp;or by calling the Stiefel at 785-827-1998. The Stiefel box office is open for phone or walk-up sales from noon-5 p.m. Monday through Friday.About the artist from the Stiefel TheatreFolds is widely regarded as one of the major music influencers of our generation.He's created an enormous body of genre-bending music that includes pop albums with Ben Folds Five, multiple solo albums, and numerous collaborative records.For over a decade he's performed with some of the world's greatest symphony orchestras and currently serves as the first-ever artistic advisor to the National Symphony Orchestra at the Kennedy Center.Folds released his first book - a collection of interrelated essays, anecdotes and lessons about art, life and music - in 2019, which debuted as a New York Times Best Seller, and he hosted a podcast series spinoff of his book titled Lightning Bugs: Conversations with Ben Folds. In addition to solo rock and orchestral touring, he's also developing a new unscripted tv series with Fred Rogers Productions, continues to appear in various film/tv guest starring roles, and is working on two new albums.An outspoken champion for arts education and music therapy funding in our nation's public schools, Folds has served for more than five years as an active member of the distinguished Artist Committee of Americans For The Arts (AFTA) and serves on the Board of AFTA's Arts Action Fund.

Ben Folds scheduled to perform in Salina in August

Ireland with Michael LIVE&nbsp;is coming to Salina in April.

The multimedia event combines the music, dance, and stories of Ireland and features leading Irish tenor Michael Londra.

Tickets start at $35 and go on sale at noon on Friday. Buy online at stiefeltheatre.org or by calling the Stiefel at 785-827-1998. Additionally, the Stiefel box office is open for phone or walk-up sales from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

About the concert from the Stiefel Theatre

Following the overwhelming success of Seasons No. 1 and No. 2 of the&nbsp;Ireland With Michael&nbsp;travel and music series on PBS in 2021 and 2022 (over 78% reach of all U.S Households), the LIVE theatrical show based on the PBS program will tour U.S cities in 2023. Season No. 3 of the PBS show will air on stations from January 2023.

Emmy® award-nominated singer and the voice of&nbsp;Riverdance&nbsp;on Broadway, Londra interlaces songs and stories of Ireland to a backdrop of spectacular footage filmed for his PBS travel series in his new show&nbsp;Ireland With Michael LIVE. In doing so, he creates an immersive journey around the Emerald Isle for his audience. Irish dancers, fiddles and pipes add to the feast of Celtic talent onstage, drawing the audience across the Atlantic Ocean to Ireland.

Ireland With Michael – LIVE&nbsp;is a celebration of Irish culture and music. Londra shares his own connection to songs and stories of his home county, his love of traditional music backed by his immensely talented band and world-champion Irish dancers.

The stunning set for&nbsp;Ireland With Michael LIVE&nbsp;adds a multimedia dimension to the show. Conceptualized and designed by an award-winning Broadway lighting and projection designer, the backdrop incorporates drone footage and excerpts from Londra’s PBS travel show of the same name. In both the television show and in&nbsp;Ireland With Michael LIVE, Londra tells the story of Ireland the only way he knows how - through music.

Londra is an Emmy®-nominated, internationally acclaimed Irish singer, producer, and TV host from the opera capital of Ireland, a small town on the southeast coast called Wexford. His big break came when he was cast as the lead tenor in&nbsp;Riverdance&nbsp;on Broadway and subsequently on the U.S. National tour of the same show, which he toured for two years. Londra’s first solo album&nbsp;Celt&nbsp;was produced by acclaimed producer, Steve Skinner, who co-produced the Grammy-nominated soundtrack of&nbsp;RENT. In 2011, Londra produced a concert special for PBS called&nbsp;Beyond Celtic, which he co-produced with Mindfox Productions. The special aired on stations across the United States in 2011 and earned him two Emmy® nominations. In 2013, Londra became a mentor for Grammy® University teaching music business students from Vanderbilt and Belmont Universities in Nashville.

Londra has been a featured guest singer with Irish supergroups De Dannan and Téada. In 2013, he performed with Judy Collins for the Kennedy family at the JFK 50 celebrations to honor President John F. Kennedy’s trip to Ireland in 1963. His version of&nbsp;Danny Boy&nbsp;is described as “one of the best recordings of the piece in history” and has been viewed 11 million times on YouTube.

To learn more about Londra or his tours of Ireland go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.irelandwithmichael.com/">IrelandwithMichael.com</a>.

By SALINA POSTIreland with Michael LIVE&nbsp;is coming to Salina in April.The multimedia event combines the music, dance, and stories of Ireland and features leading Irish tenor Michael Londra.Tickets start at $35 and go on sale at noon on Friday. Buy online at stiefeltheatre.org or by calling the Stiefel at 785-827-1998. Additionally, the Stiefel box office is open for phone or walk-up sales from noon to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.About the concert from the Stiefel TheatreFollowing the overwhelming success of Seasons No. 1 and No. 2 of the&nbsp;Ireland With Michael&nbsp;travel and music series on PBS in 2021 and 2022 (over 78% reach of all U.S Households), the LIVE theatrical show based on the PBS program will tour U.S cities in 2023. Season No. 3 of the PBS show will air on stations from January 2023.Emmy® award-nominated singer and the voice of&nbsp;Riverdance&nbsp;on Broadway, Londra interlaces songs and stories of Ireland to a backdrop of spectacular footage filmed for his PBS travel series in his new show&nbsp;Ireland With Michael LIVE. In doing so, he creates an immersive journey around the Emerald Isle for his audience. Irish dancers, fiddles and pipes add to the feast of Celtic talent onstage, drawing the audience across the Atlantic Ocean to Ireland.Ireland With Michael – LIVE&nbsp;is a celebration of Irish culture and music. Londra shares his own connection to songs and stories of his home county, his love of traditional music backed by his immensely talented band and world-champion Irish dancers.The stunning set for&nbsp;Ireland With Michael LIVE&nbsp;adds a multimedia dimension to the show. Conceptualized and designed by an award-winning Broadway lighting and projection designer, the backdrop incorporates drone footage and excerpts from Londra’s PBS travel show of the same name. In both the television show and in&nbsp;Ireland With Michael LIVE, Londra tells the story of Ireland the only way he knows how - through music.About the artist from the Stiefel TheatreLondra is an Emmy®-nominated, internationally acclaimed Irish singer, producer, and TV host from the opera capital of Ireland, a small town on the southeast coast called Wexford. His big break came when he was cast as the lead tenor in&nbsp;Riverdance&nbsp;on Broadway and subsequently on the U.S. National tour of the same show, which he toured for two years. Londra’s first solo album&nbsp;Celt&nbsp;was produced by acclaimed producer, Steve Skinner, who co-produced the Grammy-nominated soundtrack of&nbsp;RENT. In 2011, Londra produced a concert special for PBS called&nbsp;Beyond Celtic, which he co-produced with Mindfox Productions. The special aired on stations across the United States in 2011 and earned him two Emmy® nominations. In 2013, Londra became a mentor for Grammy® University teaching music business students from Vanderbilt and Belmont Universities in Nashville.Londra has been a featured guest singer with Irish supergroups De Dannan and Téada. In 2013, he performed with Judy Collins for the Kennedy family at the JFK 50 celebrations to honor President John F. Kennedy’s trip to Ireland in 1963. His version of&nbsp;Danny Boy&nbsp;is described as “one of the best recordings of the piece in history” and has been viewed 11 million times on YouTube.To learn more about Londra or his tours of Ireland go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.irelandwithmichael.com/">IrelandwithMichael.com</a>.

'Ireland with Michael LIVE' in Salina April 1; tickets on sale Friday

Over breakfast one morning, a woman said to her husband, "I’ll bet you don't know what day this is."

"Of course I do," he answered as if he was offended, and left for the office.

At 10:00 a.m., the doorbell rang and when the woman opened the door, she was handed a box of a dozen long stemmed red roses. At 1:00 p.m., a foil-wrapped, two-pound box of her favorite chocolates was delivered. Later, a boutique delivered a designer dress.

The woman couldn't wait for her husband to come home.

"First the flowers, then the chocolates and then the dress!" she exclaimed.

"I've never had a more wonderful Groundhog Day in my life!

Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

Over breakfast one morning, a woman said to her husband, "I’ll bet you don't know what day this is.""Of course I do," he answered as if he was offended, and left for the office.At 10:00 a.m., the doorbell rang and when the woman opened the door, she was handed a box of a dozen long stemmed red roses. At 1:00 p.m., a foil-wrapped, two-pound box of her favorite chocolates was delivered. Later, a boutique delivered a designer dress.The woman couldn't wait for her husband to come home."First the flowers, then the chocolates and then the dress!" she exclaimed."I've never had a more wonderful Groundhog Day in my life!Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 02/02/23

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22MARK%20KENNEDY%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By MARK KENNEDY AP Entertainment Writer</a>

NEW YORK (AP) — Missy Elliott, Willie Nelson, Kate Bush, Iron Maiden, Cyndi Lauper, Soundgarden, Sheryl Crow and the late George Michael are the 2023 nominees for induction into the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rockhall.com/">Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame,</a>&nbsp;reflecting a mix of country, soul, hip-hop, metal, pop, rap-rock and grunge.

