The Centers for Disease Control is warning against traveling over Christmas and New Years after a spike in COVID-19 cases after Thanksgiving. Even with warning, more people are planning to fly for Christmas. The Transportation Security Administration estimates 1.07 million people passed through the security checkpoints last weekend alone. The latest numbers from Tuesday added another 10,434 cases to the state total, now at 1,223,015. To date, 20,754, Florida residents have died from the virus. COVID-19 test sites will be closed on Christmas. Check here for site hours before you go.

Florida received the first shipment of the Moderna vaccine Monday, and Governor Ron DeSantis said he want seniors over 70 to get the vaccine first, then essential workers. Each state makes their own decision on who gets the vaccines first from Moderna or Pfizer. Florida has 3.2 million residents over the age of 70.

If you have questions or need more information from the Florida Department of Health, the COVID-19 Call Center is available 24/7 be calling 1-866-779-6121. You can also reach them by email at covid-19@flhealth.gov. Email responses will be sent during call center hours. BayCare is offering rapid result tests at nine Urgent Care Centers for asymptomatic individuals. This is one you’ll have to pay for up front at $150 and can make an online appointment for on the BayCare web site. The newest locations for free, drive through shots are at five Hillsborough County school locations which will require a reservation. You can take care of that by calling 813-307-8085 Monday through Friday from 8-5 pm. Other Free COVID-19 tests are available in Pinellas, Pasco and Hillsborough counties. For more please check in with us daily here.

The Senate approved a $900 billion dollar stimulus package along with a $1.4 trillion omnibus spending bill. That includes stimulus checks, aid for businesses, those facing foreclosure or eviction, education, child care and more. The bill now goes to the President’s desk for his signature. President Trump has said he wants changes to the bill that include an increase in the amount of the stimulus checks.

The Bucs have just two games left in the regular season with the final game at home once against Atlanta January 3rd. First though they head to Detroit this weekend for a game against the Lions Saturday the 26th where a win would guarantee a playoff spot.

When the Florida legislature reconvenes in March, one proposal will be to ban smoking on Florida beaches. Sen. Joe Gruters, R-Sarasota, filed the proposal (SB 334) that would also ban smoking in state parks, but would allow it in beaches and parks owned by counties and cities.

The Gasparilla Bowl has been canceled over coronavirus concerns for this Saturday. South Carolina had to pull out of the game that would have been against the University of Alabama.

The Dove Daily Update will be off for the rest of the week and will return on Monday. Merry Christmas and stay safe.

Cox Media Group