#GoodToKnow

Columbus - Feeds

@columbus.tomkahe.com.ap.brid.gy

12 hours ago

**March Madness is almost here,** and a new Columbus-built app is giving fans a very different way to play along. A free web platform called Bracket Bandit launched this week ahead of Selection Sunday for both the men’s and women’s NCAA tournaments. The game works like a traditional bracket pool with one major twist. If your bracket is doing poorly, you may get the chance to steal someone else’s. At the end of each round, players in the bottom 25 percent of the standings are allowed to take a bracket from another competitor. The idea is to keep people in the game longer, even if their original picks fall apart early in the tournament. The app was created by Columbus resident John R. Blakely, who said the goal was to make bracket pools more entertaining for casual fans and serious basketball followers alike. > “Whether you know college basketball or you pick teams based on mascots, this keeps you in the game longer,” Blakely said. “If your bracket gets busted early, you can try to steal a better one.” Bracket Bandit supports both the men’s and women’s tournaments and allows players to compete simultaneously in each. The bracket selection feature will open once the official NCAA tournament matchups are announced on Selection Sunday. ### The competition is free to enter and includes more than $400 in local prizes from Columbus-area businesses. Sponsors include The Daily Growler, UA Pizza, Back Nine Golf, and The Daily Bar. The first-place winner will receive a prize package valued at about $250, including a $100 gift certificate to Back Nine Golf and $50 gift cards to the other participating businesses. Second and third place winners will also receive prize bundles from the sponsors. Players can register now and choose their usernames before the tournament brackets are revealed. Once the official NCAA tournament field is announced Sunday night, participants will be able to make their picks and start planning their strategy. To register for the Men’s Tournament, visit bracketbandit.com. To register for the Women’s Tournament, visit women2026.bracketbandit.com.

This New March Madness App Lets You Steal Other People’s Brackets - Chelsea Wiley

Columbus - Feeds

@columbus.tomkahe.com.ap.brid.gy

4 days ago

**Ohio’s beloved Hocking Hills State Park** has been recognized as one of the most picturesque and underrated camping destinations in the United States. According to a recent study by Betway, the park ranked #2 nationwide, earning an impressive score of 93.9 out of 100. The study analyzed social media and outdoor activity data, including Instagram, TikTok, and AllTrails, to determine which lesser-known camping spots are capturing the attention of outdoor enthusiasts. Hocking Hills stood out with: * 33,200 TikTok posts, the highest among all underrated spots in the study * 224,414 images on AllTrails, the second most in the survey * 61,500 hashtagged Instagram posts, ranking 6th overall The top spot went to Red River Gorge in Kentucky, but Hocking Hills’ high ranking underscores its growing popularity among nature lovers who value both adventure and aesthetics. ### Why Hocking Hills Is So Scenic Cedar Falls. Photo by Chelsea Wiley. Nestled in southeastern Ohio, Hocking Hills is renowned for its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and dense forests. The park offers a variety of trails and natural attractions that appeal to campers, hikers, and photographers alike, including: **Old Man’s Cave** – A series of scenic gorges and rock formations that change with every season **Ash Cave** – The largest recessed cave in Ohio, offering a stunning backdrop for nature photography **Cedar Falls** – A breathtaking waterfall surrounded by rich, wooded scenery Beyond its iconic landmarks, Hocking Hills is also celebrated for its accessibility. Just a short drive from Columbus, the park provides city dwellers an immersive escape into nature without requiring a cross-country trek. Its combination of striking natural features and convenience has made it a favorite for weekend campers and day-trippers alike. ### The Allure of Underrated Camping The Betway study highlights the growing trend of seeking out lesser-known destinations that offer scenic beauty without the crowds of more famous national parks like Yosemite or the Grand Canyon. Hocking Hills’ strong social media presence demonstrates that even “hidden gems” can capture the imagination of adventurers nationwide. For those planning a camping trip this spring or summer, Hocking Hills offers a mix of rugged terrain, accessible trails, and picture-perfect views—making it easy to see why the park is topping scenic camping lists. ### Where to Camp in Hocking Hills Old Man’s Cave. Photo via Facebook For those looking to experience Hocking Hills firsthand, the park offers a variety of camping options to suit every style. Visitors can choose from traditional tent and RV sites, primitive walk-in campsites nestled in the woods, or rustic camper cabins for a cozier experience. The main Hocking Hills State Park Campground provides amenities like restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and fire rings, while nearby private campgrounds offer additional options for tents, RVs, and cabins. To explore the full ranking of America’s most picturesque underrated camping spots, you can view the Betway list here. .

