Latest news with #EastRiver
CBS News
7 days ago
- CBS News
NYC man accused of throwing explosives off Williamsburg Bridge faces federal charges
A New York City man is facing federal charges after prosecutors say he built improvised explosive devices using instructions he found on the internet. Michael Gann is accused of making at least seven explosives, and throwing some off the Williamsburg Bridge into the East River, between May and June of this year. The 55-year-old man from Inwood was charged with attempted destruction of property by means of explosives, transportation of explosive materials and unlawful possession of destructive devices, the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York announced Tuesday. Prosecutors say Gann set off an explosive on June 5 near the East River and the FDR Drive, and the blast apparently frightened him. According to the indictment, he told investigators he started to consider getting rid of the devices, either by throwing them into the river or by handing them over to the FDNY. He is accused of throwing three devices from the Manhattan side of the Williamsburg Bridge, two of them landing in the water and one landing on subway tracks. The indictment reveals he allegedly stored the explosives on rooftops of SoHo apartments, where investigators also found 30 grams of explosive powder -- more than 600 times the legal limit for consumer fireworks. Prosecutors say they found another device in his bag, and one in his pocket. According to the indictment, he told law enforcement he was trying to make pyrotechnics and learned how to do it online. Prosecutors say Gann has 30 prior arrests, including 28 convictions. CBS News New York reached out to his attorneys for comment.
Yahoo
16-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Macy's Inc. Refinances and Eases Debt Load
Macy's Inc. is refinancing to ease its debt obligations. On Monday, Macy's said that a subsidiary would offer $500 million worth of unsecured senior notes due 2033, in a private offering. More from WWD Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks Shifts Back to the East River Macy's Inc. Reports Q1 Declines but Came Out Ahead of Guidance Assessing Modern Luxury With Bluemercury's Maly Bernstein The proceeds from the offering, as well as cash on hand, will be used to repay approximately $587 million in senior notes that are maturing while also covering a $175 million tender offer for other debt. Fitch Ratings assigned a BBB- rating to Macy's proposed $500 million of unsecured notes. According to Fitch, 'BBB ratings indicate that expectations of default risk are currently low. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered adequate, but adverse business or economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity.' Fitch said the rating reflects Macy's 'industry leadership, good cash flow and reasonable balance sheet management, enabling it to navigate the challenging department store industry and maintain market share.' The agency also cited the need for the retailer to continue repositioning its portfolio, which includes closing about 150 department stores from 2024 to 2026, many of which have already been closed. Fitch does see Macy's and other retailers selling discretionaries experiencing near-term operational challenges due to softening consumer sentiment and the evolving tariff policy. Longer term, the Fitch ratings assumes Macy's can generate annual earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization of around $1.7 billion to $1.8 billion. 'With $23 billion in 2024 total revenue, Macy's is the clear leader in the U.S. department store space,' Fitch indicated. 'The company's scale, physical and digital infrastructure, cash flow and relationships with vendors and customers are assets that, if used effectively, could allow Macy's to defend market share in a difficult space.…The company has recently demonstrated some success in managing operations and expenses, with Fitch forecasting EBITDA margins around the mid-8 percent range in the medium term, similar to 2019, despite around 10 percent revenue declines and the absorption of cost inflation.' As of the end of first quarter of 2025, Macy's had total debt of $2.8 billion and no material long-term debt maturities until 2027. Fitch said that near-term maturities are 'limited' and include $61 million in 2027 and $176 million due 2028. Best of WWD Macy's Is Closing 66 Stores in 2025 — Here's the List, Live Updates Inside the Demise of Lord & Taylor COVID-19 Spikes Elevate Retail Concerns
CBS News
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- CBS News
Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks show caps off a sunny holiday in NYC
People across the Tri-State Area spent the Fourth of July enjoying parades, trips to the beach, cookouts and other festivities in Friday's gorgeous weather before heading out to catch fireworks shows across the region. The biggest celebration in the area was the Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks show. Over 80,000 shells used in 25-minute NYC fireworks show The 25-minute display lit up the sky over the East River, and with the Brooklyn Bridge as the backdrop, it was truly a spectacular sight witnessed by hundreds of thousands of spectators. Eyes sparkled as fireworks lit the night sky, cellphones out capturing memories. "The Fourth of July fireworks in New York City, it's just outstanding. I couldn't ask for anything better," Cincinnati resident Kelly English said. "All the people and everybody being together, it means so much," Cincinnati resident Craig English said. "You feel the excitement in the air and the beautiful skyline," West Village resident Therese Gjedda said. Spectators secured their spots along the FDR for a front row seat. "The view is amazing from here. It's such a pretty view," said a woman visiting from India. "It's amazing to be able to be in this spot," Italian tourist Marc Aparese said. NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 04: Fireworks light up the sky above the Brooklyn Bridge during Macy's 4th of July fireworks show on July 4, 2025 in New York City. ADAM GRAY / Getty Images The show used more than 80,000 shells. The fireworks were synchronized to a computer digital firing system with new, bright and vibrant colors. Pyrotechnics launched from the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, including a 1,600-foot waterfall cascading down the water's edge. "It's spectacular to see the live ones, like not to watch on the TV," Yonkers resident Janu Joy said. Some of these styles of fireworks have never been seen before. Macy's made sure to keep some tradition and added newness to create magic. "We try to meet the expectation of our guests and our fans and over-deliver," Macy's Fourth of July Fireworks Executive Producer Will Coss said. The event was extra exciting as New York City is also celebrating its 400th anniversary. Fireworks over the Hudson River for Jersey City There were fireworks across the Hudson River on July 4, 2025. People got a closer view sitting along the waterfront at Exchange Place in Jersey City. CBS News New York There were fireworks across the Hudson River, too. People got a closer view sitting along the waterfront at Exchange Place in Jersey City. "It's a beautiful thing, seeing the friends and family being out here, seeing the skyline of New York. Man, it's a beautiful thing," one spectator said. "I hope that it continues as a tradition for Jersey City." "We really like it on this side. We used to be New Yorkers and go on the other side, but it's a little bit calmer on this side, so we like it over here," another spectator said. Fourth of July celebrations across Tri-State Area With a break in the humidity and no clouds it the sky, it was a perfect day to head to Orchard Beach in the Bronx. Some soaked up the sun, while others grilled up some burgers and hot dogs in the shade. The weather also made it a great day for parades, from Staten Island to Ridgewood, New Jersey. On Long Island, Amityville's annual parade once again drew thousands of people. The tradition has been bringing the community together for over half a century. The organizers switch up the route often, passing right by residents' homes so no one is left out. "This is what America is about, these hometown parades," Amityville Mayor Michael O'Neill said. Meanwhile, at New York City's annual Nathan's Famous Hot Dog Eating Contest, Joey Chestnut made a triumphant return, taking back his title after missing the competition in 2024, and reigning women's champion Miki Sudo got her 11th win. , and contributed to this report.
CBS News
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- CBS News
Map shows best spots to watch NYC 4th of July fireworks 2025 as they're back over the Brooklyn Bridge
New York City's 4th of July fireworks show is set to return to the East River for 2025. The annual tradition moved to Manhattan's West Side last year, for the first time in more than a decade, but now it's back over the Brooklyn Bridge. Our First Alert Weather team is keeping a close eye on the forecast, and Friday is looking warm and sunny with clear skies for the big show. Here's everything to know about when it starts, how long it lasts and the best places to watch from Manhattan and Brooklyn. What time do the NYC 4th of July fireworks start? The Macy's 4th of July Fireworks are scheduled to start around 9:15 p.m. on Friday, July 4 -- about one hour after sunset. The fireworks typically last about 30 minutes, ending shortly before 10 p.m. Ticketed viewing areas open for entry from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., and officials say anyone who arrives later will not be admitted. There will also be a separate fireworks display from 9 to 9:30 p.m. at Coney Island Beach in Brooklyn. Then on Saturday, there will be another display from 8 to 8:20 p.m. in Breezy Point, Queens. Best places to watch the NYC 4th of July fireworks CBS News New York The show is set to launch from the Brooklyn Bridge and four barges in the East River. This year, the barges will be located off Piers 16 and 17 at the Seaport District in Manhattan. Macy's says the fireworks will be visible from anywhere with an unobstructed view of the sky over the lower portion of the East River. The best public viewing areas will be along elevated portions of the FDR Drive at the following access points: Montgomery Street at Madison Street on the Lower East Side of Manhattan Robert F. Wagner Sr. Place and Brooklyn Bridge off/on ramps Broad Street at Water Street ADA viewing will be available at the Murry Bergtraum Softball Field with access at Pike Slip and Cherry Street Macy's warns the following locations are not recommended: Areas of the FDR in Midtown The Battery Battery Park City East River Park Hunter's Point South Waterfront Park Roosevelt Island Governors Island Gantry Plaza State Park Have tickets for the NYC 4th of July fireworks? The city also offered 100,000 free tickets for designated viewing areas in Brooklyn Bridge Park and at the Seaport. In Brooklyn, there are four zones: Zone 1: Access point located at Prospect and Old Fulton streets; Bag screening at New Dock and Water streets Zone 2: Access point at Prospect and Old Fulton streets; Bag screening at Old Fulton and Furman streets Zone 3: Access point at Hicks and Joralemon streets; Bag screening at Joralemon Street/Bridge Park Drive and Furman Street Zone 4: Access point at Columbia Street and Atlantic Avenue; Bag screening at Bridge Park Drive and Atlantic Avenue The Manhattan location is at the north side of Pier 17 and the lower portion of Pier 16. The access point is at John and Water streets, and bag screening will be at South Street between the piers. Organizers remind visitors that parking will be limited around the viewing areas, so consider taking mass transit. MTA subways and buses will be running with increased service before and after the event. The NYPD has also posted several road closures for the fireworks here.
