Briefing+Book

Here is a book of current news in Cuba. media type="custom" key="9484090"

Summary 1: Tab Name: NY TIMES 2 The Cuban government met to discuss the economy and to decided on new leaders. The Cuban economy has been at an all-time low and needs to be brought back up as soon as possible. However, the Castro brothers kept most of the same leaders, who are (for the most part) over 70 years of age. He also decided to add a few who are younger than 70.

Jose Ramon Machado was made second in command. This is the first time that a Castro has not been second in command since the revolution in 1959. Being 80 years old, it is unlikely that he will succeed Raul in the precidency of Cuba. Fidel Castro decided to leave his position as first secretary of the party.

Summary 2: Tab Name: NY TIMES 5 After very tough economicand political times, many are wondering what is next for Cuba. The writer compares Cuba's oppresive government to those of the Middle Eastern countries whose people have revolted. Cuban citizens are unhappy with the living conditions, and they may get worse before the government can improve them.

It is possible that Cuba's newly reformed economy will mirror that of China's. It looks unlikely that the Cuban people will protest as they did in the Middle East. However, change is necessary, and it will be hard fort the Communist Party to change itself only in part.

Summary 3: Tab Name: NY TIMES 7 An American was charged by Cuban officials of distributing satellite phone equiptment among Jewish citizens. This iwould have allowed them to access the Internet, which is illegal in Cuba. The American was an USAID agent, which is an organization dedicated to weakening Cuba's government. Although the U.S. claims he is innocent, Cuba says it is clear he was intentionally breaking the law.

He faces massive charges. Analyzers believe this is Cuba's way of warning the U.S. to stay out of their government. He is expected to be released on humanitarian grounds, as he has lost about 90 pounds since he was jailed.

Summary 4: Tab Name: NY TIMES 9 Raul Castro has decided to allow Cuban citizens to sell things on their own for a living and to start small, home-operated businesses. He is also cutting half a million state workers from their jobs. About 85 percent of all Cubans with jobs are employed by the state, earning about $20 per month in exchange for free access to services like health and education, and a ration of subsidized goods.

Unfortunately, because the change came about so suddenly, many Cubans are reluctant to try. Many others have been illegally selling items for a while and are greatful for the license. Hopefully, this reform will boost Cuba's dying economy.

Summary 5: Tab Name: NY TIMES 10 President Obama decided to lift restricitions and allowed Americans to travel to Cuba. He is going to keep the ban on shipments of goods between the countries. This announcement was supposed to be made months ago, but was delayed because of 2010 midterm elections.

U.S. officials visited Alan Gross, the man who was arrested in Cuba for distributing satellite phones. The officials say he is hoping to be tried and then released, because of his health problems. Cubans are welcoming the American tourists because it will bring money into the Cuban economy.