Category: News Pie!

A Little Too Real?

~ Pie Reporter ~ Leave a comment

On May 19th, 2025, a ceiling panel collapsed at Cinema Ocho in La Plata, Argentina, during a screening of Final Destination: Bloodlines, injuring 29-year-old Fiamma Villaverde.

She sustained bruises on her knee, shoulder, back, and ankle and was hospitalized. Villaverde reported that the debris narrowly missed her head because she was leaning slightly over the armrest.

The incident, which occurred during a film known for its themes of cheating death and catastrophic accidents, led some to note the ironic coincidence.

No fatalities were reported, and the theater was temporarily closed for investigation.

STORY IS HERE

A Star Is Born!

~ Pie President ~ Leave a comment

On May 25th, 1951, a 20-year-old Willie Mays stepped onto the field for the New York Giants, marking the beginning of one of baseball’s most storied careers. Fresh from the Birmingham Black Barons of the Negro Leagues, Mays brought an electrifying mix of athleticism, charisma and raw talent to the majors. His debut at the Polo Grounds against the Philadelphia Phillies was a historic moment, signaling the arrival of a player who would redefine the game.

Mays’ start wasn’t flawless. He went hitless in his first 12 at-bats, a slump that shook his confidence. Feeling overwhelmed, he reportedly told manager Leo Durocher, “I can’t hit up here. Send me back to Minneapolis.” Durocher’s response was unwavering: “You’re my center fielder.” That faith proved prophetic. Mays soon broke through, finishing his rookie season with a .274 batting average, 20 home runs, and 68 RBIs, earning the National League Rookie of the Year award.

Mays’ impact went beyond the stat sheet. His signature “basket catch” (catching fly balls at his waist with a flair that became his calling card) revolutionized outfield play. His powerful arm and blazing speed made him a defensive marvel in center field. Offensively, he delivered clutch hits, including key contributions during the Giants’ miraculous 1951 pennant chase, culminating in Bobby Thomson’s “Shot Heard ‘Round the World” against the Brooklyn Dodgers.

Nicknamed the “Say Hey Kid” for his exuberant personality and love for the game, Mays quickly became a fan favorite. His infectious energy resonated with New Yorkers and his presence at the Polo Grounds helped bridge baseball’s past with its integrated future. As one of the first Black superstars in the post-Jackie Robinson era, Mays carried immense cultural weight, inspiring generations with his grace and excellence.

Mays’ 1951 debut was just the start. Over his 22-year career, he amassed 660 home runs, 3,283 hits, and 24 All-Star selections, earning induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 1979. His time with the Giants, from New York to San Francisco, laid the foundation for a legacy as one of the greatest players to ever step onto a diamond.

MORE INFO HERE

Daily Throwback @ The Pie!

~ Pie President ~ Leave a comment

On May 24th, 1989, moviegoers were treated to the premiere of Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, the third chapter in Steven Spielberg and George Lucas’ beloved adventure saga. This film brought back Harrison Ford as the whip-cracking archaeologist Indiana Jones, joined by Sean Connery as his scholarly yet stubborn father, Henry Jones Sr. Their quest for the Holy Grail, pursued against the backdrop of Nazi schemes, delivered a perfect blend of high-stakes action, witty banter and emotional depth.

With a budget of $48 million, The Last Crusade grossed over $474 million globally, cementing its status as a box-office juggernaut. Its release was a cultural event, drawing fans to theaters for Indy’s latest globe-trotting escapade. The film’s breathtaking set pieces (like the tank chase in the desert (filmed in Almería, Spain) and the perilous Grail temple trials) kept audiences on the edge of their seats.

Critics lauded the film for its fast-paced storytelling and the electric chemistry between Ford and Connery. With a 94% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s often cited as one of the strongest entries in the franchise. Reviewers praised its balance of humor, heart, and adventure, with Connery’s performance as the bookish but brave Henry Jones Sr. stealing many scenes.

The Last Crusade remains a fan favorite for its mix of swashbuckling heroism and personal stakes, exploring Indy’s relationship with his father. Iconic moments, like Indy’s leap of faith or the “No ticket!” train scene, are etched in pop culture history. The film’s themes of family, faith and perseverance resonate as strongly today as they did in 1989.

MORE INFO HERE

Water Absorbent Asphalt?

~ Pie President ~ Leave a comment

German engineers have developed a water-absorbent asphalt, often referred to as permeable or porous asphalt, designed to address stormwater management and reduce flooding.

This innovative road surface can absorb significant amounts of rainwater (up to 4 tons per minute, according to some claims) allowing water to drain directly into the ground or underlying drainage systems.

The asphalt uses a porous structure, typically made with a no-fines concrete or granite-based mixture, which enables water to pass through while filtering out pollutants like motor oil.

This technology, sometimes called “Flüsterasphalt” (whisper asphalt) in Germany due to its noise-reducing properties, is being tested in various regions. It offers environmental benefits like replenishing groundwater, reducing strain on sewer systems, and enhancing road durability by minimizing puddles and surface damage.

However, it can be more expensive than traditional asphalt, with costs estimated at $3-$8 per square foot and requires maintenance to prevent clogging.

