The Ohio Department of Agriculture has released the official schedule for the 2026 fair season, giving communities across the state an early look at one of Ohio’s most anticipated summer and fall traditions. The announcement confirms dates for fairs in all 88 counties, along with independent fairs, bringing the total number of events scheduled statewide to nearly 100. The calendar allows families, exhibitors, and fair organizers to begin planning months in advance for a season rooted in agr

The rapidly expanding artificial intelligence sector may face a significant reshuffling as Bill Gates warned that not all high-valued companies will survive in what he described as an increasingly “hyper competitive” market. Speaking at an event in Abu Dhabi, Gates said that although AI represents one of the most transformative technologies of the era, it does not guarantee universal success for companies riding the wave of investor enthusiasm. His remarks come at a time when global marke

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has emphasized that Rayalaseema, once known for its dry lands and droughts, is steadily transforming into a fertile region on par with Konaseema. He credited this remarkable shift to large-scale irrigation projects and modern water management practices implemented by his government. Speaking at a high-level review meeting, Naidu said that advanced techniques like drip i

The United States has reported its first human case of New World screwworm in nearly sixty years, sparking concerns over both public health and the agricultural industry. Officials confirmed that the case was identified in Maryland, where a patient was diagnosed after returning from Central America. While reports differed over whether the individual had traveled to El Salvador or Guatemala, the confirmation itself marks a serious event given that this parasite

Winter in Chicago has always been a subject of fascination and constant discussion for residents who are accustomed to dramatic seasonal changes. As predictions begin to emerge for the upcoming season, the Farmers Almanac has issued a bold outlook that paints a picture of a traditional winter with harsh conditions across the region. The publication has suggested that the Chicago area and much of the Midwest will experience what it calls a “classic winter w

India and the United States are close to concluding a mini trade deal that is expected to provide temporary relief from some of the additional tariffs imposed on Indian exports and open limited access for American agricultural and dairy products. According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the deal, though not final yet, is likely to be announced soon, with both governments aiming to conclude talks before the August 1 deadline set by the US administration. This agreement will serve a

Nestled at the base of the Santa Lucia Mountains, south of Salinas on California’s Central Coast, the vineyards of Scheid Family Wines stretch across fertile, fog-kissed land. Among these is Isabelle’s Vineyard, known for its high-quality pinot noir and chardonnay grapes that thrive in the cool marine air, warm sun, and nutrient-rich soil. But there's something more than just natural elements fueling this award-winning winery—it’s the wind. For over

As the July 9 deadline approaches, India and the United States are engaged in crucial extended negotiations to finalize an interim trade agreement. The urgency behind these talks stems from the looming reimplementation of 26% reciprocal tariffs, which were initially imposed several years ago and temporarily suspended for 90 days. Should the two nations fail to reach an agreement by the deadline, these tariffs will automatically return, potentially destabilizing the trade relationship between the

Emperor penguins, the largest of all penguin species, are facing an uncertain future as new scientific research highlights the accelerating impact of climate change on their habitat. Although these majestic birds live in the cold, remote expanses of Antarctica, far removed from industrial civilization, they are now suffering the consequences of a rapidly warming planet. A new report published in the journal Nature has raised alarm among scientists who have spe

President Donald Trump has announced a significant shift in immigration enforcement policy, confirming that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) will cease raids targeting undocumented farmworkers. This decision comes as industries such as agriculture and hospitality raise concerns over losing long-time, irreplaceable workers to aggressive enforcement measures. In a public statement, President Trump acknowledged that while the objective of immigration enforcement remains to r

Two citizens of China have been arrested and charged in the United States over the illegal smuggling of a dangerous crop-destroying fungus, raising serious concerns over biosecurity, agricultural sustainability, and national safety. The individuals, identified as Yunqing Jian, 33, and Zunyong Liu, 34, were both taken into federal custody following an investigation that uncovered their involvement in bringing a banned agricultural pathogen into the country. Authorities from the United States A

For over a decade, Jimmy Messick has nurtured fields of strawberries at his family-run farm in Bealeton, Virginia. But this year, the farm's lush, green rows have yielded a sobering reality. Despite years of consistent success, the 2025 strawberry season has marked a historic low for Messick and other growers in the region. Instead of thriving crops and bustling pick-your-own events lasting through early summer, fields have thinned early, forcing an abrupt end to a much-anticipated seasonal

India took center stage at the United Nations headquarters in New York by hosting a high-level event to mark International Tea Day, drawing global attention to the beverage’s deep impact on livelihoods, sustainable development, and cultural exchange. Held on May 21, the celebration was themed "Tea for Livelihoods, Tea for SDGs", bringing together diplomats, UN officials, and tea-producing nations to recognize tea's crucial role in rural development and economic empowerment

For 25 years, Larry De Young has lived peacefully in the coastal town of Montara in San Mateo County, raising horses and enjoying the open landscape. But what was once a tranquil view has become a growing concern. Just across a dirt road from his property lies a stretch of state-owned land, now densely packed with flammable, non-native eucalyptus trees and other overgrowth that he believes poses a severe wildfire threat to his home and his community. The 100-acre parcel of land wa

As spring deepens, Chicago is poised to witness a remarkable natural phenomenon: the mass migration of thousands of birds soaring across the night skies. This seasonal spectacle has prompted the issuance of a migration alert for the region, highlighting the need for community cooperation to safeguard these traveling flocks. In the coming nights, weather conditions will align to create optimal migration patterns for a wide variety of bird species. Forecasts indicate light winds and

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced a significant recall of tomatoes across 14 states due to potential salmonella contamination. This recall involves products from two separate companies: Ray & Mascari Inc. and Williams Farms Repack LLC. Ray & Mascari Inc., based in Indiana, has recalled its 4-count Vine Ripe Tomatoes packaged in plastic clamshell containers. These tomatoes were distributed through Gordon Food Service Stores in the following states

In a rare and fascinating event, a two-headed California kingsnake was born at a pet facility in Berkeley, and has already beaten the odds by surviving beyond the early stages of life. The creature, named Angel and Zeke, has two fully functional heads sharing one body—a condition known scientifically as bicephaly. Occurring in approximately one out of every 100,000 reptile births, the survival of such animals is exceedingly uncommon. The male kingsnake hatchling was discover

 California agricultural officials have begun releasing millions of sterile Mediterranean fruit flies, known as Medflies, across Alameda County in a strategic attempt to eradicate the destructive pest that reemerged in the region in the summer of 2024. Though the discovery sparked alarm, experts now say this latest move may signal not the start of an outbreak, but potentially its end. The Medfly is considered one of the most dangerous agricultural pests in the world due to it