The Cleveland-based institution announced Wednesday the 14 artists and groups being considered for Rock Hall induction, also including Rage Against the Machine, The Spinners, A Tribe Called Quest, The White Stripes, Warren Zevon and Joy Division/New Order.

If Elliott makes it, she would become the first female hip-hop artist in the hall.

“This is an incredible honor. I’m so humbled and grateful to be counted amongst all the incredible honorees. I’ve spent my career making the kind of music I love and it means so much to know that I have touched others as well," she said in a statement.

Artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years before they're eligible for induction.

“This remarkable list of nominees reflects the diverse artists and music that the Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame honors and celebrates,” said John Sykes, chair of the Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame Foundation in a statement. “These artists have created their own sounds that have impacted generations and influenced countless others that have followed in their footsteps.”

Eight out of 14 nominees are on the ballot for the first time, including Crow, Elliott, Joy Division/New Order, Lauper, Michael, Nelson, The White Stripes and Zevon. This is the first year of eligibility for Elliott and The White Stripes. While the late Zevon has been eligible since 1994, Billy Joel led a push for his entry, writing to the nominating committee urging them to consider Zevon.

"Seeing my name on this year’s ballot with so many talents that I admire means so much to me. It has been a lifetime privilege to reach so many different kinds of fans with a message of following your own path (and having fun along the way, too),” Lauper wrote in a statement.

A Tribe Called Quest and Bush were nominees last year and didn't make the cut but now find themselves back in the running this year. Bush's latest nod may be due to a new wave in popularity after the show “Stranger Things” featured her song "Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)."

Inductees will be announced in May and the ceremony will take place this fall. Nominees will be voted on by more than 1,000 artists, historians and music industry professionals. Fans can vote online or in person at the museum, with the top five artists picked by the public making up a “fans' ballot” that will be tallied with the other professional ballots.

Last year,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-music-los-angeles-hip-hop-and-rap-98433dc29d44f1e2cc9de317d052024d">the nomination process was complicated by Dolly Parton,</a>&nbsp;who gave the honor an enthusiastic embrace after temporarily turning it down. She initially said she did not want to take votes away from the remaining nominees and had not “earned that right.”

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22MARK%20KENNEDY%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By MARK KENNEDY AP Entertainment Writer</a>NEW YORK (AP) — Missy Elliott, Willie Nelson, Kate Bush, Iron Maiden, Cyndi Lauper, Soundgarden, Sheryl Crow and the late George Michael are the 2023 nominees for induction into the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rockhall.com/">Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame,</a>&nbsp;reflecting a mix of country, soul, hip-hop, metal, pop, rap-rock and grunge.The Cleveland-based institution announced Wednesday the 14 artists and groups being considered for Rock Hall induction, also including Rage Against the Machine, The Spinners, A Tribe Called Quest, The White Stripes, Warren Zevon and Joy Division/New Order.If Elliott makes it, she would become the first female hip-hop artist in the hall.“This is an incredible honor. I’m so humbled and grateful to be counted amongst all the incredible honorees. I’ve spent my career making the kind of music I love and it means so much to know that I have touched others as well," she said in a statement.Artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years before they're eligible for induction.“This remarkable list of nominees reflects the diverse artists and music that the Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame honors and celebrates,” said John Sykes, chair of the Rock &amp; Roll Hall of Fame Foundation in a statement. “These artists have created their own sounds that have impacted generations and influenced countless others that have followed in their footsteps.”Eight out of 14 nominees are on the ballot for the first time, including Crow, Elliott, Joy Division/New Order, Lauper, Michael, Nelson, The White Stripes and Zevon. This is the first year of eligibility for Elliott and The White Stripes. While the late Zevon has been eligible since 1994, Billy Joel led a push for his entry, writing to the nominating committee urging them to consider Zevon."Seeing my name on this year’s ballot with so many talents that I admire means so much to me. It has been a lifetime privilege to reach so many different kinds of fans with a message of following your own path (and having fun along the way, too),” Lauper wrote in a statement.A Tribe Called Quest and Bush were nominees last year and didn't make the cut but now find themselves back in the running this year. Bush's latest nod may be due to a new wave in popularity after the show “Stranger Things” featured her song "Running Up That Hill (A Deal with God)."Inductees will be announced in May and the ceremony will take place this fall. Nominees will be voted on by more than 1,000 artists, historians and music industry professionals. Fans can vote online or in person at the museum, with the top five artists picked by the public making up a “fans' ballot” that will be tallied with the other professional ballots.Last year,&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-music-los-angeles-hip-hop-and-rap-98433dc29d44f1e2cc9de317d052024d">the nomination process was complicated by Dolly Parton,</a>&nbsp;who gave the honor an enthusiastic embrace after temporarily turning it down. She initially said she did not want to take votes away from the remaining nominees and had not “earned that right.”

Missy, Willie and George Michael among Rock Hall nominees

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22The%20Associated%20Press%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">The Associated Press</a>

Beyoncé is taking her “Renaissance” global — the superstar will start a world tour in Sweden in May with stops throughout Europe and the United States.

The highly anticipated tour announcement she made on Instagram and&nbsp;<a href="https://tour.beyonce.com/">her website</a>&nbsp;Wednesday comes days before the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/grammy-awards">Grammy Awards</a>&nbsp;on Sunday, where the global superstar is the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2023-grammy-award-nominations-music-86a0a2733aecd8f25330ff21de71a8ad">most nominated artist</a>&nbsp;and could make Recording Academy history.

Beyoncé, the most decorated woman in Grammy history with 28 wins, could break the late Hungarian-British conductor Georg Solti’s record for most awards won if she wins four awards.

Her 2022 album “Renaissance” is a celebration of dance music and is nominated for album of the year. Her tour will make stops in London, Paris, Barcelona and Toronto before ending Sept. 27 in New Orleans.

There were hints that she might tour again after she performed an invite-only show in January in Dubai at the Atlantis The Royal Resort, her first show in four years. Her last solo tour was in 2016, but she went on tour with her husband Jay Z in 2018.

Ticketmaster said in a release that sales will begin Feb. 6 and fans will need to&nbsp;<a href="https://beyonce.livenation.com/">register through their Verified Fan system.</a>&nbsp;Sale times will vary based on city.

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22The%20Associated%20Press%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">The Associated Press</a>Beyoncé is taking her “Renaissance” global — the superstar will start a world tour in Sweden in May with stops throughout Europe and the United States.The highly anticipated tour announcement she made on Instagram and&nbsp;<a href="https://tour.beyonce.com/">her website</a>&nbsp;Wednesday comes days before the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/hub/grammy-awards">Grammy Awards</a>&nbsp;on Sunday, where the global superstar is the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2023-grammy-award-nominations-music-86a0a2733aecd8f25330ff21de71a8ad">most nominated artist</a>&nbsp;and could make Recording Academy history.Beyoncé, the most decorated woman in Grammy history with 28 wins, could break the late Hungarian-British conductor Georg Solti’s record for most awards won if she wins four awards.Her 2022 album “Renaissance” is a celebration of dance music and is nominated for album of the year. Her tour will make stops in London, Paris, Barcelona and Toronto before ending Sept. 27 in New Orleans.There were hints that she might tour again after she performed an invite-only show in January in Dubai at the Atlantis The Royal Resort, her first show in four years. Her last solo tour was in 2016, but she went on tour with her husband Jay Z in 2018.Ticketmaster said in a release that sales will begin Feb. 6 and fans will need to&nbsp;<a href="https://beyonce.livenation.com/">register through their Verified Fan system.</a>&nbsp;Sale times will vary based on city.

Beyoncé announces much anticipated 'Renaissance' world tour

NEW YORK (AP) — Daytime television psychologist “Dr. Phil” McGraw says he plans to end his talk show after 21 years in the coming months, but viewers haven't seen the last of him.

“Dr. Phil” was the most prominent spinoff from Oprah Winfrey's show, which once dominated daytime TV. The Texan's program debuted in September 2002 after he'd been featured as a regular guest on Winfrey's.

“With this show, we have helped thousands of guest and millions of viewers through everything from addiction and marriage to mental wellness and raising children,” McGraw said in a statement. “This has been an incredible chapter of my life and career, but while I'm moving on from daytime, there is so much more I wish to do.”

The traditional broadcast TV season ends in spring; there was no date given for Phil's final show.

McGraw, 72, said he wants to focus on prime-time programming and is planning an unspecified project for early next year.

In the meantime, while new “Dr. Phil” episodes won't be made, the show won't disappear from TV. CBS Media Ventures, which syndicates his program, said it will offer stations a package of reruns with occasional new wraparound content for future seasons.

That's a cost-saving path blazed by “Judge Judy,” which aired its last original show in June 2021 but continues to be popular in reruns.

“We plan to be in the ‘Dr. Phil’ business with the library for years to come and welcome opportunities to work together in the future,” said Steve LoCascio, president of CBS Media Ventures.

