Regional Briefs – June 25, 2015

2016 Presidential Primary Changed Until After Pesach

ALBANY – New York’s 2016 presidential primary was moved forward a week so as not to interfere with Pesach, the Daily News reported. A group of 71 assemblymen led by Sheldon Silver wrote to the Democratic National Committee about the April 26 primary. The date was changed to April 19.

Attempted-Murder Suspect Escapes NYPD Custody

NEW YORK – An attempted-murder suspect escaped police custody on Tuesday while being transferred from a Harlem precinct, The Associated Press reported. Tareek Arnold, 23, in handcuffs, pushed an officer and ran away. Harlem residents were urged to stay indoors.

New York Maple Production At Highest in 70 Years

ALBANY – Maple syrup production in New York state reached its highest level in seven decades, with 601,000 gallons, despite a late season bought on by the lingering winter, Gov. Andrew Cuomo said Tuesday. New York is the No. 2 maple state, lagging far behind Vermont’s 1.3 million gallons.

Conservative Judge Retiring From NY’s Highest Court

ALBANY – Judge Susan Read, the most senior judge on New York’s highest court, said Wednesday she will retire on Aug. 24, the Albany Times-Union reported. Her 2003 appointment by Gov. George Pataki tilted the court rightward for the first time in decades. Gov. Andrew Cuomo will likely put in a liberal.

Hot-Air Balloon Makes Controlled Landing

HOPEWELL, N.J. – A hot-air balloon made a controlled landing without injuries amid high winds Wednesday morning, The Associated Press reported. Police were initially told the balloon had crashed on the campus of Bristol-Myers Squibb.

Oldest Flag Maker Stops Producing Confederate Flag

ROSELAND, N.J. – The nation’s oldest and largest flag manufacturer said Tuesday they will no longer make the Confederate flag, which they say has become a racist symbol, NJ.com reported. The decision of Annin Flagmakers, in business since 1847, comes in the wake of the Charleston church shooting.

This article appeared in print on page 5 of the June 25th, 2015 edition of Hamodia.