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Discovery Senior Living Announces Most Coveted Ticket in NYC July 4th at Its Iconic Senior Living Community "The Watermark at Brooklyn Heights"
Bonita Springs, Florida--(Newsfile Corp. - July 3, 2025) - Discovery Senior Living, (Discovery, or the Company) a leading operator of senior living communities nationwide, is proud to spotlight one of its most iconic and architecturally distinct communities, The Watermark at Brooklyn Heights, as the ultimate destination for this year's Macy's 4th of July Fireworks in New York City. Offering a celebration like no other, in a setting that simply can't be replicated. With fireworks returning to the East River and the Brooklyn Bridge/Seaport corridor, the community's rooftop terrace offers residents an unobstructed, front-row seat to one of the nation's most beloved traditions, all without leaving home. But this view goes far beyond the fireworks. "This year's fireworks return to the East River is especially exciting for our residents, who will enjoy truly unmatched views of the skyline, Statue of Liberty, and East River from one of the most unique rooftops in all of New York," said Jennifer Tapner, Executive Director at The Watermark. "There's no better place to take in the show or to create lasting memories with family and friends." The rooftop is not just a rare amenity, it's a captivating space that reflects the essence of the community; vibrant, elevated, and full of possibility. Many resident apartments share the same breathtaking views, with private balconies that offer fresh air, the peaceful sounds of the river, and stunning vistas looking back at Lower Manhattan and the majestic Statue of Liberty. The Watermark at Brooklyn Heights is more than just a residence, it's a thriving, creative community where Grammy Award winners, actors, visual artists, and cultural leaders choose to live. From impromptu music performances to one of the borough's most sought-after Mahjong circles, every day offers a new opportunity to connect, create, and enjoy. Adding to its distinctive experience is the leadership of its Executive Director, who also lives onsite and serves as a concierge, ensuring the pulse of the community is always strong, and residents receive personalized attention and access to cultural, culinary, and wellness offerings throughout the city. "At Discovery, we take tremendous pride in operating unique and highly distinguished communities like The Watermark at Brooklyn Heights," said Richard Hutchinson, CEO of Discovery Senior Living. "It's our responsibility, and our joy, to create vibrant, meaningful experiences for today's older adults and their families. This rooftop celebration is just one incredible example of what it looks like when place, purpose, and people come together." As the senior living industry continues to evolve, Discovery remains committed to delivering lifestyle-driven communities that celebrate individuality, promote wellness, and offer rich cultural connection, all in iconic spaces that redefine what it means to age with intention and joy. About The Watermark at Brooklyn Heights Located in the landmark former Leverich Towers Hotel, Watermark Brooklyn Heights offers independent living, assisted living, and memory care in the heart of Brooklyn Heights. With unparalleled views, personalized service, and a dynamic resident population, it represents a new standard for distinguished senior living in New York City. About Discovery Senior Living Discovery Senior Living (Discovery) is the largest privately held operator in U.S. with a growing portfolio of nearly 40,000 units across more than 360 communities and nearly 40 states. The Company and its 18,000-plus employees is a recognized industry leader for performance, innovation and customized lifestyle experiences. Discovery's family of companies includes Discovery Management Group, Integral Senior Living, Provincial Senior Living, Morada Senior Living, Summerhouse Senior Living, Seaton Senior Living, TerraBella Senior Living, LakeHouse Senior Living, Arvum Senior Living, Discovery Development Group, Discovery Design Concepts, STAT Marketing, and Discovery At Home. Led by its award-winning management team, Discovery has been developing, building, marketing, and managing diverse senior-living communities across the United States for three decades. For the fourth consecutive year, Discovery Senior Living was again certified a Great Place To Work May 2025 - May 2026. For Media and Investor Inquiries contact:Laura LeporeCorporate and Investor Communicationsllepore@ To view the source version of this press release, please visit