Associated PressNEW YORK (AP) — Daytime television psychologist “Dr. Phil” McGraw says he plans to end his talk show after 21 years in the coming months, but viewers haven't seen the last of him.“Dr. Phil” was the most prominent spinoff from Oprah Winfrey's show, which once dominated daytime TV. The Texan's program debuted in September 2002 after he'd been featured as a regular guest on Winfrey's.“With this show, we have helped thousands of guest and millions of viewers through everything from addiction and marriage to mental wellness and raising children,” McGraw said in a statement. “This has been an incredible chapter of my life and career, but while I'm moving on from daytime, there is so much more I wish to do.”The traditional broadcast TV season ends in spring; there was no date given for Phil's final show.McGraw, 72, said he wants to focus on prime-time programming and is planning an unspecified project for early next year.In the meantime, while new “Dr. Phil” episodes won't be made, the show won't disappear from TV. CBS Media Ventures, which syndicates his program, said it will offer stations a package of reruns with occasional new wraparound content for future seasons.That's a cost-saving path blazed by “Judge Judy,” which aired its last original show in June 2021 but continues to be popular in reruns.“We plan to be in the ‘Dr. Phil’ business with the library for years to come and welcome opportunities to work together in the future,” said Steve LoCascio, president of CBS Media Ventures.

'Dr. Phil' talk show to end daytime TV run after 21 years

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22JONATHAN%20LANDRUM%20Jr.%20and%20KRISTIN%20M.%20HALL%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By JONATHAN LANDRUM Jr. and KRISTIN M. HALL AP Entertainment Writers</a>

The Beyhive is all abuzz over the possibility that Beyoncé will have a chance to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2023-grammy-award-nominations-music-86a0a2733aecd8f25330ff21de71a8ad">make Grammy history this year</a>, which should make for an exciting awards show as she's up against heavy hitters Adele, Kendrick Lamar and Harry Styles.

She'll need just four more trophies to ascend to the top decorated artist in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.grammy.com/">Recording Academy</a>. Odds are in her favor in most of the categories she's nominated in, including album of the year and record of the year.

Associated Press Entertainment Writers&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/mrlandrum31?lang=en">Jonathan Landrum Jr.</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/kmhall">Kristin M. Hall</a>&nbsp;break down the extremely close races for Grammy glory. The 65th annual Grammy Awards will air on Sunday on CBS and Paramount+.

ALBUM OF THE YEAR: “Voyage,” ABBA; “30,” Adele; “Un Verano Sin Ti,” Bad Bunny; “Renaissance,” Beyoncé; “Good Morning Gorgeous” (Deluxe), Mary J. Blige; “In These Silent Days,” Brandi Carlile; “Music of the Spheres,” Coldplay; “Mr. Morale &amp; the Big Steppers,” Kendrick Lamar; “Special,” Lizzo; “Harry’s House,” Harry Styles.

LANDRUM: Beyoncé is going after her Grammy throne, again. With the superstar singer being on the cusp of becoming the most decorated artist in Grammy history, it’s no coincidence Queen Bey returned to the live show stage for the first time in four years with a spectacular, star-studded performance at Dubai’s newest luxury hotel last month. She even held a two-night “Club Renaissance” event in Los Angeles last month with Amazon Music to celebrate her seventh album “Renaissance,” an album of the year candidate. Beyoncé's lead up game is strong, and both of her remarkable displays feel like a grand tour toward her multiple Grammy crowning. No disrespect to the other more-than-worthy nominees in the category, but Beyoncé is an easy choice here. It just makes sense.

HALL: The last time Adele and Beyoncé were both nominated in this category, the British singer-songwriter used her acceptance speech to heap&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ctuggqUSITM">praise on Beyoncé</a>, calling her the "artist of my life.” It's one of the toughest years in this category with so many deserving albums from the biggest names. It would be amazing to see Bad Bunny take home the award for his incredibly popular “Un Verano Sin Ti,” but I agree, Jonathan, all signs are pointing to a record-breaking year for Beyoncé.

RECORD OF THE YEAR: “Don’t Shut Me Down,” ABBA; “Easy on Me,” Adele; “Break My Soul,” Beyoncé; “Good Morning Gorgeous,” Mary J. Blige; “You and Me on the Rock,” Brandi Carlile featuring Lucius; “Woman,” Doja Cat; “Bad Habit,” Steve Lacy; “The Heart Part 5,” Kendrick Lamar; “About Damn Time,” Lizzo; “As It Was,” Harry Styles.

HALL: So many danceable bops this year to choose from! Lizzo is a powerhouse at delivering good-time positive bangers with catchy lyrics and Harry Styles' pop rock jam “As It Was” is an undeniable hit and fan favorite. While Adele absolutely kills her performance of “Easy on Me,” I don't think it has the dominance of her other record of the year hit “Hello.” For me, the best two in the category are “Break My Soul” and “Bad Habit.” The ‘90s house music-inspired “Break My Soul” captures an entire mood and an exciting pivot for Beyoncé, so she’ll likely add this award to her wall of Grammys.

LANDRUM: I totally rode the Beyoncé album-of-the-year bandwagon, but I'm riding with Harry Styles' “As It Was" in this category. Kudos to the other nominees from Kendrick Lamar, Steve Lacy and Adele — who are also deserving of this award. But “As It Was” was just too massive in a category where the biggest commercial hits usually reign supreme. For me, it seems like I've heard his infectious jam whenever I go out. Even my 2-year-old daughter perks up when she hears the song, sings along and requests to listen to it again, again, and again.

SONG OF THE YEAR (songwriter’s award): “abcdefu,” Sara Davis, GAYLE and Dave Pittenger; “About Damn Time,” Melissa “Lizzo” Jefferson, Eric Frederic, Blake Slatkin and Theron Makiel Thomas; “All Too Well (10 Minute Version – The Short Film),” Liz Rose and Taylor Swift; “As It Was,” Tyler Johnson, Kid Harpoon and Harry Styles; “Bad Habit,” Matthew Castellanos, Brittany Fousheé, Diana Gordon, John Carroll Kirby and Steve Lacy; “Break My Soul,” Beyoncé, S. Carter, Terius “The Dream” Gesteelde-Diamant and Christopher A. Stewart; “Easy on Me,” Adele Adkins and Greg Kurstin; “God Did,” Tarik Azzouz, E. Blackmon, Khaled Khaled, F. LeBlanc, Shawn Carter, John Stephens, Dwayne Carter, William Roberts and Nicholas Warwar; “The Heart Part 5,” Jake Kosich, Johnny Kosich, Kendrick Lamar and Matt Schaeffer; “Just Like That,” Bonnie Raitt.

LANDRUM: I might’ve chosen Harry Styles to pull away victorious with record of the year, but Beyoncé's powerful words in “Break My Soul” spoke to my spirit — especially in a category for songwriters who wrote the lyrics or melodies to one song. Her tune became a dance floor anthem after the pandemic thanks to the attractive upbeat melody and the well-written lyrics by the formidable writing team comprised of Beyoncé, her husband Jay-Z, The-Dream and Tricky Stewart — who's behind penning big singles including Rihanna’s “Umbrella” and Mary J. Blige’s “Just Fine.” In this collaboration, the writing foursome created a collection of inspiring words suited for Beyoncé who took the proverbial baton and sang with beautiful authority. In the end, “Break My Soul” should cross the finish line first as song of the year.

HALL: If you’ve only heard the TikTok snippet from Steve Lacy’s dreamy confessional song, do yourself a favor and listen to the whole thing, and then his whole album, too. The song, like Lacy, is experimental and complicated and the song twists and distorts into something brand new while his voice is charmingly disarming. I think he's a dark horse in this category, though, going up against so many crazy talented songwriters.

BEST NEW ARTIST: Anitta; Omar Apollo; DOMi &amp; JD Beck; Muni Long; Samara Joy; Latto; Månekskin; Tobe Nwigwe; Molly Tuttle; Wet Leg.

HALL: Normally I feel like there are one or two heavy hitters in this category that are riding the wave of a big debut hit, but this category is wide open this year. Bluegrass musician Molly Tuttle and R&amp;B singer-songwriter Muni Long are well-established in their respective music fields and it would be great for them to get the widespread attention they deserve with a win in this category. But I think Anitta has a big advantage with her multi-platinum global hit “Envolver," even if she may not be as familiar to American audiences.

LANDRUM: Anitta certainly feels like the leading choice in this loaded category. The Brazilian artist has been nothing short of phenomenal with her trilingual album “Versions of Me,” which was led by her single “Envolver.” Månekskin, Muni Long and Latto can make their claim here too. But I'm going with a category dark horse:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tobe-nwigwe-2022-breakthrough-entertainer-music-a2f23949fdbf940aea92eb2df79f4a25">Tobe Nwigwe</a>. He broke through with “I Need You To,” a 44-seconds long song that called attention to the police killing of Breonna Taylor in Kentucky. It was reposted by big names like LeBron James, Madonna and Diddy. Along with that, the Nigerian singer-rapper has posted an original song and video every week across social media for the past several years. He performs alongside his wife, Fat Nwigwe, and their ballad “Fye Fye” is a legit smooth hit.

BEST POP SOLO PERFORMANCE: “Easy on Me,” Adele; “Moscow Mule,” Bad Bunny; “Woman,” Doja Cat; “Bad Habit,” Steve Lacy; “About Damn Time,” Lizzo; “As It Was,” Harry Styles.

LANDRUM: This is a tough one. Each song is a certified hit. My gut tells me Adele or Steve Lacy could prevail in a category filled with strong contenders. But my mind, heart and soul is screaming “HARRY STYLES.” I’m going with my latter feelings. “As it Was” for me, please.

