While you were sleeping, we compiled the biggest stories of the day in one place. Each story has a quick and easy summary, so you're prepared for whatever the day brings. Just click on the links if you want to know more!
1. Who's next in line for the vaccine? DeSantis says seniors only
In just a matter of days, Floridians who are 65 and older may be able to get the COVID-19 vaccine. Florida announced 11,384 new cases on Wednesday afternoon.
DeSantis is breaking from recommendations from a U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advisory committee which recently said essential workers and people 75 and older should receive the vaccine next.
DeSantis argued that vaccinating the more vulnerable 65 and older population will cut down on COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths.
2. What's the president up to this Christmas season? Palm Beach and pardons
President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump arrived at Palm Beach International Airport Wednesday evening to spend the final Christmas of his presidency at Mar-a-Lago.
Trump on Wednesday pardoned more than two dozen people, including former campaign chairman Paul Manafort and Charles Kushner, the father of his son-in-law, in the latest wave of clemency to benefit longtime associates and supporters.
This brings the number of people whom the president has granted clemency in the last week to nearly 50. The list includes not only multiple people convicted in the investigation into the Trump campaign's ties to Russia but also allies from Congress and other felons whose causes were championed by friends.
- Trump vetoes defense bill, setting up possible override vote
- Pelosi asking GOP for unanimous consent to increase direct payments to $2,000
- Beginning Jan. 1, employers won't have to provide paid leave for employees with COVID-19
4. Looks like things won't be so fair in 2021
The traditional 2021 South Florida Fair has been canceled and replaced with a smaller event during the original fair dates of January 15-31.
The South Florida "Mini" Fair will include all of the typical fair foods and beverages, a variety of local and tribute bands, shopping, racing pgs, a giant sand sculpture, strolling entertainers, farm animals, and Yesteryear Village, but the only rides available will be kiddie rides.
“This decision came about due to growing concerns about the safety of our guests during this pandemic,” said Vicki Chouris, the fair’s president & CEO. “Mini but mighty with maximum fun is what we plan to present!”
5. Santa Claus is coming to town (with a little help from NORAD and Dr. Fauci!)
Nothing, not even the COVID-19 pandemic, will stop Santa from delivering toys to good boys and girls every Christmas Eve — and nothing will stop NORAD from tracking the big guy's flying sleigh.
Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, reassured children over the weekend that he personally visited Santa Claus at the North Pole, and vaccinated him.
Fauci turns 80 today, but he won't be throwing a big party for the milestone birthday. With the coronavirus pandemic still spreading through the US, Fauci says he will only be spending the day in person with his wife.
Today's Forecast
Warm and windy ahead of a strong cold front
Get your complete hour-by-hour forecast here.
On This Day In History
On December 24, 1851, a devastating fire at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., destroys about two-thirds of its 55,000 volumes, including most of Thomas Jefferson’s personal library, sold to the institution in 1815.
Remember, you can join Mike Trim and Ashleigh Walters every weekday on WPTV NewsChannel 5 beginning at 4:30 a.m. And you can always watch the latest news from WPTV anytime on your favorite streaming device. Just search for "WPTV."
