US Territories’ August 20-26, 2018 news week in tweets
New Message Written On Street of a Puerto Rican Town
A Puerto Rican town wrote 'S.O.S.' in the street after Hurricane Maria. Now it has a new message @CNNTravel https://t.co/DqQ3O24gCp happy to see! @WCKitchen delivered there Thousands of meals daily for weeks, plus we helped with medical beds and furniture is some homes! Beautiful
— José Andrés (@chefjoseandres) August 20, 2018
One year ago, a photo of a street in Punta Santiago. The message on the street read, “S.O.S We need water/food.” Now same street says “Bienvenidos,” or welcome. The people wrote the message and took a picture, sharing the news that Puerto Rico is now ready for tourists.
Department of Interior Funds Territories to Combat Invasive Species
Interior announces $1,488,890 in 2018 grants "to combat invasive species and protect natural resources" in US Territories: American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, US Virgin Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, and Republic of Palau. https://t.co/jioRe58jLL
— Glamper Lady (@GlamperLady) August 21, 2018
US Department of the Interior announced that a little under $1.5 million would be granted to the American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, and the US Virgin Islands to combat invasive species and protect natural resources.
Typhoon Cimaron Leaves Saipan Flooded
"Tourists and residents alike were seen wading through ankle-deep rainwater." https://t.co/ZGlBzoDnQD flooding in Saipan, CNMI from #TyphoonCimaron offers a glimpse into how #HurricaneLane could affect Hawaii even if the winds weaken
— Anita Hofschneider (@ahofschneider) August 21, 2018
Typhoon Cimaron has left the Northern Mariana Islands, but parts of the islands remain flooded. A flash flood watch continues on the islands. Tourists and residents have been seen wading through ankle-deep water.
Pentagon Warns China ‘Training for Strikes’ Against US
China rapidly expanding overwater bomber operations, Chinese bombers have been flying farther from home and have the capability of striking U.S. military bases as far afield as Guam. Pentagon warns lawmakers https://t.co/dzwkxyvY2V
— Aviator Anil Chopra (@Chopsyturvey) August 21, 2018
Pentagon’s annual report states that China has been increasing the abilities of its bomber planes. The bomber planes may be able to strike US and allies in the Pacific, including Guam.
Samoan Firefighters Sing as They Combat Wildfires
Keeping morale high is important in any organization, but especially on the front lines. Love the dedication and teamwork of the firefighters of American Samoa @ASIIADomenech @NatlParkService @DOIWildlandFire https://t.co/1a9ORZXCfg
— Secretary Ryan Zinke (@SecretaryZinke) August 23, 2018
17 American Samoan firefighters have been deployed to the mainland to help fight the California wildfires. As they do so, they spontaneously burst into song, showcasing their culture and bringing positivity and energy to the ravaged area.