Dow ends at fresh record as oil prices pull back on ceasefire hopesNEW YORK — I’ll get you, my pretty! And your little pygmy hippo, too! Forgive us the shameless attempt to link the fantasy hit “Wicked” to the delightful Moo Deng. But, hear us out — there’s something the two have in common as the year draws to a close. Escapism. Whether we found it on the yellow brick road, or in videos from a Thailand zoo, or perhaps in unlikely Olympic heroes, we gravitated toward fantasy and feel-good pop culture moments this year. There were new trends, as always. “Brat summer” became a thing, as did “demure, mindful.” And for some inexplicable reason, we became obsessed with celebrity lookalike contests. There were breakups — Bennifer is, again, a thing of the past — and reunions: Oasis, please try to stay together for the tour. Yet some things stayed, remarkably, the same: Taylor Swift and Beyoncé kept on breaking records and making history. So, after a year where much changed but some things held steady, here’s our annual, very selective trip down pop culture memory lane: It starts as a cheery tweet from a beloved “Sesame Street” figure: “ELMO is just checking in! How is everybody doing?” The answers hint at something deeper and more worrisome. “Not great, Elmo. Not great,” says one milder reply. Doing much better is the viral phenomenon called “BARBENHEIMER,” which makes its awards season debut at the GOLDEN GLOBES. But perhaps the most poignant moment comes from neither film: LILY GLADSTONE, first Indigenous winner of best actress in a drama for “Killers of the Flower Moon,” begins her remarks in the language of her tribe, Blackfeet Nation. Valentine’s Day — a perfect time to settle into a sweet love saga via TikTok. Only that’s not quite what we get with “Who TF Did I Marry?,” REESA TEESA’s depressing, fascinating, 50-part account of her disastrous marriage with a man who lied about absolutely everything. Meanwhile, if you're looking for a single week that encapsulates peak SWIFT cultural dominance, try this: she begins with the Grammys in Los Angeles (becoming the first artist to win album of the year four times AND announcing a new album), then heads to Tokyo for four tour dates, then jets back just in time for the Super Bowl in Las Vegas — where she shares a passionate smooch with boyfriend TRAVIS KELCE on the field of victory. “What was I made for?” BILLIE EILISH sings at the OSCARS, channeling BARBIE. And what was KEN made for? Not entirely clear — but it's clear RYAN GOSLING was made to play him. His singalong version of “I’m Just Ken” is one of the most entertaining Oscar musical moments in years. Still, Christopher Nolan's “OPPENHEIMER” prevails, a rare case of the top prize going to a blockbuster studio film. Will it happen again in 2025? CYNTHIA ERIVO and ARIANA GRANDE sure hope so; as presenters, they make a sly reference to their upcoming juggernaut, “WICKED.” Speaking of marketing, people are obsessed with that bizarre “DUNE” popcorn bucket. And BEYONCÉ carves her space in country music with “Act II: Cowboy Carter,” which will make her the first Black woman to top the Billboard country chart. Tennis, anyone? The game’s been around for centuries, but it’s having a cultural moment right now, helped mightily by “CHALLENGERS,” the sweaty romance triangle starring ZENDAYA, MIKE FAIST and JOSH O'CONNOR (40-love? More like 40-sex.) Elsewhere, a new era dawns: At midnight, SWIFT drops “THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT," then drops another 15 songs two hours later. The fascinating and disturbing “BABY REINDEER,” the story of a struggling comedian’s extended encounter with a stalker, debuts on Netflix. It’s MET GALA time — or as it's known in 2024, another early marketing moment for “WICKED.” ERIVO and GRANDE make fashion waves on the carpet and then musical ones at dinner, with a soulful performance of “When You Believe.” If the “Wicked” tour is in full force, another one stops in its tracks: JENNIFER LOPEZ cancels her summer tour amid reports of both poor ticket sales and trouble in her marriage to BEN AFFLECK. It’s been an eventful year for J.Lo, who's released an album and movie called “THIS IS ME ... NOW" — both reflections on her renewed love with Affleck. Welcome to BRAT SUMMER! CHARLI XCX releases her hit “Brat” album, with its lime green cover, and