Hocking Hills Named One of America’s Most Scenic Underrated Camping Spots - Chelsea Wiley

Columbus - Feeds

@columbus.tomkahe.com.ap.brid.gy

5 days ago

**If you’ve ever wondered how early** you actually need to arrive at the airport, John Glenn Columbus International has a tool that can help take the guesswork out of it. Travelers flying out of CMH can now check estimated TSA security wait times directly on the airport’s website before leaving home. The airport’s security page shows hour-by-hour wait time estimates for the entire day, giving passengers a quick look at how busy checkpoints are expected to be. On average, passengers moving through security at CMH wait about 21 minutes, though that number can vary depending on the time of day. The tool breaks down estimates by hour so travelers can see when lines may be longer or shorter. For example, wait times in the early morning may only be a few minutes, while mid-afternoon periods could approach 20 minutes or more. ### Of course, the estimates aren’t a guarantee. The airport notes that wait times are subject to change and may not reflect the exact experience travelers will have when they arrive. Even with the tool available, airport officials still recommend arriving at least 90 minutes before domestic flights and two hours before international departures to allow enough time for parking, check-in, and security. Still, for anyone trying to plan their trip a little more precisely, the page offers a helpful glimpse at how busy the airport might be before you even leave the house. You can check the wait time estimates here: flycolumbus.com/passengers/security.

Flying Out of CMH? This Tool Shows TSA Wait Times Before You Leave - Chelsea Wiley

👁️ Simon Novak 👁️ Ordinary Human Extraordinaire

@simonnovak.bsky.social

1 week ago

Please read this important announcement.

#Vtuber #ENVtuber #SimOnline #ThisIsntAGraduation #IAmTotallyBoyWhoCriedWolfingAllOfYou #OneDayImGonnaActuallyGraduateAndYoullSayOhThatSimonWhatARascal #IWonderHowLongHastagsCanGetOnBlueSkyImGonnaKeepTypingUntilItWont #OhTheyCanGetThatLong #GoodToKnow

Duivelsei

@duivelsei.bsky.social

1 week ago

More and more #F1 countries are getting involved in the war...

#GoodToKnow 🏎💨 #FormulaOne

FigsDee

@figsdee.bsky.social

1 week ago

Students Left SHOCKED as MAGA Teachers Show Their True Character YouTube video by TYT Sports

Wow, WoW, WOW‼️
#GoodToKnow
www.youtube.com/watch?v=U5x9...

𝓙𝓪𝔂 𝓟𝓪𝓾𝓵

@jaypaul.fyi

1 week ago

#GoodToKnow 😁

Columbus - Feeds

@columbus.tomkahe.com.ap.brid.gy

1 week ago

**If you thought last summer felt a little hazier, you weren’t imagining it.** The Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission just released its annual air quality report, and while most days still landed in the “Good” category, there were a few not-so-great milestones mixed in. ### The headline numbers From November 2024 through October 2025: * 76% of days had “Good” ozone levels, which is actually up from the previous year. * Only 55% of days had “Good” fine particle pollution (PM2.5) levels, down from 65%. * The region issued eight Air Quality Alerts, more than double the three alerts the year before. A big factor in the spike? Canadian wildfire smoke drifting into central Ohio and driving up PM2.5 levels. ### A first in 13 years On June 12, 2025, Columbus recorded its first ozone day rated “Unhealthy” for everyone since 2012. Not just “unhealthy for sensitive groups.” Unhealthy, period. On Air Quality Alert days, kids, older adults, and people with respiratory conditions like asthma can experience symptoms like shortness of breath and wheezing. But when levels hit “Unhealthy,” it’s something everyone should pay attention to. ### Why it’s happening Ozone forms when pollution from cars and industry reacts with heat and sunlight. So when we get warmer-than-average temps and less rain, like we did this year, ozone levels can climb. MORPC monitors air quality as part of a national network and issues daily forecasts using the Air Quality Index. Alerts are based on forecasted conditions, similar to how weather advisories work. They’re also expanding neighborhood-level monitoring across Franklin County, with 36 PurpleAir sensors now providing real-time data. ### What you can do No one person fixes regional air quality, but small choices add up: * Cut down on unnecessary driving on high-pollution days * Skip outdoor burning when air quality is poor * Consider carpooling, biking, or public transit You can sign up for Air Quality Alerts through MORPC to get notified when conditions aren’t great. The full report breaks down trends in more detail, but the takeaway is pretty simple. Most days are still good. But some are getting worse. And yes, it’s worth paying attention.

