John Legend and Chrissy Teigen attended a "Rally for the Truth" at a PetSmart store in California to participate in a debate about the pronunciation of the company's name. The event was organized by comedian Ben Lapidus, whose viral song questioned whether it should be pronounced "Pet Smart" or "Pet's Mart." PetSmart's senior vice president of marketing confirmed the original pronunciation was intended to be "Pets Mart," but the focus has shifted over the years.
Key Facts
John Legend and Chrissy Teigen joined a rally outside a PetSmart store in Sherman Oaks, California.
The rally was organized by Ben Lapidus as part of a viral song debate about the pronunciation of PetSmart.
Ben Lapidus released a song on his debut album that questioned whether the name should be pronounced "Pet Smart" or "Pet's Mart."
The song went viral on social media, sparking renewed interest in the pronunciation debate.
PetSmart was originally named PetFood Warehouse in 1986 and rebranded to PetSmart in 1989.
The intended pronunciation originally was closer to "Pets Mart."
In 2005, PetSmart's brand refresh emphasized the name "Pet Smart" with a new logo design.
PetSmart stated that their current focus is on providing resources for pet parents regardless of name pronunciation.
Ondřej Satoria, a pitcher from the Czech baseball team, became well-known after striking out top player Shohei Ohtani in a past World Baseball Classic (WBC) game. Recently, Satoria announced his retirement from the WBC after pitching well in a game and receiving much attention. The 29-year-old, who is also an electrician, decided to end his WBC career after Czechia was eliminated from the tournament.
Key Facts
Ondřej Satoria is a pitcher from the Czech Republic.
He gained fame for striking out Shohei Ohtani in a World Baseball Classic game three years ago.
Satoria recently pitched 4 2/3 scoreless innings against Japan in the WBC.
He announced his retirement from the WBC after the Czech team was eliminated.
Satoria works as an electrician when not playing baseball.
He became a local celebrity in Tokyo, receiving requests for pictures and autographs.
The NBA canceled the Atlanta Hawks' event planned to honor Magic City, a well-known strip club in Atlanta, due to concerns from fans and league members. Although some parts of the event will still happen, like a performance by rapper T.I. and selling lemon pepper wings, other parts, like special merchandise and a podcast, have been canceled.
Key Facts
The Atlanta Hawks planned a Magic City Night to honor Magic City, an adult entertainment club.
The event was to take place during a game against the Orlando Magic.
The NBA canceled the event after hearing concerns from fans and league stakeholders.
Some parts of the event will proceed, such as a halftime show by rapper T.I.
Lemon pepper wings, named after a former Hawks player, will still be available at the event.
Plans for special merchandise and a podcast recording featuring team owner Jami Gertz were canceled.
The team owner, Jami Gertz, produced a docuseries about the club's history and cultural impact.
The decision to cancel the event was announced by NBA Commissioner Adam Silver.
The Trump administration asked Israel to stop attacking energy sites in Iran, especially oil infrastructure. These strikes have caused environmental harm and pose risks as they could lead to more serious conflicts involving Gulf states and Iran.
Key Facts
President Trump asked Israel to halt strikes on Iran's oil facilities for the first time during their joint operation.
The Israeli strikes caused environmental damage in Tehran, affecting civilian health.
The U.S. conveyed its request through senior political channels and military leadership.
The Trump administration wants to work with Iran's oil sector post-conflict, similar to its approach with Venezuela.
Strikes on Iranian energy sites could provoke Iran to attack Gulf state facilities.
President Trump sees attacks on Iran's oil sites as a last resort if Iran targets the Gulf's energy supply.
Senator Lindsey Graham cautioned about targeting decisions, stressing the importance of Iran's oil economy for its future recovery.
NFL player Travis Kelce has decided to continue his football career with the Kansas City Chiefs for at least one more season. He signed a one-year contract reportedly worth up to $15 million and credited his fiancée, Taylor Swift, as a key influence in his decision to keep playing. Kelce also mentioned that the rehiring of the Chiefs' offensive coordinator, Eric Bieniemy, played a role in his choice.
Key Facts
Travis Kelce is a tight end for the Kansas City Chiefs.