launches a thousand memes. Collins Dictionary defines “brat,” its word of the year, as “characterized by a confident, independent, and hedonistic attitude.” At the celeb-heavy SWIFT shows in London, we see PRINCE WILLIAM shaking it off, which is either charming or cringe, you decide. Even better: KELCE dons a top hat and tux and performs for one night. At another stadium across the pond, METS infielder JOSE IGLESIAS delights the crowd with his cheery number “OMG.” Bonjour, it’s OLYMPICS time! In Paris! An audacious opening ceremony along the Seine is punctuated by a fabulous CELINE DION, perched on the EIFFEL TOWER, singing her heart out — in the rain, too. Controversy swirls over a scene critics feel mocks Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” (organizers say it does not). Olympic stars are born — including French swimming superstar LEON MARCHAND, rugby player ILONA MAHER, and bespectacled “Pommel Horse Guy” gymnast STEPHEN NEDOROSCIK, who nets two bronze medals and comparisons to Clark Kent. Also capturing hearts: yep, MOO DENG, born this month. Her name means “bouncy pork.” This is them ... now: BENNIFER is no more. After two decades, two engagements and two weddings, J.Lo files for divorce. One union dissolves, another returns: OASIS announces a reunion tour. Everyone seems to want to get in on TikToker JOOLS LEBRON's “DEMURE, MINDFUL” act — even the WHITE HOUSE press team. Back at the Olympics, in the new sport of breaking, we meet Australia’s RAYGUN, arguably neither demure nor mindful with her “kangaroo” move. Cute animal alert: SHOHEI OHTANI’s perky pooch DECOY does a great “first pitch” in his Major League Baseball debut. One of the year’s biggest breakout artists, CHAPPELL ROAN, withdraws from a music festival after speaking out about frightening fan interactions. And more on the price of fame: In an excruciating moment, “Bachelorette” JENN TRAN, the franchise’s first Asian American lead, is forced to sit through a painful viewing of her proposal to her chosen suitor, after tearfully explaining how he’d later dumped her over the phone. Tran is keeping busy though — she’s announced as part of the new “Dancing with the Stars” lineup. Also on the list: rugby player Maher, and Pommel Horse Guy! Also, ANNA SOROKIN, dancing with an ankle monitor. Online fandom, meanwhile, is shaken when X is temporarily suspended in Brazil and celebrity stan accounts post tearful farewells, revealing to many across the globe that their favorite accounts are run by Brazilians. “Dune” Chalamets! “Wonka” Chalamets! Thousands gather in Manhattan for a TIMOTHÉE CHALAMET lookalike contest, and things really get interesting when Chalamet himself shows up. He doesn’t enter the contest, though, and with his mustache, he may not even have won. The trend continues with contests for JEREMY ALLEN WHITE, ZAYN MALIK and — in a very Washington version — Kennedy scion JACK SCHLOSSBERG, who's been gathering a following with some interesting social media posts. Turning to basketball, who’s that dancing with USHER? Why it’s ELLIE THE ELEPHANT, the now-viral NEW YORK LIBERTY mascot. MAYA RUDOLPH does a pretty good KAMALA HARRIS laugh on “Saturday Night Live,” but you know who does it better? HARRIS herself. The Democratic candidate makes a surprise cameo three days before the U.S. presidential election, following in the footsteps of HILLARY CLINTON, SARAH PALIN and others. Elsewhere in television, Bravo announces that “VANDERPUMP RULES,” the Emmy-nominated reality show that has lived through countless scandals, is entirely recasting its 12th season — apart from namesake LISA VANDERPUMP. As for MOO DENG, she doesn't have her own TV series yet, but our favorite pygmy hippo is generating plenty of merch. And THAT brings us back to ... “WICKED”! Director JON M. CHU’s emerald-hued fantasy remains very very popular, to quote one of its buzzy show tunes, dancing through life and defying gravity at the multiplex. Moviegoers also come for “GLADIATOR II” and, in a veritable tidal wave, Disney's “MOANA 2,” which beckons us back to the seas of Oceania. Once again, 2024 seems to be telling us: Give people some whimsy, a place to escape, maybe some catchy tunes — and no one knows how far they’ll go.Wild first season in expanded Big 12 comes down to final weekend
Trump’s defense secretary pick is ready for ‘insurgency’ — against American schoolsThe Vikings have prepared for the game against the Atlanta Falcons without veteran quarterback Stephon Gilmore this week, and on Friday he was officially ruled out ahead of the matchup on Sunday afternoon at U.S. Bank Stadium. ADVERTISEMENT The news isn’t surprising given the fact that Gilmore hasn’t practiced at all this week at TCO Performance Center. He’s been nursing a hamstring injury since last week when he left a victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Though the Vikings believe that Gilmore has avoided anything serious, they are clearly being cautious with him so not to make anything worse. The loss of Gilmore in the short term will thrust veteran cornerback Fabian Moreau into a bigger role on defense. ______________________________________________________ This story was written by one of our partner news agencies. Forum Communications Company uses content from agencies such as Reuters, Kaiser Health News, Tribune News Service and others to provide a wider range of news to our readers. Learn more about the news services FCC uses here .
It’s almost time for Spotify Wrapped. When can you expect your 2024 recap?Share Tweet Share Share Email The meme coin market has been buzzing lately, and the overall crypto landscape is feeling the heat. With new projects popping up and established coins making waves, investors are on the hunt for quick gains. The volatility of the market means that savvy traders can capitalise on short-term opportunities. Just like during the 1973 economic slump, where some folks took advantage of falling prices, today’s investors are eyeing the dips for potential rebounds. Among the latest contenders is BTFD Coin, which is flaunting its presale excitement and community-driven features. With a discount code, BIG50, available until January 5, 2025, there’s a compelling reason to get involved now. BTFD Coin (BTFD) stands at the forefront of this meme coin frenzy, combining fun with substantial investment potential. The project has already raised over $4.44 million, and with the presale in stage 12, it’s drawing in over 6,500 holders. The current price of $0.000064, which offers an astonishing 837.5% return on investment when it lists at $0.0006, is simply too good to ignore. Let’s dive into the top five picks for the best cryptos to join for short term gains, starting with BTFD Coin itself. 1. BTFD Coin: The Rising Star of Meme Coins BTFD Coin is making waves in the meme coin scene, and for good reason. Its presale features a play-to-earn (P2E) game that went live in stage 10, engaging users and offering an interactive experience. While rewards won’t be earned in the beta version, the full launch promises exciting gameplay and income potential. What’s more, BTFD Coin offers a staggering 90% annual percentage yield (APY) on staking, which went live on December 2. This means that not only can you buy and hold BTFD tokens, but you can also grow your investment passively through staking. The referral programme is another standout feature, allowing holders to earn bonuses by inviting friends to join the community. This builds a sense of camaraderie among investors and boosts the overall network effect, which is crucial for any meme coin’s success. The Bulls Squad, as the community is affectionately called, is growing rapidly, making it a vibrant space for engagement and investment. Why did this coin make it to this list? Simply put, BTFD Coin combines community, fun, and financial incentives in a way that few other projects can. With its presale performance surpassing $4.44 million in less than two weeks and a promising roadmap ahead, BTFD Coin is undoubtedly one of the best cryptos to join for short term gains. 2. Neiro: The AI-Powered Contender Next up is Neiro, an intriguing project that harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to provide solutions across various sectors. As the demand for AI technologies skyrockets, Neiro is well-positioned to attract investors looking for quick returns. The project focuses on creating applications that improve efficiency and decision-making, making it a valuable asset in today’s data-driven world. What sets Neiro apart is its commitment to transparency and community involvement. Investors are encouraged to participate in governance decisions, ensuring that the direction of the project aligns with the community’s interests. This level of engagement is becoming increasingly important in the crypto space, where projects that listen to their holders tend to thrive. Why did this coin make it to this list? Neiro combines cutting-edge technology with a community-focused approach, making it a strong candidate among the best cryptos to join for short term gains. With AI becoming an integral part of various industries, Neiro’s potential for growth is immense, attracting both tech enthusiasts and investors alike. 