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  • The GrayVine Newsletter Thursday 12.11.2025

The GrayVine Newsletter Thursday 12.11.2025

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Thursday Edition - January 9, 2026

Good morning Member

Hello there, dear GrayViners! I’ve been easing into the week and hoping you’re finding a little comfort in these December days. 💙 I stumbled onto an old Fight Club clip last night, and young Brad Pitt instantly brought back those harmless teenage celebrity crushes we all remember. It’s funny how one moment can spark a memory. Which brings me to today’s question: Who was your teenage celebrity crush—the one who could still make you smile after all these years? 💕 Share it with us in the forum!

Let’s solve yesterday’s Word Unscramble: O X C M P L E

The word is complex! Hats off to our ever-clever Word Wizards!

Ready for another brain teaser? Here’s today’s riddle: Lose me once, I'll come back stronger. Lose me twice, I'll leave forever. What am I?

Drop your guess here, and if you’re correct, you’ll see your name in tomorrow’s shout-out. Hang tight—today’s roundup includes a $700M settlement payout, important safety recalls, a key Social Security change, great December deals, and more.

Veronica — Newsletter Writer


Social Security & MoneyNews & Finance



Breaking News SeparatorEditor's Picks

Sweet Deals & Small Delights

Extra Reads We Don’t Want You To Miss

Tackle your credit card debt by paying 0% intro APR until 2027

Did you know some credit cards can actually help you get out of debt faster? Yes, it sounds crazy. But it’s true.

The secret: Find a card with a “0% intro APR" period for balance transfers or purchases. This could help you fund a large purchase or transfer your debt balance and pay it down as much as possible during the intro period. No interest means you could pay off the debt faster.


Fun & GamesFun & Games


CrosswordSudokuSolitaireTrivia

Today’s Trivia SeparatorToday’s Trivia

What word did the iconic “Hollywood” sign originally spell out?

Image source: Paul Deetman/Pexels

A. Hollyworld

B. Hollywood Hills

C. Hollywoodland

D. Hollywood Park


Fact of the Day SeparatorFront Porch Forum

Image source: Andrea Piacquadio/Pexels

“Is it rude to ask my son and his wife to stay at a hotel when they visit for the holidays?”

Gather ’round, everyone! A GrayViner is in a tender situation many might relate to. Read their story and share your advice.

Got a concern you’d like to talk about? Start a conversation with us.


What's the Image Saying SeparatorWhat's The Image Saying?

Image source: The GrayVine

Looks can be deceiving, but I know you’ll solve this puzzle! Drop your answer here.

Did you crack the last game? See if you earned a shout-out!


Recipe of the day SeparatorRecipe Of The Day

Low-Sugar Hot Cocoa With Homemade Marshmallows

Image source: Clean Plates

Like a little hug you can hold in your hands.

You can find the full recipe below!


On this day in History SeparatorOn This Day In History - January 9, 2026

1946 - The UNICEF was established.

1981 - Muhammad Ali fought his final bout.

Take a trip down memory lane and see what else happened on this day in history.


Picture of the Day SeparatorPicture Of The Day

Image source: yuri_sel/Reddit

The Art of Noticing

It’s incredible what beauty you can witness when you simply pay attention. This scene was captured at a train ramp in Chicago at noon—and isn’t it captivating? The sunlight slipping through the overhead beams makes a stunning checkerboard of shadows across the walkway, turning something ordinary into art. What’s a small, everyday moment you’ve noticed lately just because you were really looking? If you’ve got a photo like that, send it our way in the forum!


Brain TrainingBrain Training


CrosswordSudokuSolitaireTrivia

Word of the Day SeparatorWord Of The Day

GENIAL

(JEE-nee-uhl) Friendly and cheerful.

When used in a sentence: “Her genial manner puts everyone at ease.”


Let's Save - Today's Deals SeparatorLet's Save - Today's Deals

Playstation Store Gift Card $25 @ Giftcards.com*

For budding gamers.

Candle Warmer Lamp $18.99 @ Amazon

Dimmable and with a timer.

Anti-Slip Doormat $18.99 @ Walmart

Works beautifully indoors or out.

Found a good deal? Share it here! Note: Deals are not sponsored unless stated.

Download Our App!

Today’s trivia answer: C.

The sign originally read “Hollywoodland”.