At the heart of Skeetchestn territory is the Deadman Watershed, a living landscape of roughly 900 sq. km of forest and grassland northwest of Kamloops (Tk’emlups). Industrial logging and the roads it requires has been a major stressor on this area, and the 2017 Elephant Hill wildfire and the 2021 Sparks Lake wildfire consumed much of the remaining forest. “The Deadman Watershed has been absolutely devastated,” says Shaun Freeman, senior wildlife and habitat biologist with Skeetchestn Natural Resource corp. “What we ended up with is a lot of hydrological issues.” In the early spring, the snowpack melts all at once, with little water retained in the upper watershed due to vegetation loss, he explains. This has knock-on effects for the entire ecosystem Tsecmenúl̓ecwem-kt (We Repair the Land ) is a project led by Skeetchestn Indian Band to remedy this situation. Since launching this year, their goal is to restore the watershed and enhance its resilience in the face of worsening climate change, while simultaneously studying how mitigation measures following severe wildfires can help protect landscapes. They have many partners including Thompson Rivers University, the province and the Secwépemc Fisheries Commission. But the arguably most hardworking collaborator is one you may not expect — an ancient ally in ecological stewardship known in Secwepemctsín as sqlew’uwi and in English as the North American Beaver. To help the land, Skeetchestn’s Tsecmenúl̓ecwem-kt project has successfully populated the upper watershed with one beaver, known as Doug, with the goal to re-introduce more over coming years. Beavers like Doug have a natural instinct to build dams across flowing water, creating ponds to evade predators. These ponds influence local hydrology, enhancing the habitat for countless other species, including plants, waterfowl, amphibians, invertebrates and of course salmon. “Having ponds and wetlands keeps moisture in the soil and keeps that deciduous component healthy,” which Freeman says is important because those tree species don’t burn to the extent of evergreens. This creates natural fire breaks which can stall or potentially stop a wildfire from moving across the valley. What’s even more important is slowing down the flow rate to maintain downstream flow into the heat of summer, when low flows block fish passage and can even be fatal. “We are trying to make sure that the streams are not just a pile of rocks when it comes to August and September because everything, including us, needs water,” Freeman says. “Healthy ecosystems require water which is why we are trying to have the beavers help us do that recovery.” “In terms of relocating beavers, it’s a little bit more complex than just grabbing them, putting them in the truck and dropping them off,” he says. They must be set up for success. Since the 2021 Sparks Lake wildfire, there has been good regrowth of deciduous species, including aspen and willow which are important to beavers as food and building material. Three sites with good conditions were selected for possible reintroduction. But the timing of the beaver capture and release is critical. “We don’t want to be in a position where we’re capturing beavers that have kits in the lodge,” he says. Which means capturing needs to happen in the late winter or early spring. They also need time to prepare their infrastructure — the lodge, feed pile and any dams they need to control the water level — in their new habitat. If you put them in too late, the chance of successful colonization is reduced. So, the first step was to prepare the holding facility where the beavers will stay between capture and release: the beaver hotel. In creating a good habitat for Doug the beaver, the Interior Wildlife Rehabilitation Society was very helpful, and the team visited the Summerland beaver hotel to learn how it works and design their own. The first guest of the Skeetchestn beaver hotel, a female the team named Willow, was not quite what they expected. “Unfortunately, Willow decided to climb the seven foot chain link fence, as evidenced by the muddy footprints she left behind,” says Freeman, something they didn’t know a beaver could do. In contrast the second beaver they caught, a male they named Doug, was more than satisfied with his accommodations. “He knew the gravy train was coming to him.” There were a couple of times he was so deeply asleep the team thought, “Oh geez, Doug’s dead!” And they would have to wiggle his cage and tip him out. Skeetchestn is not the only community interested in the positive effect beavers and their dams have on ecosystems. Elsewhere in the province the 10,000 Watersheds Project is building Beaver Dam Analogs, an alternative to natural beaver dams which seek to mimic their effect on hydrology. While these are an exciting technology, Freeman says they have drawbacks. Humans have to build them and, unless the analog is adopted by beavers, humans are responsible for maintaining them too. “They are also liable if something goes wrong,” says Freeman. “But you can’t sue a beaver.” While the busy