Author: admin

It’s the Week 7 Big Shield giveaway

It’s free stuff time! You can get a signed copy of *Big Shield* this weekend by doing one simple thing: send an email to florio@profootballtalk.com with the subject line: **“Week 7 Big Shield giveaway.”**

I’ll pick one entry at random and, ideally, drop the book in the mail next week. As always, no purchase is required. But of course, all purchases are appreciated.

The ebook is still only 99 cents, and the print edition is $14.99.

*Big Shield* is a tale of gambling, the mob, and pro football—but not the NFL. (They haven’t sued me yet, so the disclaimer must be working.) Set in an undefined future, with 34 teams, 20 regular-season games, and widespread real-time, in-game betting, the book follows three main characters. It illustrates how a criminal enterprise could exploit widespread inside information before and during games—and how it could all go sideways for everyone involved.

Don’t forget about my other titles:
– *Father of Mine* (a mob story inspired by true events)
– *Son of Mine* (sequel to *Father of Mine*)
– *On Our Way Home* (a Christmas-season ghost story)

Each is available in ebook form for just 99 cents. More books are on the way!

In addition to the six unpublished manuscripts currently in the hopper, I’m working on a legal thriller about a pro football player turned lawyer whose first day on the job becomes a life-and-death rollercoaster ride—one I still need to figure out how to resolve. (“He was dead the whole time.”)

Go ahead and enter the giveaway. And feel free to drop 99 cents on something you just might enjoy. You’ll definitely get your money’s worth—even if you ultimately decide it’s caca.
https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/its-the-week-7-big-shield-giveaway

The “$1,000 to $1 Million” Play: Is it Still Possible in Crypto?

After One of the Biggest Liquidations in Years, the Market Is Trying to Find Its Footing

Analysts are calling this the reset moment. This is the kind of reset that creates new $1,000 to $1 million crypto coins. Three cryptocurrencies carry similar potential in the current market scenario.

Zcash’s (ZEC) 200% price surge following Naval Ravikant’s viral post has reignited the “next big play” debate. TRON (TRX) remains in the picture with steady network growth. But a new name, Digitap (AP), is what everyone is talking about in the race from $1,000 to $1 million.

As the world’s first omnibank that brings crypto and fiat under one roof, Digitap seems to have everything it takes to become a massive name in fintech. But where does it belong in the equation when Zcash and TRON still stand among the best altcoins?

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### How Digitap Solves the Crypto-to-Fiat Panic Problem

Now that the market is in recovery mode, investors and traders have realized something important: a leverage against sudden market crashes is the need of the hour. They could soon find one now that Digitap has officially launched its app on the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.

Digitap is known as the world’s first omnibank. It has witnessed an unusual inflow of funds into its presale from whales after the market crash — and there seems to be a solid reason why.

When the market crashes, traders panic because their assets are locked in volatile ecosystems. Digitap appears to solve that pain point by letting users instantly swap crypto to fiat inside the same app.

Unlike other “future promises,” Digitap is already live on the App Store and Play Store. It merges banking and crypto in one omnibank. With fiat transfers, global payments, and even physical cards, Digitap is bridging what others still call impossible.

Currently priced at just $0.0194 in Stage 3 of its presale, AP has already raised over $750K. Some analysts now project it could 1000x as adoption scales over the next couple of years.

In the short term, the AP price is set to jump 38%, from $0.0194 to $0.0268, in the next few weeks.

For those hunting the next “$1,000 to $1 million in crypto” play, Digitap (AP) might be the best ICO of 2025. It’s early, already live, and designed from scratch for the future of finance.

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### What Zcash’s Pullback Could Mean for Traders After 200% Gains

Zcash has made one of the wildest comebacks of the year. From trading under $70 a couple of weeks ago to now sitting at $220, ZEC has delighted its holders in October.

The spark didn’t come out of the blue. Silicon Valley heavyweight Naval Ravikant, who called it insurance against Bitcoin, proved to be a massive booster. That single comment shifted investor sentiment overnight. Money started flowing in, and the market cap took a massive leap from $800 million to $4 billion in a month.

But every rally meets resistance at some point. The RSI (Relative Strength Index) has reached 64, indicating that ZEC might be catching its breath after the sprint.

Analyst Altcoin Sherpa shares a similar opinion. His chart points to a pullback toward the lower $200s for a reset.

