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Returning from the Memorial Day weekend,we'll recap the holiday for you today on CNN STUDENT NEWS.
First up, wide areas of the South Central U.S. were under a flood watch or warning last night.
After tremendous amounts of rain over the weekend, 24 counties in Texas were declared emergency disaster areas.That helps fast track money and recovery resources to affected areas,places like Hays County near Austin.
As many as 400 homes there were washed away.In some cases, only the slabs they were built on were left.
Two main bridges were lost, more than 1,000 homes were damaged.
In hours, the Blanco River went from being about five feet deep to more than 40.
It was one of several rivers to overflow.
During severe weather, officials warn people not to drive on to a flooded roadway or through flowing water.
This is why-fortunately, the man whose car got caught in this survived.
Parts of Oklahoma also flooded.
Oklahoma City set an all-time rainfall record for a single month.
More severe weather is in this week's forecast for the region.
It's a three-day weekend-the unofficial start to summer, a time for family get-togethers and road trips.
But there's a solemn aspect to Memorial Day that distinguishes it from the Fourth of July and other U.S. holidays.
It's a day of remembrance for all American servicemen and women who gave their lives in conflict.
The nation's president takes part in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns.
And families gather at Arlington National Cemetery in tribute and memory of their lost loved ones, a decade's old tradition called Flags In is when the 3rd U.S.Infantry Regiment places flags at the grave sites.
Next today,we're reporting on the Patriot Act.This is a U.S. government program that expanded the powers of America's intelligence and law enforcement agencies.The goal:to prevent terrorism.
The Patriot Act is controversial.Supporters say it's critical to America's national security.
Opponents say parts of it go too far,threatening Americans'privacy.
It expires on June 1st.The House of Representatives has passed a bill that keep in place and President Obama has pushed for the program to be renewed.
But its extension was blocked in the Senate on Saturday.And if the Senate doesn't pass it on May 31, the law could expire.
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