beavers are the charismatic stars of the Tsecmenúl̓ecwem-kt project, the human partners are hard at work, too. Despite interest in beavers as a partner in ecosystem restoration, there isn’t much in the scientific literature evaluating a habitat before and after beaver reintroduction. “This is where the Western science monitoring comes into place,” says Freeman. “The province and our fisheries team are involved with measuring the hydrology, downstream flow, water temperature and such so that we have that baseline.” They will be monitoring over time to establish what influence the beavers have on the watershed. The team has conducted drone surveys of the habitat, mapping the water and vegetation distribution, while also ensuring no beavers have moved into a separate area that will be monitored as an experimental ‘no beaver’ control — the standard for comparison in a scientific study. They are also doing an inventory with respect to the species at risk that call this watershed home, including both terrestrial species like Western rattlesnake, Great Basin Spadefoot toad and Louis’ woodpecker to name just a few, and aquatic ones especially salmonids like Chinook, Coho and Steelhead. Don Ignace and the Secwepemc Fisheries Commission are doing a lot of the aquatic restoration work. There are also researchers from multiple B.C. universities and government agencies working on other aspects of restoration, like planting and road deactivation. The federally and provincially co-funded BC Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund is providing $4 million dollars. This first year has been mostly successful, Freeman says. The team wants to focus on introducing beavers in pairs so that they can establish a colony, but unfortunately Willow’s escape was not the only hurdle the team faced on that front. The beaver colonies in the lower watershed that had been the targets for relocation suffered deaths over the winter. The team was not keen on taking any additional beavers from them at their current population level. So, Doug was introduced alone to the upper watershed and he seemed to like the location the team selected, suggesting their assumptions about the habitat’s suitability for supporting beaver are very likely correct. “He went right at it, barely leaving the site we released him from and just started building,” he says. Doug actually built two lodges. “I think he decided the first one wasn’t up to his specifications, whatever those may be,” he says, but Doug seems much happier with the second. Next year the team will be sourcing beavers from some of the areas where they are overly abundant. “Because we do have the ability to host beavers for as long as necessary, we’re able to really start sourcing and looking at some of these other areas which have similar problems in future to and basically become the beaver hub, so to speak, for Secwepemc territory.” They have already had offers from staff in Tk’emlúps that have some issues with beavers in high numbers. If beavers overpopulate a watershed, they can do damage, he explains. “So, we have a job for them. It may not be in the low part of the drainage, but we definitely have a job for them in the top,” Freeman says. “It’s just a case of shifting from where we have an over abundance, putting them where we don’t have any, then letting them work their magic to help us recreate the hydrology into something that’s going to sustain the whole water table.”

All eyes on Manchester United as new boss Ruben Amorim takes charge with change on the menu

Mizzou star Luther Burden III declares for NFL draftAGPROfessionals Founder, Tom Haren Selected for USDA’s Task Force on Agricultural Air Quality Research

NoneMarcos Jr.: Machiavellian or meek?All zodiac signs have their own characteristics and traits which define someone’s personality. Wouldn’t it be helpful if you started your day by already knowing about what’s going to come your way? Read on to find out whether the odds will be in your favour today. ARIES (Mar 21-Apr 20): A balanced combination of diet and exercise will benefit your health. Recognition from a senior may uplift your spirits. Focusing on positivity will help clear mental stress. Be cautious while driving on the road. You might explore new property options. Academically, you need to be more proactive. Love Focus: Those in relationships may need to revive their love life. Lucky Number: 7 Lucky Colour: Saffron TAURUS (Apr 21-May 20): Staying consistent with your workout will ensure good health. Financially, you will remain stable, and issues, if any may resolve naturally. A long-awaited transfer may come through. Improving an elder's mood will bring harmony at home. You will excel academically and embrace positive changes. Love Focus: Enjoyment is on the cards for those in love. Lucky Number: 17 Lucky Colour: Green GEMINI (May 21-Jun 21): New ventures will be completed successfully. A colleague or friend may offer support. You may be well-prepared for academic challenges. Some may inspect a new property purchase. Promises made to the family will