HALL: Adele is likely to pick up a win here, if voters are more inclined to choose Beyoncé in the top categories.

BEST RAP PERFORMANCE: “GOD DID,” DJ Khaled featuring Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, Jay-Z, John Legend &amp; Fridayy; “Vegas,” Doja Cat; “pushing P," Gunna &amp; Future featuring Young Thug; “F.N.F. (Let's Go),” Hitkidd &amp; GloRilla; “The Heart Part 5," Kendrick Lamar

HALL: I gotta give all the love to Memphis-native GloRilla for her first Grammy nomination for her breakout hit “F.N.F. (Let's Go)." Her toughness and bravado show up well on the track that celebrates being free of no-count scrubs and proves she can go as hard as any male rapper.

LANDRUM: Kendrick Lamar's “The Heart Part 5” will win, but DJ Khaled's “GOD DID” should be victorious. Why? Because with Khaled bringing together Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, Mr. EGOT John Legend and Rick Ross on one track, God certainly did that!

BEST R&amp;B PERFORMANCE: “VIRGO'S GROOVE," Beyoncé; “Here With Me,” Mary J. Blige featuring Anderson .Paak; “Hrs &amp; Hrs," Muni Long; “Over," Lucky Daye; “Hurt Me So Good,” Jazmine Sullivan

LANDRUM: Jazmine Sullivan could pull a repeat with “Hurt Me So Good” after she won in this same category last year for “Pick Up Your Feelings.” The sheer appeal of Beyoncé's “VIRGO'S GROOVE” gives her a strong shot to win as well. There are other viable contenders including Mary J. Blige and Lucky Daye, who had big hits in their own right. But if I was a betting man, my money would be on Muni Long's “Hrs &amp; Hrs,” a breakthrough hit for the best new artist contender. After maintaining strong momentum throughout a year, I believe Muni (pronounced as Money) will be ready to cash in as this category's victor.

HALL: When Muni Long starts the song by whispering “Can I sing to you?” in that breathy voice of hers, it's clear she is masterfully in control. I hope she gets this win.

BEST COUNTRY SOLO PERFORMANCE: “Heartfirst,” Kelsea Ballerini; “Something In The Orange,” Zach Bryan; “In His Arms,” Miranda Lambert; “Circles Around This Town,” Maren Morris; “Live Forever,” Willie Nelson

HALL: I think the Recording Academy voters are trying to send a message by nominating “Live Forever” from Willie Nelson, who is (remarkably) turning 90 this year and is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-movie-premieres-country-music-neil-young-miranda-lambert-a6e06409e841781fca6502beb35ab108">showing no signs of slowing down</a>. But I think new artist Zach Bryan has momentum this year and lots of buzz, so the slow-burning “Something In The Orange” should win.

LANDRUM: I think Zach Bryan is Willie Nelson's biggest threat here. But with Nelson still performing at a high level at 90, his song “Live Forever” is a fitting title for his musical legacy.

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22JONATHAN%20LANDRUM%20Jr.%20and%20KRISTIN%20M.%20HALL%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By JONATHAN LANDRUM Jr. and KRISTIN M. HALL AP Entertainment Writers</a>The Beyhive is all abuzz over the possibility that Beyoncé will have a chance to&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2023-grammy-award-nominations-music-86a0a2733aecd8f25330ff21de71a8ad">make Grammy history this year</a>, which should make for an exciting awards show as she's up against heavy hitters Adele, Kendrick Lamar and Harry Styles.She'll need just four more trophies to ascend to the top decorated artist in the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.grammy.com/">Recording Academy</a>. Odds are in her favor in most of the categories she's nominated in, including album of the year and record of the year.Associated Press Entertainment Writers&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/mrlandrum31?lang=en">Jonathan Landrum Jr.</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/kmhall">Kristin M. Hall</a>&nbsp;break down the extremely close races for Grammy glory. The 65th annual Grammy Awards will air on Sunday on CBS and Paramount+.__ALBUM OF THE YEAR: “Voyage,” ABBA; “30,” Adele; “Un Verano Sin Ti,” Bad Bunny; “Renaissance,” Beyoncé; “Good Morning Gorgeous” (Deluxe), Mary J. Blige; “In These Silent Days,” Brandi Carlile; “Music of the Spheres,” Coldplay; “Mr. Morale &amp; the Big Steppers,” Kendrick Lamar; “Special,” Lizzo; “Harry’s House,” Harry Styles.LANDRUM: Beyoncé is going after her Grammy throne, again. With the superstar singer being on the cusp of becoming the most decorated artist in Grammy history, it’s no coincidence Queen Bey returned to the live show stage for the first time in four years with a spectacular, star-studded performance at Dubai’s newest luxury hotel last month. She even held a two-night “Club Renaissance” event in Los Angeles last month with Amazon Music to celebrate her seventh album “Renaissance,” an album of the year candidate. Beyoncé's lead up game is strong, and both of her remarkable displays feel like a grand tour toward her multiple Grammy crowning. No disrespect to the other more-than-worthy nominees in the category, but Beyoncé is an easy choice here. It just makes sense.HALL: The last time Adele and Beyoncé were both nominated in this category, the British singer-songwriter used her acceptance speech to heap&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ctuggqUSITM">praise on Beyoncé</a>, calling her the "artist of my life.” It's one of the toughest years in this category with so many deserving albums from the biggest names. It would be amazing to see Bad Bunny take home the award for his incredibly popular “Un Verano Sin Ti,” but I agree, Jonathan, all signs are pointing to a record-breaking year for Beyoncé.RECORD OF THE YEAR: “Don’t Shut Me Down,” ABBA; “Easy on Me,” Adele; “Break My Soul,” Beyoncé; “Good Morning Gorgeous,” Mary J. Blige; “You and Me on the Rock,” Brandi Carlile featuring Lucius; “Woman,” Doja Cat; “Bad Habit,” Steve Lacy; “The Heart Part 5,” Kendrick Lamar; “About Damn Time,” Lizzo; “As It Was,” Harry Styles.HALL: So many danceable bops this year to choose from! Lizzo is a powerhouse at delivering good-time positive bangers with catchy lyrics and Harry Styles' pop rock jam “As It Was” is an undeniable hit and fan favorite. While Adele absolutely kills her performance of “Easy on Me,” I don't think it has the dominance of her other record of the year hit “Hello.” For me, the best two in the category are “Break My Soul” and “Bad Habit.” The ‘90s house music-inspired “Break My Soul” captures an entire mood and an exciting pivot for Beyoncé, so she’ll likely add this award to her wall of Grammys.LANDRUM: I totally rode the Beyoncé album-of-the-year bandwagon, but I'm riding with Harry Styles' “As It Was" in this category. Kudos to the other nominees from Kendrick Lamar, Steve Lacy and Adele — who are also deserving of this award. But “As It Was” was just too massive in a category where the biggest commercial hits usually reign supreme. For me, it seems like I've heard his infectious jam whenever I go out. Even my 2-year-old daughter perks up when she hears the song, sings along and requests to listen to it again, again, and again.SONG OF THE YEAR (songwriter’s award): “abcdefu,” Sara Davis, GAYLE and Dave Pittenger; “About Damn Time,” Melissa “Lizzo” Jefferson, Eric Frederic, Blake Slatkin and Theron Makiel Thomas; “All Too Well (10 Minute Version – The Short Film),” Liz Rose and Taylor Swift; “As It Was,” Tyler Johnson, Kid Harpoon and Harry Styles; “Bad Habit,” Matthew Castellanos, Brittany Fousheé, Diana Gordon, John Carroll Kirby and Steve Lacy; “Break My Soul,” Beyoncé, S. Carter, Terius “The Dream” Gesteelde-Diamant and Christopher A. Stewart; “Easy on Me,” Adele Adkins and Greg Kurstin; “God Did,” Tarik Azzouz, E. Blackmon, Khaled Khaled, F. LeBlanc, Shawn Carter, John Stephens, Dwayne Carter, William Roberts and Nicholas Warwar; “The Heart Part 5,” Jake Kosich, Johnny Kosich, Kendrick Lamar and Matt Schaeffer; “Just Like That,” Bonnie Raitt.LANDRUM: I might’ve chosen Harry Styles to pull away victorious with record of the year, but Beyoncé's powerful words in “Break My Soul” spoke to my spirit — especially in a category for songwriters who wrote the lyrics or melodies to one song. Her tune became a dance floor anthem after the pandemic thanks to the attractive upbeat melody and the well-written lyrics by the formidable writing team comprised of Beyoncé, her husband Jay-Z, The-Dream and Tricky Stewart — who's behind penning big singles including Rihanna’s “Umbrella” and Mary J. Blige’s “Just Fine.” In this collaboration, the writing foursome created a collection of inspiring words suited for Beyoncé who took the proverbial baton and sang with beautiful authority. In the end, “Break My Soul” should cross the finish line first as song of the year.HALL: If you’ve only heard the TikTok snippet from Steve Lacy’s dreamy confessional song, do yourself a favor and listen to the whole thing, and then his whole album, too. The song, like Lacy, is experimental and complicated and the song twists and distorts into something brand new while his voice is charmingly disarming. I think he's a dark horse in this category, though, going up against so many crazy talented songwriters.BEST NEW ARTIST: Anitta; Omar Apollo; DOMi &amp; JD Beck; Muni Long; Samara Joy; Latto; Månekskin; Tobe Nwigwe; Molly Tuttle; Wet Leg.HALL: Normally I feel like there are one or two heavy hitters in this category that are riding the wave of a big debut hit, but this category is wide open this year. Bluegrass musician Molly Tuttle and R&amp;B singer-songwriter Muni Long are well-established in their respective music fields and it would be great for them to get the widespread attention they deserve with a win in this category. But I think Anitta has a big advantage with her multi-platinum global hit “Envolver," even if she may not be as familiar to American audiences.LANDRUM: Anitta certainly feels like the leading choice in this loaded category. The Brazilian artist has been nothing short of phenomenal with her trilingual album “Versions of Me,” which was led by her single “Envolver.” Månekskin, Muni Long and Latto can make their claim here too. But I'm going with a category dark horse:&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/tobe-nwigwe-2022-breakthrough-entertainer-music-a2f23949fdbf940aea92eb2df79f4a25">Tobe Nwigwe</a>. He broke through with “I Need You To,” a 44-seconds long song that called attention to the police killing of Breonna Taylor in Kentucky. It was reposted by big names like LeBron James, Madonna and Diddy. Along with that, the Nigerian singer-rapper has posted an original song and video every week across social media for the past several years. He performs alongside his wife, Fat Nwigwe, and their ballad “Fye Fye” is a legit smooth hit.BEST POP SOLO PERFORMANCE: “Easy on Me,” Adele; “Moscow Mule,” Bad Bunny; “Woman,” Doja Cat; “Bad Habit,” Steve Lacy; “About Damn Time,” Lizzo; “As It Was,” Harry Styles.LANDRUM: This is a tough one. Each song is a certified hit. My gut tells me Adele or Steve Lacy could prevail in a category filled with strong contenders. But my mind, heart and soul is screaming “HARRY STYLES.” I’m going with my latter feelings. “As it Was” for me, please.HALL: Adele is likely to pick up a win here, if voters are more inclined to choose Beyoncé in the top categories.BEST RAP PERFORMANCE: “GOD DID,” DJ Khaled featuring Rick Ross, Lil Wayne, Jay-Z, John Legend &amp; Fridayy; “Vegas,” Doja Cat; “pushing P," Gunna &amp; Future featuring Young Thug; “F.N.F. (Let's Go),” Hitkidd &amp; GloRilla; “The Heart Part 5," Kendrick LamarHALL: I gotta give all the love to Memphis-native GloRilla for her first Grammy nomination for her breakout hit “F.N.F. (Let's Go)." Her toughness and bravado show up well on the track that celebrates being free of no-count scrubs and proves she can go as hard as any male rapper.LANDRUM: Kendrick Lamar's “The Heart Part 5” will win, but DJ Khaled's “GOD DID” should be victorious. Why? Because with Khaled bringing together Jay-Z, Lil Wayne, Mr. EGOT John Legend and Rick Ross on one track, God certainly did that!BEST R&amp;B PERFORMANCE: “VIRGO'S GROOVE," Beyoncé; “Here With Me,” Mary J. Blige featuring Anderson .Paak; “Hrs &amp; Hrs," Muni Long; “Over," Lucky Daye; “Hurt Me So Good,” Jazmine SullivanLANDRUM: Jazmine Sullivan could pull a repeat with “Hurt Me So Good” after she won in this same category last year for “Pick Up Your Feelings.” The sheer appeal of Beyoncé's “VIRGO'S GROOVE” gives her a strong shot to win as well. There are other viable contenders including Mary J. Blige and Lucky Daye, who had big hits in their own right. But if I was a betting man, my money would be on Muni Long's “Hrs &amp; Hrs,” a breakthrough hit for the best new artist contender. After maintaining strong momentum throughout a year, I believe Muni (pronounced as Money) will be ready to cash in as this category's victor.HALL: When Muni Long starts the song by whispering “Can I sing to you?” in that breathy voice of hers, it's clear she is masterfully in control. I hope she gets this win.BEST COUNTRY SOLO PERFORMANCE: “Heartfirst,” Kelsea Ballerini; “Something In The Orange,” Zach Bryan; “In His Arms,” Miranda Lambert; “Circles Around This Town,” Maren Morris; “Live Forever,” Willie NelsonHALL: I think the Recording Academy voters are trying to send a message by nominating “Live Forever” from Willie Nelson, who is (remarkably) turning 90 this year and is&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-movie-premieres-country-music-neil-young-miranda-lambert-a6e06409e841781fca6502beb35ab108">showing no signs of slowing down</a>. But I think new artist Zach Bryan has momentum this year and lots of buzz, so the slow-burning “Something In The Orange” should win.LANDRUM: I think Zach Bryan is Willie Nelson's biggest threat here. But with Nelson still performing at a high level at 90, his song “Live Forever” is a fitting title for his musical legacy.

