Vaccinated families can ‘feel good’ about holiday gatherings, Fauci says

"If you get vaccinated and your family's vaccinated, you can feel good about enjoying a typical Thanksgiving, Christmas with your family and close friends," Dr. Anthony Fauci said.

City of Austin's RENT program allocates all remaining rental assistance

The application portal for the City of Austin's RENT program has been deactivated until additional funding is available, says the city.

Gov. Abbott files petition to challenge OSHA COVID-19 vaccine mandate

The petition urges the court to vacate the mandate and confirm Abbott's executive order GA-40 is not preempted, says the governor's office.

Amazon settles California case accusing it of concealing COVID cases from workers

Amazon will pay $500,000 as part of a settlement reached with California's attorney general who had accused the retail giant of illegally withholding information about COVID cases from its workers. 

3 snow leopards die from COVID-19 complications at Nebraska zoo

The zoo made the announcement in a Facebook post Friday, describing the deaths of the three leopards — named Ranney, Everest, and Makalu— as “truly heartbreaking.

Round Rock ISD kicks off series of COVID-19 vaccine clinics Sunday

Parents or guardians must register their child for an appointment prior to the clinic visit and are asked to bring insurance information and medical/prescription cards, if they have one.

Wyoming girl, teddy bear reunited after year-long separation during Glacier National Park trip

Six-year-old Naomi Pascal lost a teddy bear she had since leaving an Ethiopian orphanage. Thanks to a sharp-eyed, compassionate park ranger, she has been reunited with the irreplaceable stuffed animal a year later.

First Lady Dr. Jill Biden arrives in Houston to encourage pediatric COVID-19 vaccinations

First Lady Dr. Jill Biden was joined by U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy at Texas Children's Hospital as part of efforts to visit pediatric vaccination clinics across the country over the coming weeks to encourage shots.

Santa Claus may not be coming to town this year amid hired Santa shortage

There are an estimated 10-15% fewer Santa Clauses this year compared to last year due to COVID-19 and many Santas retiring, according to Mitch Allen, head elf at Hire Santa.

Wildland firefighter, his dog take 3,700-mile bike ride to overcome mental health struggles

Wildland firefighter Kevin Conley Jr. and his dog Rocky are on a cross-country trip to improve mental clarity, and most importantly, mental health. One of the eight states he stopped in was Arizona.