be fulfilled. Job seekers may find success. Love Focus: A planned outing with a lover will be enjoyable. Lucky Number: 8 Lucky Colour: Brown CANCER (Jun 22-Jul 22): External help may assist in achieving fitness goals. Financially, things will stabilize with reduced expenses. A trusted colleague will help solve a work problem. Joint family life will be harmonious. You may receive academic recognition and social popularity. Love Focus: A romantic evening with fine food and music will bring you closer. Lucky Number: 9 Lucky Colour: Purple LEO (Jul 23-Aug 23): Healthy eating and discipline will help you maintain your fitness levels. Saving money by opting for affordable options may be beneficial. At work, you’ll clear pending issues. A fun outing with friends is likely. Academic success is foreseen. Some of you may fit in as a beneficiary in a family will. Love Focus: Time with your lover will be refreshing. Lucky Number: 1 Lucky Colour: Red VIRGO (Aug 24-Sep 23): Interest in healthy foods will increase. You may discover new income sources. Hard work at the office front will bring rewards. You will enjoy a family event today. An overseas trip may face some delays. Students should avoid distractions or it may hamper your results. A family elder may require your time and attention to complete some documentation related work. Love Focus: A surprise from your lover is expected. Lucky Number: 18 Lucky Colour: Orange LIBRA (Sep 24-Oct 23): You will enjoy good health today. Financial gains from various sources will keep you stable. Your mediation skills will be appreciated at work. Visiting loved ones will be enjoyable. You may purchase something new for your home. You will get the chance to finish something important. Love Focus: An anticipated outing with your lover will be delightful. Lucky Number: 6 Lucky Colour: Beige SCORPIO (Oct 24-Nov 22): You may focus on health and achieve fitness goals. Financially, you are stable and can plan to buy some luxurious item for personal use. Good work performance may lead to a higher salary. Support will come from family. Avoid risky driving and taking sides in matters unrelated to you. Love Focus: A former lover may reappear and brighten your day. Lucky Number: 8 Lucky Colour: Dark Grey SAGITTARIUS (Nov 23-Dec 21): Attention to detail will benefit you today. Persuasion will work in your favor. Stay disciplined with your diet for optimal health. Financially, things will improve, and career growth is expected too. A family reunion might be on the horizon. You may take the initiative to organize something and invite people over. Love Focus: A whirlwind romance may start soon. Lucky Number: 6 Lucky Colour: Silver CAPRICORN (Dec 22-Jan 21): If unwell, you may recover quickly. Financial gains are expected today. You will enjoy the rewards of hard work. A pleasant visit with loved ones is likely. A long-standing property issue may be resolved in your favor. Keeping in touch with others on the academic front will be helpful. Love Focus: Romance may flourish as you reconnect with others. Lucky Number: 11 Lucky Colour: Sky Blue AQUARIUS (Jan 22-Feb 19): A quick recovery from illness is expected. Loaned money may be returned. At work, a new colleague will lighten your load. Academically, you may face some confusion. Be kind to those offering help. A family reunion is on the cards and your initiative will make it happen. You will feel good as guests throng your place today. Love Focus: Planning an outing with a lover cannot be ruled out for some. Lucky Number: 7 Lucky Colour: Pink PISCES (Feb 20-Mar 20): A change of diet will make you feel more energetic. This is a good time to invest in secure schemes. Challenges at work will be overcome. A family celebration is likely. Those preparing for exams will make good progress. People are likely to visit your place today and keep you happily engaged. Love Focus: Impressing someone on the romantic front is very much on the cards for some. Lucky Number: 5 Lucky Colour: Red

University of Phoenix College of Doctoral Studies Releases Whitepaper on Enhancing Skills for Marketability

This year, we witnessed an impressive influx of innovative and creative designs in the architectural world. They pushed the boundaries of design and engineering to impressive heights. Ranging from groundbreaking infrastructure projects to eco-friendly marvels, this year displayed a remarkable array of architectural achievements. In our 2024 Wrapped, we have curated a collection of extraordinary projects that addressed different issues such as sustainability, urban connectivity, and innovative living solutions. We explore the unique features that make them stand out and why they are considered specimens of architectural excellence in 2024. Dig into this array of architectural achievements, while preparing for the fascinating designs 2025 holds in store for us. Called the , this structure is a marvel of modern engineering. It bridges the gap between two bustling cities in China’s Guangdong Province. It covers 15 miles and is a cross-sea tunnel and bridge system that