Oakland Fire Death Toll Climbs and 5 Other Stories to Know Dec. 5
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- The death toll continues to rise from a devastating fire in Oakland, CA, over the weekend; the coroner announced 36 victims have been recovered from the building, with the number likely to climb. The blaze erupted inside a warehouse nicknamed the Ghost Ship, which was home to a community of artists hosting a dance party Friday night. The building had previously been investigated as a fire hazard as it was ornately decorated with wood; a second floor had been constructed out of wood pallets. One partygoer who was present at the party but escaped described the interior as a "tinderbox." A criminal investigation has been opened, but the cause is still unknown.
- In entertainment news, Moana's box office reign remained strong over the weekend. Disney's newest princess film raked in $28.4 million, making its two-week total profits around $183.5 million. Moana's two-week top spot is due, in part, to having little competition since more movies are being released later in December.
- Once opponents, now partners. Donald Trump's team announced another cabinet member on Monday: former GOP presidential candidate Ben Carson was nominated as secretary of housing and urban development. Last month, Carson's business manager, Armstrong Williams, said that he would not accept a cabinet position because he was not prepared to. Carson has apparently changed his mind.
- Boycott Uber? The ride service company updated its app, and customers are not happy with a feature that allows Uber to track their location for five minutes after a completed ride. There's no option to opt out; if you want to continue to use the app, you have to accept the new terms.
- Another vote in Europe shocks the world. A referendum that would have streamlined Italy's antiquated senate and house system, proposed by current Prime Minister Matteo Renzi, was decidedly struck down by the people on Sunday. Since he was a proponent of the referendum, Renzi announced he would resign following the rejection.
- It's almost award season, and Jimmy Kimmel is ready. The late-night comedian will host the Oscars next year, the Academy announced Monday morning. This will be the first time Kimmel will host the awards, which are scheduled to air on Feb. 26.