First Flight to Cuba
The first commercial flight between the U-S and Cuba in more than half a century took off this morning. The JetBlue flight left Fort Lauderdale, headed for Santa Clara. It opens up a new era of travel, with about 300 flights a week between the countries. The flight landed safely, 72 minutes later. U.S. travel to Cuba is on track to triple this year, with many people hoping for a boost in Cuba’s struggling economy.
Zika Twitter Town Hall
People with questions about the Zika virus can get them answered today on Twitter! The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is holding a Twitter town hall right now. Different experts have been available all day, answering questions about whether the CDC should test family and friends of Zika patients. And, what are the disclosure guidelines identifying people who have contracted the disease? The town hall lasts until 6pm. Use the hashtag, #AtoZika.
Rio Ready for Paralympics
In just 10 days, the Paralympic Games begin in Rio. Authorities there say they are ready to welcome more visitors. Officials are building up support with TV commercials and a city-wide marketing campaign. They want to fill as many seats as possible during the games. People in Copacabana say they are excited, and think the events will be another proud moment for Rio. Still, Rio is considered a tough place for people with limited mobility, because of issues like lack of wheelchair ramps and badly maintained roads.
Mark Zuckerberg Meets Pope Francis
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg swapped out his t-shirt for a suit and tie to meet Pope Francis. Today Zuckerberg and his wife Priscilla visited with the Pope at the Vatican. The Vatican Press Service says they talked about how communications technology could help in fighting poverty. Zuckerberg gave the Pope a model of Aquila, a solar-powered plane Facebook hopes will expand internet access in developing countries.
10,000th Refugee to Arrive in U.S.
The Obama administration expects the 10-thousandth Syrian refugee this fiscal year to arrive in the U.S. this afternoon. That’s according to national security advisor Susan Rice. The arrival would complete the administration’s goal of resettling 10,000 Syrian refugees before September 30th. President Obama set the goal last year in response to the global refugee crisis. Recently a state department official said the administration can and likely WILL accept more than 10,000 applicants, as the goal is “a floor, not a ceiling.”
Miranda D. Reed 