Kid News Daily: A Roundup of Today’s Top Stories

The Return of the Polar Vortex and Falling Iguanas

As of January 15, 2026, the National Weather Service has issued a warning regarding a significant "polar vortex pattern" moving across the United States. Following a brief "January thaw," the eastern seaboard is bracing for frigid air with temperatures projected to drop "10 to 20 degrees below average."

This extreme cold poses a peculiar challenge for Florida residents. In regions near Tampa, where temperatures may dip to 29 degrees, the cold air causes the "muscles of the little lizards may lock up," leading to the phenomenon of iguanas dropping from trees. Forecasters predict this cold snap will arrive in three waves, with the most severe conditions expected next week. Approximately "40 million people from Minnesota to Maine" may face sub-zero temperatures, even as the nation overall experiences one of its "warmest winters" due to offset heating patterns in the West.

Nike Enters the Pickleball Court

Pickleball, described as "one of the fastest-growing sports in the US," has reached a new commercial milestone. The Sports and Fitness Industry Association reported a massive "311% increase in participation between 2022 and 2024." Capitalizing on this trend, Nike has signed 18-year-old Anna Lee Waters, the number one ranked professional player, to its athlete roster. Waters, who turned pro at age 12, will debut her new "Nike apparel" at the upcoming Carvana Masters Tournament in California.

Honoring a Legend: The Muhammad Ali Stamps

The U.S. Postal Service is celebrating the legacy of Muhammad Ali, the "most famous boxer of all time," with the release of two commemorative "Muhammad Ali Forever stamps." The unveiling ceremony is scheduled for Louisville, Kentucky, Ali’s hometown. The stamps feature two distinct designs: one depicting Ali in his iconic boxing pose and the other showing him in a pinstripe suit, highlighting his role as an "activist and humanitarian." Officials confirmed that 22 million stamps have been printed and will not be reprinted once they sell out.

Legislative Cleanup in Los Angeles

In a move to modernize city ordinances, the Los Angeles City Council voted 14 to 0 to repeal "Code, Section 5616." This obscure law, dating back to 1945, technically made playing catch on certain streets or sidewalks a crime punishable by a "$1000 fine and up to six months in jail." A city council member described the outdated regulation as "uncommonly silly," marking the end of a law that was rarely, if ever, enforced.

Cultural Highlights: Girl Scouts and Mullet Mania

• Girl Scout Cookies: Axios reports that the Girl Scout cookie program remains the "largest girl-led entrepreneurial enterprise in the world." Prices currently range from $5 to $7 per box, with the new "Exploramores" cookie making its debut this year.
• Mullet Mania: The Pennsylvania Farm Show hosted its annual mullet hairstyle contest, an event that drew over "150 competitors and 1000-plus spectators." The competition celebrates the "short in the front, long in the back do." The winner, 10-year-old Drew Fleshet, took home the title, while other contestants like three-year-old Mason Williamson showcased the style, which his mother described as an accidental look they decided to "keep the party going" with.