Despite some pessimism, in a market searching for the next breakout narrative, Zcash has proven that old giants can rise again. If momentum holds, this “insurance coin” might become one of the best altcoins to deliver major gains.

However, expecting a $1,000 to $1 million move from ZEC might be optimistic at this point.

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### TRON’s On-Chain Strength Counters Bearish TRX Chart Signals

Most of the best altcoins are still nursing wounds from the $20 billion wipeout, and TRON is no exception.

Trading around $0.318 as of October 16, 2025, the TRX price is still down over 6% on the weekly chart. But year-to-date, TRON is more than 25% up — a strength that only strong coins backed by robust networks can demonstrate.

Even amid the market bloodbath, TRON’s network hasn’t slowed down. Daily active accounts consistently remain around 3 million. TRON’s daily protocol revenue hit $8.57 million just days after the market crash.

That kind of on-chain stamina keeps confidence alive, even in a bear market hangover.

Though recent charts are flashing sell signals, traders aren’t writing TRX off yet. Analyst CR7 Ledger sees early signs of recovery. He expects a bullish breakout above $0.329 to trigger the next wave up, with consolidation predicted between $0.312 and $0.329 until then.

For investors chasing the “$1,000 to $1 million” dream, TRON’s price volatility might be a concern. Such massive moves are usually reserved for promising presale coins with lower market caps.

If things go as planned, Digitap could potentially be that hidden gem and the best crypto to buy right now.

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### Why Digitap’s Safety Net Stands Out After the Market Meltdown

Every “$1,000 to $1 million” story comes with a catch — and crypto is no exception. The market is ruthless. One tweet, one macro event, and portfolios can halve overnight. The recent crash proved this again.

But that’s where Digitap separates itself from the chaos.

When other coins bleed, Digitap users can instantly move funds from crypto to fiat within the same app, providing a rare safety net in this wild market.

Such solid use cases mean AP could see even higher demand after its listing. This also positions Digitap as one of the best cryptos to buy in 2025 for investors who want to stay in the market without losing sleep.

However, the “$1,000 to $1 million” kind of gains follow those who bag presale gems early. Now that Stage 3 is almost half sold out, the opportunity to grab a 38% ROI in the short term might be slipping away.

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### The $1,000 to $1 Million Crypto Path May Start With Digitap

Moving from $1,000 to $1 million in crypto takes more than luck — it requires catching the right opportunity early.

One such opportunity could be the Digitap presale. With a live product, a fiat-crypto bridge, and strong presale traction, Digitap is well poised to be the next big thing in crypto.

While coins like ZEC and TRX show strength, they have already matured. But Digitap sits where potential meets practicality — its floor is safer, and its ceiling is almost uncapped.

For those watching for the next 1000x coin, AP could be the right play in Q4 2025.

Discover how Digitap is unifying cash and crypto by checking out their project here:
**Presale:** [Link]
**Website:** [Link]
**Social:** [Links]

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*This publication is sponsored.*
Coindoo does not endorse or assume responsibility for the content, accuracy, quality, advertising, products, or any other materials on this page. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research before engaging in any cryptocurrency-related actions. Coindoo will not be liable, directly or indirectly, for any damages or losses resulting from the use of or reliance on any content, goods, or services mentioned. Always do your own research.

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**Author:** Krasimir Rusev
Reporter at Coindoo

Krasimir Rusev is a journalist with many years of experience covering cryptocurrencies and financial markets. He specializes in analysis, news, and forecasts for digital assets, providing readers with in-depth and reliable information on the latest market trends. His expertise and professionalism make him a valuable source of information for investors, traders, and anyone following the dynamics of the crypto world.
https://coindoo.com/the-1000-to-1-million-play-is-it-still-possible-in-crypto/

15th annual Ties and Tails Gala raises funds for Midland County’s no-kill shelter

The 15th annual Ties and Tails Gala took place on October 17, successfully raising funds for the Humane Society of Midland County.

This special event brought the community together to support the important work of caring for and protecting animals in need.

Thanks to the generosity of attendees and sponsors, the gala helped provide crucial resources for the Humane Society’s ongoing programs and services.
https://www.ourmidland.com/news/article/midland-humane-society-gala-21107049.php

16 Gifts for People Who Are Perpetually Cold (2025)

16 Gifts for People Who Are Perpetually Cold

From a backyard hot tub to the warmest slippers, these picks will make your loved ones feel warm and fuzzy—inside and out.

