GPR FEATURES
Do Dawgs Deserve Better Representation?
GPR writer Shelby Watson’s new article studies democratic representation in the University of Georgia, tackling inadequate civic education, confusing laws, and the lack of incentive for students to vote.
Beyond the Baseline: Unveiling Tennis’s Global Political Tapestry
GPR writer Milan Yadav’s new article analyzes the intricate connection between tennis and international politics, discusses how the game can be used to unite people in ways traditional relations can’t, and highlights how tennis stars have paved the path for those to come.
GEORGIA
Georgia congressional representative Marjorie Taylor Greene renews threats against House Speaker Mike Johnson
Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, who represents the northwestern parts of Georgia, has renewed threats against US House Speaker Mike Johnson. Greene sent a letter to her Republican colleagues that criticized Johnson’s leadership, primarily over concerns regarding the border crisis.
Johnson was elected as speaker of the house just six months ago, partly by agreeing to lower the threshold to remove the speaker of the house. Now it looks like Greene could call a snap vote to remove Johnson, plunging an already thin Republican majority into further chaos.
Gwinnett DA plans to press charges against teen driver in the death of 4-year-old girl
On Tuesday, Apr. 9, Gwinnett County District Attorney Patsy Austin-Gatson released a statement promising to bring charges against the teen driver who ran over 4-year-old Abigail Hernandez. Abigail, along with her father and sister, were hit in the parking lot of the Mall of Georgia located in Buford, GA on Mar. 10. Abigail’s father and sister suffered from nonfatal injuries.
Before Austin-Gatson made her announcement, the Gwinnett County Police Department declared they were not going to charge the 18-year-old driver. In their investigation, the department did not find that the driver was driving in a reckless manner or under the influence of any drugs and alcohol. While Austin-Gatson did not state what charges she would press against the teen driver, she initially assured the public and the Hernandez family that the driver would face consequences.
NATIONAL
Earthquake strikes the Northeast United States
On Friday, Apr. 5, 10:23 a.m (EST), a 4.8 magnitude earthquake sent tremors throughout the Northeast U.S. According to the United States Geological Survey, the earthquake sent tremors from Philadelphia to Boston, with tremors reported throughout New York’s five boroughs. Reports state Whitehouse Station, New Jersey was the epicenter for the quake. Fortunately, New York City and other major cities have reported little to no major damage reports, though citizens were advised to remain indoors, and structural damage was present among many.
Aftershocks were reported around between 11:30 a.m and 2 p.m that Friday, ranging from magnitudes 1.8-2.2. Additional aftershocks may be possible.
INTERNATIONAL
Japanese Prime Minister Kishida hosted by Biden
The Japanese prime minister, Fumio Kishida, meets with Biden this week to discuss increased military and defense cooperation between the US and Japan. The two will also meet with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. as a part of a new trilateral summit.
Kishida and Biden are meeting to reaffirm the US and Japan’s strong relationship, discussing issues such as defense, but also cooperation in the South China Sea, education systems and the automotive industry.
The “Great North American Solar Eclipse” makes its way across the continent
On Monday, April 8th, North America experienced a total solar eclipse, with the path of totality ranging from Mexico’s Pacific coast to Maine. Viewings of the eclipse began in Mazatlán, Mexico, at 12:51 pm, where people celebrated the rare spectacle by the sea. For many, the total eclipse was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, as the next eclipse in North America is not expected to occur until 2044.
Many made long journeys to view the eclipse in its path of totality, scrambling to find accommodations. With viewers flocking to the path of totality, Airbnb experienced a 1,000% surge in search for listings along the path. Similarly, with the concentration of demand in areas along the path, some economists have speculated that the eclipse could bring in billions of dollars to the US economy or support, at the very least, small businesses in its path.
CULTURE
UNESCO and Lukenya University plant 10,000 trees in Amboseli's Biosphere Reserve
Over 2000 individuals joined the second 10 Million Tree Marathon, engaging in tree planting activities in Amboseli, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve located in southern Kenya. Amboseli is known for its rich biodiversity, unique ecosystem, and striking views of Mount Kilimanjaro. However, deforestation and climate change have prevalent effects in the area, prompting the need for conservation.
This initiative forms part of UNESCO's broader Education for Sustainable Development (ESD) program, designed to foster resilient societies through sustainable practices. Together, the 2000+ participants gathered to plant 10,000 trees along UNESCO-designated routes in Amboseli. Complimenting the planting efforts were marathons and educational workshops on environmental conservation and the importance of biodiversity, all of which raise awareness towards a more sustainable future in the community.
Contributors: Sophia Nguyen, Zachary Leggio, Marin Arvin, Blake Daniel, Jacob Weiszer