Looking Ahead

April 15

Americans will line up at post offices across the nation to file income tax returns as the deadline arrives today. According to the Tax Foundation, the average American worked until Feb. 3 to pay their federal income tax burden. When accounting for all forms of taxation, the nonprofit research group estimated the average American worked until April 21 to fulfill all tax obligations.

April 16

Star Wars devotees from around the world will wield their lightsabers at the Anaheim Convention Center today for the opening of the world’s largest Star Wars convention. Called Star Wars Celebration, this year’s fan gathering features appearances by Carrie Fisher, Mark Hamill, Kenny Baker, Peter Mayhew, and others as well as a traditional Stormtrooper march.

April 17

Department of Justice lawyers will argue before the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals today in favor of beginning implementation of President Barack Obama’s executive actions on immigration. Earlier this year, a lower court blocked the president’s controversial action with an injunction.

April 20

Without a bailout from richer, northern European nations, economists say Greece will default today. Greek political leaders have been scrambling to secure more credit from the European Central Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and the European Commission.

April 24

Individual states celebrate Arbor Day during the best time in their region to plant trees, but the national version of the traditional tree planting holiday is the last Friday in April. It occurs this year two days after the more ideologically charged Earth Day.