Kelce signed a one-year contract with the Chiefs valued up to $15 million.
He mentioned Taylor Swift, his fiancée, as a major influence on his decision to keep playing.
Kelce has been with the Chiefs since 2013 and holds records for the team in many categories, including receiving yards.
The Chiefs aim to improve from their previous 6-11 season record.
The rehiring of Eric Bieniemy, the Chiefs' offensive coordinator, also influenced Kelce's decision to return.
Kelce and Taylor Swift announced their engagement last August.
White House Deputy Chief of Staff James Blair asked House Republicans to stop talking about "mass deportations" and instead focus on removing violent criminals. This advice comes as some Republicans worry that the mass deportation message is seen as too harsh.
Key Facts
James Blair is the White House Deputy Chief of Staff.
Blair urged Republicans to focus on removing violent criminals rather than "mass deportations."
This advice was given at a closed meeting in Doral, Florida.
Nearly half of Americans think President Trump’s deportation campaign is too aggressive.
The message signals a shift in the White House's immigration policy approach.
Immigration is a major issue for President Trump and congressional Republicans.
Reports of the detention of U.S. citizens have caused concern about the policy.
Republicans are planning their legislative goals and strategies for the November midterms.
Polls show that Americans are divided on U.S. military action in Iran, with more people opposing it than supporting it. Many Americans are worried about safety and rising oil prices as the conflict continues. Republicans generally support President Trump but are cautious about deploying U.S. troops to Iran.
Key Facts
Most polls show more Americans oppose U.S. military action in Iran than support it.
Many people believe the military action is making the U.S. "less safe."
President Trump has given mixed messages about the duration and escalation of the conflict.
About 7 in 10 voters are worried the war will increase oil and gasoline prices.
Republicans support President Trump but are wary of sending troops to Iran.
Half of the voters do not think Iran was an "imminent military threat" before the action started.
Concerns about Iran's nuclear program are high among U.S. adults.
Many people think the Trump administration has not clearly explained the reasons for the military strikes.
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey commuted the death sentence of Charles "Sonny" Burton, who was convicted for a murder he did not physically commit. Burton's sentence is now life in prison without parole instead of execution. This decision follows advocacy from his supporters and even the victim's family.
Key Facts
Governor Kay Ivey of Alabama commuted a death sentence to life without parole.
The man, Charles "Sonny" Burton, was not present at the time of the 1991 murder.
Burton was set to be executed by nitrogen gas.
Derrick DeBruce, another man, committed the murder; his death sentence was reduced to life on appeal.
This is the second time Governor Ivey has granted clemency since 2017.
Some jurors from Burton's trial supported the commuting of his sentence.
The victim's daughter also supported clemency, questioning the legality of executing Burton.
Governor Ivey supports the death penalty but emphasizes fair and proportional administration.
Mercedes-Benz is introducing 40 new vehicle models over two years, focusing on family-friendly SUVs and enhanced vans. New models like the electric GLC SUV and VLE van offer more luxury and technology upgrades. These updates aim to combine Mercedes' traditional luxury with versatile, multi-purpose vehicle features.
Key Facts
Mercedes-Benz plans to launch 40 new models over two years.
The company is focusing on family-friendly and luxury vehicles.
The electric GLC SUV was recently unveiled by Mercedes.
The VLE van features major upgrades in comfort and technology.
The new models will have better infotainment and entertainment systems.
The VLE aims to combine luxury car comfort with van versatility.
Features like electric sliding doors and advanced tech are included in the VLE.
The VLE will be available in the U.S. by late 2027.
The article discusses how internet access in Iran has been drastically restricted during a conflict. Authorities control internet access to manage information, allowing government-approved messaging while preventing civilians from communicating effectively.
Key Facts
Internet access in Iran has dropped to about 1% of normal levels.
The government uses technology called Deep Packet Inspection to filter internet access.
State media and officials can communicate online, but citizens face restrictions.
This tactic allows the government to control the public narrative.
Similar strategies have been used in Pakistan, Bangladesh, and during the Arab Spring.
The restrictions impact civilians' ability to access crucial safety information.
International humanitarian law emphasizes protecting civilians in conflict, which includes maintaining communication.
