US Territories’ June 11-17, 2018 news week in tweets

by Jun 18, 2018News Week in Tweets0 comments

Puerto Rico Officials under investigation for Corruption During Hurricane Maria

The FBI is investigating various suppliers for alleged corruption in the provision of hurricane relief in Puerto Rico. The current administration of San Juan is also under investigation. There were reports that local corruption was preventing the distribution of supplies and that these supplies were being held at ports. The US military stepped in and allocated supplies themselves.

FEMA Delays for Relief in Puerto Rico Investigated

Journalists from NPR and PBS’s Frontline pored over documents and emails from FEMA, trying to find out why Puerto Ricans were not receiving the aid they required after Hurricane Maria. FEMA claims logistical and bureaucratic delays caused the lack of supplies going to the islands. However, journalists found that FEMA hired companies that were inexperienced or unable to produce blue tarps and power generators.

Jovita Paulino Joins the CNMI Women’s Association as Tinian Representative

In hopes of strengthening the bond between Saipan and Tinian, the CNMI Women’s Association confirmed Jovita Paulino as a part of the board of directors. She focused on self-sufficiency, entrepreneurship, and mental health needs for Tinian women.

Guam’s Archbishop Appeals on Sex-abuse Charges

Pope Francis placed Archbishop Anthony Apuron on leave after four altar boys accused the archbishop of sexual abuse. Five lawsuits have been filed since then. Apuron filed an appeal and will continue to hold the title of archbishop without any of the administrative or pastoral powers until the Vatican reaches a solution.

State University of New York Offers In-State Tuition to Students Displaced by Hurricane Irma

The Governor of New York, Andrew M. Cuomo, announced that the State University of New York will offer students from Puerto Rico and the US Virgin Islands for the 2018-19 academic year. This is one of many ways the governor has shown his support and solidarity for the people who have been displaced by Hurricane Irma.

American Samoa Army Reservists Deploy To Middle East

18 American Samoan reservists have been deployed to the Middle East. They were sent off at a church service and will be away for six to eighth months.

US Territories Will Not Vote For 2026 World Cup Bid

Morocco has written to FIFA to raise concerns over American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands participating in the vote for 2026 World Cup Host due to conflicts of interest. The absence of the votes from the territories may take away four potential votes for the United bid.