The Hudson is already gross enough. 

Happening in the World: Japanese authorities in Fujikawaguchiko are beginning to build a large black barrier that will obscure views of Mount Fuji from one of its most popular photo spots—in front of a convenience store. Japan is currently experiencing a huge post-pandemic tourism boom. In March, tourist numbers surpassed three million for the first time in history. However, the amount of visitors has caused several issues, such as litter throughout popular photo spots in Fujikawaguchiko. Officials put up ignored signs with repeated warnings to respect the space before deciding to block the view. (BBC)

Happening in the US: President Biden announced on Friday that he is “happy” to debate former President Donald Trump after months of the Biden campaign avoiding an onstage appearance with him. Biden’s decision was stated in response to an interview by Howard Stern. Many television networks as well as Trump’s campaign have been pressuring Biden on the topic of a debate for some time. Trump responded enthusiastically on social media, even claiming that he would debate Biden outside of the courthouse where Trump’s criminal trial is currently being held. (NYT)

Happening in NYC: On Thursday night, government officials discussed how to dispose of the radioactive water currently held inside of the decommissioned Indian Point nuclear power plant. At the meeting of the decommissioning oversight board, Holtec International brought a lawsuit challenging New York state claiming that Governor Hochul should not have ignored federal oversight by signing a state ban against dumping radioactive waste in the Hudson River. Several protesters gathered outside of the meeting, holding signs advocating for the plant to store the water until the radioactive tritium in the water decays to half of its original amount. Many other plans for disposal were heard at the meeting, but Holtec International hopes to win their lawsuit and dispose of the waste into the Hudson River. (Gothamist)

Happening in Our Community: On Saturday, April 27, from 1 to 2 pm, there will be a free screening of For Heaven’s Sake as a part of the Lenfest Kids series. The screening, which celebrates a great silent comedy, will be held in the Katharina Otto-Bernstein Screening Room in the Lenfest Center for the Arts. To learn more and to register, see Columbia University Events. 

Hudson River via Wikimedia Commons