On social media, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright claimed the U.S. military escorted an oil tanker through the Strait of Hormuz during military operations against Iran. The post was quickly deleted, and a U.S. military official later stated that no such operations had begun. The situation comes amid tensions and rising oil prices as global oil trade through the strait is disrupted.
Key Facts
Energy Secretary Chris Wright claimed the U.S. military helped a tanker pass through the Strait of Hormuz.
The Facebook post was made at 1:02pm US Eastern time and deleted within about 30 minutes.
Wright praised President Trump's administration for maintaining global energy stability.
The Strait of Hormuz is a significant route for global oil, with 20% of the world's oil passing through it.
The U.S. and Israel began military actions against Iran on February 28, affecting trade through the strait.
President Trump announced support for vessels in the strait, including possible military escorts.
General Dan Caine stated that the military had not started escort operations.
Oil prices have surged, with the average U.S. price reaching $3.54 per gallon.
Public opinion in the U.S. mostly opposes military action against Iran, as shown by recent polls.
Oklahoma City Thunder player Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored 35 points, helping his team beat the Denver Nuggets in a close NBA game. Nikola Jokic praised Gilgeous-Alexander for matching an NBA record by scoring over 20 points in 126 straight games. The Thunder currently lead the NBA Western Conference, holding the best overall record.
Key Facts
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and the Oklahoma City Thunder won 129-126 against the Denver Nuggets.
Gilgeous-Alexander made a game-winning three-pointer and finished with 35 points, 15 assists, and nine rebounds.
He has tied an NBA record for scoring more than 20 points in 126 consecutive games.
This record was previously set by NBA legend Wilt Chamberlain.
Nikola Jokic had a triple-double with 32 points, 14 rebounds, and 13 assists in the game.
The Thunder have the top spot in the Western Conference, with a record of 51 wins and 15 losses.
The Nuggets are currently sixth in the Western Conference standings.
Gilgeous-Alexander can break the record when the Thunder play the Boston Celtics next.
President Donald Trump's approval rating has reached its lowest point during his second term, according to a March 2026 Quinnipiac University poll. The poll shows 37% of surveyed voters approve of his job performance, while 57% disapprove, resulting in a net approval rating of minus 20 points.
Key Facts
A Quinnipiac University poll conducted in March 2026 shows Trump's approval rating is at 37%, while 57% disapprove.
The poll surveyed 1,002 registered voters across the United States.
The poll's margin of error is plus or minus 3.8 percentage points.
This rating is the lowest recorded during Trump's second term in this polling series.
In late January and early February 2026, a similar poll showed a net approval rating of minus 19 points.
A year earlier, in January 2025, Trump had a net positive approval rating of plus 3 points.
Polling experts suggest that people tuning out of political news may not be fully captured in these polls.
The upcoming midterm elections may be influenced by Trump's approval ratings.
The Cincinnati Reds' pitcher, Hunter Greene, needs surgery to remove bone chips from his elbow. He is expected to miss the start of the season and won't play until July. This will impact the team's starting rotation plans.
Key Facts
Hunter Greene, a pitcher for the Cincinnati Reds, will have surgery on his right elbow.
Greene is expected to return to play in July after his surgery.
He will be placed on the 60-day injured list.
The Reds had sent Greene for imaging tests before deciding on surgery.
Greene's injury requires changes to the team's starting pitcher lineup.
The Reds signed Greene to a six-year, $53 million contract extension.
Last season, Greene had a 2.76 ERA and 132 strikeouts in 107 2/3 innings.
Alysa Liu, an Olympic gold medal-winning figure skater, shared personal details about her life in an interview with Newsweek. She discussed her rise to fame, personal interests, and experiences during the 2026 Winter Olympics. Liu also spoke about her social media presence and various favorite things, including music and movies.
Key Facts
Alysa Liu is an Olympic gold medal figure skater and became well-known at the 2026 Winter Olympics.
Her Instagram following increased significantly after the Olympics, from 200,000 to over 7.5 million.
Liu took a break from skating at age 16 but returned to the sport in 2024.
She is popular for her music choices, positive mindset, and style.