connects Shenzhen and Zhongshan, cutting the travel time from two hours to only thirty minutes. It consists of different bridges and an underwater tunnel. It is an important project in one of the world’s most densely populated regions. The Link officially opened in June 2024 and broke around 10 world records, displaying China’s commitment to innovating and achieving large-scale construction prowess. It incorporates cutting-edge technology, such as the largest offshore suspension bridge anchor and the longest two-way, eight-lane immersed tube tunnel. The project is a fine specimen of engineering excellence. Its ability to withstand extreme weather conditions and high traffic volumes further emphasizes its robustness. The Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link is not just an infrastructure project; it’s a testament to the possibilities of modern architecture and a significant step forward in connecting major urban centers. Designed by Tiny House Listings, is an affordable and comfortable house created for those seeking a minimalist lifestyle. It is built on a double-axle trailer and provides a cozy and compact living space that is perfect for two people. The towable dwelling features a 20-foot length and is the same size as most typical European tiny homes. It showcases a metal exterior and a stylish metal roof, which protect a 160-square-foot space with an open layout. The thoughtfully designed interior hosts a functional kitchen, compact living area, and a well-designed bathroom – making it an ideal fit for couples looking to downsize. The Lad Tiny Home efficiently uses space, and is affordable, making it a viable housing solution for those embracing the tiny home movement. Its design maximizes functionality without sacrificing comfort, offering essential amenities in a compact form. As housing costs rise, this tiny home represents a growing trend towards sustainable, low-cost living, making it an excellent addition to the architectural landscape of 2024. Constructed by Neom, in Saudi Arabia is designed to be a luxurious haven for superyachts and their owners. It can accommodate 300 superyachts and is equipped with an impressive “aerofoil” shelter that offers year-round protection from the sun. Jaumur is more than just a marina, it is designed to be a vibrant community. It will house 500 apartments, 700 luxury villas, two luxury hotels, and an international boarding school. It is interspersed with green spaces, and merges luxury with sustainability, making it one of the most impressive projects we’ve seen in 2024. Its ability to host large superyachts under a unique shelter demonstrates innovative design, while the surrounding residential and commercial amenities create a holistic living environment. The integration of green spaces and a deep-sea research center showcases a commendable commitment to environmental sustainability and scientific advancement Designed by Acorn Tiny Homes, the is pushing the boundaries of micro-living with its spacious and personalized design. The home is inspired by medieval literature and the color purple, in turn serving as a luxurious home that is more expansive than traditional tiny homes. It is 43 feet long and amped with a faux stone and wood exterior, as well as a unique roofline. The house also features a dedicated “catio” for feline companions. The interior of the home is spacious and cozy, equipped with a custom purple sofa bed, floor-to-ceiling bookshelves with a movable ladder, a gaming station, and a well-equipped kitchen, blending comfort with whimsy. The home’s design challenges the constraints of traditional tiny homes, providing ample room and amenities while maintaining mobility. The attention to detail, from the custom furniture to the cleverly integrated cat space, showcases a commitment to tailored living. As a symbol of the growing trend towards customizable and spacious tiny homes, the Purple Heart Manor showcases how downsizing can be comfortable and creative. Sometime back Michael Green Architecture (MGA) unveiled plans for a in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It will be the world’s tallest timber skyscraper, representing MGA’s efforts in modern timber construction. The skyscraper will be primarily built using mass timber, a material known for its fire resistance. The details of concrete usage are still unknown, but this innovative approach displays a new precedent for urban construction and challenges the utilization of traditional building materials. It promotes environmental sustainability, hence making its mark as one of the impressive architectural projects of 2024. This timber skyscraper represents an evolution in sustainable architecture, showcasing the potential of timber as a primary building material for large structures. Its construction will highlight the advantages of mass timber, including its environmental benefits and structural resilience. Since it will be the tallest timber building globally, the project challenges conventional architectural norms and encourages the use of eco-friendly materials in urban environments.HNB appoints Damith Pallewatte as Managing Director/CEO

