Good morning southern Colorado and here's what you need to know on your Thursday morning.
If you'd like to read the full story, be sure to click on the story headline.
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'Christmas came early:' State approves several counties for 5 Star program, easing restrictions
The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) approved several counties for the 5 Star State Certification Program. The program eases restrictions allowing for indoor dining at restaurants and increased capacity at gyms. CDPHE has approved Douglas, Summit, Larimer and Broomfield counties for the 5 Star program. All four counties are currently in Level Red, but the program allows businesses in those counties to operate one level below, which drops them to Level Orange and eases restrictions.
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Trump vetoes defense bill, setting up possible override vote
President Donald Trump has vetoed the annual defense policy bill. Trump followed through on threats to veto the measure that has broad bipartisan support in Congress and it potentially sets up the first override vote of his presidency. The bill would affirm 3% pay raises for U.S. troops and authorize more than $740 billion in military programs and construction.
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A sunny, warmer, and still windy Christmas Eve!
Today looks gorgeous outside compared to yesterday, but we'll still have that chill in the air, especially this morning. Highs will be in the 40s and 50s in the plains and we'll still be a bit windy out there. Click the link above for your full Christmas Eve forecast.
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Parents convicted in 2009 'balloon boy' hoax pardoned by Colorado governor
A couple convicted of criminal charges in the so-called balloon boy hoax that fascinated the country more than a decade ago were pardoned Wednesday by the governor of Colorado. Dozens of rescue crews scrambled to save the 6-year-old boy after Richard and Mayumi Heene reported he had floated away in a homemade UFO-shaped silver helium balloon in 2009. According to the Associated Press, authorities said the couple staged the incident because they wanted publicity to pitch reality TV shows.
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Rally for Restaurants providing hundreds of meals for restaurant workers
Restrictions due to COVID-19 have placed a burden on restaurant owners and employees. Many have been laid off or have limited hours because of the pandemic. However, a local initiative wants to help feed workers in need who are struggling to make ends meet. The effort, "Rally for Restaurants," kicked off on Wednesday evening. The goal is to provide free meals to restaurant workers and their families.
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