3. Book of Meme: A Collector’s Dream Book of Meme is a unique addition to the meme coin market, blending collectibles with cryptocurrency. This project allows users to trade and collect meme-themed NFTs, tapping into the growing popularity of digital art and collectibles. The community around Book of Meme is enthusiastic, and the innovative concept has garnered attention from both casual investors and serious collectors. The platform is designed to be user-friendly, making it easy for anyone to dive into the world of NFTs without feeling overwhelmed. With a solid marketing strategy and partnerships in place, Book of Meme is poised to capitalise on the surging interest in meme culture and digital assets. Why did this coin make it to this list? Book of Meme combines the fun of meme culture with the lucrative potential of NFTs, making it an attractive option for those looking to make quick gains in the crypto space. As the market for digital collectibles continues to expand, this project stands to benefit significantly, positioning itself as one of the best cryptos to join for short term gains. 4. Dogs: The Adorable Investment Dogs is a project that capitalises on the love for our furry friends, bringing a playful twist to the meme coin phenomenon. With a community-driven approach, Dogs aims to create a platform that supports animal welfare initiatives through its proceeds. This unique angle not only attracts animal lovers but also those looking to make a positive impact while investing. The project has a robust roadmap that includes charity partnerships and community events, solidifying its reputation as a socially responsible investment. Moreover, the whimsical branding and engaging community activities make it a fun space for investors to interact and grow their holdings. Why did this coin make it to this list? Dogs appeals to both the heart and the wallet, making it a compelling choice among the best cryptos to join for short term gains. The combination of a noble cause and a lively community creates a strong foundation for growth, ensuring that this project captures the attention of investors looking for both enjoyment and returns. 5. Pudgy Penguins: The Cuteness Overload Last but certainly not least, Pudgy Penguins have taken the NFT space by storm. This project features adorable penguin characters that have become a sensation among collectors and meme enthusiasts. With a vibrant community and a series of engaging events, Pudgy Penguins are not just cute; they’re a lucrative investment opportunity. The project has successfully created a buzz around its characters, leading to a growing demand for the NFTs. The strong community aspect ensures that holders feel valued and connected, which is vital for the longevity of any crypto project. Why did this coin make it to this list? Pudgy Penguins capture the essence of what makes meme coins fun and engaging while providing solid investment potential. With an ever-expanding collector base, this project stands out as one of the best cryptos to join for short term gains. Why Buying the Dip Matters Looking back to the economic collapse of 1973, we see that those who bought during the downturn often reaped significant rewards when the market rebounded. Today’s crypto market is no different. Currently, bearish trends are creating opportunities for astute investors who recognise the value in buying the dips. BTFD Coin, with its vibrant presale and community-driven features, is the ideal investment during these turbulent times. The ongoing BTFD Coin presale is a golden opportunity for those looking to enter the market at a discounted rate. With the presale having surpassed $4.44 million in just a few weeks, it’s clear that there’s a strong demand for this coin. By using the code BIG50, investors