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Today in History: October 31, First African-American plays in an NBA game

Fri, 10/31/2025 - 01:00

Today is Friday, Oct. 31, the 304th day of 2025. There are 61 days left in the year. This is Halloween.

Today in history:

On Oct. 31, 1950, Earl Lloyd of the Washington Capitols became the first African-American to play in an NBA game; Lloyd would go on to play for nine seasons, winning an NBA championship in 1955 with the Syracuse Nationals.

Also on this date:

In 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed a proclamation making Nevada the 36th state, eight days before the presidential election.

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In 1913, the Lincoln Highway, the first automobile highway across the United States, was dedicated.

In 1941, work was completed on the Mount Rushmore National Memorial in South Dakota, begun in 1927.

In 1961, the body of Josef Stalin was removed from Lenin’s Tomb as part of the Soviet Union’s “de-Stalinization” drive.

In 1999, EgyptAir Flight 990, bound from New York to Cairo, crashed off the Massachusetts coast, killing all 217 people aboard.

In 1984, Indira Gandhi, India’s Prime Minister for more than 15 years, was assassinated by two of her own security guards.

In 2005, President George W. Bush nominated Judge Samuel Alito to the Supreme Court.

In 2011, the United Nations estimated that world population had reached seven billion people (world population is greater than eight billion today).

Today’s Birthdays:
  • Former CBS anchorman Dan Rather is 94.
  • Actor Stephen Rea is 79.
  • Olympic gold medal marathoner Frank Shorter is 78.
  • TV host Jane Pauley is 75.
  • Football coach Nick Saban is 74.
  • Film director Peter Jackson is 64.
  • Rock drummer Larry Mullen Jr. (U2) is 64.
  • Rock musician Johnny Marr is 62.
  • Baseball Hall of Famer Fred McGriff is 62.
  • Actor Rob Schneider is 62.
  • Actor Dermot Mulroney is 62.
  • Country singer Darryl Worley is 61.
  • Actor-comedian Mike O’Malley is 59.
  • Rapper and guitarist Adam Horovitz (Beastie Boys) is 59.
  • Rapper Vanilla Ice is 58.
  • Actor Leticia Wright is 32.
  • Singer Willow Smith is 25.

Dolphins Deep Dive: ‘Not a lot to be positive about’ . . . breaking down loss to Ravens | VIDEO

Thu, 10/30/2025 - 21:48

In this Dolphins Deep Dive video, the South Florida Sun Sentinel’s Chris Perkins and Dave Hyde discuss Miami falling to 2-7 with its Thursday night loss to the Baltimore Ravens. The Dolphins outplayed the Ravens at times, but were ultimately done in by self-inflicted wounds.

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Best SD memory card

Thu, 10/30/2025 - 21:32
Which SD memory card is best?

SD memory cards are widely used today, and while they may all look the same, there are some key differences to note to ensure they’re compatible with your hardware. Still, checking your device’s hardware is fairly straightforward if you know what you’re looking for. Mostly, you’ll want to figure out what type of SD card you need and how much storage you need before making a purchase. This Lexar Professional 128GB 2000x UHS-II SDXC SD Memory Card is perfect for SDXC SD card systems and offers plenty of memory.

What to know before you buy an SD memory card Use

Depending on how you plan to use your SD card and how much storage you need, some cards may work better or worse — or not at all — for what you need. The best SD memory cards should have enough storage for your needs. Whether you’re a casual photographer, professional videographer or just need hardware for moving files around, SD cards are an excellent tool.

Types of SD memory cards

SD memory cards come in three main configurations: standard SD and newer SDHC and SDXC cards. SD, SDHC and SDXC memory cards all feature the same physical hardware, though older devices may not support newer SDHC and SDXC memory card hardware. Many modern SDXC- and SDHC-compatible devices do support original SD cards, though older SD-only devices may not support SDXC or SDHC memory cards. For that reason, it’s important to check the supported memory card types on your device to ensure compatibility.

MicroSD cards and adapters

MicroSD cards feature entirely different physical hardware than standard SD, SDHC and SDXC cards. MicroSD cards are supported by many devices, including the commonly used Nintendo Switch. While microSD cards are smaller than SD cards, you can also find microSD memory card adapters that let you use the storage devices with standard SD card ports.

What to look for in a quality SD memory card Storage capacity

An SD card’s storage capacity is the most obvious factor that buyers consider when choosing between models. Depending on how many and what size files you plan to store, you may require more or less storage capacity. Different media forms also require different storage capacities. For example, those shooting high-resolution video will require more storage than those shooting casual photos. Others using SD cards for simple file transfers may not require as much storage. SD cards, whether standard or microSD, can range in storage capacity from as low as 2 gigabytes to as much as 1 terabyte.

Compatibility

Ultimately, it’s important to check your device for SDHC and SDXC compatibility. It’s also worth checking whether you have an SD or microSD port, as the two are not the same size and can’t be used interchangeably. Ultimately, newer technology can typically support older, standard SD technology, though older standard SD devices may not necessarily support newer SDHC or SDXC cards.

Durability and carrying cases

SD cards are one of the more durable pieces of equipment used for file storage. Most SD cards are rated for things like moisture, temperature changes and X-rays, which can be harmful to some electronics. While they are durable, many also elect to get SD cards that include carrying cases. This can avoid putting that durability to the test, without compromising how much travel you may need to take with your memory card.

How much you can expect to spend on SD memory cards

Cheap SD memory cards may cost as little as $10. SD cards with higher storage and faster file processing will usually range from $30-$250.

SD memory cards FAQ What kind of SD memory cards should you use for 4K video?

A. Ultimately, the type of SD memory card you need may be heavily limited by your equipment. In general, however, SDXC and SDHC provide improved transfer speeds and performance over regular SD Cards. Check your camera’s or video camera’s compatibility for SDXC and SDHC memory cards. Whether you can use SDHC and SDXC memory cards or you need regular SD cards, choosing one with a high volume of file storage is key for 4K video.

Do SD memory cards wear out?

A. Yes. SD memory cards do wear out after long periods of use, and to varying degrees depending on how the SD card is manufactured. In most cases, an SD card will offer the user over 10 years of life.

What are the best SD memory cards to buy? Top SD memory card

Lexar Professional 128GB 2000x UHS-II SDXC SD Memory Card

What you need to know: This memory card offers extremely high file transfer speeds and plenty of space for the needs of most.

What you’ll love: This offers transfer speeds up to 300MB/s and total storage of 128GB. It’s also more durable than most memory cards and is rated for water, temperature, X-ray and vibration-proofing.

What you should consider: Some people have said the performance is unreliable.

Top SD memory card for the money

SanDisk Ultra 128GB Class 10 UHS-I SDXC SD Memory Card

What you need to know: For how affordable this memory card is, it offers a sturdy construction and decent file transfer speeds.

What you’ll love: This memory card comes with SDXC hardware and moves files at rates up to 80MB/s. It’s compatible with SDHC-I and SDXC-I devices. It can also be purchased in storage capacities ranging from 16GB to 256GB.

What you should consider: While this memory card is great for HD video, it may not be suitable for those shooting in 4K.

Worth checking out

Samsung EVO Plus 512GB Class 10 MicroSD Memory Card

What you need to know: If you need a Micro SD card, this unit offers an impressive amount of memory with even higher transfer rates than most full-size SD cards.

What you’ll love: With transfer speeds up to 90MB/s, this microSD is extremely fast. It also holds an amazing 512GB of memory and is surprisingly durable, despite its small size. It’s a great option for those shooting 4K video with microSD slots or a converting full SD-sized card with a micro port.

What you should consider: This memory card isn’t suitable for a full-sized SD card slot, unless you have an SD card converter with a microSD port.

Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.

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Mallory stars with three TDs as West Boca Raton cruises by Atlantic

Thu, 10/30/2025 - 21:15

DELRAY BEACH — West Boca Raton senior running back Javian Mallory scored three touchdowns as the visiting Bulls pulled away in the fourth quarter for a 31-14 victory against previously unbeaten Atlantic on Thursday night.

Mallory, a University of Miami commit, had a 65-yard touchdown run in the first quarter, recorded a 6-yard touchdown catch in the second and rushed for a 6-yard score in the fourth.

“This game was personal for me and for our team,” Mallory said. “We worked extremely hard this week. We knew it was going to be a slugfest. We came out here and executed. I am happy and proud of my teammates in what we came out and did today.”

West Boca junior quarterback Trey Moran accounted for two scores, including a touchdown run on third down in the fourth quarter.
“We were motivated coming into this game,” Moran said. “We knew there was a lot of hype. We grew up with a lot of the kids on the other side. It just feels good to win.”

West Boca standout junior defensive tackle Jamar Thompson made an impact to help lead the Bulls defense as they held the Eagles scoreless in the second half.

“We knew what we had to come out and do,” Thompson said. “We just had to come back out and shut it down. We didn’t want to keep them in the game.

West Boca (8-2) had a 12-0 advantage at the end of the first quarter. Atlantic (9-1) rallied to jump ahead 14-12 in the second, but t

The Bulls outscored the Eagles 13-0 in the final quarter.

“We’re going to run the football and we’re going to play defense and I thought tonight we answered the call on both sides,” West Boca coach Dylan Potts said.

The Bulls opened the scoring as Moran connected with junior running back Anderson Gracilien for a 36-yard catch-and-run for a score.

