What if we kissed in the autonomous bar?

Happening in the World: The Brazilian NGO Climate Observatory has released preliminary figures indicating that deforestation of the Amazon rainforest in Brazil has surged to its highest level since 2008. The A 9.5% increase has resulted in about 4,280 square miles destroyed under a weakened environmental enforcement policy by the Bolsonaro administration. Deforestation in the Amazon affects three million species of plants and animals and nearly one million indigenous peoples (New York Times). 

Happening in the US: In a survey of more than 700 colleges and universities, the Insitute of International Education found that the number of incoming international students to U.S. universities has plummeted by 43% since last year, with thousands deferring enrollment indefinitely. International students contributed $44 billion a year to the U.S economy before the pandemic, predicting serious financial consequences for higher education (NPR).  

Happening in NYC: In response to Governor Cuomo’s order to suspend indoor dining in Staten Island, Mac’s Public House, a Grant City bar, declared itself an autonomous zone in hopes of staying open. Sheriff’s deputies took measures to arrest the general manager and close the establishment Wednesday night. Owner Keith McAlarney explained how he, among many other business owners, feared that his bar would not survive another shutdown (NBC New York).  

Happening in Our Community: Join the Columbia community in a Zoom event entitled, “Re-think, Re-imagine, Re-invent: Higher Education,” which will explore how institutions of higher education meet modern global challenges this Friday from 10 to 11:30 pm EST. Register here

Cover Song of the Week: “Girl You’ll Be a Woman Soon” by Urge Overkill (originally by Neil Diamond)

neon sign via Pxfuel