Bad day for lovers of coffee and lobster.

Happening in the World: Following one of the worst droughts on record, farmers in Brazil rushed to sell their coffee bean supply as prices hiked to record-breaking amounts. Now, these farmers are facing incredibly low inventory levels. It is estimated that of the 2024 crop, 80% has already been sold. With not much left to sell, farmers must wait for the end of May before they can begin harvesting this year’s yield. (Reuters)

Happening in the US: A seafood watchdog group brought claims against the Maine lobster industry that their nets were harming the sea’s whale population, and placed a do-not-buy designation on the crustaceans in 2022. Now, the Maine Lobstermen’s Association is finally able to sue for defamation. Monterey Bay Aquarium, the group that passed down this designation, argued that the suit should be dismissed since it may fall under a Maine law that protects against frivolous lawsuits. The Lobstermen’s Association argues that the Aquarium damaged the reputation of a billion dollar company, and therefore it does not fall under this law. (NYTimes)

Happening in NYC: The seven-hour long Night in the Library event at the Brooklyn Public Library is returning for its 10th year. It runs from 7 pm to 2 am starting Saturday night at the library’s main branch in Grand Army Plaza. There will be presentations, stargazing, musical performances, tarot readings, and more. (Gothamist)

Happening in Our Community: An interactive seminar will be held as part of Columbia’s AI Summit in Low Library on the topic of how AI will change the landscape of higher education. A conversation will be facilitated by organizers and it will include research among Columbia students. An active CUID is required to attend. Registration is also required.

Kinda cute lobster via Flickr