Audi has launched the new 2025 RS e-tron GT and S e-tron GT to update its top-performance EV lineup with what is now the most powerful and fastest accelerating production vehicle in the brand’s history. With almost 1,000 horsepower and a 0-60 mph time of just 2.4 seconds, Audi’s electric flagship joins the electric supercar ranks, where efficiency meets performance. The 2025 e-tron GT family now includes two models: the S e-tron GT as an impressive entry point and the headline-grabbing RS e-tron GT Performance. Both models benefit from significant upgrades, including improved battery capacity, range, and faster charging. The new 105 kWh battery pack enables up to 300 miles of range on the S e-tron GT. No range figures are not available for the RS yet. Audi has packed the 2025 e-tron GT models with a suite of performance-enhancing upgrades: The four-ring brand has refined the e-tron GT’s already impressive handling with new active suspension technology, offering better cornering dynamics and enhanced ride comfort. The RS Performance mode, exclusive to the top model, optimizes torque distribution and suspension settings for maximum grip and precision on challenging roads or track conditions. While staying true to its sleek grand tourer DNA, the 2025 e-tron GT lineup introduces new exterior colors, a reworked front fascia, and unique forged carbon design elements. The RS model, in particular, showcases Audi’s first use of forged carbon fiber for interior and exterior accents, delivering a high-tech, lightweight look. Inside, Audi debuts a glass roof with adjustable transparency, allowing drivers to customize the ambiance with a liquid crystal film that transitions from clear to frosted. Both models are now available for order through U.S. Audi dealerships: Hopefully, we will get a chance to get behind the wheels of this new e-tron GT lineup soon because these look like significant improvements over the previous model years. and subscribe to the . Fred is the Editor in Chief and Main Writer at Electrek. You can send tips on Twitter (DMs open) or via email: fred@9to5mac.com Through Zalkon.com, you can check out Fred’s portfolio and get monthly green stock investment ideas. Get interesting investment ideas by Fred Lambert ChargePoint Home WiFi Enabled Electric Vehicle (EV) Charger

Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market Analysis By Top Keyplayers - Airspan, Qualcomm, Nokia, Samsung, Inseego, Huawei Technologies, Gemtek, Digi International, Jaton Technology, Technicolor, Ericsson, CommScope, Eltel Group, Blinq Networks, Anritsu, Cohere Techn 11-26-2024 08:43 PM CET | Business, Economy, Finances, Banking & Insurance Press release from: Verified Market Reports The "Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market" is expected to reach USD xx.x billion by 2031, indicating a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of xx.x percent from 2024 to 2031. The market was valued at USD xx.x billion In 2023. Growing Demand and Growth Potential in the Global Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market, 2024-2031 Verified Market Research's most recent report, "Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market: Global Industry Trends, Share, Size, Growth, Opportunity and Forecast 2023-2030," provides an in-depth examination of the industry that includes insights into the market analysis. Along with competition and geographical research, the report also covers recent developments in the worldwide industry. The market for cosmetic packaging has been rising dramatically in recent years due to a variety of important factors, including rising product demand, a greater client base, and developments in technology. The market is thoroughly examined in this study, along with its size, trends, factors driving and impeding growth, competitive aspects, and potential for expansion. Download Full PDF Sample Copy of Wireless To The X(WTTx) Report @ https://www.verifiedmarketreports.com/download-sample/?rid=216634&utm_source=Openpr&utm_medium=214 Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market business report has been produced with a thorough grasp of the business environment that best fits the client's needs. This market analysis can also help businesses understand sustainability initiatives and financial growth. This report's explanation of market drivers and constraints helps readers understand how many factors might affect how much demand a given product has from consumers. All of the leading companies' and brands' company profiles are included in this market analysis. In-depth research and analysis are used to appropriately elaborate on each area in order to produce an accurate Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market survey report. Who is the largest manufacturers of Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market worldwide? Airspan Qualcomm Nokia Samsung Inseego Huawei Technologies Gemtek Digi International Jaton Technology Technicolor Ericsson CommScope Eltel Group Blinq Networks Anritsu Cohere Technologies Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market Segmentation Analysis Segmentation analysis involves dividing the market into distinct groups based on certain criteria such as type and application. This helps in understanding the market dynamics, targeting specific customer groups, and devising tailored marketing strategies. Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market By Type 1.8GHz-6GHz 6GHz-24GHz Above24GHz Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market By Applications Small & Medium Enterprises Large Enterprises Get Discount On The Purchase Of This Report @ https://www.verifiedmarketreports.com/ask-for-discount/?rid=216634&utm_source=Openpr&utm_medium=214 Detailed TOC of Global Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market Research Report, 2023-2030 1. Introduction of the Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market ►Overview of the Market ►Scope of Report ►Assumptions 2. Executive Summary 3. Research Methodology of Verified Market Reports ►Data Minin ►Validation ►Primary Interview ►List of Data Sources 4. Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market Outlook ►Overview ►Market Dynamics ►Drivers ►Restraints ►Opportunities ►Porters Five Force Model ►Value Chain Analysis 5. Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market, By Product 6. Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market, By Application 7. Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market, By Geography ►North America ►Europe ►Asia Pacific ►Rest of the World 8. Wireless To The X(WTTx) Market Competitive Landscape ►Overview ►Company Market Ranking ►Key Development Strategies 9. Company Profiles 10. Appendix For More Information or Query, Visit @ https://www.verifiedmarketreports.com/product/wireless-to-the-x-wttx-market/ Contact us: Mr. Edwyne Fernandes US: +1 (650)-781-4080 US Toll-Free: +1 (800)-782-1768 About Us: Verified Market Reports Verified Market Reports is a leading Global Research and Consulting firm servicing over 5000+ global clients. We provide advanced analytical research solutions while offering information-enriched research studies. We also offer insights into strategic and growth analyses and data necessary to achieve corporate goals and critical revenue decisions. Our 250 Analysts and SMEs offer a high level of expertise in data collection and governance using industrial techniques to collect and analyze data on more than 25,000 high-impact and niche markets. Our analysts are trained to combine modern data collection techniques, superior research methodology, expertise, and years of collective experience to produce informative and accurate research. This release was published on openPR.Van Nistelrooy returned to Old Trafford as Erik ten Hag’s assistant in the summer and had a four-game interim spell in charge following his compatriot’s sacking in October. He left the club in the wake of Ruben Amorim’s appointment but was only out of work for two weeks after being appointed Leicester’s new manager on a deal until 2027. The 48-year-old had a glittering playing career with United and was disappointed his return had to end so soon. “The moment I took over the interim job what I said was I’m here to help United and to stay to help United, and I meant it,” he said. “So I was disappointed, yeah, very much so, and it hurt I had to leave. “The only job I would take as an assistant was at United because of the bond that I have with the people in the club and the fans. “But in the end I got my head around it because I also understand the new manager. I’m in football long enough, and I’ve managed myself, that you can think of a situation, me being there, I understand. “I spoke to Ruben about it, fair enough to him, the conversation was grateful, man to man, person to person, manager to manager, and that helped a lot to move on and straightaway get into talks with new possibilities which of course lifted my spirits.” The Dutchman takes on a difficult job at the King Power Stadium as he is tasked with keeping Leicester in the Premier League. He inherits an influential dressing room, which has seen a number of managers come and go over the last few years. Ruud's here for his first press conference as our Manager 😃 pic.twitter.com/A4Juixvorb — Leicester City (@LCFC) December 2, 2024 Van Nistelrooy revealed he has done his due diligence and also let the players know as well. “It’s the only way you can work. It’s mutual respect. I also mentioned to the players yesterday that I looked at the squad and started to make phone calls about players, because in football everyone knows everyone,” he said. “With two or three phone calls you hear stories about 20 players and for me it was important that you hear there are good characters there. That’s important, that there are good people there. “I look at the players how they play. I obviously don’t know them but I got general information and the individuals that they are a good bunch of people. That was important for me to get in.”

