Welcome to Optimize, a weekly update to keep you informed on what has happened during the week. Here are five national/international/local stories that you should know:
Government shutdown
If Congress doesn’t come to an agreement by Saturday, there will be a government shutdown. Don’t worry, your mail will still arrive.
Koreas come together in the name of sportsmanship
On Wednesday, North and South Korea announced that they would unite under the same flag at the 2018 Winter Olympics, which start on Feb. 8. This cooperation is historic.
Unusual flu season?
You may have noticed that a high number of people have been infected with the flu this year; in fact, this year’s flu season has been classified as “moderately severe.” How concerned should you be?
2017 second hottest year on record:
NASA ranked last year as the second warmest year on record, barely behind 2016. Scientists say that if global temperatures increase by 2 degrees Celsius, then we could experience extreme effects of climate change.
Local Bonus: Bloomington is getting a Culver’s! After years of waiting, the City of Bloomington approved the chain restaurant’s plans to open up a location at 1914 W. Third St. The restaurant is expected to open up in May, and it will have employment opportunities for Bloomington’s west side. Get excited, frozen custard and ButterBurger fans!
