Coon Rapids closed its outdoor ice rinks and warming houses due to unseasonably warm weather, disrupting winter sports traditions and community activities.

A young female humpback whale washed ashore dead in Massachusetts, the sixth such stranding in six months, with causes still under investigation by the Whale and Dolphin Conservation.

Sterling Heights plans to revitalize James C. Nelson Park with over a hundred garden plots, micro forests, and a butterfly conservatory aiming for full bloom by spring 2025, offering educational and health benefits to the community.

Northern fur seal pups thrive on the Farallon Islands off San Francisco, rebounding from past hunting pressures since their re-colonization in 1996, as shared by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Nashville's MNPD is increasing security for New Year's Eve, focusing on the Bicentennial Mall event with performers like Jelly Roll and Keith Urban. Transparent bags are mandatory inside the venue, while road closures will affect surrounding areas.

The Como Park Ski Center is closed due to weather, but the Highland National Golf Course chalet offers indoor activities and the ski area will reopen when conditions improve.

The San Diego Humane Society is seeking homes for 135 guinea pigs, including 51 rescued from an owner who died in an RV. The animals are healthy and ready for adoption.

The City of Ramsey has closed its ice rinks for the weekend due to warm temperatures melting the ice, with updates to be posted on the city's Facebook page.

The City of Duluth, MN, has temporarily paused their Open Skate sessions this week but invites residents to return to the ice on December 29 and resume normal hours starting January 5.

Milwaukee County Zoo offers free admission for "Frosty Free Week" until December 30, excluding evening events. Regular parking and attraction fees apply.

The Cleveland Metroparks Zoo extended its Wild Winter Lights event until Jan 5. Visitors can now experience the light display through walk-through and drive-through experiences.

Polk County Parks and Recreation Department sets new camping rules for 2025, including a 14-day stay limit, a 28-day gap before return, a 100-day annual cap, adult-only reservations, and a ban on certain vehicles.

Loyce E. Harpe Park in Mulberry reopens on weekends after Hurricane Milton's damage with limited access to amenities like dog and skate parks, trails, and fishing areas, while weekdays remain closed for safety during ongoing cleanup operations.