Title: Global Records Tumble: February 2023 Sets New Mark as Hottest on Record; Other News You Need to Know
The month of February 2023 has left an indelible mark in the history books, making it the planet’s hottest February ever recorded. This unfortunate milestone represents the ninth consecutive month that global records have been broken.
Here is a roundup of other essential news stories to help you get up to speed and begin your day:
1. Legal Battles and Trials Surrounding Former President Trump:
The focus on legal matters involving former U.S. President Donald J. Trump is once again in the spotlight. In April 2023, the Supreme Court will hear arguments regarding his claim for immunity from prosecution related to the federal election subversion case. Meanwhile, his New York criminal trial, scheduled to begin on March 25, 2023, involves hush-money payments made to Michael Cohen in the context of the 2016 election. Trump’s attorneys are currently working on casting doubt on the allegations and limiting what can be presented to the jury during the trial. Additionally, recent grand jury subpoenas have been issued in Arizona concerning efforts by Trump and his allies to overturn the 2020 election results in that state.
2. Russian Missile Strikes Near Ukrainian President’s Convoy:
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine intensified when a Russian missile came dangerously close to the convoy carrying Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis during a visit to Odessa on March 1, 2023. Although both leaders remained unharmed, the attack resulted in fatalities and injuries. The proximity of Mitsotakis’ visit to a NATO member state emphasizes the potential global implications of the conflict.
3. Extreme Hunger and Crisis in Gaza:
The ongoing war in Gaza is taking a devastating toll on the region’s population, with at least 20 deaths due to malnutrition and dehydration reported since the conflict began. Israel’s severe restrictions on aid have contributed to a draining of essential supplies, leaving hospitals overburdened and unable to offer relief to those in need. Nearly 40% of UN aid missions in Gaza were either denied or impeded last month, exacerbating the dire situation.
4. Alabama’s New Law Protecting In Vitro Fertilization Providers:
In response to an unprecedented February ruling that severely impacted the future of fertility care in Alabama, Governor Kay Ivey signed a new law aimed at protecting in vitro fertilization patients and providers from legal liability. The ruling stated that frozen embryos are human beings, making it a significant development for reproductive rights in the state.
5. Armorer Found Guilty of Involuntary Manslaughter in Rust Movie Shooting:
The armorer on the set of “Rust,” Hannah Gutierrez Reed, was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter for her role in the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The incident occurred when actor Alec Baldwin discharged a prop gun, killing Hutchins and raising questions about the movie industry’s safety standards.
6. Applebee’s Announces Plans for Joint Restaurants with IHOP:
Applebee’s, the popular casual dining chain, is downsizing and exploring new opportunities. The parent company, Dine Brands Global, plans to open joint restaurants with International House of Pancakes (IHOP).
7. Rare Yellow-Billed Loon Disrupts the Bellagio Fountains in Las Vegas:
The Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas were momentarily paused when a yellow-billed Loon, an uncommon sight for the area, took a dip.
8. FDA Warns Consumers About High Lead Levels in Certain Brands of Ground Cinnamon:
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a warning to consumers to stop using six brands of ground cinnamon due to high levels of lead contamination.
9. Unusual Cycling Helmet Design Under Review by Governing Body:
A cycling helmet with an outlandish design has caught the attention of the governing body and is currently under review. The innovative design makes riders appear like miniature high-speed trains.
10. SAT Exam Goes Fully Digital:
The Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT) has now transitioned to a fully digital format, bidding farewell to the beloved No. 2 pencils and answer sheets.
11. President Biden’s State of the Union Address:
On March 7, 2023, U.S. President Joe Biden will deliver his annual State of the Union Address at 9 p.m. ET. Test your knowledge about this political tradition with our quiz!
12. US Government Spending $20 Million to Maintain Seized Russian Oligarch’s Superyacht:
The U.S. government has spent approximately $1 million a month since 2022 to maintain the luxury superyacht seized from Russian oligarch Andrei Melnichenko as part of ongoing efforts to pressure the Kremlin.
13. Cindy McCain’s Appeal for Help in Addressing the World’s Largest Hunger Crisis in Sudan:
The Executive Director of the United Nations’ World Food Program, Cindy McCain, has called attention to the ongoing crisis in Sudan, where millions of lives are at stake. Warring forces have killed thousands and displaced millions, leading to emergency levels of hunger for nearly 90% of the population.
Remember to stay informed about these and other global events happening around you.