Central Ohio’s Air Quality Took a Hit Last Year - Chelsea Wiley

Columbus - Feeds

@columbus.tomkahe.com.ap.brid.gy

1 week ago

**COhatch officially opened its new campus-style hub** at 50 and 60 East Olentangy Street, adding coworking space, event venues, a restored historic home for members, and soon, a rooftop cocktail lounge to the heart of the city. The project marks the company’s 38th building restoration and is part of Powell’s larger plan to reinvest in its walkable downtown core. For COhatch CEO and co-founder Matt Davis, the opening is personal. He and his wife have lived in Powell for more than two decades, and he says bringing the concept to his hometown feels like a full-circle moment. ### So what’s actually inside? The newly renovated 14,000-square-foot building houses private offices, dedicated desks, quiet coworking areas, meeting rooms, and event space for everything from corporate gatherings to weddings. Members get 24/7 access, high-speed Wi-Fi, complimentary coffee and tea, printing services, and mailbox options. In other words, all the practical stuff that makes remote work less lonely and a lot more functional. Next up is the Lani Rooftop Lounge, set to open later this month. The indoor and outdoor rooftop space will serve globally inspired food and cocktails, led by award-winning chef Quichocho Lingo and mixologist Alex Johnson. If downtown Powell needed a date night upgrade, this might be it. A rendering of the Middlebury Member House. Coming in May, the Middlebury Member House will open inside a restored historic home designed to feel more like a luxury lodge than a boardroom. Members will be able to work, meet, or host private events in a space that blends old-school charm with modern amenities. The opening also ties into broader infrastructure improvements in Powell, including an extension of Scioto Street and new public parking. City leaders say the development supports long-term economic growth and brings fresh energy to the downtown district. ### Beyond desks and cocktails, COhatch leans heavily into community impact. The co-working space at COhatch. Through its GIVE Scholarship program, the company provides workspace scholarships to more than 1,000 nonprofits annually. Startups can apply for Boost Scholarships, which offer free coworking access and resources to help early-stage businesses get off the ground. Since launching in 2016, COhatch has expanded to 41 locations across seven states and has donated more than $8 million in scholarship funds. For Powell, this new campus is less about adding another office building and more about creating a place where work, events, and community life intersect. If you’d like to learn more about the space, head over to cohatch.com.

A Rooftop Lounge And Coworking Hub Are Coming to Downtown Powell - Chelsea Wiley

Joseph Lim :mastodon:

@joseph11lim.mastodon.social.ap.brid.gy

1 week ago

RE: https://mstdn.social/@stux/116161864404462457

#GoodToKnow 👇⚠️
#fediverse

Columbus - Feeds

@columbus.tomkahe.com.ap.brid.gy

2 weeks ago

**Just a year after big plans and bold renderings** promised a new era for The Bogey Inn, the proposed golf-themed “entertainment campus” is no longer moving forward. According to NBC4, Rise Brands has officially scrapped its plans to redevelop the longtime Dublin hangout at 6013 Glick Road. Hana Hesselgesser, who joined the company as CEO in January, called the decision “disappointing” and said the envisioned project was not feasible at the Bogey Inn site, she told NBC4-partner The Columbus Dispatch. A Rise Brands representative also confirmed to NBC4 by phone that the company will not be moving forward with the project. Back in January 2025, Rise announced plans to transform the former bar and restaurant into a year-round destination featuring indoor and outdoor bars, a food hall, live entertainment, and a 36-hole putting course. The concept was pitched as a collaboration tied to the nearby Memorial Tournament, blending “the timeless tradition of golf with family-friendly fun” while preserving the Bogey Inn name and its long-standing nostalgia. Dublin’s planning and zoning commission voiced support for the concept in March 2025, encouraging some design tweaks but largely backing the vision. At the time, Rise leaders emphasized their commitment to honoring the original Bogey Inn, which had been a staple in Dublin and neighboring Shawnee Hills for decades. The Bogey Inn permanently closed in 2022 following the death of its previous owner, though it briefly reopened for limited runs during Memorial Tournament weeks. More than 800 items were auctioned off in October 2024 ahead of the building’s demolition, marking the end of an era for many longtime fans. While this particular vision for the Glick Road property won’t be coming to life, Hesselgesser said the company remains “excited about the potential of bringing in a golf-related concept under the Rise Brands umbrella,” she told NBC4. For now, what’s next for the site remains unclear.

Rise Brands Pulls Plug On The Bogey Inn Redevelopment - Chelsea Wiley

Pirjo Sundqvist

@pirjosundqvist.bsky.social

2 weeks ago

The Rights of Nature: A Short History of Ownership For billions of years nature operated without the need for laws, rights or borders: food, habitat, and most every other resource on the planet were shared between 10 million species.

Tuesday thoughts 🖤

#GoodToKnow

Matúš M. 🌌🌍🇪🇺🇸🇰🇺🇦...🌽...void

@s-o-n-n-y.bsky.social

3 weeks ago

Wow, aj potok sa volá ropa? 😋😁
#goodtoknow

Hirschers (Tippi Toppi Ära) 🌳🦌🎭

@herrhilfreich.eurosky.social

1 month ago

Die Grafikkarte wurde erstmals 1396 vom finnischen Graf Ikkarte aus den Resten eines Rentiers zusammengesetzt. Dabei half ihm sein französischer Koch Gerard Forcé.

#goodtoknow

Hirschers (Tippi Toppi Ära) 🌳🦌🎭

@herrhilfreich.eurosky.social

1 month ago

Der Fleischsalat wurde 1623 vom Schustergesellen Florian Eischsalat erfunden.

#goodtoknow

Duivelsei

@duivelsei.bsky.social

1 month ago

Data-diefstal De kwetsbaarheid van je digitale vingerafdruk

⚠️ Goed om te weten !

#GoodToKnow

app.nos.nl/shorthand/da...

Columbus - Feeds

@columbus.tomkahe.com.ap.brid.gy

1 month ago

**Inside a fire station in Livermore, California,** a single light bulb has been glowing for more than a century. It was first switched on in 1901. It has survived renovations, relocations, a faulty power supply, and two world wars. It has outlasted presidents, industries, and entire eras of technology. And it was made in Shelby, Ohio. Known as the Centennial Light, the bulb is recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest known operating light bulb in the world. While it now gives off only a faint glow equivalent to about four watts, roughly the brightness of a nightlight, it has been burning almost continuously for 125 years. Long before Silicon Valley startups and smart homes, a small Ohio factory built a bulb that simply refused to quit. ### Born In Shelby The Centennial Light was manufactured in the late 1890s by the Shelby Electric Company in Shelby, Ohio. At the time, electric lighting was still evolving rapidly, and competition among lamp makers was fierce. The Shelby Electric Company was not a minor operation. Organized with $100,000 in capital stock, the company quickly became one of the most ambitious electric lamp manufacturers in the country. By 1902, the plant was capable of producing 10,000 finished lamps per day. Local newspapers proudly noted that the company stood outside the so-called electrical trust, positioning itself as an aggressive competitor in a fast-growing industry. The technical force behind the Shelby lamp was Adolphe A. Chaillet, a French engineer credited with developing an improved carbon filament design. Company literature from the 1890s claimed the Shelby lamp delivered 20 percent greater efficiency and a 30 percent longer life than other lamps on the market. Tests at the time reportedly showed the Shelby bulb outperforming competitors in forced life trials. In short, this was not an accidental success. The company was intentionally building durable, high quality lamps at a time when electric lighting still felt like the future. One of those hand blown carbon filament bulbs eventually made its way west. The Centennial Light bulb. ### A Donation That Changed History In 1901, the bulb was donated to the Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department in California by Dennis Bernal, owner of the Livermore Power and Water Company. According to local accounts, Bernal gifted the bulb to the fire station when he sold his company. It was installed in a hose cart house on L Street and turned on. It has been glowing ever since. Over the decades, the bulb moved at least four times as the fire department relocated. During a 1937 renovation, it was turned off for about a week. In 1976, when the department moved into Fire Station No. 6, officials refused to risk unscrewing it from its socket. Instead, they cut the cord and transported the bulb under escort in a specially designed box. The power interruption during that move lasted just 22 minutes. Today, the bulb runs on an uninterruptible power supply. In 2013, viewers watching a dedicated webcam thought they had witnessed its final flicker. After nearly ten hours of darkness, electricians determined the problem was a faulty power supply. The bulb itself was fine. It returned to its steady glow. ### Why Has It Lasted So Long? Several factors help explain the Centennial Light’s longevity. First, it was built differently. The bulb uses a thick carbon filament rather than the thinner tungsten filaments common in most modern bulbs. The components were handmade, with high-quality brass and glass. It was originally a 60-watt bulb, but over time its output has dimmed to about four watts. Second, it is almost never turned off. Switching a bulb on and off causes repeated heating and cooling cycles that stress the filament. By staying on continuously, the Centennial Light has avoided much of that wear. There is also the matter of philosophy. The Shelby Electric Company was operating in an era when durability was a selling point. The company’s promotional materials emphasized efficiency, strength, and longer life. In the late 1800s, proving that your lamp could outlast a competitor was powerful marketing. More than a century later, one of those lamps is still making the case. ### A World Record With Ohio Roots The Centennial Light was officially recognized by Guinness World Records in 1972 as the most durable light. It has been featured by major news networks, highlighted in documentaries, and even appeared on MythBusters. It has its own website and a loyal following of curious viewers who check in on its steady glow. Every few months, according to the Livermore fire chief, another wave of media attention brings visitors to see it in person. Then things quiet down again. Through all of it, the bulb remains in the care of the Livermore-Pleasanton Fire Department. When it finally burns out, there are no firm plans for what happens next, though Ripley’s Believe It or Not has expressed interest in acquiring it. Until then, it continues to glow. Not too bad for something that was never supposed to make history.

