Halloween events, film screenings, and fat bears are all in this edition of Bwoglines!

Happening in the World: The Biden administration will construct a 20-mile border wall section in southern Texas to address rising immigration levels, despite earlier promises not to build more walls. The move comes as the Rio Grande Valley reports record numbers of illegal border crossings, with over 245,000 this year. It’s the first time the Biden administration has approved new wall construction, contrasting with Trump’s policies. This decision follows increasing criticism of Biden’s immigration policies amid a surge in border apprehensions. (BBC)

Happening in the US: Every year in Alaska’s Katmai National Park, brown bears gather to compete in ‘Fat Bear Week.’ This online event, founded in 2014, attracts millions of votes to determine the fattest bear. Bears of all sizes and ages participate in this unique competition, with viewers following the action via a livestream. These bears must consume a year’s worth of food in just six months, resulting in impressive weight gains. The event is a celebration of diverse bear stories and success, allowing fans to vote for their favorite bears on Explore.org’s website. (BBC)

Happening in NYC: After public outcry and support, including assistance from Mayor Eric Adams’s office, the previously canceled Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade is back on with a sponsored parade route. Organizers anticipate thousands of spectators, as the event has grown into a cornerstone of NYC’s Halloween season. The parade will take place on October 21, starting at 14th Street and Avenue B and proceeding to Seventh Street, with a reserved area for competitors. It will be sponsored by Get Joy, covering all expenses.  (NYT)

Happening in Our Community: Tonight from 7 to 9 pm join freelance journalist Lynzy Billing and filmmaker Almudena Toral for a screening of their film, “The Night Doctrine,” followed by a discussion moderated by journalist Azmat Khan. Billing’s ProPublica investigation, “The Night Raids,” uncovered CIA-backed night raids in rural Afghanistan that killed hundreds of civilians without accountability. The event, co-sponsored by the Simon and June Li Center for Global Journalism at Columbia University and the Overseas Press Club of America, highlights the impact of investigative journalism. To attend pre-register here.

Bear via Wikimedia Commons