Grammy predictions: AP writers debate who'll win on Sunday

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<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22CHRISTINA%20LARSON%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By CHRISTINA LARSON &nbsp;AP Science Writer</a>

WASHINGTON (AP) — The dodo bird isn’t coming back anytime soon. Nor is the woolly mammoth. But a company working on technologies to bring back extinct species has attracted more investors, while other scientists are skeptical such feats are possible or a good idea.

Colossal Biosciences first announced its ambitious plan to revive the woolly mammoth two years ago, and on Tuesday said it wanted to bring back the dodo bird, too.

“The dodo is a symbol of man-made extinction,” said Ben Lamm, a serial entrepreneur and co-founder and CEO of Colossal. The company has formed a division to focus on bird-related genetic technologies.

The last dodo, a flightless bird about the size of a turkey, was killed in 1681 on the Indian Ocean island of Mauritius.

The Dallas company, which launched in 2021, also announced Tuesday it had raised an additional $150 million in funding. To date, it has raised $225 million from wide-ranging investors that include United States Innovative Technology Fund, Breyer Capital and In-Q-Tel, the CIA's venture capital firm which invests in technology.

The prospect of bringing the dodo back isn't expected to directly make money, said Lamm. But the genetic tools and equipment that the company develops to try to do it may have other uses, including for human health care, he said.

For example, Colossal is now testing tools to tweak several parts of the genome simultaneously. It's also working on technologies for what is sometimes called an “artificial womb,” he said.

The dodo's closest living relative is the Nicobar pigeon, said Beth Shapiro, a molecular biologist on Colossal's scientific advisory board, who has been studying the dodo for two decades. Shapiro is paid by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, which also supports The Associated Press’ Health and Science Department.

Her team plans to study DNA differences between the Nicobar pigeon and the dodo to understand “what are the genes that really make a dodo a dodo,” she said.

The team may then attempt to edit Nicobar pigeon cells to make them resemble dodo cells. It may be possible to put the tweaked cells into developing eggs of other birds, such as pigeons or chickens, to create offspring that may in turn naturally produce dodo eggs, said Shapiro. The concept is still in an early theoretical stage for dodos.

Because animals are a product of both their genetics and their environment — which has changed dramatically since the 1600s — Shapiro said that “it's not possible to recreate a 100% identical copy of something that's gone.”

Other scientists wonder if it's even advisable to try, and question whether “de-extinction” diverts attention and money away from efforts to save species still on Earth.

“There's a real hazard in saying that if we destroy nature, we can just put it back together again — because we can't,” said Duke University ecologist Stuart Pimm, who has no connection to Colossal.

“And where on Earth would you put a woolly mammoth, other than in a cage?” asked Pimm, who noted that the ecosystems where mammoths lived disappeared long ago.

On a practical level, conservation biologists familiar with captive breeding programs say that it can be tricky for zoo-bred animals to ever adapt to the wild.

It helps if they can learn from other wild animals of their kind — an advantage that potential dodos and mammoths won't have, said Boris Worm, a biologist at the University of Dalhousie in Halifax, Nova Scotia, who has no connection to Colossal.

“Preventing species from going extinct in the first place should be our priority, and in most cases, it's a lot cheaper,” said Worm.