Mallory’s 65-yard scamper extended the lead to 12-0 with 6:55 left in the first. The Bulls missed a 44-yard field goal attempt early in the second quarter. The Eagles responded as sophomore quarterback Pedro Martinez fired a 22-yard scoring pass to senior
wide receiver James Jones in the right corner of the end zone to cut the deficit to 12-7 with 7:47 remaining in the first half.

Atlantic capitalized on a short field after a punt return and penalty on the Bulls. Martinez connected with senior wide receiver Mark Hanniford for a 21-yard touchdown to give the Eagles a 14-12 lead with 4:13 left in the second.

The Bulls responded on the ensuing drive as Moran tossed a 6-yard scoring pass to Mallory with 18 seconds left prior to halftime.

Moran stepped up on the first play of the fourth quarter. On third down, he escaped the pocket and raced for a 47-yard touchdown run to push the lead to 25-14.

Atlantic had a touchdown pass called back on an offensive holding penalty later in the fourth. The Eagles also failed to convert on fourth down.

Mallory rushed for a 6-yard score to increase the lead to 31-14 with 3:53 remaining. West Boca sophomore CJ Jackson recorded an interception on the ensuing drive to seal the victory for the Bulls.

“All the coaches got faith in me,” Jackson said. “I am coming for it on every play.”

West Boca, the defending Class 6A state champion, has recorded five shutouts on defense and allowed 14 points or less in their eight wins.

“I think this a statement win at the perfect time,” Potts said. “I told our kids it’s all about who gets hot at the right time in the playoffs. We’re fortunate enough to have that experience in the playoffs. We knew how important this game was to get a win, not only just because it’s a rivalry, but to kind of get that momentum going into the playoffs.”

West Boca standout junior defensive tackle Jamar Thompson (Alex Kushel/Correspondent)

Things we learned in Miami Dolphins’ 28-6 loss to the Baltimore Ravens

Thu, 10/30/2025 - 20:44

MIAMI GARDENS — Heading into Thursday night’s Miami Dolphins-Baltimore Ravens game, many wondered whether the Dolphins were on the verge of a midseason turnaround. The answer came in the form of a resounding 28-6 loss to the Ravens, dropping the Dolphins to a 2-7 season record and a good amount of time to regroup before hosting Buffalo on Nov. 9.

A quick reminder — the Bills have a seven-game winning streak against the Dolphins.

Thursday’s game featured scattered boos and patches of empty seats at Hard Rock Stadium. Most likely the coming days will feature more fans calling on the Dolphins to lose so they can enhance their first-round draft status.

Here’s what we learned in Thursday’s game:

Lots of Ravens fans . . . and empty seats

Thursday’s attendance was good, but not great. There were visible swaths of empty seats, especially in the upper deck where stretches of six or eight empty seats were visible throughout the stadium.

There were a good number of Ravens fans in the crowd, and plenty of jerseys for Baltimore quarterback Lamar Jackson, who attended Boynton Beach High School. There was a noticeable cheer when Baltimore scored to take a 7-3 lead in the first quarter. Pockets of Dolphins fans were seen leaving with 2:30 left in the third quarter when Baltimore had a 28-6 lead. Ravens fans left early in the fourth quarter. The stadium was almost half empty at the final buzzer. — Chris Perkins

Jackson, Flowers have happy homecomings

Baltimore quarterback Lamar Jackson ended 18 of 23 for 204 yards, four touchdowns, no interceptions and a 143.2 passer rating. Wide receiver Zay Flowers, who attended University School ended with five receptions for 64 yards.

Achane and Waddle do damage early . . . and that’s it

Running back De’Von Achane (106 yards from scrimmage) and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (six receptions, 82 yards) did big damage to the Ravens early in Thursday’s game, but very little in the second half. In the first half Achane had 101 yards from scrimmage with 67 yards rushing on 12 carries and 34 yards receving on five receptions. Waddle had 61 yards receiving on four receptions. He had a 36-yard gain negated by a penalty.

Neither was able to get much going in the second half, however.

Related Articles Self-inflicted damage hurts in first quarter . . . and second

Dolphins wide receiver Tahj Washington lost a fumble that the Ravens turned into a touchdown for a 7-3 lead in the first quarter, and then Miami had a false start on fourth-and-1 from the Baltimore 12-yard line by right guard Larry Borom before kicker Riley Patterson missed a 35-yard field goal wide right.

When the Ravens took a 14-3 lead in the second quarter safeties Dante Trader and Minkah Fitzpatrick ran into each other, which allowed tight end Mark Andrews to run free on a 20-yard touchdown reception. Shortly after that a questionable unnecessary roughness call on running back Ollie Gordon II negated a 36-yard completion to Waddle and the Dolphins eventually punted.

Washingtons lose fumbles

It was a rough night for Dolphins wide receivers with the last name Washington as both Tahj and Malik lost fumbles. Tahj lost a fumble in the first quarter at the Dolphins’ 18-yard line. Baltimore scored on its next possession. Malik lost a fumble in the fourth quarter at the Baltimore 10-yard line.

Tua wasn’t great

Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (25 of 40, 261 yards, no touchdowns, one interception, 70.9 passer rating) was playing his second consecutive game without the receiving duo of wide receiver Tyreek Hill (season-ending knee injury) and tight end Darren Waller (pectoral injury; injured reserve) and it didn’t go well. Granted, Tagovailoa was hurt by fumbles by the Washingtons. He also had a possible interception dropped.

Tagovailoa has stayed healthy this season, but his performances have been up and down.

Tagovailoa entered Thursday’s game with four performances with a passer rating of more than 100 — New England (115.5), New York Jets (114.9), Carolina (122.0), Atlanta (138.6) — and four performances at with passer rating less than 82 — Indianapolis (51.7), Buffalo (81.2), Los Angeles Chargers (54.8) and Cleveland (24.1).

Run defense was OK . . . until it wasn’t OK

Baltimore running back Derrick Henry (19 carries, 119 yards) had nine carries for 30 yards in the first half. The Ravens had 10 carries for 30 yards. But Henry had a 35-yard run late in the third quarter and ended the third quarter with 76 yards rushing on 12 carries. The Ravens, who ended with 150 yards rushing on 31 carries, had 101 yards rushing on 19 carries at the end of the third quarter. Henry added a 19-yard run early in the fourth quarter.

The Dolphins, who held Atlanta to 41 yards rushing in their 34-10 win last Sunday, entered the NFL’s 28th run defense allowing 145.0 yards per game.

Henry had a rough start to the season with three fumbles, two of them lost, in the Ravens’ first three games. He hasn’t fumbled since that time. Beyond that, Henry has had season bests of 24 and 21 carries in each of the Ravens’ past two games, against the Los Angeles Rams and Chicago Bears, respectively. Henry entered Thursday’s game with 109 carries (tied for 11th in the league) for 510 yards (12th).

Dolphins Deep Dive: ‘Not a lot to be positive about’ . . . breaking down loss to Ravens | VIDEO

Baltimore-Buffalo back-to-back for third time

This is the third time in the four-year McDaniel era that the Dolphins have played Baltimore and Buffalo in back-to-back weeks. Baltimore has always been the first opponent of the two-step, the first of which was early season and the second of which was late season.

In September 2022, the Dolphins had their best back-to-back showing in the McDaniel era when they had a 42-38 come-from-behind win at Baltimore on Sept. 18 before beating Buffalo, 21-19, at Hard Rock Stadium on Sept. 25 to improve to 3-0.

In December 2023-January 2024, the Dolphins got pounded by Baltimore, 56-19, on New Year’s Eve before losing to Buffalo, 21-14, at home on Jan. 7, 2024, to finish the season 11-6.

This is the first midseason test against Baltimore and Buffalo, who the Dolphins host on Nov. 9 at Hard Rock Stadium, and the first time in the McDaniel era they’ve hosted both opponents in back-to-back weeks. It’s previously been a home-away matchup.

Brunskill used as sixth OL/TE again

Guard-center Daniel Brunskill, who played tight end for a while at San Diego State, was used as a sixth offensive lineman/tight end for the second consecutive game. Brunskill boosted the offense against Atlanta with his blocking skills, particularly in the run game. Brunskill played 22 snaps against Atlanta on Sunday, 15 as the sixth offensive lineman/tight end and the remaining seven snaps at guard. The Dolphins ended with 87 yards rushing on 20 carries.

Frank Smith on sideline again

Offensive coordinator Frank Smith, who is usually upstairs in the coach’s box, was on the sideline for the second consecutive game Thursday. Dolphins players said Smith, a former offensive lineman, gave them a lot of energy on the sideline in the win over Atlanta. Smith’s presence didn’t seem to spark the Dolphins offense in the same way against Baltimore. The Dolphins didn’t score a touchdown Thursday.

Thursday night difficulties under McDaniel

The Dolphins entered the Baltimore game with an 0-3 record on Thursday night games under McDaniel, losing at Cincinnati (27-15) in 2022, at Buffalo (31-10) in 2024 and at Green Bay (30-17) on Thanksgiving in 2024.

Another Mike McDaniel game-management fiasco

The Dolphins, down by 15, really DID take a timeout on DEFENSE in the third quarter. That is just brutal control of the game by the people under the headsets. Inexcusable. To add insult to that injury, the next play was a 39-yard pass to Zay Flowers, and then a touchdown pass to Rashod Bateman on the play after that to make it 28-6. Then, a few plays later, Tua Tagovailoa burned one to prevent third-and-9 from going to third-and-14. — Steve Svekis

In consecutive home games, Phillips has seen a possible sack become a foe’s big play

Against the Chargers in the final minute on Oct. 12, Jaelan Phillips was draped on Justin Herbert’s right arm on second-and-10 when the tall Chargers quarterback switched the ball to his left hand, shook off Phillips, and then threw to Ladd McConkey for a 42-yard gain that allowed Los Angeles to kick the winning field goal with 5 seconds left. Then, on Thursday night, Lamar Jackson stepped through another Phillips sack attempt to throw his first touchdown of the night to tight end Mark Andrews.

The last time Baltimore played here, in 2021, a play happened that sadly hasn’t been seen since

On Nov. 11, 2021, Baltimore made its previous visit to South Florida, where the Dolphins pulled off a 22-10 upset. Miami’s only offensive touchdown in that game (to go with an Xavien Howard fumble-recovery TD) came when quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, in in relief of Jacoby Brissett, burrowed into the end zone from a yard out. That was the last running touchdown by the Dolphins quarterback.

Additionally, since that day, Tagovailoa has run for only 23 first downs in 57 games, only one in the past 15 games. The first of those 15 games was the Rams game where Tagovailoa had helmet contact while making a tackle after an interception. He had had eight rushing first downs in the 15 games before that Rams win. To offer some comparison to other AFC East quarterbacks, the Bills’ Josh Allen has 48 rushing scores since Nov. 11, 2021, and a whopping 249 first downs on the ground in those 75 games. Meanwhile, the Patriots’ Drake Maye, who will play his 22nd career NFL game on Sunday, has four rushing touchdowns and 41 firsts.

Roquan Smith may have prevented a long De’Von Achane touchdown

With the Dolphins, down 14-3, facing a third-and-16 from their 42-yard-line after a questionable personal foul penalty on Ollie Gordon II, Tagovailoa flipped a screen pass left to Achane at the Miami 38. Achane turned up field with two Dolphins linemen ahead of him, looking like Miami might have a big play, and maybe even a 58-yard touchdown, on their hands. However, Ravens linebacker Smith separated from a block by Jonah Savaiinaeah and brought Achane down at the Miami 48, just as center Aaron Brewer was sealing off rookie defensive back Malaki Starks at the Miami 49. Possibly a game-turning play.

Dolphins still not able to re-find their big-yardage touch

Somehow, the last time the Dolphins offense gained more than 400 yards was the 406 piled up in the 45-15 destruction of the Washington Commanders on Dec. 3, 2023, 31 games ago. The Commanders finished that year 4-13. The last time Miami exceeded 400 was with their 405 yards at Buffalo, on its way to a 13-3 season, on Dec. 17, 2022.

An early peek at 2026’s potential docket

With the Dolphins likely to finish third or fourth in the AFC East, their 2026 opponents and sites are starting to come into better focus. Other than the home-and-home series against the Buffalo Bills, New England Patriots and New York Jets, the Dolphins are scheduled for five other home games, with a Hard Rock Stadium rematch against Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers on tap along with a visit from Pat Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs then a pair of NFC North matchups against former Miami Dolphins assistant coaches as Dan Campbell and the Detroit Lions and Ben Johnson and the Chicago Bears visit.

Additionally in Miami Gardens, there will be a game against the team from the AFC North who finishes in the same position as Miami does in the East. Based on Las Vegas odds, the Cincinnati Bengals are favored to finish third in that division and the Cleveland Browns fourth. With it being an even-numbered year, the Dolphins will play six non-divisional games away from Hard Rock Stadium. Rounding out the AFC West and NFC North scheduling, the Dolphins will visit the Denver Broncos, Las Vegas Raiders, Minnesota Vikings and the Green Bay Packers. The two variable opponents will be the corresponding-finishing team in the AFC South and NFC West. The Tennessee Titans look to be a solid bet to finish in the AFC South cellar, and the odds are that either the Jacksonville Jaguars or Houston Texans will finish third. Meanwhile, the Arizona Cardinals are the halfway-point favorites to be fourth in the NFC West with the San Francisco 49ers more likely to be in third.

Finally, the Dolphins got through a home prime-time game without a team-hobbling injury

Starting with last year’s Bills Thursday night game, when Tagovailoa was concussed in a collision with Damar Hamlin and had to miss the next four starts, the Dolphins have seen ruinous injuries each game under the lights at Hard Rock Stadium. Two weeks after Tagovailoa’s head shot, against the Tennessee Titans on a Monday night, Phillips, who had come back from an Achilles tear against the Jets in 2023, was hit on the knee by teammate Jordan Poyer. Phillips tore his ACL and was lost for the season again. Then, against the Jets in September on a Monday night, Tyreek Hill sustained an ugly knee injury and he will miss the remainder of this season. Chop Robinson did exit with a concussion, but walked off on his own power.

Hill’s absence has taken the air (yards) out of the Dolphins’ passing offense

In the Tagovailoa era, there has been a fairly binary Dolphins passing-game existence: With Tyreek Hill in the 2022 and 2023 seasons (his final two years in his 20s), and not. As Hill roasted the NFL’s No. 1 cornerbacks left and right in the electrifying days of the 2022 and 2023 seasons, Tagovailoa piled up 4,751 air yards in 646 completions in the 34 games started by Hill in 2022 and 2023 (7.35 air yards per completion).

In Tua’s first two seasons before Hill’s arrival, he completed 449 passes for 2,484 air yards for 5.53 air yards per completion. In the one game in 2023 that Hill missed, and then the 25 games since the future Hall of Famer turned 30, Tagovailoa had completed 471 throws for 1,991 air yards for a hollow 4.23 air yards per completion entering Thursday night. The before and after 2022 and 2023 combine for 4.86 air yards per completion (4,475 air yards on 920 completions), a 33.9% nosedive from the final prime Hill seasons. On Thursday, unofficially, Tagovailoa threw for 113 air yards on 25 completions for a 4.52-air-yard per completion figure.

Flores is the greatest Dolphins coach by one (slightly arbitrary) measurement

Brian Flores was saddled with a decimated roster as the Dolphins aimed to tank the 2019 season, in search of a franchise quarterback in the 2020 draft. Thus, he began his coaching career 0-4, outscored by a horrific 163-26. Then came the bye week. Then? Three more losses, but with a whole-different look, as the score differential was a much more competitive 75-51. And that set the stage for a 5-4 finish as Flores started riding Ryan Fitzpatrick (why, again, did Chris Grier, with all his other moves screaming TANK, sign a veteran quarterback who had had a 100.4 passer rating in 2018?) and saw his defense, which had forced a scant two takeaways in the first six games, take the ball away 14 times in the final 10 games.

Then, after 10-6 and 9-8 seasons, Flores was fired. He left the franchise with a 24-18 record in his final 42 games. No Dolphins coach in history has had as good of a record in his final 42 games as Flores’ 24-18. Jimmy Johnson is second at 23-19 and Don Shula third at 22-20 (but, to be fair, two of their losses were in the playoffs). After Shula is a pile of three coaches at 20-22 (Dave Wannstedt, Joe Philbin and Adam Gase). Where is Mike McDaniel? He fell to 19-23 with the loss to the Ravens. Here is the full listing:

Flores: 24-18;

Johnson: 23-19;

Shula: 22-20;

Wannstedt: 20-22;

Philbin: 20-22;

Gase: 20-22;

McDaniel: 19-23 (active);

Sparano: 18-24;

Wilson: 12-28-2.

*NON-QUALIFIERS: Jim Bates, Dan Campbell, Todd Bowles, Cam Cameron, Nick Saban

On deck: Buffalo Bills, Hard Rock Stadium, Sunday, Nov. 9, 1 p.m.

The Bills travel to Hard Rock Stadium while, barring a Patriots loss Sunday against the Falcons combined with a Bills victory over the Chiefs, not leading the AFC East. However, after an uninspired 4-2 start where the Bills scored 27.8 points a game and yielded 22.8 per against teams who, through Week 8, had a horrific combined record of 15-31 (a .326 winning percentage), Buffalo came off their bye and routed the Carolina Panthers in Charlotte 40-9 last Sunday.

Show Caption1 of 30Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle talk on the sidelines Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. (Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Expand

Hyde10: Miscues, fumbles, penalties — 10 thoughts on Dolphins’ 28-6 loss to Ravens

Thu, 10/30/2025 - 20:25

MIAMI GARDENS — So much for one fine day in Atlanta.

The Miami Dolphins couldn’t pick up from that win on Sunday and fell to 2-7 in losing to the Baltimore Ravens 28-6 on Thursday night at Hard Rock Stadium.

Here are 10 thoughts on the loss:

1.Play of the Game: Tahj Washington’s first NFL catch was unforgettable — even if he wants to forget it. After the Dolphins kicked a field goal on their opening drive and Baltimore went three-and-out on its first drive, Washington took a short pass from Tua for a nice, 11-yard completion to the Dolphins 18-yard line. But Baltimore safety Alohi Gilman strip-tackled him, picked up the ball and returned the fumble 11 yards to the Miami 7. On fourth-and-2, Jackson threw to tight end Mark Andrews for the touchdown and make it 7-3. The tone of the night was set.

2. Stat of the night: 235 yards and two field goals. That’s was the Dolphins’ first half. And they held Baltimore to 109 yards and trailed 14-6 at half. How do you gain that much and have only two field goals? Well …

3. Besides the fumble, there were three missed opportunities for the Dolphins as they showed how losing teams lose:

*Miami drove 57 yards in the first quarter and lined up at the Baltimore 12 to go on fourth-and-1. Tweet. Tackle Larry Borom was penalized for a false start making it fourth-and-6. On came the field-goal unit and Riley Patterson, who had made 11 of 12 field goal attempts, missed a 35-yard attempt.