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It’s getting cold outside, and it’s even worse for a person who’s always cold. The first crisp morning of the season sends your poor, perpetually cold loved one diving under the bedsheets, digging for the fuzzy socks, or fiddling with the thermostat when your back is turned.

Here are 16 gift ideas that will help keep the cold at bay.

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### 1. Xero Shoes

If you came to me, a perpetually cold person, and asked for tips on how to stay warmer in your house, I would say to start with your feet. Don a pair of thick wool socks and then put on a pair of house slippers.

I’m somewhat clumsy and perpetually cold, so I’ve started wearing Xero’s Pagosa Cozy wool slippers instead of my Teva ReEmbers. The snug fit and thinner sole make me more sure-footed as I sprint around my house with loads of laundry. The heels are designed to be stomped down for quick slipping on, and the faux shearling lining hasn’t gotten smelly or dirty after a month. (I always wear them with socks.)

At 4.8 ounces, they’re light and slim enough to shove into a suitcase pocket—perfect for cold hotel rooms too.

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### 2. The Best Space Heater: Dreo Whole Room Heater

You have to get your loved one a space heater because otherwise, they’ll sneak around when you’re not home, turning the heat up to 75 degrees, leaving you wondering why you’re suddenly sweating while trying to watch TV.

The Dreo Whole Room Heater is our top space heater pick. It’s compact, good-looking, and safe—it won’t tip over or burn your loved one. It swivels side to side and up and down to heat the entire room evenly. The housing stays cool to the touch, and while it’s not silent, it’s quieter than a refrigerator with squeak-free oscillation.

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### 3. A Little Fleece Scarf: Skida Fleece Scarflette

When you’re walking or biking somewhere, a full-sized scarf can be a lot to manage, but a tiny scarflette that you can tie is just right.

This hyper-charged bandana can be tied around your neck when cold or over your hair when it’s raining. I’ve also used it to wipe rosin off my violin in a pinch! Skida is an independent, women-owned brand, and its products are made in the USA.

If you’re ever in a mountain town, you’ll spot many women wearing Skida headbands or hats because of their practical cuts and fun prints.

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### 4. The Best Upgraded Firepit: Breeo X24 Series Smokeless Fire Pit

As a perpetually cold person, I’m also a raving pyromaniac. Both WIRED reviewer Martin Cizmar and I have a Breeo fire pit.

This 62-pound, aerated, smokeless fire pit has optional attachments to turn it into a grill or pizza oven. Wood burns hot and clean, and it fits full logs without chopping. If your loved one doesn’t want to come inside, this is the perfect outdoor heat source.

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### 5. Tiny Hot Cups for Sharing: Yeti 6-oz Stackable Cups

These tiny stackable mugs from Yeti are unbearably cute and dishwasher-friendly. The ceramic lining keeps your Fireball whiskey or hot cocoa tasting just right.

Perfect for slipping into a bag or jacket pocket when you need a quick hot drink on the go. I use them in cold Oregon winters to entice my kids out of bed with hot cocoa.

They don’t come with lids, but the smallest Yeti Magslider lid fits perfectly.

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### 6. The Best Sleeping Bag: Rumpl Wrap Sack

If you’re perpetually cold, you probably avoid camping when temperatures drop below freezing. That’s why the Rumpl Wrap Sack is perfect for car camping.

It’s a double-layered sleeping bag that lets you zip under one layer to start, add the second when colder, or unzip to use as a quilt. It’s roomy and comfortable—much better than mummy bags for cold-natured sleepers.

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### 7. A Learning Thermostat: Google Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen)

Your favorite cold person probably checks the thermostat multiple times a day. Sometimes the thermostat’s location doesn’t warm the room they want—my old one left my bedroom freezing.

The 4th-gen Nest Thermostat includes a temperature sensor you can place anywhere. It adjusts to heat the room you want, learns your schedule, and even suggests changes via its app.

Plus, it looks fantastic on the wall.

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### 8. Cozy Flannel Sheets: The Company Store Legends Hotel Velvet Flannel Sheet Set

If you share a bed with a perpetually cold person, consider cozy flannel sheets.

Crisp cotton is nice for summer, but winter calls for snuggling into fluffed-out flannel fibers. Bonus points if you add a hot water bottle at the foot of the bed to warm those toes faster.