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22CHRISTINA%20LARSON%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By CHRISTINA LARSON &nbsp;AP Science Writer</a>WASHINGTON (AP) — The dodo bird isn’t coming back anytime soon. Nor is the woolly mammoth. But a company working on technologies to bring back extinct species has attracted more investors, while other scientists are skeptical such feats are possible or a good idea.Colossal Biosciences first announced its ambitious plan to revive the woolly mammoth two years ago, and on Tuesday said it wanted to bring back the dodo bird, too.“The dodo is a symbol of man-made extinction,” said Ben Lamm, a serial entrepreneur and co-founder and CEO of Colossal. The company has formed a division to focus on bird-related genetic technologies.The last dodo, a flightless bird about the size of a turkey, was killed in 1681 on the Indian Ocean island of Mauritius.The Dallas company, which launched in 2021, also announced Tuesday it had raised an additional $150 million in funding. To date, it has raised $225 million from wide-ranging investors that include United States Innovative Technology Fund, Breyer Capital and In-Q-Tel, the CIA's venture capital firm which invests in technology.The prospect of bringing the dodo back isn't expected to directly make money, said Lamm. But the genetic tools and equipment that the company develops to try to do it may have other uses, including for human health care, he said.For example, Colossal is now testing tools to tweak several parts of the genome simultaneously. It's also working on technologies for what is sometimes called an “artificial womb,” he said.The dodo's closest living relative is the Nicobar pigeon, said Beth Shapiro, a molecular biologist on Colossal's scientific advisory board, who has been studying the dodo for two decades. Shapiro is paid by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, which also supports The Associated Press’ Health and Science Department.Her team plans to study DNA differences between the Nicobar pigeon and the dodo to understand “what are the genes that really make a dodo a dodo,” she said.The team may then attempt to edit Nicobar pigeon cells to make them resemble dodo cells. It may be possible to put the tweaked cells into developing eggs of other birds, such as pigeons or chickens, to create offspring that may in turn naturally produce dodo eggs, said Shapiro. The concept is still in an early theoretical stage for dodos.Because animals are a product of both their genetics and their environment — which has changed dramatically since the 1600s — Shapiro said that “it's not possible to recreate a 100% identical copy of something that's gone.”Other scientists wonder if it's even advisable to try, and question whether “de-extinction” diverts attention and money away from efforts to save species still on Earth.“There's a real hazard in saying that if we destroy nature, we can just put it back together again — because we can't,” said Duke University ecologist Stuart Pimm, who has no connection to Colossal.“And where on Earth would you put a woolly mammoth, other than in a cage?” asked Pimm, who noted that the ecosystems where mammoths lived disappeared long ago.On a practical level, conservation biologists familiar with captive breeding programs say that it can be tricky for zoo-bred animals to ever adapt to the wild.It helps if they can learn from other wild animals of their kind — an advantage that potential dodos and mammoths won't have, said Boris Worm, a biologist at the University of Dalhousie in Halifax, Nova Scotia, who has no connection to Colossal.“Preventing species from going extinct in the first place should be our priority, and in most cases, it's a lot cheaper,” said Worm.

Bring back dodo? Ambitious plan draws investors, critics

What did the old tom cat say when he saw two mice on roller skates? Meals on wheels!

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What did the old tom cat say when he saw two mice on roller skates? Meals on wheels!Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 02/01/23

"Stiletto Series 25A" by J Jay McVicker.&nbsp;Photo from the&nbsp;Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery via the&nbsp;Lindsborg Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau

Lindsborg Convention &amp; Visitors Bureau

LINDSBORG - Five new exhibitions are open in the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery through March 12.

The exhibitions include paintings by Oklahoma artist J. Jay McVicker (1911-2004), a Jim Turner photographic retrospective, landscape paintings by Randall Bennett, an exhibition of early additions to the Gallery's permanent collection, and art by Smoky Valley High School students.

The Sandzén Gallery, located at 401 N. First Street in Lindsborg is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free, with donations appreciated. Docent tours for groups are available by two-week advance appointment.

Midwest Modern&nbsp;showcases the work of J. Jay McVicker from a private collection in Oklahoma. Born at the dawn of the twentieth century, McVicker was first a regionalist in the 1930s, capturing scenes of rural life and landscapes in paintings and prints. Just before World War II, his works began to incorporate dashes of geometric cubism and biomorphic surrealism. At the war’s end, the artist returned home and pushed the boundaries of what art could look like and communicate. McVicker continued to practice in the center of America, gaining recognition from his position at Oklahoma State University as he regularly submitted works to juried exhibitions all over the country for awards and purchase prizes. McVicker was prolific and passionate about his art and this exhibition will showcase works from throughout his career.

Jim Turner&nbsp;has been a staple of the Lindsborg community for most of his life and likely photographed more people, events, and places – all from a multitude of angles – than anyone before him. Although often recognized for his commissions photographing weddings, high school seniors, and the like, Turner's focus goes well beyond that. He writes, "My expressions have grown out of where I live. The plains have an immense beauty that most non-plains living people seem rarely to appreciate. Maybe the reason is that our beauty doesn’t jump out at the viewer like a big mountain or a crashing waterfall. Plains beauty, beside our great storm clouds and wonderful skies during sunset and sunrise, is found in the microcosms of the natural world – grasses, trees, wind, and light."

A Prairie Art Dialogue&nbsp;features work by Randall Bennett of Lawrence. He is a professional artist and owner/director of Tall Grass Museum Services. After earning his architecture degree at Kansas State University, he worked in the architectural profession for a number of years before returning to art school. Afterward, he took a job working in the museum exhibit fabrication industry and has stayed with it continuously. Besides his museum-related jobs, Bennett stays busy with his personal artwork. He currently has six self-published books of his artwork and two of illustrated poetry. He regularly tries new and different styles and media in order to push his own boundaries and improve as an artist.

Early Additions to the Permanent Collection&nbsp;will showcase artworks that came into the gallery's collection from the late 1950s through the 1980s. Curator Cori Sherman North made selections that impacted the holdings and established a well-rounded and diverse collection. A number of works were purchased and donated by Birger Sandzén's daughter and son-in-law, Margaret and Pelham Greenough, while others were gifts of the artists or other enthusiastic collectors.

Art by students from Smoky Valley High School&nbsp;in Lindsborg rounds out the exhibitions. They will be showing works selected by instructor Gretchen Elliott in a multitude of mediums from paintings and prints to sculpture and ceramics.

For more information about Birger Sandzén, the Gallery, and these exhibitions visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sandzen.org/">www.sandzen.org</a>&nbsp;or phone (785) 227-2220.

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 </figure>"Stiletto Series 25A" by J Jay McVicker.&nbsp;Photo from the&nbsp;Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery via the&nbsp;Lindsborg Convention &amp; Visitors BureauLindsborg Convention &amp; Visitors BureauLINDSBORG - Five new exhibitions are open in the Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery through March 12.The exhibitions include paintings by Oklahoma artist J. Jay McVicker (1911-2004), a Jim Turner photographic retrospective, landscape paintings by Randall Bennett, an exhibition of early additions to the Gallery's permanent collection, and art by Smoky Valley High School students.The Sandzén Gallery, located at 401 N. First Street in Lindsborg is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Admission is free, with donations appreciated. Docent tours for groups are available by two-week advance appointment.About the artistsMidwest Modern&nbsp;showcases the work of J. Jay McVicker from a private collection in Oklahoma. Born at the dawn of the twentieth century, McVicker was first a regionalist in the 1930s, capturing scenes of rural life and landscapes in paintings and prints. Just before World War II, his works began to incorporate dashes of geometric cubism and biomorphic surrealism. At the war’s end, the artist returned home and pushed the boundaries of what art could look like and communicate. McVicker continued to practice in the center of America, gaining recognition from his position at Oklahoma State University as he regularly submitted works to juried exhibitions all over the country for awards and purchase prizes. McVicker was prolific and passionate about his art and this exhibition will showcase works from throughout his career.Jim Turner&nbsp;has been a staple of the Lindsborg community for most of his life and likely photographed more people, events, and places – all from a multitude of angles – than anyone before him. Although often recognized for his commissions photographing weddings, high school seniors, and the like, Turner's focus goes well beyond that. He writes, "My expressions have grown out of where I live. The plains have an immense beauty that most non-plains living people seem rarely to appreciate. Maybe the reason is that our beauty doesn’t jump out at the viewer like a big mountain or a crashing waterfall. Plains beauty, beside our great storm clouds and wonderful skies during sunset and sunrise, is found in the microcosms of the natural world – grasses, trees, wind, and light."A Prairie Art Dialogue&nbsp;features work by Randall Bennett of Lawrence. He is a professional artist and owner/director of Tall Grass Museum Services. After earning his architecture degree at Kansas State University, he worked in the architectural profession for a number of years before returning to art school. Afterward, he took a job working in the museum exhibit fabrication industry and has stayed with it continuously. Besides his museum-related jobs, Bennett stays busy with his personal artwork. He currently has six self-published books of his artwork and two of illustrated poetry. He regularly tries new and different styles and media in order to push his own boundaries and improve as an artist.Early Additions to the Permanent Collection&nbsp;will showcase artworks that came into the gallery's collection from the late 1950s through the 1980s. Curator Cori Sherman North made selections that impacted the holdings and established a well-rounded and diverse collection. A number of works were purchased and donated by Birger Sandzén's daughter and son-in-law, Margaret and Pelham Greenough, while others were gifts of the artists or other enthusiastic collectors.Art by students from Smoky Valley High School&nbsp;in Lindsborg rounds out the exhibitions. They will be showing works selected by instructor Gretchen Elliott in a multitude of mediums from paintings and prints to sculpture and ceramics.For more information about Birger Sandzén, the Gallery, and these exhibitions visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sandzen.org/">www.sandzen.org</a>&nbsp;or phone (785) 227-2220.

Five new exhibitions open at Birger Sandzén Memorial Gallery

Join us for the next installment of the history of the Santa Fe Trail, presented by historian Steve Schmidt. Building on his previous museum program, “Santa Fe Trail 101,” he’ll focus on the Sibley Expedition of 1825-27.

Learn about the driving force, George Champlin Sibley, a greatly underappreciated figure of the early 1800s. Schmidt will discuss why the expedition was mounted, how it was conducted and what the outcome was, including a surprisingly accurate survey.

Schmidt, a retired civil engineer, and his spouse, Glenda, own pastureland in Marion County, across which the Santa Fe Trail can plainly be seen.&nbsp; Their land is in the National and State Registers of Historic Places.

