Mattis leaving 2 months earlier than planned, replaced by Depty. Defense Sec. Shanahan Jan. 1

Irritated with the criticism and fallout from Defense Secretary Jim Mattis' resignation, President Donald Trump on Sunday pushed the Pentagon chief out the door two months earlier than planned, an acrimonious end to a tense relationship that had been eroding in recent months.

164K pounds of Jennie-O ground turkey recalled for salmonella

A Minnesota-based poultry producer is recalling more than 164,000 pounds of raw ground turkey products that may be contaminated with salmonella.

Tsunami set off by volcanic eruption kills 222 in Indonesia

CARITA BEACH, Indonesia (AP) - An eruption of one of the world's most infamous volcanic islands is believed to have triggered a tsunami that killed at least 222 people in Indonesia during a busy holiday weekend. The waves smashed onto beaches at night without warning, ripping houses and hotels from their foundations in seconds and sweeping terrified concertgoers into the sea.

Santa ditches sleigh for scuba gear in the Florida Keys

Since all the presents have been delivered, Santa is taking a little vacation in the Florida Keys.

Government shutdown 2018: What will close and who still needs to work

With Democrats and President Trump seemingly at an impasse over a spending bill – particularly in regards to funding for border security – the government partially shuttered at midnight, just in time for the Christmas break. And Trump has warned that a closure could drag on 'for a very long time.'

NORAD continuing Santa Tracker operations during partial government shutdown

While many government operations are on hold during the partial shutdown that began midnight Friday, the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) said that it will still be on the lookout for Santa.

10 worst Christmas candies, ranked

There are so many wonderful things about Christmas: Beautiful lights, delicious food, presents, and, of course, spending time with the ones you love.

Florida police officers disrupt mall flash mob, then join in on the fun

It seemed like two Florida officers tried to put an end to a flash mob inside a mall, but they ended up being part of the entire act.

FDA warns against teething jewelry after child strangulation, death reports

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is warning parents about colorful teething products that look like jewelry, but can actually be hazardous to babies, causing serious injuries, and, in one case, death.

Polar vortex may be coming soon, scientists warn

Climate researchers are sounding the alarm on a polar vortex that’s predicted to sweep through the U.S.’ east coast later this month and inflict one of the harshest winters in years, The Washington Post reported.

'Baby, It's Cold Outside' cover by Dean Martin soars to No. 10 amid controversy

After sparking controversy over its lyrics in a post-#MeToo-awareness world, Dean Martin’s version of the holiday song “Baby It’s Cold Outside” rose to No. 10 in a major Billboard ranking.

Bush service dog Sully training with America's VetDogs ahead of service at Walter Reed hospital

Former President George H.W. Bush's service dog Sully has become a popular pup on social media after a photo taken of the yellow lab sitting by his master's casket was taken by Bush spokesman Jim McGrath.

Naples homeowner scares away bear through Ring doorbell

A bear was recently caught on camera as it rang a doorbell and knocked over decorations on a Naples, Florida doorstep.

Ocala Police Department gives away $5,200 for 'Secret Santa' operation

The Ocala Police Department distributed $5,200 in $100 bills to citizens throughout their city via random acts of generosity.