5 Things to Know This Morning

Dec. 17, 2012 — -- Your look at the five biggest and most buzz-worthy stories of the morning.

1. Obama Speaks at Sandy Hook Service
President Obama spoke at a service for the victims of Sandy Hook Elementary, calling on the country to act to prevent such tragedies in the future. Mr. Obama said that he will use the power of his office to confront the spate of shooting that have claimed so many lives.

2. Sandy Hook Shooting Update
The first funerals for victims of the shooting will be held today. Six year olds Noah Pozner and Jack Pinto will be laid to rest.

Police founds hundreds of bullets at the scene and believe the death toll would have been higher if first responders had not arrived so quickly.

ABC News has learned that both the shooter and his mother spent time at an area gun range. Investigators are still trying to determine if Adam Lanza shot there.

All schools in Newtown will be closed today. Students from Sandy Hook Elementary will be relocated to a different location for the rest of the school year.

3. DC Leaders Making 'Good Progress' on Fiscal Cliff
The White House and Congressional Republicans are said to be making "good progress" in fiscal cliff negations. House Speaker John Boehner offered to accept higher tax rates on people earning $1 million a year or more in exchange for entitlement cuts.

4. Senate to Debate Sandy Aid Package
Today the Senate begins debating the $60.4 billion Superstorm Sandy disaster aid package.

5. Middleton Makes First Post-Hospital Appearance
The Duchess of Cambridge looks healthy and strong in her first public appearance since being hospitalized for severe morning sickness. Kate Middleton presented prizes last night at the BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards.