A rare sighting of killer whales occurred off the coast of Torrey Pines near San Diego, exciting both locals and tourists. This winter appearance is unusual, as orcas are typically seen in the area during summer.

San Diego Zoo debuts the once-thought-extinct Lord Howe Island stick insect, a significant event for conservationists and exhibiting the zoo's involvement in the species' preservation efforts.

Rapper Latto gave over $350,000 in gifts at a toy drive in Clayton County and received a key to the city, with a day named in her honor. Her charity, "Win Some Give Some," supports at-risk youth.

Rob "Hardy" Poole has been announced as the new co-host of 98.5 The Sports Hub's morning show with Fred Toucher, replacing Rich Shertenlieb who left in November.

A holiday drone show in North Richland Hills, Texas, set two Guinness World Records for the largest and tallest drone displays, featuring 1,499 drones.

Chicago residents can participate in naming city snowplows through a contest that ends January 12, with public voting for finalists starting January 22. Park Ridge is also holding a similar contest for naming snowplows.

Smithville's Dickens on Main Street event combined Victorian holiday celebrations with local Texan heritage, featuring ice skating, music, and historical exhibits.

Taylor Swift was in the spotlight at the Chiefs-Patriots game, supporting her boyfriend Travis Kelce. Her presence attracted fans who couldn't get concert tickets.

Saint Paul launched a Gnome Scavenger Hunt where participants search for gnomes hidden in city parks without knowing their appearance, using clues and sharing their finds on social media.

The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner attributed Matthew Perry's death to the acute effects of ketamine, ruling it an accident, with drowning and coronary artery disease as contributing factors.

Severe weather prompts the cancellation of South Florida holiday boat parades, including the Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale events, due to safety concerns.

A Hialeah man wins a $5 million jackpot from a $20 scratch-off ticket, receiving a lump sum of $3.96 million, with the selling restaurant earning a $10,000 bonus.

Miami's New Year's Eve celebration will once again feature the Big Orange climb at the Intercontinental Miami Hotel, resuming a 30-year tradition after a virtual event last year.