A new COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, is now emerging in the United States after becoming dominant in China and causing a significant rise in cases across Asia. U.S. health officials, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are monitoring the variant closely as scientists continue to analyze whether NB.1.8.1 poses greater risks in terms of transmission, severity, and resistance to existing vaccines. The variant was initially identified in Asia, particularly in Ch

Miss India 2025, Nandini Gupta, has earned a prestigious spot among the top 24 global finalists for the Miss World 2025 pageant, an event that is creating waves of pride and excitement across the country. Held for the first time in Telangana, India, the international beauty pageant has turned into a celebration of culture, tradition, and youthful talent. The competition has attracted 108 participants from around the world, each representing their nation’s grace and excellence. After a s

Legendary musician Billy Joel has canceled all his upcoming concerts following a diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), a brain disorder that has caused him significant issues with hearing, vision, and balance. The 76-year-old singer announced on Friday that recent performances had exacerbated his symptoms, leading to medical advice to halt all touring and focus on physical therapy and recovery. Joel expressed gratitude for the care he is receiving and apologized to fans for the ca

U.S. Congressman Mike Flood has announced the start of the 2025 Congressional App Challenge, an annual nationwide competition designed to encourage middle and high school students to develop their coding abilities and explore computer science careers. This program aims to ignite creativity, problem-solving, and technical skills among young learners while promoting STEM education. The challenge invites students across the country, including those in Nebraska’s First Congressi

Memorial Day 2025, observed on Monday, May 26, is not only a time for honoring fallen U.S. military heroes but also a cherished moment for Americans to gather, reflect, and travel. With the long weekend offering a perfect break from routine, Urban Express presents this travel guide featuring top destinations, practical travel tips, and exclusive offers to make your journey smooth and meaningful. Best Memorial Day Weekend Destinations in the U.S. Whether

Memorial Day 2025 will be observed on Monday, May 26, marking one of the most solemn and meaningful national holidays in the United States. The day serves as a tribute to the men and women of the U.S. Armed Forces who died while serving their country. It is a time of remembrance, reflection, and patriotic honor. History and Origin of Memorial Day Originally known as Decoration Day, the holiday began after the American Civil War as a way to honor Union so

A major water and wastewater utility serving the East Bay is preparing to vote on a proposed rate increase aimed at funding critical upgrades to century-old infrastructure. The plan, if approved, would raise rates by 13% over two years for water customers and 17% for wastewater customers, with the changes set to begin in July. Customers can expect their average monthly water bill to increase by approximately $8, with wastewater bills rising just over $4. The additional revenue wil

Just when residents were beginning to enjoy a short-lived reprieve from the sweltering heat, Gulf humidity has made a strong comeback. Houston is once again facing hot, sticky weather heading into the Memorial Day holiday weekend, with temperatures climbing back into the mid-90s, feeling closer to 100°F due to high humidity levels. After a slightly cooler and more pleasant Wednesday, the shift back into typical southeast Texas heat is in full effect. The KPRC 2 Weather Team warn

A seasonal bus service connecting downtown Columbus to the city's major wildlife and water park attractions will resume just in time for summer. Starting Memorial Day weekend, the public can once again board the dedicated zoo bus to visit the popular zoo and adjoining water park with convenience and affordability. The service, which officially begins May 24, will operate every day through Labor Day, offering a straightforward option for those looking to enjoy one of the region

The City of Hutto has officially been recognized as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, landing the 13th spot on a new list released by the U.S. Census Bureau. The data reflects population changes from 2023 to 2024, during which Hutto grew by over 9 percent, making it the only city in Central Texas to break into the top 15. What was once a small, quiet town on the outskirts of Austin is now experiencing a development boom fueled by an influx of new residents and

The second and final suspect involved in a deadly street racing crash on Mother’s Day in South Dallas has turned herself in to authorities. Sharonda Clark, 47, the driver of the black Cadillac seen fleeing the crash site, surrendered on Wednesday following a police manhunt and public appeals for her arrest. The crash, which occurred on May 11, took the life of Jose Ambrocio Medina Soto, 59, after his pickup truck was struck during a high-speed race between two vehicles. The ot

President Trump’s newly introduced legislative proposal, titled the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” has sparked significant reactions both domestically and internationally. Calling it the most significant piece of legislation in the history of the country, President Trump urged the Senate to pass it quickly after its narrow approval in the House of Representatives by a margin of 215–214. The bill sets forth comprehensive reforms including tax restructuring, reduced feder

A deadly plane crash in San Diego during the early hours of Thursday resulted in the deaths of six people aboard a private jet. The aircraft had taken off from an airport in New Jersey and was preparing to land in San Diego when it struck a power line and crashed into a residential neighborhood shrouded in thick fog. The crash occurred in an area known for Navy-owned housing, startling residents awake around 4 a.m. with a series of explosions and a massive blaze. The crash ignited

Get ready for San Ramon’s most anticipated event of the year the Art and Wind Festival, returning this Sunday and Monday with a spectacular lineup of attractions, performances, and family-friendly activities. Taking place at various locations around City Hall and local school fields, the two-day festival is packed with entertainment for all ages, celebrating art, wind, community, and creativity. The annual festival will showcase fine arts and crafts vendors, three live enterta

In a powerful display of unity and cultural pride, the Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL) brought vibrant celebrations to Roselle, New Jersey, and Brooklyn, New York, in honor of Haitian Flag Day. The dual events, held on May 17, 2025, were filled with color, music, and inspiring messages that encouraged youth and communities to embrace values of conscience, integrity, and peace. Hosted in front of Roselle Borough Hall, the New Jersey celebration marked the 222nd anniversar

The National Memorial Day Concert is set to return to Washington this weekend, offering a solemn tribute to the nation’s servicemen and women, their families, and the lives lost in defense of the country. Held at the West Front of the United States Capitol, the concert has become a significant part of the holiday weekend, drawing large crowds to commemorate military sacrifice through music, reflection, and unity. Due to recent and forecasted rainfall in the region, event off

Dublin’s favorite summer destination is making a splash again The Wave Waterpark is officially reopening its gates this Memorial Day, offering a season of fun and cool relief from the rising California heat. Set to welcome families starting at 11 a.m. on Monday, May 26, 2025, the water park promises an exciting array of attractions and programs for all ages throughout the summer. Following its grand opening on Memorial Day, The Wave will operate from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. over the

Federal authorities have arrested Kenneth Mattson, a 63-year-old real estate investor from Sonoma and former owner of a specialty car consignment shop in downtown Pleasanton, on charges related to a $28 million Ponzi scheme that allegedly spanned over a decade. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) revealed that Mattson is facing a nine-count indictment for wire fraud, money laundering, and obstruction of justice, unsealed this Thursday. Mattson, known locally for operating the now-d

A fast-moving grass fire that broke out Thursday afternoon near Livermore, California, has scorched 261.8 acres but is now reported to be 60% contained, according to the Alameda County Fire Department (ACFD). Known as the Midway Fire, it started around 2:51 p.m. near Patterson Pass Road and Midway Road, just outside of Mountain House. As of 6:03 p.m. on Thursday, forward progress of the fire had been stopped. Initial containment efforts were quickly escalated as the fire jumped the

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing the inaugural session of the Rising North East Summit 2025 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi, declared the Northeast region of India as the most diverse and dynamic contributor to the nation’s development. Highlighting its multifaceted significance, he stated that from trade and tradition to textiles and tourism, Northeast India exemplifies true diversity and strength within the country. The two-day summit, held on May 23rd and 24th, aims