Liu’s favorite K-pop group is NewJeans.
Her favorite cereals include Fruity Pebbles, Lucky Charms, and Rice Krispies.
Liu does not have a Letterboxd account but tracks movies she watches in a notes app.
During her Olympic performances, she focused on her breathing to conserve energy.
Doja Cat responded strongly to Timothée Chalamet's remarks about opera and ballet, saying they were disrespectful to these classical art forms. Chalamet had commented that opera and ballet struggle to stay relevant, sparking a debate online and reactions from performers and fans. Doja Cat emphasized the dedication and respect these performers have for their art.
Key Facts
Doja Cat criticized Timothée Chalamet's comments about opera and ballet.
Chalamet suggested that these art forms struggle to maintain relevance.
Doja Cat highlighted the long history and physical demands of opera and ballet.
She argued that these art forms still attract large, respectful audiences.
The controversy started after Chalamet's comments from a February 24 interview gained attention in early March.
Opera and ballet institutions and fans have joined the debate online.
Doja Cat's comments led to further discussions on social media platforms like Reddit.
The West Indies cricket team faced travel issues after being eliminated from the T20 World Cup, which was hosted in India. Due to delays in charter flight arrangements, the team opted to book their own commercial flights to return home. These issues arose amid global travel disruptions connected to conflicts in the Middle East.
Key Facts
The West Indies cricket team was stuck in Kolkata after their T20 World Cup exit.
Travel was disrupted due to conflicts in the Middle East, affecting flight plans.
The International Cricket Council (ICC) had planned a charter flight for them, but it faced multiple delays.
Cricket West Indies decided to book commercial flights for the team to ensure their safe return home.
Some players and staff have already left India, with the rest scheduled to depart soon.
The ICC has faced criticism for its handling of the travel arrangements.
England’s cricket team returned home earlier, after losing in the semi-finals.
The Washington Nationals have removed pitcher Richard Lovelady from their roster to make room for starting pitcher Zach Littell, whom they recently signed. Lovelady, who has played for several MLB teams, struggled last season but showed promise during spring training. Other teams can now claim him off waivers.
Key Facts
The Nationals signed pitcher Zach Littell to a one-year, $7 million contract.
To make space for Littell, the Nationals cut ties with reliever Richard Lovelady.
Lovelady has played for multiple MLB teams, including the Kansas City Royals, Mets, and Blue Jays.
He struggled last season, with a high ERA of 21.60 in games with the Blue Jays.
Despite challenges last season, Lovelady performed well in spring training with a 2.25 ERA.
Other teams in MLB can claim Lovelady off waivers before he is available as a free agent.
The 2026 Game Developers Conference (GDC) in San Francisco is facing challenges, including international attendees feeling unsafe and high costs. Reports suggest that fewer non-U.S. developers plan to attend due to concerns about U.S. immigration enforcement and overall costs.
Key Facts
The Game Developers Conference takes place in San Francisco.
Many international game developers are not planning to attend GDC 2026.
Concerns include safety and high costs in San Francisco.
Attendees worry about U.S. immigration policies and procedures.
Some developers received safety briefings and prepared legal paperwork due to these concerns.
Transgender developers express increased fear due to potential profiling.
Conferences are usually restructuring costs, making them less appealing for some.
The International Criminal Court (ICC) held a hearing to decide if there is enough evidence to put former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte on trial for crimes against humanity related to his "war on drugs." The case involves allegations of murder and attempted murder during his time as both mayor and president. Supporters and victims’ families attended the hearing, but Duterte did not, as he disputes the court’s authority.
Key Facts
The ICC hearing focused on crimes allegedly committed by Duterte during his "war on drugs."
The case involves 49 incidents of alleged murder and attempted murder with 78 victims.
The crimes in question occurred between November 2011 and March 2019.
Duterte withdrew the Philippines from the ICC in 2018, which took effect in 2019.
Prosecutors presented videos of Duterte encouraging police to kill drug suspects.
Duterte’s lawyer claims the prosecution ignored key information for his defense.
The court has 60 days to decide if the case will go to trial.
The ICC is not determining guilt yet, only if there is sufficient evidence for a trial.