The World’s Longest-Burning Light Bulb Was Made Right Here In Ohio - Chelsea Wiley

The Weatherboard Nine

@theweatherboard9.bsky.social

1 month ago

More an expression of deeply held belief. #GoodToKnow 😬

Columbus - Feeds

@columbus.tomkahe.com.ap.brid.gy

1 month ago

**A Columbus bakery is turning a familiar comfort** into direct support for immigrant families in Central Ohio. The Original Goodie Shop announced this week that it has sold more than 3,700 donation cookies as part of a fundraising effort supporting families impacted by immigration enforcement. The bakery says demand has been so strong that its small team has been working extra hours and days off to keep the cookies stocked, with no plans to cap daily sales. The donation cookie was inspired by a blue bunny hat worn by five-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos, whose detention by federal immigration agents drew national attention in recent weeks. Liam and his father, Adrian Conejo Arias, were detained in January after returning home from preschool in the Minneapolis area and were later taken to a federal detention facility in Texas. Following a court order from a U.S. district judge, Liam and his father were released and returned home earlier this month while their asylum case proceeds. For every cookie sold, $1 is being donated locally, split between Community Refugee and Immigration Services (CRIS) and Our Helpers, two organizations that provide support to immigrant families in Central Ohio. According to the bakery, the donation cookie will be available at least through Saturday and likely into next week, depending on capacity. via Facebook ### Balancing Business and Community In an earlier post, The Original Goodie Shop acknowledged that continuing to promote everyday offerings like King Cakes, Valentine’s cookie boxes, and Irish soda bread has felt uncomfortable given the current climate. “Posting ‘business as usual’ on social media has felt tone-deaf lately,” the bakery wrote. “But we need to nurture the business’ health and keep it running for our employees and community.” The shop emphasized that it remains committed to providing a safe, welcoming space while also finding tangible ways to support those who are hurting. In addition to the cookies themselves, the bakery is also selling the custom cookie cutter used for the design, with profits from those sales donated as well. via Facebook ### A Broader Community Response The Original Goodie Shop also recognized other local businesses that have used their platforms to support immigrant families, including Cambridge Tea House, Pattycake Bakery, and Three Bites Bakery. The bakery noted that community support has gone beyond purchases, encouraging customers who have had positive experiences to leave kind reviews as a way to help small businesses navigate an especially challenging moment. For now, the focus remains on keeping the ovens on and the cookies coming. “Our goal is to make as many as we possibly can,” the bakery shared. For Columbus residents looking for a small but meaningful way to support immigrant families locally, it’s one cookie at a time.

Local Bakery Raises Funds for Immigrant Families With Donation Cookies - Chelsea Wiley

The Weatherboard Nine

@theweatherboard9.bsky.social

1 month ago

So; if they do, it's purely political. #GoodToKnow

ScottieTakesOn

@scottietakeson.bsky.social

1 month ago

#GoodToKnow that G tht Uncle Bill was "hung like a horse". Ew! All this refusal to testify rings as GUILTY as all DJT's DISTRACTIONS & LIES. www.msn.com/en-us/news/p... @anniefortruth1.bsky.social @strandjunker.com @oliviaoftroye.com @gmf1369.bsky.social @docatcdi.com @anneserling.bsky.social jmho

@toghon.bsky.social

1 month ago

Best decision ever Zagitova 😂I don’t agree with all of Eteri’s methods but I would’ve done the same.
#figureskating
#shesthebestchoice
#ifyouwanttowinandgrow
#goodtoknow
#sincemanyassumeshejustfindspeople
#nomostfindher

Columbus - Feeds

@columbus.tomkahe.com.ap.brid.gy

1 month ago

**Central Ohio is digging out** after a major winter storm dumped close to a foot of snow across the region — and with dangerously cold temperatures settling in, that snow isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Franklin County is currently under a Level 3 Snow Emergency, meaning roads are closed to all non-emergency travel. Officials say the measure is necessary to give plows space to work and keep first responders safe. Here’s a roundup of what’s closed, what’s still running, and where to find the most up-to-date information as conditions evolve. ### Snow emergency & weather updates Franklin County’s Level 3 Snow Emergency is the first in more than a decade. Under a Level 3, driving is prohibited unless absolutely necessary, and motorists can be cited or arrested for being on the roads without a valid reason. You can get updates on the Snow Emergency by visiting the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office website. ### School & university closures Many school districts across Central Ohio have canceled classes, including Ohio State University, which announced no in-person instruction through at least Tuesday. A full, continuously updated list of school closures is available through local news outlets. You can view a full list of school closures here. ### COTA service changes The Central Ohio Transit Authority (COTA) is operating on a regular schedule Monday, with some important adjustments: * All rides are free through at least Tuesday * COTA Mainstream is limited to life-critical trips only * COTA//Plus service is suspended in parts of the service area, including Grove City and portions of South Columbus For more info, head over to cota.com. ### Trash & recycling updates City of Columbus trash collection is continuing as scheduled for Monday, but recycling pickup is delayed by one day for customers who normally have Monday service. You can find the City of Columbus Refuse Collection schedule right here. ### Government offices, courts & libraries Several public offices and institutions are closed or operating remotely, including: * Columbus Metropolitan Library (all branches closed) * Franklin County Municipal Court (closed) * Columbus City Council, which is holding its meeting virtually ### Healthcare & community services Some healthcare services are paused due to road conditions: * OhioHealth urgent care centers are closed, with teledoc services still available * Non-emergency procedures and outpatient services are canceled or delayed Meanwhile, LifeCare Alliance has paused Meals on Wheels deliveries for Monday, but previously distributed shelf-stable meals to clients ahead of the storm. ### Grocery stores & attractions Several grocery chains, including Kroger and Giant Eagle, closed early Sunday but plan to reopen with normal hours on Monday. Shoppers are encouraged to check individual store locations. The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is closed through the week due to snow accumulation and extreme cold. ### What’s next? While snowfall from this storm has ended, Central Ohio’s weather challenges are far from over. The National Weather Service has issued a Cold Weather Advisory followed by an Extreme Cold Warning, with dangerously low wind chills expected through Tuesday. Wind chills could drop as low as 15 below zero on Monday, then plunge to 25 below zero Monday night into Tuesday. At those temperatures, frostbite can occur on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes, according to the National Weather Service. Officials are urging residents to limit time outdoors, dress in layers that cover exposed skin, and check on neighbors, especially older adults and anyone without reliable heat. Pet owners are also encouraged to keep animals indoors as much as possible and ensure outdoor animals have warm shelter and unfrozen water. With snow-packed roads, ongoing plowing operations, and life-threatening cold, authorities continue to stress that non-essential travel should be avoided even as cleanup progresses. Stay safe, Columbus!

What To Know After The Storm: Road Closures, Service Changes, And Extreme Cold - Chelsea Wiley

Earth's Attractions

@earthsattractions.bsky.social

1 month ago

You’ll Be Fined for Building Big Sandcastles on These Mediterranean Beaches - And the Real Reason Will Surprise You Discover where sandcastle fines in Europe apply, including beach rules in Italy and Spain, real fine amounts, and how tourists can avoid unexpected penalties in 2026.

You’ll Be Fined for Building Sandcastles on These Mediterranean Beaches - And the Real Reason Will Surprise You: www.earthsattractions.com/sandcastle-f...