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### 9. The Best Sweater: Finisterre RNLI Polperro Jumper

Cold people probably have a sweater addiction. This fisherman’s sweater is warm enough to withstand heavy activity while remaining easy to layer.

Made from an 80% wool and 20% recycled polyamide blend, it retains heat and supports sustainable practices like transport by land and sea.

Perfect as a midlayer for camping or everyday wear.

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### 10. A Backyard Hot Tub: Intex PureSpa Bubble Massage Inflatable Hot Tub

Some winter days the cold sinks into your bones, and nothing beats hot water—internally in tea or externally in a hot tub.

While communal hot tubs work, having one in your backyard is a dream. Though it requires maintenance and costs, it’s the ultimate gift for staying warm and relaxed through cold months.

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### 11. The Best Tea Brewer Mug: The Tea Spot Mountain Tea Tumbler

Nothing keeps you warmer than boiling hot water in a thermos.

This insulated, double-walled mug has a built-in tea basket, so you can steep tea anywhere. I make tea before hikes and warm up with it hours later in the car.

It has a sipping lid but sometimes is so hot you need to remove it. Pair it with some tea for a thoughtful gift.

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### 12. Books About Being Cold: *In the Kingdom of Ice* by Hampton Sides

Cold people love being warm and reading about those who endure much worse.

If you like polar expeditions and Siberian tales, this gripping history of the USS Jeannette’s two-year ice entrapment is chilling—in the best way.

Other favorites include *Owls of the Eastern Ice*, *The Worst Journey in the World*, and *Welcome to the Goddamn Ice Cube.*

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### 13. A Heated Vest: ActionHeat 5V Heated Vest

ActionHeat offers a slim, unobtrusive heated vest with a battery that lasts about four hours and three heat settings.

Great for layering under a jacket when you need extra warmth but don’t want bulky layers.

Note: Chargers use micro USB, which feels outdated, but the vest’s performance makes up for it.

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### 14. The Best Gloves: North Face Etip Recycled Glove

Cold people always need more gloves. The North Face Etips fit perfectly, are touchscreen-compatible, and thin enough to handle keys or zippers easily.

For rainy weather, Showers Pass knit gloves have waterproof membranes to keep hands dry.

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### 15. The Best Insulated Pants: Wild Rye Payette Pant

Many cold folks have plenty of warm tops but lack insulated pants.

Wild Rye Payette Pants are made from recycled polyester, insulated with Primaloft, and have a comfortable, relaxed fit with elastic waist and adjustable cuffs.

If you prefer more tailored options, check out Snow Peak’s insulated pants or Eddie Bauer’s fleece-lined jeans.

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### 16. A Big Old Puffer: Fjällräven Expedition Down Lite Jacket

For the coldest days, nothing beats your biggest jacket.

This Fjällräven parka is an updated 1974 design with synthetic fill to protect goose down, a large hood, and durable, recycled materials with a PFAS-free DWR finish.

Huge pockets keep your hands and accessories warm.

Gift this, and your loved one will never be cold again.

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Power up with unlimited access to WIRED for best-in-class reporting and exclusive subscriber content that’s too important to ignore.

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*Stay warm and cozy this season with these thoughtful gifts perfect for anyone who’s perpetually cold!*
https://www.wired.com/gallery/gift-ideas-for-people-who-are-perpetually-cold-2025/

Bills Coach Sean McDermott Hints at Looming Changes for James Cook

The Buffalo Bills struggled to move the ball in last week’s loss to the Atlanta Falcons, scoring just one second-half touchdown despite some improved efforts from their defense. The team faced scrutiny after the game for their usage of running back James Cook, who was on the field for a little more than half of the offensive snaps despite being one of the most effective players.

### Bills Failed to Utilize James Cook

Throughout the season, the Bills have regularly taken Cook off the field on third downs, opting to insert backup Ty Johnson for his stronger blocking ability. This approach continued against the Falcons, with Cook participating in just over 50% of the offensive snaps.

Longtime Bills reporter and WGR 500 host Howard Simon was critical of the team’s decision post-game. “James Cook snap count last night was 52.6%. His 2nd lowest of the season,” Simon wrote on X. “Lowest was in the blowout win over the Jets. As per ESPN, Cook was not on the field for any of the Bills’ 9 plays on 3rd down or their 1 play on 4th down. That’s inexcusable.”

### Coaching Staff Responds

Head coach Sean McDermott has already addressed the issue. Speaking to reporters this week, he revealed that he has discussed Cook’s usage with offensive coordinator Joe Brady, emphasizing the importance of getting more out of their top running back moving forward.

“Joe and I have already talked about that to some extent today. It’s important to keep that in mind going forward,” McDermott said.

McDermott also touched on a specific late-game decision when the Bills called an end-around to wide receiver Elijah Moore on a failed third-and-one situation. While he didn’t openly criticize the play call itself, McDermott stressed the need for better execution: “Whatever play we call, we have to execute it at a higher level.”

Despite these challenges, Cook still managed 17 carries for 87 yards in Monday’s loss. However, his role in the passing game has diminished. He is currently averaging just 2.0 receptions for 14.8 receiving yards per game—the lowest since his rookie season when he split snaps with running backs Devin Singletary and Zack Moss.

### Bills Could Add Help at Trade Deadline

The Bills have now dropped two straight games, falling into a tie with the New England Patriots atop the AFC East. Currently, the Patriots hold the tiebreaker, raising the stakes for Buffalo as the season progresses.

After offensive struggles in recent weeks, some insiders suggest the Bills could look to bolster their roster before the upcoming NFL trade deadline. Sal Maiorana of the Democrat and Chronicle pointed to Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver Jakobi Meyers as a potential target but also emphasized the possibility of elevating Gabe Davis from the practice squad.

“In his four seasons with the Bills, Davis averaged 16.7 yards per reception and caught 27 touchdown passes,” Maiorana wrote. “The now-injured Joshua Palmer is averaging 16.7 yards, but it’s on just 14 catches, one of which was a 45-yarder Monday. Among the receivers who get the lion’s share of the snaps, Shakir is 10.7 yards per catch, Coleman 9.9.”

As the Bills look to regain their offensive spark, increased involvement from players like James Cook and potential roster upgrades could be key to turning their season around.
https://heavy.com/sports/nfl/buffalo-bills/bills-sean-mcdermott-hints-changes-james-cook/

Jorgen Vik: Don’t shutdown your investments because DC shut down the government

Listen now and subscribe:
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**About Jorgen Vik**
Jorgen Vik is a financial advice columnist for *The Daily Progress*. He is a certified financial planner and partner with SKV Group LLC. Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network. Please note, SKV Group is a separate entity from WFAFN.

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https://dailyprogress.com/opinion/column/article_a371f739-4041-4463-804f-a3d721c9bbe5.html

Back in the Day: After-school hangouts we used to frequent

I was speaking with a nemesis last week—who also happens to be a fraternity brother and someone I have known for years, though perhaps “friend” is a generous term. He derives immense pleasure in chastising me due to my roots from “down the bottom,” while he is from “up the top.”

Those who grew up in West Philadelphia during my era are aware of the rivalries that existed between those who lived above 50th Street—some regarded it as above 52nd Street—and those who lived below this demarcation. As many of you know, the “up the top” folks had an air about them; they believed they were better off than those from “down the bottom.”

The rivalry extended to school allegiances as well, particularly between Overbrook High School and West Philadelphia High. This issue often comes up in discussions between my nemesis and me.

During our most recent conversation, he asked if I had ever written a column about the places we hung out after our high school days. So, that question becomes the subject of today’s *Back in the Day* column.

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### After-School Hangouts in the 1950s and ‘60s

During the 1950s and ‘60s, most high school students had their favorite places to hang out for a few hours after school. Center City offered establishments like penny arcades and popular department stores such as Gimbels and John Wanamaker. Suburban Station was another popular after-school destination.

There were also local restaurants and soda fountains with jukeboxes, drug stores, bakeries, neighborhood variety stores, parks, bowling alleys, matinee movies, playgrounds, school yards, and street corners. For boys especially, playgrounds, school yards, and street corners were favored spots.

Some students had “naughty” fun after school, going to someone’s home when parents were likely at work. Others played hooky, staying away from school all day. Some of these indiscretions even led to lifelong issues — truly a different time back then.

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### Favorite Spots for West Philadelphia Students

For those who grew up in West Philadelphia and attended West Philadelphia High School, Horn & Hardart at 52nd and Market streets was the go-to place after school. It was the place to be seen, and teenagers in social circles were regularly there.

