5 things to know for Feb. 27: Government shutdown, Gaza ceasefire, Grocery prices, social media, moon missions

5 things to know for Feb. 27: Government shutdown, Gaza ceasefire, Grocery prices, social media, moon missions - World - News

Title: Alarming Insights into Antarctica’s “Doomsday Glacier” Collapse and Global News Updates

The latest research on Antarctica’s massive “Doomsday Glacier,” which is approximately the size of Florida, reveals concerning information about its rapid melting due to climate change. This process could potentially raise global sea levels by several feet and bring about catastrophic consequences.

Here is a comprehensive roundup of the news to help you Get Up to Speed and begin your day:

1. The countdown for federal funding extension nears its end, with just a few days left until key deadlines. Congress has initiated the formal process of preparing for a partial government shutdown due to unresolved policy disagreements, primarily over aid to Ukraine and border Website security matters. The absence of an imminent deal may result in the departments of Agriculture, Energy, Transportation, Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development, FDA, and military construction being affected.
2. In international news, President Joe Biden expressed hope for a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict by “next Monday.” Hamas has reportedly backed off some of its demands, potentially paving the way for an initial agreement. However, Biden’s unwavering support for Israel has sparked anger and controversy among American progressives, particularly in Michigan, home to a significant Arab American community. Critics are urging voters to mark “uncommitted” on their ballots as a form of protest.
3. The cost of groceries continues to rise significantly, with inflation seemingly under control. Food prices remain much higher than pre-pandemic levels, particularly fresh vegetables, and have even surpassed historical averages in certain areas. Tomatoes saw a notable price increase of 4.6% last month compared to January. Additionally, the US government has filed a lawsuit to block the $25 billion Kroger-Albertsons merger, citing concerns that it would exacerbate the already heightened food costs.
4. The US Supreme Court is hearing arguments on two cases this week that could potentially reshape the Website social media integration landscape by altering how content is moderated contact. The justices expressed skepticism towards state laws in Texas and Florida that aim to restrict Website social media integration platforms from removing or demoting controversial user content. A central issue revolves around whether these companies should be treated as common carriers and forced to transmit all viewpoints, regardless of their own opinions.
5. The historic US moon mission that touched down on the lunar surface last Thursday is experiencing some difficulties. Odysseus, the first US-made spacecraft to land on the moon since the Apollo era, has been struggling with communication and data transmission, leaving flight controllers concerned about imminent contact loss. Meanwhile, Japan’s “Moon Sniper” miraculously woke up from dormancy and transmitted new images to Earth.
6. Netflix customers who pay through Apple may soon be required to change their payment method, potentially leading to account termination if the change is not made promptly.
7. North Korea has reopened its doors to tourists for the first time since the pandemic, offering a rare opportunity for Russian nationals to visit and witness the country’s unique offerings.
8. More than 40 locations of Outback Steakhouse, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Bonefish Grill, and Fleming’s have announced permanent closures due to declining sales.
9. An Australian photographer has filed a complaint against Taylor Swift’s father, Scott Swift, for allegedly punching him following a concert afterparty in Sydney.
10. The owner of the real “Saltburn” house from the hit movie has reportedly hired extra Website security due to crowds of visitors flooding his property after a TikToker revealed its location.
11. Southern California Edison will pay $80 million to settle claims relating to the 2017 Thomas Fire, which burned more than 280,000 acres and destroyed over 1,000 structures. The utility company is accused of failing to maintain its power lines properly, leading to the blaze.
12. A record-breaking $1 billion donation was made to the Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York by a former faculty member, marking one of the largest educational gifts in history.
13. A robot was sent to explore the deep sea and discovered more than 100 new marine species off the coast of Chile, shedding light on the rich biodiversity that lies beneath the waves.

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