Carrot does not mean what you think it does today. Editor’s note: mentions of violence, death.

Happening in the World: On Wednesday, February 7, Israel’s Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, dismissed a counter proposal from Hamas which aimed to negotiate ceasefire conditions between Israel and Palestine. Netanyahu, who stated that “there is no solution besides total victory” in a press conference alongside US secretary of state, Antony J. Blinken, turned down the proposal largely due to Hamas’ request for a complete withdrawal of Israeli military presence in Gaza. This, along with the release of some of the thousands of Palestinians currently being held in Israel, was proposed as an exchange for the release of the remaining Israeli hostages being held in Gaza. Netanyahu maintains the stance that a more reasonable counter proposal must be offered by Hamas. (NYT)

Happening in the US: A US Marine helicopter was found 45 miles outside of Miramar, California after being declared missing for several hours. Five Marines, who are now confirmed to have died in the crash, were inside the helicopter, flying from Las Vegas to the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, when it went missing around 2 am PST on Wednesday, February 8. Rescue efforts were made more complicated by Southern California’s current heavy rain conditions and uncharacteristic snow in mountainous regions. (NYT)

Happening in NYC: New York Governor Kathy Hochul is offering $600 million worth of state grants and other incentives to communities looking to expand pro-housing programs. These incentives are uniquely named “carrots” (Hochul took this literally, bringing a legitimate bunch of carrots to the meeting at which she proposed them). The housing program will specifically target NYC, aiming to increase the availability of housing for low-income residents. (The Gothamist)

Happening in Our Community: Columbia University’s Center for Science and Society presents “Music, the Climate Crisis, and the Haitian Drum” from 3 to 5 pm on February 8 in Fayerweather Hall. This performance/talk, given by Gaston “Bonga” Jean-Baptiste, Rebecca Dirksen, and Kevin C. Grady, will explore the intersections of climate change and music while considering how dismantling “global anti-black structures” may play into a solution for the climate crisis. For more information, see Columbia University Events.

Carrots via Bwarchives