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The Intercept
23-05-2025
- Politics
- The Intercept
Atlanta Suburb Repeals Law Forcing Protestors to Obtain Consent of Anyone Within 8 Feet
You no longer need consent to speak your mind within eight feet of someone in Sandy Springs, Ga., where the local council repealed one of three controversial new free speech ordinances that were mostly written by the Anti-Defamation League. In April, the Atlanta suburb in northern Fulton County passed three new ordinances expanding the definition of disorderly conduct, which critics immediately flagged as unconstitutional restrictions on First Amendment rights. One of the ordinances, which was rescinded on Tuesday, criminalized handing someone a leaflet, displaying a sign, or engaging in oral protest within eight feet of someone without their consent. The other ordinances, which remain in effect, make it illegal to obstruct an entrance or exit of a public facility or private property and to conduct door-to-door soliciting and canvassing between the hours of 9 p.m. and 7 a.m. – blocking the local Sandy Springs Crier newspaper from delivering papers on its early morning route. A similar law was ruled unconstitutional for violating the First Amendment in the 1999 Statesboro Publishing Co. v. City of Sylvania case by the Supreme Court of Georgia. The Anti-Defamation League — an organization founded to combat anti-Jewish bias and bigotry that has been criticized for falsely conflating criticisms of Israel and support of Palestine with antisemitism — drafted the model legislation used to shape the ordinances, and in some instances the word-for-word language approved by the city council in Sandy Springs. 'The ADL decided to craft these model ordinances to help maintain public safety,' Sandy Springs Communications and Public Relations Director Carter Long wrote in an email to The Intercept. 'After the proposed model ordinances were researched and prepared by the ADL, they were delivered to the City. From there, they were taken to City Council work sessions to discuss, and ultimately to a City Council meeting to adopt.' Initial versions of the ordinances were introduced to council members as early as November 2023, the month after Hamas' October 7 attack on Israel. They didn't reappear on the council's agenda until Jan. 7, 2025, when the bill was presented by Sandy Springs Chief of Police Kenneth DeSimone and City Attorney Dan Lee. DeSimone did not initially acknowledge ADL's involvement in modeling the proposed legislation, saying it was a collaboration between himself and the city attorney. On April 1, Lee described the legislation as 'content-neutral,' saying it 'applies to everyone.' During a work session, two council members compared DeSimone's proposed legislation and the ADL's model legislation. Council member Andy Bauman read a section from ADL's model legislation that defined disorderly conduct as when a person 'knowingly approaches another person within eight feet of such person, unless such other person consents, for the purpose of passing a leaflet or handbill to, displaying a sign to, or engaging in oral protest, education, counseling, or harassment with such other person in the public way within a radius of 50 feet.' The only difference between ADL's model legislation and Sandy Spring's ordinance was that the final language excluded the clause stating 'in the public way within a radius of 50 feet.' This would later prove consequential. Some residents spoke out against the proposed rules, such as Mike Petchenik, who said that while he supports combatting antisemitism, these ordinances were 'throwing the baby out with the bathwater' by restricting free speech and freedom of the press. 'It applies to the whole city of Sandy Springs and restricts expression and speech across entire city parameters.' Representatives of the state chapter of the Council on American-Islam Relations (CAIR), the nation's largest Muslim civil rights organization, said Sandy Springs should address real problems including antisemitic flyering in the community, but noted that none of the ordinances were fitting solutions and all posed First Amendment issues. 'We believe sufficient laws exist to create safety around building entrances and exits, and that the new laws only create complications and legal vulnerabilities that protesters must cope with when exercising their First Amendment rights,' wrote CAIR-GA Executive Director Azka Mahmood in an email to The Intercept. 'While the canvassing ordinance is likely meant to target Nazis who have been leaving antisemitic flyers in Jewish neighborhoods, we know that laws that apply to everyone are always disproportionately applied to people of color, who are the most scrutinized by law enforcement.' Mahmood describes the ordinances as tools of suppression aligned with the broader effort detailed by American conservative think tank Heritage Foundation's Project Esther, launched in October 2024. 'It is not surprising the ADL is advancing them,' adds Mahmood. 