*The Dolphins started at the Baltimore 29-yard line in the second quarter thanks to Malik Washington’s 35-yard punt return and a 10-yard Ravens holding penalty. But three straight incompletions meant Patterson came on to kick a 42-yard field goal to make it 14-6.

*The Dolphins drove 67 yards late in the second quarter to face third-and-2 at the Baltimore 13. Achane ran up the middle for no gain. On fourth down, Tua and Achane crossed signals and Tua’s pass floated into an empty corner of the end zone.

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4. The Dolphins defense appeared to have solved its prime problem as Baltimore ran for 30 yards on 10 carries in the first half (nine by Derrick Henry, one by Lamar Jackson). The defense controlled the play. But then Baltimore came out in the third quarter and everything changed. Henry finished with 119 yards on 19 carries as Baltimore opened up the game with 166 yards of offense and two touchdowns in the third quarter.

5. Just to continue a night of missed opportunities, the Dolphins drove 81 yards on 12 plays in the fourth quarter. With 11 minutes left, they had a last-gasp chance. But on first-and-10 from the Baltimore 14, Malik Washington ran 3 yards and fumbled, and Baltimore’s Marlon Humphrey recovered.

6. Pompano Beach native Lamar Jackson returned home and showed again what the Dolphins missed in passing on him in the 2018 draft. Remember? Well, the two-time league MVP surely does. He wasn’t great in his first game back from a hamstring injury in a month in the first half as he completed 8 of 12 passes for 89 yards (and two touchdowns). But as he shook the rust off, he took over. Two third-quarter touchdown passes (3 yards to Charlie Kolar, 9 yards to Rashod Bateman) ended drives of 68 and 60 yards. For the night, Jackson completed an efficient 18 of 23 passes for 204 yards and four touchdowns. (The Dolphins’ Tagovailoa completed 25 of 40 passes for 261 yards.)

6. When Ollie Gordon Jr. injured his ankle in the second quarter, it hurt in ways beyond the physical pain. The Dolphins were running the ball well as their 83 yards on 16 carries showed. De’Von Achane was the biggest part of that, of course, with 12 carries for 67 yards. Gordon had just two carries for 10 yards. But the Dolphins left Jaylen Wright inactive for the game, meaning Achane was the only running back available. That’s the risk of having just two running backs. It didn’t matter too much after Baltimore went up 28-6 in the third quarter and the Dolphins didn’t have the option to run too much.

7. Bad Call of the Night: In a 7-3 game in the second quarter, the Dolphins got the one-deep coverage they wanted (Baltimore actually played it most of the night). Tua threw deep for a 36-yard completion to Jaylen Waddle to the Baltimore 7-yard line. But running back Ollie Gordon slipped and fell in going to block Baltimore’s rushing Mike Green. The official thought Gordon dropped into Green’s legs. That’s a personal foul penalty — at least without a slip. As it was, it was an unfortunate call that meant instead of first-and-goal, the Dolphins were penalized back to their 43-yard line.

8. At 2-7 and the season long sunk,  it’s time to start tracking the Dolphins’ draft spot. For now, they hold the fourth draft pick. There are three one-win teams — New Orleans, the New York Jets and Tennessee. The Dolphins and New York Giants are the only teams who could be 2-7 after this week (Las Vegas and Arizona are both 2-5).

9. Quick Hits:

The Harbaughs, Jim and John, were 2-0 in October at Hard Rock Stadium.

The Dolphins used two timeouts, one on offense, one on defense, in the third quarter.

Edge rusher Chop Robinson went into the blue medical tent in the second quarter and then had his helmet taken away, suggesting he was in concussion protocol.

The Dolphins won the toss and again elected to receive to continue their idea of late and buck the NFL mindset.

Baltimore fans appeared to outnumber Dolphins fans at Hard Rock Stadium. I’d put it at 60-40.

10. Next week: Buffalo Bills at Dolphins. The Bills play home against Kansas City on Sunday. The Dolphins get a break until the Nov. 9 game, and they’ll need it judging by recent meetings. Buffalo beat the Dolphins in the third game of the year in Orchard Park, N.Y., 31-21. Buffalo quarterback Josh Allen is 13-2 against the Dolphins. The glimmer of good news: He’s only 5-2 against the Dolphins in Hard Rock Stadium (one loss came on a last-minute incompletion in the end zone, and the other saw time barely run out before being able to try a 59-yard field goal that would have won the game).

Dolphins Deep Dive: ‘Not a lot to be positive about’ . . . breaking down loss to Ravens | VIDEO

Show Caption1 of 30Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle talk on the sidelines Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. (Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Expand

Dolphins, clobbered by Ravens, right back to being an embarrassment

Thu, 10/30/2025 - 20:13

MIAMI GARDENS — That phenomenal win in Atlanta proved more of an anomaly than anything else, and the joy to come from it was short-lived for the Miami Dolphins.

All it took was four days for the Dolphins to go right back to being humbled and embarrassed by an opponent.

With quarterback Lamar Jackson throwing four touchdowns and Miami never finding the end zone, the Baltimore Ravens clobbered the Dolphins, 28-6, in a national standalone Thursday night game at Hard Rock Stadium.

Miami (2-7) looked closer to the team that was crushed, 31-6, in Cleveland Oct. 19 than the one that rebounded with a convincing 34-10 win against the Falcons seven days later.

Any hope the Dolphins had of expanding on the effort in Atlanta for a midseason turnaround appears long gone.

Coach Mike McDaniel and general manager Chris Grier’s job security will once again be under a microscope, especially with the mini-bye of a weekend off that follows a Thursday night game. And with the NFL’s trade deadline looming Tuesday, the Dolphins seem assured to be sellers, moving off a piece or two for draft capital as contenders look to poach talent on Miami’s roster.

It all happened as boos from fans rained down on the team. Many were captured by the Amazon Prime Video broadcast with bags over their head. Others flooded the exits well before the game went final.

“It sucks. That sucks. All of that does,” McDaniel said. “Fans enjoy winning. Our expectation is that we have to do the work and do the right things for fans to enjoy the experience, and unfortunately, we didn’t do that (Thursday) and we have to get back to work to give them something to cheer about.”

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Baltimore (3-5), meanwhile, looked all the part of the team many pundits believe is primed to make that postseason push after starting 1-5 but now having their leader behind center back.

Jackson, a Pompano Beach native and Boynton Beach High grad playing his first game since missing three with a hamstring injury, had his third different four-touchdown game against the Dolphins in his fifth outing facing his hometown team.

Jackson was an efficient 18 of 23 for 204 yards, four touchdowns — two of them to tight end Mark Andrews — often using his elusive feet to give himself extra time to find receivers, while only rushing for 14 yards.

Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was 25 of 40 for 261 yards as Miami’s offense missed several opportunities to score. He threw a fourth-quarter interception, and his pass-catchers twice lost fumbles. The team lost the turnover margin, 3-0.

“We’ve got to continue to get our guys better in that aspect, but this isn’t a game where we’re discouraged,” Tagovailoa said. “It’s one of those games where you wish you could have done more or whatever you could to help the guys go out there and execute the way we wanted to execute offensively.”

Miami wide receiver Jaylen Waddle led the team with 82 receiving yards. Running back De’Von Achane had 67 rushing yards and 39 receiving.

Baltimore running back Derrick Henry went for 119 rushing yards to pace the ground game.

“I thought they had a decent game,” said Miami linebacker Jordyn Brooks of Jackson and Henry, “but a lot of that came towards the end of the game. The game was out of reach. A lot of garbage time, to be honest with you.

Dolphins Deep Dive: ‘Not a lot to be positive about’ . . . breaking down loss to Ravens | VIDEO

“I felt like we played well defensively in the first half, but turnovers, that kills you. Not capitalizing, not scoring when we could, giving him the ball back, giving him an extra set of downs. Players like that, they’re going to find a way to get in the end zone.”

He was right about the first half. Miami outgained Baltimore, 225-109, at halftime but was trailing, 14-6.

“It was obvious in the first half that our team could play toe-to-toe, and we felt very good about our play going in and the way guys came out,” McDaniel said. “Generally, it’s a bad omen to be very capable of being in the lead and being behind.”

The Dolphins found themselves in an early 14-3 hole as Jackson threw his second touchdown to Andrews. Minkah Fitzpatrick, playing as the nickel, collided with fellow safety Dante Trader, who led Miami with 11 tackles, to free up Andrews for the 20-yard touchdown.

They then had an opportunity to score before the half, but on fourth-and-2, a throw on a fade route to Achane went well over the target as Achane stopped running his route.

“We had a concept that we felt pretty good about and our primary didn’t quite go in an area that we expected,” McDaniel said. “There was a multitude of failures in a critical situation on that one.”

Tagovailoa said he needed to give Achane a better pass.

The Ravens kept on charging to start the second half, with Jackson throwing a 3-yard touchdown to third-string tight end Charlie Kolar. Later in the third, he hit wideout Rashod Bateman open over the middle for a 9-yard score that made it 28-6 before a quiet fourth quarter that saw Miami turn it over twice.

“We just didn’t make enough plays to counteract,” outside linebacker Bradley Chubb said. “They came out, got that first touchdown drive and, as a defense, we just didn’t make enough plays to stop them.”

The Dolphins gifted the Ravens a touchdown early with the field position from a lost fumble.