I recall memories of Horn & Hardart tied to encounters with my nemesis and other “up the top” folks. I will never forget one time when I went there after school, and a young man from “up the top” stared at me and eventually said, “Why are you here? Why not go back to the bottom where you belong?”

After that incident, I limited my visits to that restaurant, although I still shared it with some friends from “up the top.”

Other favorite after-school gathering places for West Philadelphia students included a little store directly across from the school at 47th and Walnut Street that sold hamburgers and hot sausages. A friend reminded me that in the late ‘60s, there was a Black Panther Party headquarters up the street—a place visited by Huey Newton, the party’s founder.

Across the street was the Carousel restaurant, another popular hangout. If you spent time in this area “back in the day,” you likely knew other favorite spots like Dewey’s and Linton’s restaurants.

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### Neighborhood Variety Stores and Limited Access

Small grocery or general stores were common gathering spots, usually because they sold penny candy. The few shopping centers available back then also contained popular hangouts.

While none of these establishments rivaled Horn & Hardart’s popularity, competition was fierce—especially if you were white, as Black students had limited or no access to many places.

Consider 46th and Market Streets, the location of *American Bandstand*. By design, Black youth were denied participation for many years. The relationship was complex, marked by exclusion and, eventually, limited integration following civil rights demonstrations.

Once the relationship between *Bandstand* and Black communities improved, Black students found another hangout venue—but it never reached the same level as it did for white students.

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### Other Philadelphia High School Hangouts

Philadelphia had many after-school hangouts across its neighborhoods for high school students:

– **Overbrook High School:** Jerry’s and Prestige, known for their sandwiches and milkshakes, were located just across the street.
– **North Philadelphia:** The Rosa Wallace Brown (RWB) Recreational Center was a favorite gathering place.
– **Gratz High School:** Students often bonded at Gavin’s.
– **Germantown High School:** Popular spots included Fat’s and Staton’s restaurants.
– **Boys’ High and Girls’ High:** The Hot Shoppe at Stenton Avenue and Broad Street was a well-loved hangout. Several of my close friends have fond memories of going there with their girlfriends.
– **West Oak Lane:** Students frequented The Shack and Hogan’s on Washington Lane.
– **South Philadelphia:** Frankie Mayo’s at 12th and Tasker Streets and The Dugout across from South Philly High on Snyder Avenue were popular.

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### Reflecting on the Past

Identifying all the after-school hangouts hasn’t been an easy task, and I’m sure those of you from the ‘50s and ‘60s can add many more to this list.

Ultimately, I’m glad I wrote this piece because it reminded me that it’s people—not places—that truly influenced our lives and provide the best memories of our high school days.

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Stay informed and connected — subscribe to *The Philadelphia Tribune* NOW! [Click Here]

—

**Contact Information:**
Alonzo Kittrels can be reached at backintheday@phillytrib.com or via mail at The Philadelphia Tribune, Back In The Day, 520 South 16th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19146.

*The views expressed in this column are not necessarily those of The Philadelphia Tribune.*

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*In other news, Misty Copeland broke barriers as the first Black female principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre. Now, through her nonprofit, she’s making dance more accessible for children of color.*
https://www.phillytrib.com/commentary/backintheday/back-in-the-day-after-school-hangouts-we-used-to-frequent/article_c005b6b2-a7ac-456d-a502-a942e2c9a244.html

Anonymous Source Gives New Contract Update for Cowboys’ George Pickens

The Dallas Cowboys are facing an unexpected situation with George Pickens delivering excellent football this season. When the Cowboys traded for Pickens, their hope was that he would be an above-average player similar to his first three years with the Pittsburgh Steelers. However, the University of Georgia product has been better than ever, showcasing his big-time threat ability on the field.

Pickens is currently averaging 16.4 yards per catch and has already scored six touchdowns— the most in his four-year career. He has amassed 525 yards on just 32 receptions, highlighting just how impactful he has been for Dallas.

### Upcoming Contract Considerations

With an important contract situation on the horizon, speculations about how much Pickens could command in free agency are increasing. According to an anonymous source cited by Yahoo! Sports, Pickens could potentially land a contract similar to what Tee Higgins recently signed. Higgins agreed to a four-year, $115 million extension with the Cincinnati Bengals.