'The timing of the introduction of the buffer zone ordinances, too, shows that they are clearly designed to limit people's ability to protest or educate others about Israel's ongoing genocide in Gaza, in violation of their right to free speech.' The ACLU of Georgia warned council members ahead of a public hearing that the ordinances would violate individuals' right to free speech, which includes the 'right to attempt to persuade others to change their views.' During the public hearing, Bauman voiced his dismay at the process by which the ordinances were being passed. Local attorney David Hudson, who represents Appen Media, which owns the Sandy Springs Crier, urged the council to reject the solicitation ordinance, calling it unconstitutional. Despite these objections, the city council passed all three laws. The ordinances aren't the first time the ADL has been involved in Fulton County. In March, the ADL publicly promoted a Title VI complaint filed against the Fulton County School District by the National Jewish Advocacy Center and the Brandeis Center. The complaint, which was filed in August 2024 and is still pending, lists individuals wearing keffiyehs and shouting 'free Palestine' as antisemitic behavior, calling the slogan a 'rallying cry for the eradication of Israel … erasing and denying the Jews' identity.' While the complaint references an incident in which a student allegedly attempted to start a physical altercation, it largely focuses on pro-Palestinian symbols and messaging in its allegations of antisemitism. It highlights teachers who wore 'Free Palestine' pins and Palestinian pendants that the complaint claims '[erases] the State of Israel.' The lawsuit also calls out teachers' anti-Zionist perspectives being shared with students. Officials in Sandy Springs, Ga. based their local ordinances on proposals drafted by the Anti-Defamation League. Photo: Aja Arnold The ADL has filed similar lawsuits with Brandeis Center, including the April 2024 complaint against Yale University. This recent series of complaints filed and promoted by ADL largely targets colleges and universities; Fulton County is the only school district listed in ADL's press statement boasting its recent litigation battles. Meanwhile, two Muslim advocacy groups also filed a civil rights complaint against the district in February, alleging the district hasn't done enough to protect its Palestinian students. The ADL has a long legacy of pushing model legislation to national, state, and local governments. In its 2012 Hate Crime Laws report, the organization stated that 43 states and the District of Columbia had 'enacted laws similar to or based on the ADL model.' In 1993, the ADL's model legislation efforts made precedence in the U.S. Supreme Court, when the court upheld a Wisconsin hate crime statute based on model legislation drafted by the organization in 1981. It's not the first time the city of Sandy Spring embraced ADL model legislation. In the aftermath of the Charleston church shooting in 2015, the ADL launched a hate crime law campaign, '50 States Against Hate,' with Georgia as a key target. In 2019, Sandy Springs became the first city in Georgia to ratify a local hate crime ordinance. Less than two months after the trio of speech ordinances were passed, the City Council in Sandy Springs gathered again to discuss one of the buffer zone laws. This time, Lee, the city attorney, offered a different perspective. Despite his initial support of ADL's model legislations, Lee initiated a recommendation to repeal the controversial ordinance. Lee argued that the Sandy Springs ordinance, as written, stipulated that barrier zones were 'floating' – rather than one tied to a geographic point. That's because the City Council trimmed the clause from the model language requiring buffer zones within a '50-foot radius' of fixed points – say a government building or a house of worship. That meant that rather than having 8-foot buffers at protests, the entire city would be blanketed in constantly moving 8-foot buffers restricting speech without consent from passersby. In a May 14 memo to the mayor and council members, Lee expressed concern this could open up Sandy Springs to a heap of lawsuits. 'Since the adoption of [the ordinance], there has been much discussion among and between legal and interested parties,' wrote Lee. 'The [ADL] and [ACLU] … believe that the removal of the fifty foot radius provision presents a challenge to this particular Ordinance.' He continues in saying that the buffer zone, as agreed between ADL and ACLU, must be 'directly tired to a geographic point and not 'floating.'' Lee added that the other two ordinances passed at the same time are 'sufficient, valuable tools to protect the public.' Addressing the council in the dark after a power outage disrupted the meeting, ACLU director Cory Isaacson described the measure as too far-reaching. 'Instead of being narrowly tailored, [the ordinance] is as broad as it can get,' Isaacson said moments before the blackout. 'It applies to the whole city of Sandy Springs and restricts expression and speech across entire city parameters.' The council voted unanimously to repeal the measure. To Emmaia Gelman, the director of the Institute for the Critical Study of Zionism, it's no surprise the ADL was involved in pushing legislation that put barriers on speech. It's more of the same from the 'anti-left, anti-communist' organization, Gelman said, only now it's coming at a time when claims of antisemitism are being weaponized by an increasingly authoritarian government to stifle dissent. At the time of this publication, the ADL media office did not respond to request for comment. 'What we have here is the ADL criminalizing another aspect of protest at a time when the policing of protest is super heightened, incredibly violent, and being used to advance fascism,' said Gelman. 'The material impacts of doing that right now are so clear. And who is being policed? It's protesters who are opposing the Israeli genocide and over-policing.' While the ordinance is repealed for now, some advocates worry that the door remains wide open for the city to again collaborate with the ADL to enact the model legislation. 'The only reason this ordinance was repealed is because it deviated from its original text,' said Mahmood. 'We remain concerned that it will be re-introduced in its intended form.'