This presentation is offered by the Smoky Hill Museum from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday. Experience it in person at the museum, or watch from the comfort of your home, using Zoom. Request the Zoom link at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillmuseum.org/" target="_blank">www.smokyhillmuseum.org</a>.

Smoky Hill MuseumJoin us for the next installment of the history of the Santa Fe Trail, presented by historian Steve Schmidt. Building on his previous museum program, “Santa Fe Trail 101,” he’ll focus on the Sibley Expedition of 1825-27.Learn about the driving force, George Champlin Sibley, a greatly underappreciated figure of the early 1800s. Schmidt will discuss why the expedition was mounted, how it was conducted and what the outcome was, including a surprisingly accurate survey.Schmidt, a retired civil engineer, and his spouse, Glenda, own pastureland in Marion County, across which the Santa Fe Trail can plainly be seen.&nbsp; Their land is in the National and State Registers of Historic Places.This presentation is offered by the Smoky Hill Museum from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday. Experience it in person at the museum, or watch from the comfort of your home, using Zoom. Request the Zoom link at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.smokyhillmuseum.org/" target="_blank">www.smokyhillmuseum.org</a>.

Santa Fe Trail presentation Part 2 at Smoky Hill Museum

On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays High FFA Alumni organizers discuss their upcoming fundraiser set for Feb. 4.

<div><iframe title="Hays High FFA Alumni fundraiser nearly here" allowtransparency="true" height="450" width="100%" style="border: none; min-width: min(100%, 430px);" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/player-v2/?i=9qqkw-137ad6c-pb&from=pb6admin&square=1&share=1&download=1&rtl=0&fonts=Arial&skin=3267a3&font-color=auto&logo_link=podcast_page&btn-skin=3267a3&size=450" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>On this episode of the Post Podcast Hays High FFA Alumni organizers discuss their upcoming fundraiser set for Feb. 4.

🎙 Post Podcast: Hays High FFA Alumni Fundraiser nearly here

The child comes home from his first day at school. His Mother asks, “Well, what did you learn today?” The kid replies, “Not enough. They want me to come back tomorrow.”

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The child comes home from his first day at school. His Mother asks, “Well, what did you learn today?” The kid replies, “Not enough. They want me to come back tomorrow.”&nbsp;Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 01/31/23

What did baby corn say to mama corn? Where’s popcorn?

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What did baby corn say to mama corn? Where’s popcorn?Join fans of 99 KZ Country on Facebook: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>

KZ Country Cheesy Joke of the Day 01/30/23

Happy Kansas Day! Test your knowledge of the Sunflower State

Happy birthday to the Sunflower State!&nbsp;Photo by&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/users/lauragilchrist4-2310177/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1472341">Laura Gilchrist</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com//?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1472341">Pixabay</a>

Happy Kansas Day! Kansas officially became a state of the United States on Jan. 29, 1861.

Test your Kansas knowledge with these trivia questions from the Kansas Historical Society. (We'll give you the answers on Monday.)

What was Kansas called during the territorial period?

What were abolitionists from Kansas known as?

What is the state reptile of Kansas?

Which city is the oldest in Kansas?

Which Kansan was named the National Football League’s Rookie of the Year in 1965?

Which cartoonist, born in Kansas, is the creator of the famous comic strip “Beetle Bailey?”

Which famous Dodge City sheriff was a buffalo hunter, gambler, deputy U.S. marshal, and later a newspaper journalist?

Which Kansas-born clown known as Weary Willie, toured with the Ringling Brothers and Barnum &amp; Bailey Circus and is considered one of the greatest of all time?

Which famous and influential African American poet and author spent much of his boyhood growing up in Lawrence and Topeka?

What town was the territorial capitol of Kansas in 1856?

What is the state amphibian of Kansas?

What is the state march of Kansas?

After Kansas was admitted into the Union, how many stars were on the United States flag?

When was the state seal of Kansas adopted?

What is the name of the site where a major Civil War battle in Kansas was fought?

Which city was struck by tornadoes consecutively in 1916, 1917, and 1918 on May 20?

What is the name of the sinkhole located near Ashland, Kansas, that has never been known to be dry?

Kansas was the first state to raise what kind of military unit?

<h2>Happy Kansas Day! Test your knowledge of the Sunflower State</h2>PostedJan 29, 2023 6:00 AM<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2023/1/1674964764879.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>Happy birthday to the Sunflower State!&nbsp;Photo by&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/users/lauragilchrist4-2310177/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1472341">Laura Gilchrist</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com//?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=1472341">Pixabay</a>By SALINA POSTHappy Kansas Day! Kansas officially became a state of the United States on Jan. 29, 1861.Test your Kansas knowledge with these trivia questions from the Kansas Historical Society. (We'll give you the answers on Monday.)What was Kansas called during the territorial period?a. Battlefield Kansasb. Bleeding Kansasc. Fighting Kansasd. Jayhawk KansasWhat were abolitionists from Kansas known as?a. Border Warriorsb. Kansansc. Brown’s Boysd. JayhawkersWhat is the state reptile of Kansas?a. snapping turtleb. ornate box turtlec. painted turtled. spotted turtleWhat is the state tree of Kansas?a. cottonwoodb. oakc. ashd. evergreenWhich city is the oldest in Kansas?a. Lawrenceb. Leavenworthc. Lecomptond. Kansas CityWhich Kansan was named the National Football League’s Rookie of the Year in 1965?a. John Rigginsb. Gale Sayersc. Lynn Dickeyd. Barry SandersWhich cartoonist, born in Kansas, is the creator of the famous comic strip “Beetle Bailey?”a. Charles Schulzb. Bill Amendc. Bill Wattersond. Mort WalkerWhich famous Dodge City sheriff was a buffalo hunter, gambler, deputy U.S. marshal, and later a newspaper journalist?a. William “Bat” Mastersonb. Wyatt Earpc. Henry Newtond. Doc HollidayWhich Kansas-born clown known as Weary Willie, toured with the Ringling Brothers and Barnum &amp; Bailey Circus and is considered one of the greatest of all time?a. Red Skeltonb. Emmett Kellyc. Mark Anthonyd. Bobby KayeWhich famous and influential African American poet and author spent much of his boyhood growing up in Lawrence and Topeka?a. Langston Hughesb. Countee Cullenb. Jupiter Harmond. Paul Laurence DunbarWhat town was the territorial capitol of Kansas in 1856?a. Wyandotteb. Lecomptonc. Topekad. LawrenceWhat is the state amphibian of Kansas?a. barred tiger salamanderb. bullfrogc. tree frogd. mudpuppyWhat is the state march of Kansas?a. I’m a Jayhawkb. Wildcat Victoryc. Kansas Marchd. Free State MarchAfter Kansas was admitted into the Union, how many stars were on the United States flag?a. 32b. 33c. 34d. 35When was the state seal of Kansas adopted?a. 1861b. 1862c. 1859d. 1860What is the name of the site where a major Civil War battle in Kansas was fought?a. Baxter Springs battlefieldb. Trading Post battlefieldc. Marais de Cygnes Massacred. Mine Creek BattlefieldWhich city was struck by tornadoes consecutively in 1916, 1917, and 1918 on May 20?a. Hesstonb. Garden Cityc. Codelld. LiberalWhat is the name of the sinkhole located near Ashland, Kansas, that has never been known to be dry?a. Buffalo Bill’s Wellb. Elm Springsc. Big Welld. St. Jacob’s WellKansas was the first state to raise what kind of military unit?a. National Guardb. African American infantry regimentc. Plains calvary unitd. Special forces unitWhich frontier army scout who guided military units in Kansas was described by George Armstrong Custer as the “most famous scout on the plains?”a. James “Wild Bill” Hickokb. William “Buffalo Bill” Codyc. Kit Carsond. William BentDuring the years of the Santa Fe Trail, which Kansas river served as the border between the United States and Mexico?a. Kansas Riverb. Neosho Riverc. Arkansas Riverd. Smoky Hill RiverWhich tribe of American Indians did Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado meet in the Quivira Region of Kansas?a. Pawnee Indiansb. Cheyenne Indiansc. Kansa Indiansd. Wichita IndiansWhich “giant” Kansan became a world champion boxer when he defeated the defending world heavyweight boxer Jack Johnson in 26 rounds?a. Jess Willardb. Joe Lewisc. Max Schmelingd. Tommy BurnsWhat major trade route through Kansas stretched a thousand miles from Missouri to New Mexico?a. Chisholm Trailb. Santa Fe Trailc. Oregon Traild. California TrailWhich influential Kansan from Emporia was a newspaper journalist and author who received two Pulitzer Prizes?a. Samuel L. Clemensb. Walter Winchellc. William Allen Whited. Ernie Pyle

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22LINDSEY%20BAHR%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By LINDSEY BAHR AP Film Writer</a>

“Avatar: The Way of Water” claimed the No. 1 spot on the domestic box office charts for the seventh weekend in a row with an additional $15.7 million, according to studio estimates on Sunday.

It was a quiet weekend overall, notable mostly for the Hindi language blockbuster “Pathaan” that broke into the top five and the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2023-oscar-nominations-f10835dc948d9a1b5535e8da9aaab8fb">post-Oscar nominations</a>&nbsp;rereleases of films like “Everything Everywhere All At Once” and “The Fabelmans.”

