News Roundup 9/20/2017
By Sydney Vargas
1. Puerto Rico Without Power:
Hurricane Maria is the strongest hurricane to hit Puerto Rico in over 80 years. Destroying hundreds of homes, knocking out power across the entire island and triggering flooding. So far the storm has left 7 people dead. Maria weakened to a Category 2 hurricane Wednesday afternoon, with winds of 110 mph. Winds at the speed of 74 mph still extend over much of Puerto Rico, the National Hurricane Center said. The Hurricane has instilled fear for what comes after the hurricane, forcing Puerto Rico into a deeper financial crisis.
Source: BBC
2. Russia Investigation Continues:
Robert S. Mueller III, the special counsel, has asked the White House for documents about some of President Trump’s most controversial actions since taking office, ranging from the firing of Michael Flynn as well as Oval Office Meetings with the Russians in May. Specifically, Mueller appears to be closely going through White House documents with a close focus on just what President Trump’s role was. Few details have been confirmed as the investigation is still progressing.
Source: CNN
3. London Bombing Investigation:
A manhunt was underway for suspects of the bomb that detonated on a packed subway train during Friday morning, injuring at least 29 people. A source confirmed that an ISIS affiliate took responsibility for the attack. British counter-terror police have arrested a total of 5 suspects, with no charges as of yet. President Trump used the bombing, to promote his ban on visitors from predominantly Muslim countries, suggesting Britain should be “far larger, tougher and more specific.” Trump's comments angered Prime Minister Theresa May, who said it was not helpful for anyone to speculate while an investigation was underway.
Source: USA Today
4. Rosh Hashanah Begins:
Rosh Hashanah begins at sunset Wednesday evening. Rosh Hashanah is a Jewish holiday celebrating the Jewish new year. It is a day of prayer, peace, and prosperity. The Most renowned traditions include the dipping of apple slices into honey, The Shekinah. Eating honey with apples represents hope that the Shekhinah (the feminine aspect of God) will judge kindly and with sweetness during the new year. Some people choose to attend synagogue services that include extra readings and prayers and festive meals. Ending the night with candle lighting in their homes, reciting the candle blessing as well as the Kiddush. Happy Rosh Hashanah!
Source: Newsweek
5. Jimmy Kimmel's Healthcare Test:
Kimmel has become a public voice in the healthcare reform debate after delivering a monologue on his show in May concerning his newborn son's heart condition. Politicizing his son's condition to advocate for affordable health care. Making the point that his son would have died if not for the host’s expensive healthcare plan, which more than less Americans are unable to afford. Senator Bill Cassidy was then a guest on the show, and unveiled a new healthcare bill. The revealed bill did not meet the standards of Jimmy Kimmel resulting in another monologue regarding the bill, urging viewers to call Congress. Despite a longstanding opposition to Obamacare, Republicans have yet to agree on a replacement. Several attempts to rally around a new plan have collapsed. They have until the end of the month to pass this latest bill.
Source: Vox