“That [Pickens acquisition in May] has really worked, but they need to push it now,” the source said. “It’s going to be hard to pay Pickens what he’ll command in [free agency]. Even if you set aside the personality risks, [the Cowboys] would be so top heavy on offense if they paid him. It becomes the Bengals. That got one-dimensional really fast. I think the Pickens’ [negotiation] starts at the Tee Higgins extension, too. I’m sure there’s an impulse to [maximize] Pickens while they have him for this run and then tackle the contract bridge at the [NFL scouting] combine [in February].”

### Should the Cowboys Pay George Pickens?

Given that the Cowboys already have star wide receiver CeeDee Lamb locked up, giving another receiver a huge payday might not be something owner Jerry Jones wants to do. However, Jones has acknowledged that Pickens’ outstanding performance and positive influence on the team makes it a consideration that cannot be ignored.

“As you know, that [extension] even has a competition to it and the very aspect of it,” Jones told reporters this week. “He is doing more than we did expect or that we could’ve expected. And what’s really special is that he’s a real plus to have around the team. He’s a real plus around his teammates. He’s a great plus around those coaches, and those coaches really think highly of him.”

If Jones truly believes in Pickens’ value, it’s possible the Cowboys could explore creative contract solutions that work for both sides.

### Could the Cowboys Trade George Pickens?

The idea of trading Pickens has also come up amid these contract discussions, with some analysts suggesting the Cowboys might get a decent draft pick in return if they move on now. Most recently, sports writer Mike Florio noted that the Cowboys could benefit by trading Pickens, especially if they want to manage cap space.

However, if Dallas remains in playoff contention, it would make little sense to part ways with a player performing as well as Pickens has to start the year.

### Conclusion

George Pickens has quickly become a key offensive weapon for the Dallas Cowboys, and his upcoming contract negotiations will be an important storyline to watch. Whether the team decides to pay him, trade him, or find a creative solution remains to be seen — but one thing is clear: Pickens is making a big impact on the field and in the locker room.
https://heavy.com/sports/nfl/dallas-cowboys/george-pickens-contract-update/

LSU vs. Vanderbilt prediction: Odds, picks, best bet for SEC showdown

Vanderbilt is clearly for real and has a legitimate chance to make a run at a College Football Playoff spot, but it still takes some getting used to seeing the Commodores as 2.5-point favorites against LSU. In fact, according to CBS Sports, this is the first time the Commodores have been favored against LSU since 1948, and the first time they’ve been laying points against a ranked opponent since at least 1978 — a span of 176 games.

Is the market correct in making Vandy a favorite against the Bayou Bengals? Let’s try to answer that question below.

### LSU vs. Vanderbilt Odds & Prediction

This is a pretty interesting game to handicap because the perceived strength of LSU coming into the season was its offense, while the defense was more of a question mark. LSU boasts one of the preseason Heisman favorites, Garrett Nussmeier, at quarterback, a vaunted offensive line, and plenty of playmakers around them. However, things just aren’t clicking for whatever reason.

Bill Connelly’s SP+ ranks LSU’s offense as the 45th-best unit in the country, which isn’t surprising since the Tigers have not scored more than 23 points against an FBS opponent this season. Interestingly, the defense has made those low scores stick, holding five of their six opponents to 10 points or less. The only team to cross that threshold against the Bayou Bengals was Ole Miss, which beat LSU 24-19 on September 27.

On the other side, Vanderbilt’s offense has been prolific for most of the season, but the Commodores struggled against Alabama — easily the best defense they’ve faced this year. It’s entirely possible that we’ve already seen the peak from Vanderbilt’s offense this season, while the opposite could be true for LSU.

This LSU unit is just too talented to continue sputtering along, and the Tigers should have a decent chance of making a dent this weekend against Vanderbilt’s defense, which grades out as middling compared to other Power 4 schools.

### Betting Outlook

This game looks like a coin flip, so I’ll buy the upside of LSU’s offense to get us a cover.

**The Play:** LSU +2.5 (-110, FanDuel)

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### Why Trust New York Post Betting?

Michael Leboff is a long-suffering Islanders fan but also a long-profiting sports bettor with 10 years of experience in the gambling industry. He loves using game theory to help punters win bracket pools, find long shots, and learn how to beat the market in mainstream and niche sports.

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https://nypost.com/2025/10/18/betting/lsu-vs-vanderbilt-prediction-odds-picks-best-bet-for-sec-showdown/

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