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It’s Tuesday, May 21 — here’s what you’ll find in today’s newsletter:

• Loss of top talent at Ivy League schools

• The pros and cons of mushroom leather

• 4 quick hits of news from the last 24 hours

New Ivy League schools?

Forbes: The Ivy league is losing its grip on top talent. There are 20 other “New Ivies” that are just as good as the old ones -- Johns Hopkins, UMich, and Boston College are on the list.

CNBC says they're great: They offer Ivy-level education without the hefty price tag.

Top Tier Admissions explains why Ivies are declining: Grade inflation, wishy washy testing policies, and poor responses to campus protests.

But IvyCoach defends the schools: An Ivy League degree is still the ultimate investment for a successful future -- the alumni networks can't be beat.

Mushroom leather

The NYT: Leather made from mushrooms a sustainable alternative to traditional hides. It's gaining traction -- and could revolutionize the fashion industry with its eco-friendly and high-quality material.

NatGeo was also pumped: Mushroom leather is a game-changer for sustainable fashion. It could make “leather” items that are fully biodegradable!

And Just-Style says consumers are interested: Demand for leather alternatives is expected to grow.

Still, a Redditor on r/Leathercraft questioned the hype: Mushroom leather tends to be more expensive and less durable. As long as people eat beef, real leather will probably be king.

Poll

1) The defense rests in Trump’s hush money trial without former president's testimony.

2) Iran begins funeral ceremonies for President Raisi as investigators probe helicopter crash.

3) One passenger was killed and 30 injured after a Singapore Airlines flight hit severe turbulence, forcing the plane to land in Bangkok.

4) France backs the ICC after it seeks arrest warrants for both Israel’s Netanyahu and Hamas leaders.