Regional Briefs – July 30, 2015

Appeals Court Nixes Release of Garner Death Testimony

NEW YORK – An appeals court ruled Wednesday that the public can’t see the grand jury testimony before the acquittal of a police officer in the death of Eric Garner, The Associated Press reported. They cited longstanding principles of secrecy.

NYC Health Dept. Investigates Legionnaire’s Outbreak

BRONX – The city Health Department said Wednesday they’re investigating an outbreak of Legionnaire’s disease in the South Bronx, The Associated Press reported. There have been 31 reported cases since July 10, including two deaths. Symptoms are fever, cough, chills and muscle aches.

Obama Signs Bill Renaming Post Office After NY Politician

NEW YORK – President Obama on Monday signed a bill renaming a Bronx post office for the late Rep. Herman Badillo (D-Bronx), the first congressman born in Puerto Rico, The Associated Press reported. The Morrisania Post Office is on the National Register of Historic Places.

College Helping Grant Death House With Landmark Effort

WILTON, N.Y. – A team of Ithaca College researchers is helping to obtain National Historic Landmark status for the upstate home where President Ulysses S. Grant died 130 years ago, the Daily Gazette reported. They used a laser scanner to get the exact dimensions of the cottage atop Mt. McGregor.

Carousel Featuring Giant Fish Coming to the Battery

NEW YORK – A carousel featuring 30 monumental fish is slated to open Aug. 20 in Lower Manhattan, The Associated Press reported. The SeaGlass Carousel allows riders to sit inside the fish. It’s designed to recall Battery Park’s history as New York Aquarium’s original home.

Port Authority Says Cop Suing Agency Tried to Flout Security

NEWARK – The Port Authority said Tuesday that a former high-ranking official was pulled off a flight at JFK after he tried to flout airport security on three occasions, The Associated Press reported. Paterson Police Director Jerry Speziale is suing the agency and wants Friday’s action added to the whistleblower lawsuit.

This article appeared in print on page 5 of the July 30th, 2015 edition of Hamodia.