Yahoo
07-05-2025
- Climate
- Yahoo
New water superintendent appointed in Attleboro
ATTLEBORO, Mass. (WPRI) — Attleboro Mayor Cathleen DeSimone has appointed a new water superintendent after a months-long search. The mayor announced Tuesday she picked Dennis Morton to lead the city's water department. 'I am pleased to announce that I have appointed Dennis Morton as the new Superintendent of Water,' DeSimone said. 'Dennis has years of managerial experience in municipal water operations, has overseen large capital projects, and brings a fresh new perspective to our Water Department.' Kourtney Allen, the previous superintendent, resigned in December as the city was dealing with a water supply emergency. The supply got dangerously low due to the drought and mistakes made by the department, according to DeSimone. ALSO READ: Human error contributed to Attleboro's water supply issue DeSimone announced in April that the water supply at the reservoir had recovered. The water emergency was lifted, but restrictions will remain in place until the end of September. Attleboro is now able to buy water from Pawtucket and Mansfield after interconnections were made. DeSimone also announced that a temporary water treatment plant is being installed at the Wading River facility to serve the community until a new, permanent plant is built. She said demand for water 'averages 4-6 million gallons' a day during the summer and '2-3 million gallons' a day in the winter. Morton started the job Monday and will be under a 90-day probationary appointment. He's subject to City Council approval to serve beyond the 90 days, which would be a three-year appointment if confirmed. Download the WPRI 12 and Pinpoint Weather 12 apps to get breaking news and weather alerts. Watch 12 News Now on or with the new 12+ smart TV app. Follow us on social media: Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Daily Roundup Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to
Business Upturn
05-05-2025
- Business Upturn
Denver's DUI Law Firm Provides Top-Tier Legal Defense with Client-Focused Approach
Denver, Colorado, May 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — DUI Law Firm Denver is proud to share its commitment to helping clients through legal challenges, focusing primarily on DUI cases. The firm prides itself on its strong legal foundations and works through the complicated landscape of DUI laws to ensure their clients are well-informed about their options. Their mission is to provide full legal support, helping clients understand what comes with their cases and working towards the best possible results. They take a personal approach to each case, making sure every client gets the attention they deserve. With deep knowledge of DUI laws, the legal team offers advice that helps clients make informed choices. DUI Law Firm Denver shows its dedication to legal excellence by methodically approaching DUI charges and focusing on the distinct details of each client's case. A client recently shared, 'The team at DUI Law Firm Denver provided exceptional guidance during a difficult time, ensuring I understood each step of the legal process.' This feedback highlights the firm's goal to positively impact the lives of their clients with effective legal representation. Lawyers at DUI Law Firm Denver prioritize clear communication and offer strong support as clients go through the legal system. Emilio De Simone from DUI Law Firm Denver commented, 'Our aim is to provide sound legal advice and representation to those charged with DUI offenses. We understand the intricacies of DUI laws and strive to give our clients the best possible defense.' This showcases the firm's dedication to mastering legal complexities and standing strong as client advocates. The firm stays on top of all legal changes and updates in DUI laws. By continually learning and adapting, the lawyers deliver competent representation, taking into account recent legal precedents that might affect a client's situation. Their focus on education supports their goal of offering well-informed legal guidance. 'Our approach is always client-centered,' says De Simone. 'We focus on listening to our clients, understanding their particular situation, and advocating for the most favorable outcome. It's not just about the law; it's about people's lives and futures.' This highlights the firm's belief in putting clients first, ensuring they feel supported throughout the process. DUI Law Firm Denver aims to be a helpful source for anyone facing DUI charges, offering a deep understanding and experience to lessen the stress of legal action. By focusing on what each client needs and providing well-rounded representation, they aim to reduce the anxiety that comes with handling DUI charges. Their expertise extends to individuals facing other criminal charges as well, such as drug offenses and theft cases. For those who want to know more about DUI Law Firm Denver and what they offer, their profile can be visited here: Overall, DUI Law Firm Denver stands by a tradition of combining legal expertise with a client-centered approach. Their commitment is clear in how they handle each case, providing every client with comprehensive legal support. By staying updated on legal changes and focusing on client needs, the firm remains a trusted partner for those facing DUI charges. To learn more details about their approach to DUI defense and showcase what clients have said about their experiences, visit ### For more information about DUI Law Firm Denver, contact the company here: DUI Law Firm DenverEmilio De Simone303‑404‑7492 [email protected] 1890 N Gaylord Street Denver, CO 80206
Yahoo