Second-year wide receiver Tahj Washington’s first career reception resulted in a fumble forced and recovered by safety Alohi Gilman to give Baltimore the ball on the 7-yard line.

“It’s just stuff that we can’t have against a good team like that,” Achane said.

Miami nearly pulled off a goal-line stand after the Ravens had second-and-goal from the 1, but on fourth down from the 2, Jackson threw to Andrews in the back of the end zone for the touchdown.

It made the score, 7-3, after the Dolphins started Thursday with a 49-yard field goal from Riley Patterson but, later in the first quarter, had Patterson miss from 35.

The made field goal came after Miami burned a timeout on third-and-6 to then run a wide rushing play for Achane that only picked up 2 yards. The missed field goal followed a fourth-and-1 where right tackle Larry Borom was called for a false start as the ball was snapped.

McDaniel was irate on the sideline.

“That was at self-inflicted wounds,” McDaniel said. “That’s, flat out, a controllable that our team knows that keeps you from winning. So I was irate at nothing but our self-inflicted wound.”

Tagovailoa said crowd noise from Ravens fans who traveled played a role in Borom’s penalty.

Patterson redeemed himself from the earlier miss with a successful try from 43 yards in the second quarter. It was set up by a 35-yard punt return by Malik Washington, who later lost a fumble in the fourth quarter.

Dolphins defensive tackle Benito Jones had a sack on Jackson in the first half Thursday, with Chubb flushing the elusive quarterback into the big nose tackle. Jaelan Phillips, who missed a key earlier opportunity to sack Jackson, had a second-half sack.

After the mini-bye on the other side of the short week for the Thursday night game, the Dolphins host the Buffalo Bills on Nov. 9.

Show Caption1 of 30Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle talk on the sidelines Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. (Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Expand

Instant Analysis: Baltimore Ravens 28, Miami Dolphins 6

Thu, 10/30/2025 - 20:11

Quick thoughts from South Florida Sun Sentinel staffers on the Dolphins’ loss to the Ravens on “Thursday Night Football” at Hard Rock Stadium as an error-prone Miami fell to 2-7 on the season:

Dave Hyde, Columnist

What happened in Atlanta stayed in Atlanta. The Dolphins got back to their identity of mistakes, turnovers and untimely penalties in losing to Baltimore.

Chris Perkins, Dolphins Columnist

Well, things are back to normal for the Dolphins in the 2025 season after a brief respite in last Sunday’s 34-10 Atlanta victory. The Dolphins got pounded Thursday thanks to a few key self-inflicted errors. Things could get ugly next week (Buffalo) and the week after in Madrid (vs. Washington).

David Furones, Dolphins Writer

The grand effort in Atlanta was just an anomaly. The Dolphins were exposed as a team that needs to be selling at the trade deadline Tuesday. The heat is right back on coach Mike McDaniel and general manager Chris Grier after this embarrassing effort.

Steve Svekis, Assistant Sports Editor

The John Harbaugh Ravens, as they usually have done, roasted the Dolphins yet again. And, now, the Miami record is 2-7. The Dolphins offense has been two different animals since 2020: Tua Tagovailoa without Tyreek Hill, and then with Hill, especially the one who finished his 20s in 2022 and 2023, as the Dolphins lefty chucked the ball deep to him as he destroyed cornerbacks immediately off the snap, or threw to others in the wide-open spaces the mere fear of Hill’s elite speed created. The non-Hill offense is often unsightly as a completed pass more than 10 yards downfield is an infrequent cause for celebration. Can the status quo possibly hold?

Keven Lerner, Assistant Sports Editor

The Dolphins pop-gun, butterfingered offense gave away every inch of the good will that had been in abundance after the Falcons rout. And now, reality sets in as a likely seller team before Tuesday’s trade deadline.

Dolphins Deep Dive: ‘Not a lot to be positive about’ . . . breaking down loss to Ravens | VIDEO

Show Caption1 of 30Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle talk on the sidelines Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens. (Joe Cavaretta/South Florida Sun Sentinel)Expand

Dolphins suffer crushing 28-6 loss to Ravens | PHOTOS

Thu, 10/30/2025 - 20:00

The Miami Dolphins (2-7) were routed by the Baltimore Ravens 28-6 on Thursday Night Football at Hard Rock Stadium. Quarterback Lamar Jackson led the Ravens, throwing for four touchdowns, while the Dolphins’ offense was unable to reach the end zone.

Winderman’s view: Andrew Wiggins offers a reminder for shorthanded Heat in loss

Thu, 10/30/2025 - 19:58

SAN ANTONIO – Observations and other notes of interest from Thursday night’s 107-101 loss to the San Antonio Spurs:

– Andrew Wiggins has spent the bulk of his career deferential.

– Because save for his early years with the Minnesota Timberwolves, there mostly was something better alongside.

– That certainly was the case with the Warriors.

– The case alongside Tyler Herro with the Heat last season.

– And then alongside Norman Powell at the start of this season.

– Thursday, there was no Herro, no Powell, and not the jet fuel that had been Jaime Jaquez Jr. to start the season, with Jaquez quiet on this night.

– So Wiggins showed what an aggressive Wiggins could look like.

– On a night it was needed.

– Yes, the ultimate score mattered.

– But so was getting Wiggins to this level.

– Because if this early-season ride is to be something, then it will have to be Wiggins as a significant contributor.

– When also playing alongside Herro and Powell.

– But Thursday offered an appetizer.

– Now, more please.

– Because from Wiggins, even in defeat, this was encouraging, heartening, and, in the moment, needed.

– With Powell (groin) out again, the Heat again opened with Wiggins, Kel’el Ware, Bam Adebayo, Davion Mitchell and Pelle Larsson, the same group that opened Tuesday against the Hornets.

– Inactive for the Heat were Herro, Kasparas Jakucionis, Vlad Goldin and Terry Rozier, who again was listed as “not with team.”

– Jakucionis went through shooting drills pregame, an encouraging sign in his work back from a groin strain.

– Powell was listed as an active scratch.

– That had two-way players Myron Gardner and Jahmir Young active on their two-way Heat contracts.

– Asked whether he would be back for Sunday’s game against the Lakers, the second stop on this four-game trip, Powell said, “We’re taking it day by day now. So we’ll see. I don’t want to put anything out there and put pressure on anybody. But I’ll just say that I don’t plan on being out too long.”

– The Spurs opened with a lineup of  Harrison Barnes, Devin Vassell, Julian Champagnie, Victor Wembanyama and Stephon Castle.

– It was Jaquez again as Heat sixth man.

– With Dru Smith following.

– And then together Nikola Jovic and Simone Fontecchio for nine deep.

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– That again left Keshad Johnson as the only other available from the standard rotation not in the initial mix.

– Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said the challenges of this four-game trip are meaningful. “You have to embrace these opportunities,” he said. “It is early in the season, but it’s also something that’s fun right now.”

– The Heat entered having won a franchise-record five in a row against the Spurs, as well as five in a row in San Antonio, entering the night without a road loss to the Spurs since Jan. 19, 2020.

– The Spurs entered seeking the first 5-0 start in franchise history.

– With his first block, Wembanyama extended his streak of games with at least one to 90, training only NBA streaks of  Patrick Ewing (145), Dikembe Mutombo (116) and Mark Eaton (94).

Miss Manners: Neighbor trims vines and tosses the scraps in my yard

Thu, 10/30/2025 - 01:39

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I discovered what looked like a batch of pruned vines in my backyard. There is some ivy that grows on the walls shared by several of us in proximity, and it appears the neighbors behind us cut the pieces that were hanging in their yard and tossed them over into ours.

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While I am always willing to help our neighbors, I thought it rude of them to toss the mess into our yard. What is wrong with people that they feel they cannot approach their neighbors to ask if we could cut the plants — or for any favor, for that matter?

By the way, this neighbor also drilled a foot-high eyebolt (to support patio lights) into the shared block wall without mentioning it or otherwise considering us. Sadly, this course of action is just another example how neighborly etiquette has gone out the window.

GENTLE READER: You mention the eyebolt in passing, but it is at the root of the problem. Too many homeowners, if asked why they did not approach a neighbor about a planned improvement, exaggerate reasonable amounts of selfishness and fear into worst-case scenarios.

“It’s really not up to them what color curtains I have” becomes “I have an absolute right to do what I want with my house,” while “I’d rather not be yelled at by someone I barely know” becomes “What if they have a gun?”

But the link between not talking to the neighbors and the breakdown in civility is cause and effect. Why be considerate of someone you barely know?

Miss Manners’ solution would be to find an excuse to do one or two things that require minimal effort, but are neighborly, such as turning over mail meant for them, but misdelivered to you, in person — rather than throwing it at the window as you leave the driveway.

These days, such things are so unexpected they should make your neighbor think twice next time they are pruning the vines.

DEAR MISS MANNERS: My wife and I have a difference of opinion about emails sent from “do not reply” addresses.

I say that, in principle, they display poor manners. They are akin to saying something to somebody and then putting your hands over your ears and repeating “I can’t hear you” (like children do).

Now, I understand why a business or nonprofit (or scammer or spammer) would want to send out thousands of emails without accepting replies, which they might be obligated to respond to.

But I say if you start a dialogue by sending me an email, then you should be ready to continue the dialogue by letting me reply.

GENTLE READER: The reason you cite — not having to monitor responses to automated, bulk, commercial emails — is indeed why “do not reply” email addresses were invented.