can secure a lower price before the presale concludes, offering a chance to maximise returns when BTFD Coin is listed. How to Get Involved in BTFD Coin If you’re eager to take part in the BTFD Coin presale, here’s how you can get started: Go to the Presale Page at BTFD Coin’s Buy Now. Connect Your Wallet: Click “Connect Wallet” and select your wallet (e.g., MetaMask, Trust Wallet). Enter the Bonus Code: Locate the Bonus code field, enter BIG50, and click “Apply”. Enter Purchase Details: Input the amount of $BTFD you want to buy and review the discounted price. Confirm and Buy: Click “Buy Now” and confirm the transaction in your wallet. Conclusion In a rapidly evolving market, the best cryptos to join for short term gains include BTFD Coin, Neiro, Book of Meme, Dogs, and Pudgy Penguins. Each of these projects brings something unique to the table, whether it’s community engagement, innovative technology, or downright cuteness. With the BTFD Coin presale generating significant buzz and offering enticing features like a play-to-earn game, staking rewards, and a vibrant community, the time to invest is now. Don’t miss out on this opportunity—join the BTFD Coin presale today and ride the wave of excitement into 2025! Find Out More: Website: https://www.btfd.io/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/BTFD_COIN Telegram: https://t.me/btfd_coin Related Items: Blockchain , BTFD Share Tweet Share Share Email Recommended for you Best Crypto to Buy in 2025: Qubetics, Solana, Cardano, Litecoin & Hedera to Explode Huge Gains! Top Cryptocurrencies to Watch in 2024 | Top 3 Potential Breakout Stars Innerworks and Bittensor ($TAO) Collaborate to Unveil RedTeam Platform to Enhance Cybersecurity Innovation Comments
DEI Made the Democratic Party Less Diverse | OpinionBravo is rebooting Vanderpump Rules with a new cast for Season 12, and the OG stars are weighing in. Ariana Madix took to social media to share a heartfelt message and photos of her time on the reality TV series. Madix exploded in popularity following “Scandoval” when she found out her boyfriend, Tom Sandoval, had been having an affair with their co-star Rachel Leviss, which all played out on TV. “ Vanderpump Rules , you will forever be that girl,” the Love Island USA host wrote on Instagram. “I was up til 4am looking for all the right pics and the right words, but there’s no post or caption that could ever encapsulate everything.” Madix noted that she was “forever grateful to have been a part of such an incredible cultural phenomenon,” thanking Bravo, Lisa Vanderpump and the production company behind the series Evolution. RELATED : ‘The Traitors’ Season 3 Cast Photos Drop & Trailer Previews Alan Cumming Cheekily Hoping Players Won’t Play Fair “Thank you especially to the fans. you’ve been the constant over the last decade your love and support is what I’ll miss the most about it ending. you made this show what it is,” she continued. “To the fans who have shown up for us, old and new, it’s all because of you that we are here. I’m feeling at peace with closing this chapter, and I’m excited for everything that is to come. I don’t know that these were the best days of our lives, but they were definitely something special.” Lala Kent also took her Instagram to share her thoughts on the ending of an era of Vanderpump Rules . “Where to begin. I was a young girl from Salt Lake City who made her way to L.A. I would introduce myself as Lauren, but because my childhood best friend referred to me as Lala, my nickname quickly stuck,” she wrote. “Sur was a place that became home. I found myself not only sipping on vodka sodas there, but behind a hostess stand... it still to this day is the most intimidating job I’ve ever had.” RELATED : ‘Stassi Says’ Docu-Comedy Series Starring ‘Vanderpump Rules’ Alum Stassi Schroeder In The Works At Hulu Kent noted that she has “mixed feelings” about Vanderpump Rules ending an era and beginning a new one, as she does not like change. Katie Maloney shared on her Instagram Stories a promo picture for the show of herself from the early seasons and captioned, “It’s a mixed bag. But I wouldn’t change a thing. Thank you for the memories and the love the last 11 years.” Andy Cohen, who is not involved with the show aside from hosting the reunion episodes, shared on X, “these were the best days of our lives...”