WATCH THE VIDEO

Breaking News?

~ Pie President ~ Leave a comment

On May 21st, 2025, Olivia Jaquith, a news anchor for WRGB, a CBS affiliate in Schenectady, New York, went into labor while on air. Her water broke at 4:15 a.m., just before the morning broadcast, but she chose to continue anchoring the three-hour show despite early contractions.

Her co-anchor, Julia Dunn, who is also pregnant, announced the situation on air, noting they were timing Jaquith’s contractions, which were about two minutes apart.

Jaquith, two days past her due date, completed the broadcast with professionalism, even as the station added a “days past due date” counter on screen. After the show, Jaquith went to the hospital and later gave birth to a healthy baby boy named Quincy.

The story has since gained widespread attention for her dedication.

LINK IS HERE

A Cute Wake Up Call!

~ Pie President ~ Leave a comment

A rescue kitten named Dewey turned an electronic keyboard into an unexpected alarm clock, playing the operatic song Nessun Dorma at 6 a.m. to wake its owners, Claire Montanari and David.

The song, famously performed by Luciano Pavarotti, has Italian lyrics translating to “Nobody shall sleep,” adding a comedic twist to the early morning disturbance.

This incident, shared on TikTok, highlights Dewey’s knack for dramatic wake-up calls, ensuring the whole house was awake when he was.

The couple had blocked access to their spiral staircase to prevent Dewey from joining them in bed, which likely prompted his keyboard antics. This behavior underscores the creative ways pets adapt to household changes, turning a blocked path into a musical wake-up call.

TIKTOK VIDEO

ANOTHER VIDEO

STORY IS HERE

Shakira And The Measles?

~ Pie President ~ Leave a comment

The New Jersey Department of Health issued a warning about potential measles exposure at Shakira’s concert at MetLife Stadium that occurred on May 15th, 2025.

An out-of-state attendee was infectious during the event, which drew tens of thousands. Symptoms may appear as late as June 6 due to the virus’s 7 to 14 day incubation period.

Measles is highly contagious, spreading through coughs or sneezes, with droplets lingering in the air for up to two hours. Unvaccinated individuals are at high risk, with 90% of unvaccinated close contacts likely to contract the disease.

Symptoms include high fever, cough, runny nose, watery red eyes and a rash starting at the hairline. Complications can be severe, especially for young children, including pneumonia or encephalitis.

The CDC reports 1,024 measles cases across 30 U.S. states in 2025, the largest outbreak since 2000. Concertgoers are urged to check vaccination status, monitor symptoms and contact healthcare providers before visiting medical facilities to prevent further spread.

No confirmed cases linked to the concert have been reported as of May 21st.

LINK IS HERE

Dump Truck vs. A House!

~ Pie President ~ Leave a comment

On May 20th, 2025, a dump truck crashed into a home in Woodbury Heights, New Jersey, on the 600 block of Stratford Avenue around 1:30 p.m.

The driver, identified as “Timmy” by his employer, suffered a grand mal seizure, causing him to lose control. The truck struck a utility pole before plowing into a two-story house, leading to a partial collapse that trapped the driver for over two hours.

Dashcam footage captured the incident, showing the moment of impact. Emergency crews rescued the driver, who was conscious and assessed by medics. Both the driver and the homeowner escaped major injury, though the home was destroyed.

A neighbor reported a gas leak at the scene, and Glassboro Road was closed for repairs to a damaged telephone pole. The trucking company called it a miracle no one was killed.

STORY IS HERE (WITH VIDEO)

Daily Throwback @ The Pie!

~ Pie President ~ Leave a comment

The date is May 21st, 2013, and Microsoft announced the Xbox One, their third-generation gaming console, at a highly publicized event in Redmond, Washington.

The reveal, dubbed “A New Generation Revealed,” showcased the console’s sleek design and its focus on being an all-in-one entertainment system, integrating gaming, TV and multimedia features.

Key highlights included the upgraded Kinect sensor for motion and voice control, a new controller and an emphasis on cloud-based services via Xbox Live. The announcement also teased exclusive titles like Forza Motorsport 5 and Quantum Break.

However, the initial reveal sparked controversy due to Microsoft’s proposed always-online requirement, used game restrictions, and mandatory Kinect integration, which led to significant backlash from gamers.

These policies were later revised before the console’s launch on November 22nd, 2013.

INFO IS HERE

Mind Bending Murals!

~ Pie President ~ Leave a comment

Mind-bending murals transform ordinary spaces into unforgettable experiences by blending art, illusion and creativity. These large-scale artworks often use techniques like anamorphosis, trompe-l’œil, or vibrant surrealism to distort perspectives, create 3D effects, or tell immersive stories.

They turn blank walls, streets, or buildings into dynamic visual spectacles that engage passersby, spark social media buzz, and revitalize public spaces.

These murals do more than decorate—they challenge perceptions, evoke emotions, and make the mundane memorable.

Follow the link below to see 15 mind bending murals that turn the mundane into memorable! Brought to you from our friends at Smithsonian Magazine.

LINK IS HERE