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Miss Manners notes this because she finds that new technology requires new etiquette much less frequently than technophiles imagine. The pre-internet equivalent is the sign on the company warehouse that reads, “This is the company’s central shipping facility. If you are looking for retail sales or customer service, please call this number.”

If there are limitations on the sender’s ability to respond, it is not rude to say so, so long as they provide alternative means. But you should certainly object if your wife proposes to hang such a sign on the front door.

Please send your questions to Miss Manners at her website, www.missmanners.com; to her email, gentlereader@missmanners.com; or through postal mail to Miss Manners, Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.

Ask a real estate pro: Can I sue owner of building next door over damage caused by sprinklers?

Thu, 10/30/2025 - 01:10

Q: I live next to a building that has two feet of plants and grass next to the property line. Their sprinklers are directed to my property instead of the other way around. Over the years, the water has damaged my garage and an adjacent room. They are constantly flooded to the point of sinking. Can I sue the owner for the damage? — Helga

A: Yes, you probably can.

The law requires every property owner to use their property in a way that does not cause unreasonable harm to others. While your neighbor has every right to water their landscaping, that right ends when their actions damage your property.

If their sprinklers have been directing water onto your land for years, and that has caused flooding and structural damage, you may have a valid claim.

The most likely legal theories would be negligence, private nuisance, or trespass.

In simple terms, your neighbor has a duty to maintain their property in a reasonable way, and failing to correct a situation that repeatedly floods your property would likely be seen as unreasonable.

Start by gathering evidence. Write down everything you can remember about the situation and keep this journal current as the issue progresses. Take photographs and videos that clearly show how the sprinklers are positioned, when they run, and how the water accumulates on your side. Try to document the resulting damage over time.

You may also want to hire a contractor or engineer to evaluate the cause and the cost of repairs.

Having this information will help prove your case if you end up in court.

If you have not already done so, you should send your neighbor a polite but firm letter explaining the issue, showing the evidence, and asking them to redirect their sprinklers and pay for the necessary repairs.

Many of these disputes can be resolved without a lawsuit once the neighbor understands the extent of the damage.

If that does not work, you should consult with an experienced attorney about filing a lawsuit.

The evidence you gathered, along with your documentation and notes, will help determine the best way to pursue your claims.

Also, check your homeowner’s insurance policy. It may cover some or all of the repairs, and it could determine whether you end up suing your neighbor or your insurance company does it for you.

Board-certified real estate lawyer Gary Singer writes about industry legal matters and the housing market. To ask him a question, email him at gary@garysingerlaw.com, or go to SunSentinel.com/askpro. 

Today in History: October 30, Gerald Ford tells New York City ‘Drop Dead’

Thu, 10/30/2025 - 01:00

Today is Thursday, Oct. 30, the 303rd day of 2025. There are 62 days left in the year.

Today in history:

On Oct. 30, 1975, the New York Daily News ran the headline “Ford to City: Drop Dead,” a day after President Gerald R. Ford said he would veto any proposed federal bailout of New York City, which was on the verge of bankruptcy. The city ultimately evaded bankruptcy despite weathering a severe fiscal crisis.

Also on this date:

In 1912, Vice President James S. Sherman, running for a second term of office with Republican President William Howard Taft, died six days before Election Day. (Taft was defeated by Democrat Woodrow Wilson in the election).

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In 1938, the radio play “The War of the Worlds,” starring Orson Welles, aired on the CBS Radio Network. The broadcast panicked some listeners in its portrayal of an invasion by Martians.

In 1961, the Soviet Union tested a hydrogen bomb, the “Tsar Bomba,” with a force estimated at about 50 megatons (over 3,500 times that of the atomic bomb dropped on Hiroshima). It remains the most powerful nuclear weapon ever detonated.

In 1972, an Illinois Central Gulf commuter train was struck by another train on Chicago’s South Side, killing 45 people and injuring about 350.

In 1974, Muhammad Ali, 32, knocked out George Foreman, 25, in the eighth round of a scheduled 15-round bout known as the “Rumble in the Jungle,” in Kinshasa, Congo (then Zaire), to regain his world heavyweight title.

In 1995, voters in the province of Quebec narrowly defeated a referendum that called for sovereignty with a new economic and political partnership with Canada.

In 2005, the late Rosa Parks was the first woman to lie in honor in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda; Parks became a civil rights icon by refusing to give up her seat on a segregated bus to a white passenger in 1955.

In 2018, gangster James “Whitey” Bulger was found beaten to death at a federal prison in West Virginia; the 89-year-old former Boston crime boss and longtime FBI informant had been transferred there just hours earlier.(Three inmates entered plea deals and were convicted in Bulger’s killing).

In 2023, the United Auto Workers said it reached a tentative deal with General Motors, capping a whirlwind few days in which GM, Ford and Stellantis agreed to terms that would end the union’s targeted strikes over six week.(UAW members later ratified the contracts).

Today’s Birthdays:
  • Author Robert Caro is 90.
  • Football Hall of Fame coach Dick Vermeil is 89.
  • Rock singer Grace Slick is 86.
  • Songwriter Eddie Holland is 86.
  • R&B singer Otis Williams (The Temptations) is 84.
  • Actor Henry Winkler is 80.
  • Broadcast journalist Andrea Mitchell is 79.
  • Country/rock musician Timothy B. Schmit (The Eagles) is 78.
  • Actor Harry Hamlin is 74.
  • Country singer T. Graham Brown is 71.
  • Actor Kevin Pollak is 68.
  • Actor Michael Beach is 62.
  • Musician Gavin Rossdale (Bush) is 60.
  • Actor Nia Long is 55.
  • Actor Matthew Morrison is 47.
  • Business executive and former presidential adviser Ivanka Trump is 44.
  • Olympic gold medal gymnast Nastia Liukin is 36.
  • NBA guard Devin Booker is 29.
  • NHL defenseman Cale Makar is 27.

Brutalist-style Galleria has got to go | Letters to the editor

Thu, 10/30/2025 - 01:00

The Galleria mall in Fort Lauderdale, as it exists, needs to go. Its near-brutalist architecture is a testament to a lack of form and function. The interior is a mausoleum of cold, wasted space and confusing, disconnected levels.

I’m not thrilled about the possibility of nine massive housing towers and the impact on our resources, but clinging to the memory of a mall that once was does nothing for our residents and visitors. We also cannot ignore the need for more housing.

It’s time to think bigger with a mix of retail and onsite housing (including affordable housing).

For starters, get some inspiration from Rick Caruso’s Americana at Brand in Glendale, Calif., and his other successful projects there.

Kevin Schoeler, Fort Lauderdale

Disenfranchising voters Florida House District 87.

Gov. Ron DeSantis has finally set the special election for state House District 87 in Palm Beach County. (The seat is vacant because DeSantis appointed former Rep. Mike Caruso as the county court clerk.)

The general election is set for March, 24, 2026. This will be 11 days after the scheduled end of the 2026 Legislative session, thereby disenfranchising more than 114,281 voters.

In my opinion, the date is intentional to avoid what will likely be a pro-Democratic vote. As Republicans have overwhelming control over the state House, one more Democratic vote would make zero difference in the outcome of any House floor votes.

Nonetheless, the people of District 87 deserve to be represented in Tallahassee. The disenfranchisement of this many Floridians of representation in the Legislature is very undemocratic.

Marc Dickerman, Fort Lauderdale

Keep us laughing, Pat CourtesyA long-time Florida journalist, Pat Beall is a Sun Sentinel editorial writer and weekly columnist.

After reading Pat Beall’s latest column in Saturday’s Sun Sentinel (“Halloween at the old Trump place,” Oct. 25), it occurred to me that she is the only remaining local journalist regularly writing about political matters from a humorous and sarcastic standpoint.

Similar writers from other South Florida papers are now retired, including Carl Hiaasen (of The Miami Herald) four years ago, and Frank Cerabino (Palm Beach Post) earlier this year.

Pat Beall must carry this torch for as long as possible.

Jack Lippman, Boynton Beach

Remembering June Lockhart SCI-FI CHANNELJune Lockhart, left, was in TV's "Lost in Space" and was best known as Timmy Martin's Mom on "Lassie."

Many tributes to June Lockhart, who has died at age 100, focus on her wholesome, maternal image.

But to see what might have been, check out her two episodes on “Have Gun Will Travel” in the role of Dr. Phyllis Thackeray.

Television may be a cool medium, but the chemistry between Lockhart and the show’s star, Richard Boone, positively sizzles.

She played the roles she was offered, and she could have been so much more. The world is a smaller place without her.

Ann Carter, Merritt Island

No guns in Publix

I wholeheartedly agree, no guns or knives in Publix (“It’s time for sanity at Publix,” Letters to the editor, Oct. 26).

I will not set one foot in their stores, with fear for my safety and for my grandsons.

Publix corporate heads obviously do not care about the safety of their employees or their customers.

Next, it will be “Publix rage” instead of road rage. Then come the lawsuits. Good luck, Publix — and good riddance!

Lisa Cutlip, Brooksville

Please submit a letter to the editor by email to letterstotheeditor@sunsentinel.com or fill out the online form below. Letters may be up to 200 words and must be signed with your email address, city of residence and daytime phone number for verification. Letters will be edited for clarity and length. 

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Morning Update: South Florida’s top stories for Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025

Thu, 10/30/2025 - 00:16

Here are the top stories for Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. Get the weather forecast for today here.

SUBSCRIBE NOW: Get our free Morning Update email. Sign up here.

