New York Briefs – September 5, 2014

Mom Says School Guard Pulled Racist Prank on Son

SYRACUSE – A black Syracuse woman says a white school security guard on Tuesday forced her 12-year-old Down syndrome son to pose for a racist photo, the Post-Standard reported. Brandiss Pearson and son Brandon stopped in a hallway to snap pictures when the guard lifted Brandon’s hands on the wall as if he was being frisked and said: “Now take the picture. He’s in the right position.” He was fired.

Deal Averts Sale of NJ Shore Town’s Carousel

SEASIDE HEIGHTS, N.J. – A deal was reached to avert the sale of the Seaside Heights Carousel that survived Superstorm Sandy and a boardwalk fire, the Asbury Park Press reported. The town is taking control of the carousel, with its 58 animals.

Woman Napping in Car Between Jobs Dies

NEWARK – A Newark woman died while napping in her car between jobs, overcome by a deadly mixture of carbon monoxide and fumes from an overturned gasoline container, the Star-Ledger reported. Maria Fernandes, 32, pulled over in a parking lot after working a shift in Linden as she was on her way to her other job in Newark.

De Blasios Appoint Executive Director of Gracie

NEW YORK – Mayor Bill de Blasio and his wife on Thursday named Roxanne John the executive director of Gracie Mansion. The daughter of Trinidadian immigrants and a marketing executive, John will work with other offices to arrange events and programs at the mayoral home and office.

Councilman Deutsch Arranging Seniors Trip

BROOKLYN – Councilman Chaim Deutsch on Thursday announced a trip to Governors Island for seniors in his Midwood district on Sept. 18. This trip will include a guided tour and activities. To reserve a seat call Deutsch’s office at 718-368-9176.

Liberal Challenger to Cuomo: Use My Name

NEW YORK – The running mate of Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s liberal primary challenger had a challenge for him on Thursday: say my name in public, the Daily News reported. Cuomo has conspicuously avoided mentioning Tim Wu, or his own challenger Zephyr Teachout, in public appearances. “They seem to be unable to realize that we even exist,” Wu said.

This article appeared in print on page 5 of the September 5th, 2014 edition of Hamodia.