“Avatar 2’s”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-james-cameron-movies-b9a4f85c77f7bab2abb14c3ca301f352">first-place North American run</a>&nbsp;has only been matched by the first “Avatar,” and, in the past 25 years, bested by “Titanic” (which stayed in first place for 15 weeks). All three were directed by James Cameron.

Globally, “The Way of Water” has now grossed an estimated $2.1 billion, passing “Star Wars: The Force Awakens," to become the fourth-highest grossing film of all time (of which Cameron has directed three).

“James Cameron just keeps ticking off all the records and milestones,” said Paul Dergarabedian, the senior media analyst for Comscore. “And it's still got a wide-open marketplace.”

Second place went to Universal and DreamWorks’ family-oriented offering “Puss In Boots: The Last Wish,” which made $10.6 million in its sixth weekend. The animated spinoff has earned over $140.8 million in North America and was recently made available to stream at home, too.

Third place went to Sony's “A Man Called Otto" with $6.8 million from 3,957 locations. The meme-able horror “M3GAN,” a Universal release, snuck into fourth place with $6.4 million in its fourth weekend, bringing its domestic total to $82.3 million.

The Indian film “Pathaan,” starring Shah Rukh Kha in his first role in five years, settled in fifth place with $5.9 million from only 695 screens.

“A top five appearance is really impressive,” Dergarabedian said, noting that the marketplace over the past several years has presented opportunities for Indian films to break into the domestic top 10.

Neon also launched the horror movie “Infinity Pool,” written and directed by Brandon Cronenberg and starring Mia Goth and Alexander Skarsgård, in 1,853 locations following its Sundance debut. It made an estimated $2.7 million. The romantic comedy “Maybe I Do,” with Diane Keaton, Richard Gere and Susan Sarandan, made $562,000 from 465 screens. And Lukas Dhont’s Cannes-winning boyhood drama “Close” opened on four screens in New York and Los Angeles, earning $68,143.

Many studios boasting best picture nominees also chose to capitalize on the buzz of Tuesday’s Oscar nominations with sizable re-releases. “Everything Everywhere All At Once,” which got&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2023-oscar-nominations-f10835dc948d9a1b5535e8da9aaab8fb">a leading 11 nominations</a>, came back to theaters in force playing on 1,400 screens where it earned another $1 million. The A24 release has made $71 million domestically to date. Steven Spielberg’s “The Fabelmans,” nominated for seven Oscars, also expanded to 1,962 screens in North America and took in an additional $760,000, bringing its domestic total to $16 million. And Sarah Polley’s “Women Talking” also added a few hundred screens, earning $1 million over the weekend. It’s made $2.4 million to date. The Oscar boosts could continue over the coming weeks, too — the show isn't until March 12.

“We are seeing in real time the halo effect of the Oscar nominations on these best picture nominees,” Dergarbedian said. “The Oscar bounce is back, something we haven’t seen over the past couple of years.”

Several of the highest profile releases of the weekend were both star-driven comedies that went straight to streaming: Netflix had “You People,” with Eddie Murphy, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Jonah Hill and Lauren London and Amazon Prime Video offered “Shotgun Wedding,” with Jennifer Lopez, Josh Duhamel and Jennifer Coolidge.

Seven weekends into “Avatar 2,” theater owners are also likely looking for the next big blockbuster, which is still a ways off. “Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania” doesn’t arrive in theaters until Feb. 17.

But, as Dergarabedian said, “2023 is already looking more like 2019 rather than the last three years."

“This is great news for theaters,” he said. "You have the Oscar bounce in play, an Indian film in the top 5 and ‘Avatar’ breaking records left and right.”

Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Comscore, with Wednesday through Sunday in parentheses. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.

1. “Avatar: The Way of Water,” $15.7 million.

2. “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish,” $10.6 million.

3. “A Man Called Otto,” $6.8 million,

9. “Left Behind: Rise of the Antichrist,” $2.4 million.

10. “The Wandering Earth 2,” $1.4 million.

<a href="https://newsroom.ap.org/home/search/?query=byline:%22LINDSEY%20BAHR%22&amp;mediaType=text&amp;st=keyword&amp;sortOrder=newest">By LINDSEY BAHR AP Film Writer</a>“Avatar: The Way of Water” claimed the No. 1 spot on the domestic box office charts for the seventh weekend in a row with an additional $15.7 million, according to studio estimates on Sunday.It was a quiet weekend overall, notable mostly for the Hindi language blockbuster “Pathaan” that broke into the top five and the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2023-oscar-nominations-f10835dc948d9a1b5535e8da9aaab8fb">post-Oscar nominations</a>&nbsp;rereleases of films like “Everything Everywhere All At Once” and “The Fabelmans.”“Avatar 2’s”&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/entertainment-james-cameron-movies-b9a4f85c77f7bab2abb14c3ca301f352">first-place North American run</a>&nbsp;has only been matched by the first “Avatar,” and, in the past 25 years, bested by “Titanic” (which stayed in first place for 15 weeks). All three were directed by James Cameron.Globally, “The Way of Water” has now grossed an estimated $2.1 billion, passing “Star Wars: The Force Awakens," to become the fourth-highest grossing film of all time (of which Cameron has directed three).“James Cameron just keeps ticking off all the records and milestones,” said Paul Dergarabedian, the senior media analyst for Comscore. “And it's still got a wide-open marketplace.”Second place went to Universal and DreamWorks’ family-oriented offering “Puss In Boots: The Last Wish,” which made $10.6 million in its sixth weekend. The animated spinoff has earned over $140.8 million in North America and was recently made available to stream at home, too.Third place went to Sony's “A Man Called Otto" with $6.8 million from 3,957 locations. The meme-able horror “M3GAN,” a Universal release, snuck into fourth place with $6.4 million in its fourth weekend, bringing its domestic total to $82.3 million.The Indian film “Pathaan,” starring Shah Rukh Kha in his first role in five years, settled in fifth place with $5.9 million from only 695 screens.“A top five appearance is really impressive,” Dergarabedian said, noting that the marketplace over the past several years has presented opportunities for Indian films to break into the domestic top 10.Neon also launched the horror movie “Infinity Pool,” written and directed by Brandon Cronenberg and starring Mia Goth and Alexander Skarsgård, in 1,853 locations following its Sundance debut. It made an estimated $2.7 million. The romantic comedy “Maybe I Do,” with Diane Keaton, Richard Gere and Susan Sarandan, made $562,000 from 465 screens. And Lukas Dhont’s Cannes-winning boyhood drama “Close” opened on four screens in New York and Los Angeles, earning $68,143.Many studios boasting best picture nominees also chose to capitalize on the buzz of Tuesday’s Oscar nominations with sizable re-releases. “Everything Everywhere All At Once,” which got&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/2023-oscar-nominations-f10835dc948d9a1b5535e8da9aaab8fb">a leading 11 nominations</a>, came back to theaters in force playing on 1,400 screens where it earned another $1 million. The A24 release has made $71 million domestically to date. Steven Spielberg’s “The Fabelmans,” nominated for seven Oscars, also expanded to 1,962 screens in North America and took in an additional $760,000, bringing its domestic total to $16 million. And Sarah Polley’s “Women Talking” also added a few hundred screens, earning $1 million over the weekend. It’s made $2.4 million to date. The Oscar boosts could continue over the coming weeks, too — the show isn't until March 12.“We are seeing in real time the halo effect of the Oscar nominations on these best picture nominees,” Dergarbedian said. “The Oscar bounce is back, something we haven’t seen over the past couple of years.”Several of the highest profile releases of the weekend were both star-driven comedies that went straight to streaming: Netflix had “You People,” with Eddie Murphy, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Jonah Hill and Lauren London and Amazon Prime Video offered “Shotgun Wedding,” with Jennifer Lopez, Josh Duhamel and Jennifer Coolidge.Seven weekends into “Avatar 2,” theater owners are also likely looking for the next big blockbuster, which is still a ways off. “Ant-Man and The Wasp: Quantumania” doesn’t arrive in theaters until Feb. 17.But, as Dergarabedian said, “2023 is already looking more like 2019 rather than the last three years."“This is great news for theaters,” he said. "You have the Oscar bounce in play, an Indian film in the top 5 and ‘Avatar’ breaking records left and right.”Estimated ticket sales for Friday through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian theaters, according to Comscore, with Wednesday through Sunday in parentheses. Final domestic figures will be released Monday.1. “Avatar: The Way of Water,” $15.7 million.2. “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish,” $10.6 million.3. “A Man Called Otto,” $6.8 million,4. “M3GAN,” $6.4 million.5. “Pathaan,” $5.9 million.6. “Missing,” $3.8 million.7. “Plane,” $3.8 million.8. “Infinity Pool,” $2.7 million.9. “Left Behind: Rise of the Antichrist,” $2.4 million.10. “The Wandering Earth 2,” $1.4 million.

'Avatar 2' tops box office for 7th weekend

What do you get when you cross a refrigerator with a radio? Cool Music.

What do you get when you cross a refrigerator with a radio? Cool Music.Join fans of KZ Country on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry" target="_blank">http://www.facebook.com/99KZCountry</a>