No. 1 South Carolina Women Stunned by Fifth-Ranked UCLA 77-62, Ending Gamecocks' 43-Game Win Streak“Barbenheimer” was a phenomenon impossible to manufacture. But, more than a year later, that hasn’t stopped people from trying to make “Glicked” — or even “Babyratu” — happen. The counterprogramming of “Barbie” and “Oppenheimer” in July 2023 hit a nerve culturally and had the receipts to back it up. Unlike so many things that begin as memes, it transcended its online beginnings. Instead of an either-or, the two movies ultimately complemented and boosted one another at the box office. This combination of images shows promotional art for "Gladiator II," left, and "Wicked." And ever since, moviegoers, marketers and meme makers have been trying to recreate that moment, searching the movie release schedule for odd mashups and sending candidates off into the social media void. Most attempts have fizzled (sorry, “Saw Patrol” ). This weekend is perhaps the closest approximation yet as the Broadway musical adaptation “Wicked” opens Friday against the chest-thumping sword-and-sandals epic “Gladiator II.” Two big studio releases (Universal and Paramount), with one-name titles, opposite tones and aesthetics and big blockbuster energy — it was already halfway there before the name game began: “Wickiator,” “Wadiator,” “Gladwick” and even the eyebrow raising “Gladicked” have all been suggested. “'Glicked' rolls off the tongue a little bit more,” actor Fred Hechinger said at the New York screening of “Gladiator II” this week. “I think we should all band around ‘Glicked.’ It gets too confusing if you have four or five different names for it.” As with “Barbenheimer," as reductive as it might seem, “Glicked” also has the male/female divide that make the fan art extra silly. One is pink and bright and awash in sparkles, tulle, Broadway bangers and brand tie-ins; The other is all sweat and sand, blood and bulging muscles. Both films topped Fandango’s most anticipated holiday movie survey, where 65% of respondents said that they were interested in the “Glicked” double feature. Theaters big and small are also pulling out the stops with movie-themed tie-ins. B&B Theaters will have Roman guards tearing tickets at some locations and Maximus popcorn tubs. Marcus Theaters is doing Oz photo ops and friendship bracelet-making. Alamo Drafthouse is leaning into the singalong aspect (beware, though, not all theaters are embracing this) and the punny drinks like “Defying Gravi-Tea.” This image released by Universal Pictures shows Cynthia Erivo, left, and Ariana Grande in a scene from the film "Wicked." “Rather than it being in competition, I think they’re in conversation,” “Gladiator II” star Paul Mescal said. “This industry needs a shot in the arm. Those films gave it last year. We hope to do it this year.” And the hope is that audiences will flock to theaters to be part of this moment as well. It's a sorely needed influx of could-be blockbusters into a marketplace that's still at an 11% deficit from last year and down 27.2% from 2019, according to data from Comscore. “Competition is good for the marketplace. It’s good for consumers,” said Michael O'Leary, the president and CEO of the National Association of Theatre Owners. “Having two great movies coming out at the same time is simply a multiplier effect.” “Glicked” is currently tracking for a combined North American debut in the $165 million range, with “Wicked” forecast to earn around $100 million (up from the $80 million estimates a few weeks ago) and “Gladiator II” pegged for the $65 million range. “Barbenheimer” shattered its projections last July. Going into that weekend, “Barbie” had been pegged for $90 million and “Oppenheimer” around $40 million. Ultimately, they brought in a combined $244 million in that first outing, and nearly $2.4 billion by the end of their runs. It’s possible “Glicked” will exceed expectations, too. And it has the advantage of another behemoth coming close behind: “Moana 2,” which opens just five days later on the Wednesday before the Thanksgiving holiday. “Glickedana” triple feature anyone? This image released by Paramount Pictures shows Pedro Pascal, left, and Paul Mescal in a scene from "Gladiator II." “These are 10 important days,” O'Leary said. “It’s going to show the moviegoing audience that there’s a lot of compelling stuff out there for them to see.” There are infinite caveats to the imperfect comparison to “Barbenheimer,” as well. “Wicked” is a “Part One.” Musicals carry their own baggage with moviegoers, even those based on wildly successful productions (ahem, “Cats”). “Gladiator II” got a head start and opened internationally last weekend. In fact, in the U.K. it played alongside “Paddington in Peru,” where that double was pegged “Gladdington.” “Gladiator” reviews, while positive, are a little more divided than the others. And neither directors Ridley Scott nor Jon M. Chu has the built-in box office cache that Christopher Nolan’s name