Nine 30-story towers? Critics blast massive project proposed for Galleria mall

Man hospitalized, one person detained after shooting on Interstate 95 near Boca Raton

DeSantis wants Florida universities to ‘pull the plug’ on H-1B staff from foreign countries

Weekend things to do: Moonfest, Day of the Dead, ‘Stranger Things’ party, Toby Keith tribute

Boca Raton school speeding crackdown draws more than 300 citations so far. What’s next.

Dolphins, Ravens go into Thursday night on similar trajectories but with different expectations

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show opening day | PHOTOS

Doctors muffled as Florida moves to end decades of childhood vaccination mandates

Families of 2024 Halloween shooting victims sue Orlando, Wall Street Plaza operator

Miss Manners: Is it wrong to warn a foolish stranger about theft risks?

St. Thomas Aquinas girls volleyball eyes three-peat after dispatching West Boca

Wed, 10/29/2025 - 20:04

FORT LAUDERDALE — The St. Thomas Aquinas girls volleyball team is heading back to the state final four as the host Raiders cruised past West Boca Raton 25-10, 25-13, 25-13 in a Class 6A regional final on Wednesday night.

St. Thomas Aquinas (26-4) advances to the Class 6A state semifinal at Polk State College in Winter Haven on Nov. 6. The Raiders, which have won 15 straight matches and swept opponents in seven consecutive matches, will be searching for their third consecutive state championship. The Raiders girls volleyball program has captured eight state titles in school history.

Senior middle blocker Isabella Sangha recorded a team-high 14 kills, senior Sydney Guerrier had 10 kills and senior outside hitter Emmi Merhi added seven kills and eight digs. Senior setter Hailey Trebbien registered 21 assists in the victory. Senior libero Adriana Medrano and sophomore outside hitter Isabella Cabrera also stepped up for the Raiders.

Sangha, a Notre Dame commit, has made an impact in her first season with the Raiders. “It’s definitely awesome to help lead my team and to have this opportunity with the girls,” Sangha said.  “It was our last home game, so we wanted to finish strong. I am very happy to be here, especially having an amazing coach like Coach Z (Lisa Zielinski). She has really exceeded my expectations and how she leads the program. It’s been a great experience and a blessing.”

Merhi previously played at West Boca during her first two seasons in high school. She was excited for another opportunity to play against her former school.

“It was exciting and a big opportunity for me,” Merhi said. “I wanted to beat them. It’s win or go home now, so I need to get it done and I think our team did that. We need to continue to show up. We’re excited for states.”

The Raiders delivered a dominant performance and jumped out to a 7-0 advantage in the first set. The Raiders took a 15-4 lead and had their biggest lead at 24-6 before winning by 15.

The Raiders scored the first three points in the second set. The Raiders led 13-10  before Sangha’s kill sparked a 6-0 run to extend the lead to nine. They led 22-13 and closed the set on a 3-0 spurt.

The Bulls took their first lead of the match at 4-3 in the third set. The Raiders led 9-8 before scoring three straight. After the Bulls recorded a point, the Raiders pulled away with a 6-0 run to force the Bulls to call timeout. The Raiders led 22-13 and scored the final three points.

“I thought we blocked very well tonight,” Zielinski said. “I thought Sydney and Izzy blocked very well. Emmi played very well. I just thought everyone contributed. We have multiple players that can contribute and that just makes it more challenging for the other team to stop and defend. I think that is one of our strengths. We now have an opportunity to go to states and prepare for that match. It’s one match at a time and one game at a time. I feel really comfortable with our offense right now. I think our defense is pretty good too.”

From left, Emmi Merhi and Isabella Sangha. (Alex Kushel/Correspondent)

St. Thomas Aquinas defeated West Boca in the playoffs for the third straight season. The Raiders cruised past the Bulls in three sets in the regional semifinal last season and held on for a five-set victory in the regional semifinal in 2023. The Raiders are 13-0 against the Bulls dating back to 2007.

West Boca (11-13) had won six consecutive matches prior to the regional final.

“St. Thomas is a great team, super physical and aggressive,” West Boca coach Quan Oliver said. “We have seen a lot of adversity this season and I commend them for how we have responded and kept moving forward. I am really grateful that we have made it this far. I wish we could have done a little bit more.  I am proud of the girls for their fight this season.”

The Bulls were led by senior outside hitter Hailey Ferwerda, who led the team in kills. Junior Hendrix Goodwin, junior Chloe Khoury, sophomore Sofia Maldonado, sophomore Karina DaSilva and senior Caitlin Dreyer were among the team leaders as well.

“Hailey is a senior and has been working hard since I arrived to this program last year,” Oliver said. “She is going to do some big things at the next level I believe. I wish her and all the seniors the best of luck. They gave it all they got.”

The Raiders will play in the state semifinal in Winter Haven on Thursday against an opponent and at a time still to be determined as of Wednesday night.

 

Gators’ Vernell Brown III ruled out vs. Georgia, leaving UF without leading receiver

Wed, 10/29/2025 - 19:33

GAINESVILLE — Florida starting receiver Vernell Brown III will miss his first Georgia game with a shoulder injury, leaving the Gators without one their most dynamic weapons and productive players.

The former Orlando Jones standout and tailback Jadan Baugh are tied with 726 all-purpose yards, including a team-high 451 receiving yards for Brown. Among the true freshman’s team-leading 32 receptions are three of UF’s four pass plays of at least 40 yards.

The 5-foot-11 ¼, 178-pound Brown has been a bright spot on an offense averaging an SEC-low 17 points against FBS competition. But he injured a shoulder during the Gators’ 23-21 homecoming win Oct. 18 against Mississippi State.

The ailment isn’t considered significant enough to sideline Brown for long.

Meanwhile, interim head coach Billy Gonzales, the Gators’ longtime receivers coach, also ruled out redshirt sophomore receiver Aidan Mizell. The absence of Brown and Mizell, a former Orlando Boone star, will require true freshman phenom Dallas Wilson, who has 11 catches and three touchdowns in three games, and UCLA transfer J. Michael Sturdivant (15 catches, 214 yards, one score) to shoulder more responsibility.

Redshirt sophomore Tre Wilson will also receive more opportunities during a disappointing season featuring just 118 receiving yards on 18 catches. Meanwhile, redshirt freshman TJ Abrams, who averages 16.2 yards on six catches, also could have a larger role as the Gators aim to play more multi-receiver packages.

In addition to Brown and Mizell, backup tailback Ja’Kobi Jackson will miss his fourth straight game while true freshman Duke Clark is questionable. Redshirt freshman KD Daniels served as Baugh’s backup against Mississippi State.

Florida is due to return three starters in the secondary after three-year starting safety Jordan Castell and cornerback Cormani McClain sat out homecoming while cornerback Devin Moore left the game and returned with a sling on his right shoulder. Backup tight end Tony Livingston also is cleared after sitting out against Mississippi State.

Edgar Thompson can be reached at egthompson@orlandosentinel.com

Halloween is a challenge for chocolatiers as high prices bite

Wed, 10/29/2025 - 17:08

By Ilena Peng, Bloomberg News

Halloween is shaping up to be a test for the chocolate industry, as high cocoa costs threaten to accelerate a consumer shift toward cheaper and trendier sweets such as sour gummies.

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For candy makers, Halloween remains crucial — the holiday made up nearly 18% of annual U.S. candy sales last year, second only to Christmas. But chocolate makers have been passing along costlier input prices to consumers, and that’s leaving an opening for rivals — who have already seen a shift toward non-chocolate treats — to grab more market share.

It’s the latest example of demand destruction as the chocolate industry is grappling with high prices amid a precarious supply outlook. While cocoa futures in New York have slumped about 50% from a record set in December, they’re still historically elevated. Chocolate makers are hoping nostalgia during the Halloween season can offset the broader shift away from their products.

“Chocolate is chocolate,” said David Branch, a sector manager at Wells Fargo Agri-Food Institute. “We’re seeing less sales away from holidays and more sales during holidays. People are not buying it all the time, but when they want it, they want it.”

The problem is that, increasingly, they’re wanting it less often. Chocolate candy volumes dropped 6% in the 12 weeks ending Oct. 5, as the average price per pound jumped nearly 14%, according to data from consumer research firm Circana. Meanwhile, sales volumes for non-chocolate Halloween-themed candy — think Haribo sour gummy bats — rose 8.3% during the same period.

“I feel like it’s a weekly game between chocolate and non-chocolate, who’s winning that race,” said Sally Lyons Wyatt, Circana’s chief adviser for consumer goods and foodservice insights. Shoppers are still embracing chocolate despite the price increases, she said, but “it’s a jump ball almost between who’s going to get the shares right now.”

More than half of shoppers said they would prioritize gummy candies in their Halloween spending, and just shy of half said the same for hard candies, NielsenIQ researchers found.

Sugarfina, where gummies make up about 85% of its offerings, is selling out its product lines at a faster pace than last year, including a new tangerine-flavored “super sour” star that was gone by mid-October, according to Chief Executive Officer Scott LaPorta. The profitability of gummies has increased relative to chocolate as cocoa costs have risen, he added.

Haribo, best known for its gummy bears, is also seeing higher demand this year, said Hannah Curlee, the company’s seasonal brand manager. Higher chocolate prices have played a role, but gummies also provide a “seasonal creativity that chocolate can’t always match,” Curlee said.

Chocolate companies are fighting back with more promotions and seasonal offerings. They’re also taking action to keep prices down, using nuts and creams to cut back on costly cocoa ingredients.

