Author: Pie President

The President @ The Social Pie Network!

College vs. Prison?

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A recent study highlights a striking cost comparison: sending a student to a top-tier college for four years is significantly cheaper than incarcerating an individual for the same period.

According to the analysis, the average cost of tuition, room and board at an elite university runs around $200,000-$250,000 over four years. In contrast, the annual cost of imprisoning one person averages $35,000-$50,000, totaling $140,000-$200,000 for four years—and that’s before factoring in additional societal costs like lost wages, recidivism, or long-term economic impacts.

Investing in education over incarceration not only saves money but also yields better outcomes. College graduates contribute to the economy, with higher earnings and lower unemployment rates, while incarceration often perpetuates cycles of poverty and crime.

The study underscores a clear choice: funding opportunities for youth through education is both fiscally smarter and socially transformative.

A Message In A Bottle?

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In 2025, brothers Clint and Evan Buffington found a message in a Pepsi bottle on a remote beach in the Bahamas, written in 1976 by Peter R. Thompson, then a 14-year-old student from West Newbury, Massachusetts.

The note, part of a school oceanography project, was launched by a Coast Guard ship and requested the finder to return it with details of where and when it was found.

The brothers, avid beachcombers, tracked down Thompson, now 63 and living in Leominster, Massachusetts, with help from social media and Boston journalist Emily Maher.

Thompson, who didn’t recall writing the message but remembered the class, was amazed by the find nearly 50 years later. The bottle had traveled over 1,000 miles, and the discovery connected the men across decades, highlighting the human stories behind such finds.

LINK IS HERE

Going Home…

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Little Banner Frum, born three months ago, is heading home after a liver transplant, a rare and complex procedure for a newborn.

His three-month hospital stay likely involved managing rejection risks and infections.

Going home is a major milestone, but his family will need to monitor medications, attend frequent check-ups and protect his immune system.

With proper care, Banner’s outlook is promising, like others who thrive post-transplant.

STORY IS HERE (WITH VIDEO)

An Earthquake In Tennessee?

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A 4.1 magnitude earthquake struck near Greenback, Tennessee, about 30 miles southwest of Knoxville, on Saturday, May 10th, 2025, at 9:04 a.m. EDT, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).

The quake, initially reported as 3.5 magnitude, was felt across the Southeast, including Atlanta, Georgia, and parts of North Carolina, South Carolina, Alabama, Kentucky, and Virginia.

Over 40,000 public reports were submitted to the USGS within the first hour, indicating light shaking but no significant damage or injuries. The quake occurred at a shallow depth of approximately 15 miles in the Eastern Tennessee Seismic Zone, one of the most active seismic areas in the Southeast.

There’s a 5% chance of a magnitude 4 or larger aftershock in the next week, and a 23% chance of a magnitude 3 or higher aftershock, though experts note these are unlikely to cause damage.

LINK IS HERE

Daily Prompt @ The Pie!

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Daily writing prompt
What does freedom mean to you?
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Freedom is a word that carries different meanings for everyone, shaped by personal experiences, values and circumstances. To me, freedom is the ability to live authentically, make choices that align with my values and pursue a life of purpose without undue constraint. It’s not just about the absence of restrictions but the presence of opportunities to grow, create and connect with others meaningfully.

At its heart, freedom means being able to express who I am without fear of judgment or repression. This includes the freedom to share my thoughts, whether through writing, conversation, or creative pursuits. It’s about having a voice and knowing it can be heard, even if not everyone agrees. Self-expression also extends to how I choose to live—whether it’s through the career I pursue, the hobbies I embrace, or the relationships I nurture.

Another vital aspect of freedom is the power to make choices. This doesn’t mean having unlimited options but rather the ability to decide what’s best for me based on my circumstances and values. Whether it’s choosing a career path, deciding where to live, or even smaller daily decisions like what to read or how to spend my time, freedom lies in having agency over my life’s direction. With this comes responsibility, as every choice shapes my future and, often, impacts others.

Freedom isn’t absolute; it exists in balance with the freedoms of others. My ability to live freely shouldn’t come at the expense of someone else’s rights or well-being. This balance requires empathy, respect and a willingness to compromise. For example, I value the freedom to speak my mind, but I also recognize the importance of listening to others and fostering dialogue rather than conflict.

Finally, freedom to me is about growth. It’s the chance to learn, evolve and become a better version of myself. This means having access to knowledge, experiences and opportunities that challenge my perspectives while expanding my horizons. It’s about being free to fail, learn from mistakes and try again without being defined by setbacks.

It’s not just about breaking free from chains but about building a life that feels authentic and fulfilling. While external factors like laws and societal norms play a role, true freedom starts within—by knowing who I am, what I value and how I want to contribute to the world. Ultimately, freedom is the space to live with purpose, connect with others and embrace the journey of becoming.

Presidential Bowling Alley?

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On April 25th, 1947, President Harry S. Truman rolled the first ball down the newly constructed two-lane bowling alley in the White House, marking a unique moment in presidential history. Tucked away in the basement of the West Wing, this addition was more than just a recreational space as it was a gift from Truman’s home state of Missouri and a reflection of his down-to-earth personality.

The bowling alley was a surprise from Truman’s friends and supporters in Missouri, who funded and built the lanes as a gesture of appreciation. Truman, an avid fan of simple pastimes, was delighted by the addition. The two lanes, complete with automatic pinsetters, were modest but functional, designed to offer the president and his staff a way to unwind amid the pressures of leading the nation.

At the opening ceremony, Truman, with his characteristic humor and unpretentious charm, took to the lanes. While not a seasoned bowler, he threw the inaugural ball with gusto, reportedly knocking down a few pins and earning cheers from onlookers. The event was lighthearted, a rare glimpse into the personal side of a president known for his no-nonsense leadership during pivotal moments like the end of World War II and the start of the Cold War.

The bowling alley wasn’t just for Truman’s amusement—it became a social hub for White House staff, advisors, and even visiting dignitaries. It symbolized Truman’s belief in balancing hard work with moments of camaraderie. Over the years, the lanes hosted countless games, fostering a sense of community within the White House.

The original two-lane alley was later moved to the Old Executive Office Building in 1955 to make way for other renovations. In 1969, President Richard Nixon, another bowling enthusiast, upgraded the facility, ensuring the tradition continued. Today, the White House bowling alley remains a quirky piece of presidential history, a testament to Truman’s relatable, everyman spirit.

Harry Truman’s opening of the White House bowling alley was more than a ceremonial first roll—it was a strike for levity and connection in the heart of American power. From Missouri to the West Wing, it’s a reminder that even presidents need a moment to spare.