24-02-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Ferrari's 12Cilindri Spider Is a Sensory Experience
"Everything else is a derivation," Enzo Ferrari once said of his original V-12. Eighty years ago, Il Commendatore and Gioacchino Colombo conceived the first Ferrari V-12 engine and in 1947 put the 125 Spyder Corsa on the road. Today, the 2025 12Cilindri Spider harks back to Ferrari's grand-touring roots and its front-engine, V-12 soul. The 12Cilindri Spider is a first-quarter opening salvo in what's shaping up to be a pivotal year in the brand's storied history. The company will introduce six products, including its first EV in October. Meanwhile, F1 fans count the days until the Australian Grand Prix for a glimpse of Lewis Hamilton in the Scuderia Ferrari paddock. Hamilton, like Enzo, has effortless cool, an attitude that makes modern Ferrari feel distinct from the competition. Arriving on the precipice of an expanded electrified portfolio, the 12Cilindri Spider features a naturally aspirated front-mounted 6.5-liter V-12 engine that is an internal-combustion coda to Ferrari engine lore and a delicious guilty pleasure. The operatic engine note, experienced unfiltered in the open air, is the Spider's reason for being. For the Ferraristi, driving is a provocative sensory experience. For the 12Cilindri Spider, creating that experience was the assignment. "I'm getting emotional," said Ferrari designer Andrea Militello, only half-joking. Militello is head of sport design projects for Ferrari and participated in a panel discussion with his engineering and product planning colleagues the night before our coastal drive. Militello explained how the engineers, designers, and test drivers work side by side. "The final design of the car, it transmits something that we can't describe with words" he said. "It's something that happens in the guts." The 12Cilindri Spider's look references the 1969 365GTS/4, the famed Daytona Spider styled by Leonardo Fioravanti of Pininfarina. You can see the classic proportions in the long, clamshell-shaped hood and the set-back cabin. The modern car's contours and surfaces are tucked and shaped in sympathy with the front end and carefully frame the large 21-inch wheels. The A-pillars are swept back dramatically, and flying buttresses fade from the headrests into the rear decklid. The Spider is meant to be savored outside in the elements, and so we traveled to Cascais, Portugal, for our drive. There, we found a half-dozen Spiders in Verde Toscana, a gemstone green hue that sparkled in the sunshine. For this car, Ferrari says it started with the "gentleman driver" in mind. What that driver is looking for in a Ferrari is defined by Raffaele de Simone, Ferrari's chief development driver, who was there to walk us through the ins and outs of the driving setup. De Simone paused to listen as we brought the 12Cilindri Spider engine to life with a tap of the haptic button on the center of the steering wheel. He let the sonic drama sink in. "Bellissimo! It sounds like music," he said. De Simone recommended the 1600-watt Burmester audio system's Live setting (others include Pure, Comfort, and 3D Surround) as an accompaniment to the V-12's engine note. Live produces a full-on concert experience in the way the sound is distributed through the speakers. It's one of the more impressive systems we've tried, balancing the audio sound with the engine note even with the top down. Act one of the 12Cilindri Spider opera was underway as we warmed up the tires on Portuguese coastal roads that were made for King Luís I of Portugal's court in the 19th century. For the unfiltered experience, we turned off the ADAS with the touch-sensitive button. The haptic-touch buttons and sliders are a bit fussy but became more intuitive over eight hours of driving. The 10.3-inch center infotainment screen and 8.8-inch passenger's display are low-key compared to the Purosangue's more digitally based cockpit. A violent windstorm had left the pavement sand-swept, and the 12Cilindri's little wiggles in the turns were a thrilling reminder of its rear-wheel drive and V-12 power in action. Soon the roads opened up, and we pursued the engine's delightful 9500-rpm crescendo. We cycled through high notes, trying out the various driving modes, reveling in the palpable feedback of 819 horsepower as the eight-speed dual-clutch transmission worked its silky magic. Top down, the Spider magnified the V-12's glory. On public roads, we never saw the claimed 211-mph top speed—same as the coupe's—but 60 mph comes quickly at an estimated 2.8 seconds, and the four tailpipes served as trumpets for those we left in the dust. On-the-money steering and confidence-inspiring carbon-ceramic brakes checked boxes on a GT-car wish list. The suspension's magnetorheological dampers produced a smooth ride on bumpy concrete, a welcome bonus. The neck-level heat vents and the retractable center window between the headrests kept the cabin serene and let us settle in to focus on the driving dynamics. In third and fourth gear, Ferrari now does electronic torque shaping, like it's done previously on turbocharged models, to keep the rising crescendo of power linear, a move the company claims doesn't slow acceleration. Later, we closed the retractable hardtop, a quick 14-second maneuver—raising or lowering the roof can be done when the car is in motion at speeds up to 28 mph, a fun party trick to deploy with the touch of a center switch. Top up or down, 12Cilindri Spider satisfies all five senses. You Might Also Like Car and Driver's 10 Best Cars through the Decades How to Buy or Lease a New Car Lightning Lap Legends: Chevrolet Camaro vs. Ford Mustang!
