In a major step towards enhancing India's pandemic preparedness, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is rolling out an AI-enabled pathogen surveillance tool under the National One Health Mission (NOHM). This innovative system aims to monitor emerging and novel pathogens to predict and track diseases before they spiral into full-blown outbreaks. The focus is on early detection of zoonotic diseases, viral diseases, bacterial infections, and even parasitic threats that can have far-rea

Federal immigration authorities arrested more than 280 immigrants across Ohio during a multi-day enforcement operation conducted in mid-December, according to officials from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. The arrests took place between Dec. 16 and Dec. 21 as part of what officials described as a targeted effort known as Operation Buckeye, which focused on Columbus and other parts of the state. The announcement of the arrests came amid growing public attention and protests

Brookfield Zoo is offering Chicago-area residents and visitors an excellent opportunity to explore one of the region’s most popular attractions without paying an admission fee, as the zoo has announced free entry on most days throughout January and February. The expanded winter free admission schedule gives families, students, and animal enthusiasts a chance to enjoy a meaningful outdoor experience during the colder months while keeping expenses low. With a wide variety of exhibits and thousan

Chicago is set to officially open its holiday season this weekend as several of the city’s most recognizable Christmas traditions return across multiple neighborhoods. The start of these annual events is expected to draw large crowds, increased traffic and a series of planned road closures, according to city officials. The Office of Emergency Management and Communications advised residents, visitors and motorists to prepare for heavier travel conditions throughout the weekend as celebration

Residents across central Ohio are preparing for a noticeable shift in weather conditions as a strong cold front moves through the region Sunday into Monday. The system is expected to bring rain that transitions into snow overnight, marking the first taste of wintry weather for the 2025–26 season. The timing of the cold temperatures and precipitation has prompted meteorologists to issue a Weather Impact Alert for early Monday morning, warning of slick conditions during the commute.

Dublin, California — The City of Dublin is inviting residents to attend two public Zoom meetings to learn more about the proposed Sunflower Hill at Grace Pointe, a 60-unit affordable housing project designed for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The development, a partnership between Sunflower Hill and Satellite Affordable Housing Associates (SAHA), aims to provide long-term independent living opportunities while enhancing accessibility and inclusion in the Tri-Valley

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium has announced a gesture of support for federal workers affected by the ongoing government shutdown, offering them free admission for a limited time this month. The initiative, designed to provide a brief respite for workers and their families during a period of financial and emotional strain, will run from November 1 through November 20. Federal employees will be able to enjoy complimentary admission for themselves and up to five guests, along with free

It’s a festive day in Washington as the Smithsonian’s National Zoo prepares to celebrate the fourth birthday of Qing Bao, one of its newest and most beloved giant pandas. Festivities are scheduled to begin at 9 a.m. Friday, marking her first birthday since arriving in the nation’s capital last fall. Visitors will be able to join in on the fun, and those unable to make it to the zoo can still tune in from home through the zoo’s live Giant Panda Cam. Qing Bao,

The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is grieving the loss of one of its beloved animals after a zebra named Paula died in a tragic accident within the Heart of Africa habitat. Paula, a familiar sight to visitors and a favorite among staff, was described as spirited and full of energy, often bringing joy to guests who came to see her. According to the zoo, initial findings revealed that Paula suffered fatal injuries after colliding with a gate inside the outdoor section of her habitat. The

A troop of western lowland gorillas currently residing at the Dallas Zoo will be relocating later this fall to a new home at another Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA)-accredited facility. The bachelor group, consisting of Shana, Zola, Juba, and B’Wenzi, has become a familiar sight to zoo visitors over the years, and their departure marks a significant moment for both the facility and the community that has grown to appreciate them. The relocation is not the result of a

As summer rolls in and school halls fall silent, families across Illinois are seeking affordable and enriching ways to spend time together. Whether it’s a day in the park, a movie outing, or a refreshing swim, the season offers many leisure options. But for those looking to make the most of summer without stretching their budget, Illinois libraries have something unique in store. The Explore More Illinois program is quietly transforming how residents experience the state&

  Hundreds of demonstrators gathered outside the Ohio Statehouse on Friday evening to participate in a peaceful protest as part of the growing national “No Kings” movement. The protest in downtown Columbus was one of several planned across the country in response to what participants described as increasingly authoritarian rhetoric coming from former President Donald Trump. Organizers and attendees expressed concern about recent messages and imagery associated with

As summer unofficially kicks off, central Ohio is buzzing with vibrant events and family-friendly activities. From world-class golf to community festivals and interactive zoo experiences, there's something for everyone to enjoy throughout Columbus this weekend. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a fan of local culture, or simply looking to make memories with your family, this lineup of events will not disappoint. The Memorial Tournament at Muirfield Village Golf Club c

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

As the weather warms and the average last spring frost passes, Columbus residents are gearing up for the busiest weekend of the year for planting. With Mother's Day weekend upon us, local gardeners are flocking to nurseries, anticipating large crowds eager to add vibrant annuals to their gardens. These nurseries are prepared to help locals transform their outdoor spaces with expert advice and a wide selection of plants. Shawn Schilling, the general manager at a local nursery i

A recent incident in Columbus, Ohio, has drawn public attention and criticism after police released body-worn camera footage showing an officer fatally shooting a dog that was attacking a woman and her leashed pet. The event occurred on May 4 around 3:28 p.m. in the area of Arlington Avenue and Bremen Street, when officers were responding to a report involving a dog that had been running loose in the neighborhood. According to Columbus Police Chief Elaine Bryant, officers were spe

Columbus residents enrolled in the Clean Energy Columbus Program can expect a bump in their electricity bills starting this June. The rate increase comes as part of the city’s continuing commitment to sustainability, with the program sourcing 100% clean energy for its participants. Supplied by AEP Ohio, the Clean Energy Columbus Program has helped many residents save on monthly power bills while contributing to broader environmental goals outlined in the Columbus Climate Action Plan.

In a significant advancement for public safety, the City of Columbus has unveiled major upgrades to its 911 system, incorporating Next Generation 911 technologies aimed at enhancing emergency response capabilities and accessibility for all residents. These enhancements introduce AI-powered text translation and video sharing features, ensuring that language barriers and communication challenges do not impede timely assistance during emergencies. The newly implemented Text-2-911 Tra

 Columbus, Ohio is experiencing a remarkable and hopeful shift in public safety, with the city's current homicide rate falling to its lowest point in more than a decade. Local officials and community leaders say the steady decline in deadly violence is the result of persistent collaboration, data-driven policing, and grassroots engagement that has been years in the making. So far in 2025, only 16 homicides have been reported in the city — a significant drop from the