Some of the biggest companies are stretching their broader portfolios. At Mondelez International Inc., owner of the Cadbury and Toblerone brands, gummies are the priority in the American market, said Chantal Butler, president of the company’s U.S. confectionery segment. Limited-time offerings like Halloween-themed Sour Patch Kids and Oreos “contribute significantly to the demand we see this time of year,” she added.

Still, the U.S. market in particular “is slower than we’ve seen in quite a while,” Mondelez CEO Dirk Van de Put said on an earnings call Tuesday. The company in response has launched more affordable products after its promotional strategy earlier this year “was not giving us the volume effect that we were hoping for,” he said.

Hershey Co. has new Halloween flavors and packaging in the gummy product lineup it launched last year in partnership with Shaquille O’Neal. That’s alongside ghost-shaped Twizzlers and “trickies” Jolly Rancher gummies with colors that don’t always line up with the expected flavors. Sugar-based sweet sales are stacking on top of chocolate sales, with few consumers explicitly choosing one over the other, according to a Hershey spokesperson.

Guittard Chocolate Co., a California-based chocolate company that sells largely to specialty candymakers, expects Halloween demand to be consistent with past years even as the industry works through cocoa supplies purchased earlier this year at much higher prices.

Some confectioners are coming out with new products to “take some of the pressure off” but consumers also require consistency in their favorite products — even at higher costs, said CEO Gary Guittard.

(With assistance from Kristina Peterson.)

©2025 Bloomberg L.P. Visit bloomberg.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Daily Horoscope for October 30, 2025

Wed, 10/29/2025 - 17:00
General Daily Insight for October 30, 2025

It’s time to molt old feathers. The intuitive Moon aligns with balanced Venus, teaching us to charm others, improve relationships, and turn tension into a deeper emotional understanding. Communicative Mercury sextiles transformative Pluto at 6:06 pm EDT — they show us how to embrace inner transformations that allow us to heal old wounds. Luna also supports bittersweet Chiron. In turn, this supports us to see our past pain as a healed lesson, not as a permanent wound. Let’s embrace who we’re becoming.

Aries

March 21 – April 19

Learning updated information can put you in the presence of possible friends. You may be taking a class, going on a walking tour, or exploring the world with community members in another way. It’s important to learn from the context that you’re in together, but there’s also lots to learn from each other in the process. This is a key time for learning more about the world and putting yourself on the path to personal success, so keep your ears and eyes open.

Taurus

April 20 – May 20

You know what — and who — is presently worthy of your trust. Depending on a steady friend or relative is a great way to build practical success. This person may be someone that has been in your life for a long time, someone who’s trusted you as you’ve already trusted them in prior experiences. There’s so much that you’re able to do on your own, but sometimes, you have to lean on someone else. Make sure you’re leaning on someone steady.

Gemini

May 21 – June 20

Like-minded people are possibly seeking you out. In turn, you might have been searching for friendships in which you can develop that strong sense of connection and belonging. Someone who could fit that category is likely to be entering your life at any moment. Of course, you probably have to put yourself out there rather than wait for this person to make themselves known. Remember, you’re likely to find them by the shared interests that you have. Seek out that special spark.

Cancer

June 21 – July 22

Long-held problems can begin melting away. It may be that you’re replacing negative habits with positive ones, allowing mistakes to become simply part of one chapter of life. Maybe you’re letting time heal sores that once prevented you from moving forward emotionally. It might seem almost too easy to watch those issues fizzle away, but you’ve already done the work to minimize them. You have broken up the boulders, and the universe is just sweeping away the remnants! Don’t hang onto outdated pain.

Leo

July 23 – August 22

Your more vulnerable side is potentially ready to be seen. This is particularly relevant if you’ve been hiding yourself away or only showing parts of your personality, instead of showing your full self. Showing your soft side is brave! While you don’t have to reveal everything, keep your eyes peeled for chances to grow closer with people, close friends and shallower acquaintances alike, throughout your day. Being generous with your soul can comfort them and strengthen your connection. It’s okay to be sensitive.

Virgo

August 23 – September 22

Someone else could feel like home to you at present. Think back on those in your life who have shown up for you when others haven’t. Even if there’s been any less pleasant tension between you as of late, today represents an opportunity to work with them and find a way forward. Instead of continuing petty disputes or holding onto grudges, you can release whatever took place between you and see if there is a way to salvage your connection. Be open to healing.

Libra

September 23 – October 22

You might be sending risky messages. The planets are emboldening you with cosmic courage, which isn’t automatically a bad thing. Their alignments are strengthening you to reach out to others, saying things that you might normally be too scared to verbalize. That being said, thinking before you speak is even more crucial than usual. While some uncertain olive branches will end in success, others may turn out quite disappointing. Before you leap, make sure you’re ready for the landing — wherever it may be.

Scorpio

October 23 – November 21

Protecting your current connections is valid, but overly aggressive walls could be keeping additional connections locked out. It’s possible that you’ve closed off your friend circles, not wanting to invite anyone new onto the scene. Changing the dynamic with any additional influences can be intimidating. Don’t miss out on opportunities to make friends with great people. Otherwise, you might miss out on something amazing by guarding your ongoing friendships so intensely. Take a chance on someone new — you might love their energy!

Sagittarius

November 22 – December 21

You have the opportunity to express yourself more clearly, regardless of your recent surroundings. You might have been wishy-washy at one time, not letting others know what was really on your mind and maybe not knowing yourself. Today, though, you may have something vital to say. You’re speaking up for yourself! Once you feel the urge to vocalize something, try to speak up ASAP. If a decision is made before you take the chance to say something, you might regret remaining silent.

Capricorn

December 22 – January 19

Your dreams have something to tell you at this time. It pays to have a dream journal where you can write down your dreams — the more you do, the more memorable they’ll become. You could record yourself speaking about your dream immediately after waking if you think you’ll lose details. Looking into the symbolism of your dreams can teach you a lot! It may even shape certain decisions that you’ve been thinking over. Look to your subconscious for the clues that you’re seeking.

Aquarius

January 20 – February 18

The support of loved ones should never go unappreciated. You can build or strengthen a positive network for yourself by simply spending time getting to know people that you encounter in day-to-day life. At some point, they could pop up right when you need them! Make sure that you’re showing gratitude for their assistance, and don’t forget to give back. You have to be a friend to have a friend, so make sure that you’re keeping a balance between give and take.

Pisces

February 19 – March 20

New heights are calling your name! You might not be sure how to get there yet, but you know in your heart, presuming you continue on the road that you’re presently following, you’ll end up where you want to be. You never know when you’ll be provided with an opportunity by an unexpected benefactor, or what project of yours will lead to your work being seen on a larger stage. Keep putting yourself out there, and trust in the universe to strengthen you through uncertainty.

Scary movies and haunted houses: Researchers study how the brain responds to fear

Wed, 10/29/2025 - 16:57

Everyone knows someone — or maybe is that person — who shuts their eyes tight during the scary parts of a horror film and forces their friend to go first in the haunted house.

Others avoid scary movies and haunted houses altogether during Halloween. In a study published in August, a team at the University of Colorado Boulder studied how people’s brains respond to threats and fear.

Brain cells in the interpeduncular nucleus glow green in a mouse’s brain after a shadow appears on the ceiling. (Photo courtesy of CU Boulder)

The researchers found that a group of neurons, called the interpeduncular nucleus or IPN, plays a role in controlling how people respond and adapt to threats. IPN is a brain circuit located in the midbrain near the brain stem. The team discovered that this circuitry is highly activated the first time a person sees a potentially threatening situation, but as soon as individuals realize there is no threat anymore, the IPN shuts down.

“The first time that you see a very scary movie and there is a scene that you are not anticipating, your IPN is going to be very activated,” psychology and neuroscience professor Susanna Molas said. “But if you see this movie, you re-watch the movie over and over across the same week, your IPN is going to start learning that the scary scene is not as scary anymore, and the IPN will be less active across repeated exposures. It’s the same if you go to a haunted house.”

The more frightened a person is, the more the IPN should be engaged, Molas said. It’s also possible that people who love haunted houses and have a high tolerance for scary movies might have a less active IPN. There may also be a cognitive aspect of the person having more rationale when dealing with spooky situations.

“I think that there is an interplay between natural threat responses, but at the same time, more cognitive assessment,” Molas said. “So it’s possible that some people have a different balance of the natural threat response versus thinking whether this situation is actually creating a danger or a harm.”

For the study, the research team exposed mice to a projected shadow periodically over three days that mimics the approach of an aerial predator. The mice’s instinct was to run away. The team used advanced imaging techniques to measure the mice’s brain activity during the threat. Molas said she was surprised by how quickly the mice adapted their behavior and stopped running away from the shadow.

“I was struck to see that by three days, the animals already understood that the threat is not a danger anymore,” Molas said.

Disruptions in the IPN circuit could also play a role in mental health conditions, such as anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder. About 19% of adults in the U.S. have an anxiety disorder, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness. In a normal threat response, the IPN activity decreases once the brain identifies that there’s no real threat. With anxiety, the IPN remains active in anticipation of a negative effect happening in the future.Related Articles

It’s important to understand the causes and some of the brain regions involved with anxiety so scientists can develop better, more specialized treatments for it, Molas said.

“Anxiety is a very prevalent disorder in our society and the neural circuits behind that are still not completely understood,” she said. “There’s been huge progress, but there are some brain areas that, like the IPN, have not been considered for many decades.”

  
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