#mediterrana #Italy #Spain #news #tips #goodtoknow

Pirjo Sundqvist

@pirjosundqvist.bsky.social

2 months ago

💜

#GoodToKnow

Columbus - Feeds

@columbus.tomkahe.com.ap.brid.gy

2 months ago

**A familiar Columbus creative hub is about to get a national spotlight.** Megan Pando, founder of Makers Social, will appear on ABC’s Shark Tank on Jan. 14 from 10–11 p.m. EST, bringing her hands-on makerspace concept to one of TV’s biggest stages for entrepreneurs. If you’ve never been to Makers Social, the idea is simple and genius: it’s a DIY makerspace and bar where guests can create everything from jewelry to leather goods and woodworking projects, all while sipping craft cocktails and hanging out with friends. It’s part creative workshop, part social night out, and very Columbus in spirit. Photo by Chelsea Wiley. Pando launched Makers Social in 2020, just one month before the pandemic shut the world down. Opening any business is hard. Opening an experiential, in-person business at the start of COVID? That’s next-level challenging. “I started this business just a month before the pandemic hit, making the launch of Makers Social one of the most challenging experiences of my life,” Pando said. “Receiving the invitation to appear on Shark Tank was a surreal and deeply gratifying moment. I’m proud to represent Columbus on a national platform.” ### Pando moved to Columbus in 2014 with a clear goal: build businesses rooted in creativity, community, and connection. Shortly after arriving, she opened Studio 614, a paint-and-sip studio in Clintonville. That early experience helped shape what would eventually become Makers Social, which takes the same social creativity concept and expands it into a full-scale, interactive makerspace. Her upcoming Shark Tank appearance puts a national spotlight not just on Makers Social, but on Columbus as a place where creative, community-driven businesses can actually grow and thrive. Photo by Chelsea Wiley. Makers Social continues to operate locally, offering guided DIY projects alongside a full bar and social atmosphere that turns a typical night out into something hands-on and memorable. Whether or not a deal is struck on Shark Tank, the moment is a big one for a Columbus-founded brand that started during one of the most uncertain times imaginable. You can catch Megan Pando and Makers Social on Shark Tank Wednesday, Jan. 14, at 10 p.m. on ABC. For more about Makers Social, visit MakersSocial.com.

A Columbus Makerspace Is Headed To Shark Tank - Chelsea Wiley

Columbus - Feeds

@columbus.tomkahe.com.ap.brid.gy

2 months ago

**Ohio’s flu season is hitting hard,** with more people across the state experiencing coughs, sneezes, and doctor visits than usual. Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Director Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff reported that flu rates are high and continuing to climb. For the week ending Jan. 3, the state saw 1,911 flu-related hospitalizations, up from 1,456 the previous week and 1,305 at the same point last year. While a spike in hospitalizations is typical for this time of year, Dr. Vanderhoff said part of this increase is linked to a new flu strain circulating in Ohio: H3N2 Clade K, sometimes dubbed the “super flu.” > “This is a new strain that most Ohioans haven’t encountered before this flu season,” Dr. Vanderhoff explained. “Because of that, we have little immune protection, which allows the virus to spread quickly.” ### Even so, he stressed that getting the flu vaccine is still your best defense against severe illness, hospitalization, and even death. Tragically, the state reported its first pediatric flu death of the season on Dec. 31, a teen from Greene County. According to the CDC, only about 37.5% of Ohio children and 41.3% of adults have received their flu shot so far this year. “It’s not too late to get vaccinated,” Dr. Vanderhoff said. “Flu season can last through the spring, and while the shot takes about two weeks to become fully effective, getting it sooner means you’re protected sooner.” Flu vaccines are widely available at doctor’s offices, retail pharmacies, and standalone pharmacy locations across Ohio. <br /> ### In addition to flu updates, Dr. Vanderhoff addressed recent changes to the CDC’s recommended vaccine schedule for children. He emphasized that the majority of vaccines, including those required for school, haven’t changed. Parents are encouraged to talk with their child’s doctor to make sure their children are up to date. For Ohioans who want to keep tabs on flu activity statewide or need more guidance on vaccines, the Ohio Department of Health’s influenza website and Respiratory Dashboard are great resources. Flu season may be in full swing, but a simple shot could make all the difference.

Ohio Flu Hospitalizations Surge Amid Spread Of New “Super Flu” Strain - Chelsea Wiley

Prairiesunshine

@scottishox2.bsky.social

2 months ago

two men are sitting next to each other with their arms crossed and one is wearing a pink tie . ALT: two men are sitting next to each other with their arms crossed and one is wearing a pink tie .

