Every year, millions dive into the frenzy of Black Friday, battling crowds for doorbuster deals. But what if we told you the origins of this retail phenomenon are darker—and stranger—than you ever imagined?

The term “Black Friday” didn’t start with shopping. In 1869, it referred to a financial scandal when two shady financiers nearly crashed the U.S. economy trying to manipulate gold prices. The aftermath was catastrophic, leaving Wall Street in ruins and the term “Black Friday” synonymous with disaster.

So how did it become a shopping extravaganza? Fast-forward to 1950s Philadelphia, where “Black Friday” described the chaos of post-Thanksgiving crowds flooding the city ahead of the Army-Navy football game. Streets were packed, stores were overwhelmed, and police officers dreaded the madness. It wasn’t a celebration; it was a nightmare.

Retailers, spotting an opportunity amidst the mayhem, turned the narrative around in the 1980s. They claimed it marked the day businesses went from “in the red” (losing money) to “in the black” (making profit). With savvy marketing, the public bought in—and the shopping mania we know today was born.

But there’s more to Black Friday than meets the eye. Beneath the shiny ads and steep discounts lies a fascinating tale of economic manipulation, urban chaos, and the relentless power of marketing.

So, as you snag your deals this year, remember: Black Friday isn’t just a day of shopping; it’s a window into how far we’ll go for a bargain—and how history can be reshaped by the spin of a clever story.

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Kalik Had Us Guessing but the New Flavor is Finally Here!

Starting in October, Kalik had everyone on social media playing detective, teasing us about their new flavor drop. For weeks, followers were throwing out their best guesses, trying to figure out what exciting fruit could join the ranks of their iconic mango, cranberry, and guava radler flavors. It had to be something major to hold its own, and now the wait is over—the new flavor is lychee!

The announcement took everyone by surprise. Most of us (myself included) were expecting something more traditionally tropical, like passion fruit or coconut, to match the Bahamian paradise vibes. But you know Wybe couldn’t wait to try it, and let me tell you, it’s giving!

Kalik Radler Lychee brings a sweet and smooth flavor with less of the bold beer aftertaste. If we had to compare, it’s like a blend of Vitamalt, Arizona Energy, and Kalik—a burst of flavor that still feels light and refreshing. And the bottle design? It perfectly matches the taste with its festive colors or pink and purple hues.

The girlies seem to be loving it most of all. Reviews like “Lychee has the girlies in a chokehold,” “Lychee run road,” and “My new fav Radler” are all over social.

But now, it’s your turn! What do you think of the new lychee flavor? Drop your reviews in the comments and vote in the poll—what’s your ultimate Radler flavor?

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Casio Releases G-SHOCK Ring Watch

Casio is redefining wearable tech with its 50th-anniversary release: the CRW-001-1JR Ring Watch. This new design shrinks the iconic G-SHOCK B2100 and B5000 series into a sleek, stainless steel ring. The 7-segment LCD display packs impressive features, including time, date, dual time zones, and even a stopwatch. Ideal for everyday use, it’s waterproof and comes with a discreet flashing light for added functionality. Set to launch this December at an affordable $128 USD, the Ring Watch combines Casio’s signature durability with modern elegance. Whether you’re a G-SHOCK collector or just seeking a unique accessory, this fusion of technology and design is bound to impress.

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The Debate Over Capital Punishment in The Bahamas

Capital punishment remains one of the most divisive topics in The Bahamas, sparking debates over justice, morality, and human rights. While executions have not been carried out since 2000, the death penalty still legally exists, and calls for its enforcement often resurface during spikes in violent crime.

Supporters argue that the death penalty is a necessary deterrent to crime, a stance rooted in a desire for justice for victims and their families. They believe it demonstrates society’s commitment to punishing heinous acts with the ultimate consequence. However, critics question its effectiveness, citing studies suggesting that capital punishment doesn’t significantly deter crime.

The legal and ethical implications of the death penalty also create tension. The Privy Council, The Bahamas’ highest court of appeal, has set stringent guidelines for when the death penalty can be imposed, labeling it a "last resort" reserved for the "worst of the worst."

Meanwhile, human rights activists emphasize the potential for wrongful convictions and the inherent flaws in the justice system. For many, the conversation isn’t just about crime but about the kind of society The Bahamas aspires to be—one that leans toward punishment or rehabilitation.

This ongoing debate challenges Bahamians to grapple with tough questions: Is capital punishment a solution, or is it part of the problem? And what does justice truly mean in the Bahamian context?