How much time has passed, and what are the current events now?

Edit: Ok, I found current events from Lucius Cypher, and the last post I ever made was 7 months ago, during the time of Corpse Collector's first appearance and the first ever huge Dissolution to fight. Chances are, it's been a [i]long[/i] time, and there's no way I'll be able to adjust to using my old character again. I'll create a new character, one I might enjoy a little better.

Also, considering how far some people have gone, is it possible for me to start off a level or two higher than 3, or do I have to stick with 3 and lower?