Ambassador Waltz, the United States representative at the UNSC appears to indicate that the Trump Administration supports nations filing criminal charges domestically then pursuing, arresting, & extracting suspects without seeking the country's permission or having legal jurisdiction

#GoodToKnow

Columbus - Feeds

@columbus.tomkahe.com.ap.brid.gy

2 months ago

**After years of rising complaints and close calls,** the City of Worthington is preparing to launch a targeted deer removal program beginning this month, following a unanimous City Council vote in 2025. City officials say the goal isn’t to eliminate deer, but to reduce a population that has grown well beyond what the community can safely support. ### Why the City Says Action Is Necessary According to surveys conducted in 2024, nearly 92% of Worthington residents report seeing deer daily or weekly, and 71% want to see the population reduced. Deer–vehicle collisions and property damage topped the list of concerns, with residents reporting almost $1.5 million in property-related costs over a three-year period, along with more than $200,000 in injury and veterinary expenses. Those findings came after City Council created a Deer Task Force in late 2023 to study the issue, review how other communities handle overpopulation, and gauge public opinion. The Task Force’s final report, released in December 2024, recommended targeted removal as a first step — a recommendation Council formally adopted in January. ### What “Targeted Removal” Looks Like in Practice Unlike traditional hunting seasons or volunteer-based programs, Worthington’s approach will rely on professional wildlife specialists from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service – Wildlife Services (APHIS-WS). Operations will: * Take place after dark, when parks are closed and public activity is minimal * Occur on pre-approved private and public properties that have been individually evaluated for safety * Be carried out by highly trained markspeople using suppressors and specialized ammunition designed to disintegrate on impact * Involve elevated platforms or natural backstops to control bullet trajectory * Include Worthington Police officers, spotters, and drone monitoring for additional safety City officials stress that public safety is the program’s top priority, and that the removal process is tightly controlled from planning through execution. ### When and Where It Will Happen Removal operations are scheduled for January and February, with the possibility of extending into March if necessary. Operations will happen on weeknights after dark, depending on deer activity, weather, and staffing availability. Not every approved site will be used each night. Publicly owned locations that may be included range from East Granville Park and Olentangy Parklands to Walnut Grove Cemetery and athletic fields near Thomas Worthington High School. Private property owners were also able to volunteer their land, and neighbors within 200 feet of approved sites will receive mailed notifications. Exact dates and addresses won’t be publicly released, a decision the City says is meant to protect both operational security and homeowner privacy. ### What Happens to the Deer One detail that’s drawn widespread support: all processed venison will be donated to local food pantries, including the Worthington Resource Pantry. Many residents have asked why Worthington isn’t using relocation, sterilization, or birth control instead. Under Ohio Department of Natural Resources regulations, relocating deer is illegal. Sterilization and pharmaceutical birth control are not authorized outside of research settings, are costly, and tend to be ineffective in open herds where deer move freely in and out of city limits. City officials say they’ll continue working with ODNR on future options, but for now, targeted removal is the only method that’s legal, effective, and scalable. ### What Comes Next This first removal effort is meant to reduce the population, not permanently solve the problem overnight. Worthington expects to conduct annual removals moving forward to maintain healthier deer numbers. A newly formed Deer Advisory Committee will track data like collision reports, property damage complaints, and resident feedback to measure whether the program is meeting its goals. Longer-term, the City may consider adding a volunteer archery hunting program, though Council hasn’t taken action on that yet. ### The Bottom Line For a city known for walkable neighborhoods and green spaces, Worthington’s deer dilemma has been years in the making. With strong survey support and a unanimous Council vote, officials believe targeted removal is the most responsible next step. Whether the program ultimately reduces collisions, property damage, and human–deer conflicts is something residents will be watching closely when operations begin early next year. For more info, head over to worthington.org.

Worthington Is Moving Forward With a Deer Removal Program. Here’s What That Actually Means. - Chelsea Wiley

[ᴛʀᴇᴀᴛʜʏʟ ꜰᴏx ᴀᴋᴀ ᴄᴍᴏɴᴇʏꜱᴘɪɴɴᴇʀ] 💖

@cmoneyspinner.bsky.social

2 months ago

What is Biohacking? How #DIY Biology is Becoming the Next Frontier in #Lifestyle #Tech! - TechLifeWell techlifewell.com/what-is-bioh...
"...discover how DIY biology is revolutionizing lifestyle tech." #interesting #goodtoknow

#POTUS #Trump - ⚕️ It's either #MAHA or Bah humbug or Run for your life!