alone carries at the moment. The new films also cost more than “Barbie” ($145 million) and “Oppenheimer” ($100 million). According to reports, “Gladiator II” had a $250 million price tag; “Wicked” reportedly cost $150 million to produce (and that does not include the cost of the second film, due next year). The narrative, though, has shifted away from “who will win the weekend.” Earlier this year, Chu told The Associated Press that he loves that this is a moment where “we can root for all movies all the time.” Close behind are a bevy of Christmas releases with double feature potential, but those feel a little more niche. There’s the remake of “Nosferatu,” the Nicole Kidman kink pic “Babygirl” and the Bob Dylan biopic “A Complete Unknown.” The internet can’t even seem to decide on its angle for that batch of contenders, and none exactly screams blockbuster. Sometimes the joy is just in the game, however. Some are sticking with the one-name mashup (“Babyratu”); others are suggesting that the fact that two of the movies feature real-life exes (Timothée Chalamet and Lily-Rose Depp) is enough reason for a double feature. And getting people talking is half the battle. When in doubt, or lacking a catchy name, there’s always the default: “This is my Barbenheimer.” Associated Press journalist John Carucci and Film Writer Jake Coyle contributed reporting. Last summer, Malibu's iconic blonde faced off against Cillian Murphy and the hydrogen bomb in the unforgettable "Barbenheimer" double feature. Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. 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EHang Partners with Changan Automobile on Flying Cars to Create an Innovative Way for Personal Transportation

King Charles and Tony Blair lead tributes to former deputy prime minister John PrescottTweet Facebook Mail England's prestigious Oxford University has found its word of the year for 2024 - and it is, aptly enough, "brain rot". The word was chosen from a shortlist of six, which also included "demure", "dynamic pricing", "lore", "romantasy", and "slop". More than 37,000 people voted across a two-week period. READ MORE: 'Lost my eyesight': Music megastar's shock update "Brain rot" refers to the over-consumption of online content, especially on social media. (Getty Images/iStockphoto) The university defined "brain rot" as "the supposed deterioration of a person's mental or intellectual state, especially viewed as the result of overconsumption of material (now particularly online content) considered to be trivial or unchallenging. Also: something characterised as likely to lead to such deterioration". The university found that the first recorded use of "brain rot" was in 1854 in Henry David Thoreau's book Walden , in which the author discusses his experience of a stripped-back life among nature. "While England endeavours to cure the potato rot, will not any endeavour to cure the brain-rot – which prevails so much more widely and fatally?" Walden wrote. READ MORE: In the biggest UN court case ever, the stakes 'could not be higher'  Henry David Thoreau is believed to have coined the term. (Getty) The term in the digital age has come to widely signify the impact of consuming huge quantities of online content, particularly on social media. Oxford University found the use of the term increased 230 per cent between 2023 and 2024. "Looking back at the Oxford Word of the Year over the past two decades, you can see society's growing preoccupation with how our virtual lives are evolving, the way internet culture is permeating so much of who we are and what we talk about," president of Oxford languages Casper Grathwohl said. "Last year's winning word, 'rizz', was an interesting example of how language is increasingly formed, shaped, and shared within online communities." READ MORE: Joe Biden pardons his son Hunter  How this seven-year-old boy earned $34 million for one year View Gallery The increased usage of "brain rot" also began online, particularly among Generation Z and Generation Alpha users on social media such as TikTok. "'Brain rot' speaks to one of the perceived dangers of virtual life, and how we are using our free time," Grathwohl said. "It feels like a rightful next chapter in the cultural conversation about humanity and technology. "It's not surprising that so many voters embraced the term, endorsing it as our choice this year." Grathwohl also said he was "fascinated" the term had been adopted by younger internet users, given their online communities are the main creators of the content to which "brain rot" refers. "It demonstrates a somewhat cheeky self-awareness in the younger generations about the harmful impact of social media that they've inherited," he said. DOWNLOAD THE 9NEWS APP : Stay across all the latest in breaking news, sport, politics and the weather via our news app and get notifications sent straight to your smartphone. Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play .None