Case: American Freedom Defense Initiative v. MTA

1:11-cv-06774 | U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York

Filed Date: Sept. 27, 2011

Closed Date: Oct. 16, 2012

Clearinghouse coding complete

Case Summary

American Freedom Defense Initiative (AFDI) is a pro-Israeli advocacy organization, known for its provocative writing on Middle East affairs. AFDI submitted a pro-Israeli political ad to the local Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) for display on the exterior of MTA's vehicles. MTA later rejected the submission under its No-Demeaning Standard. The Standard allowed MTA to reject some but not all ads depending whether they demeaned certain disfavored individuals or groups. However, MTA pe…

American Freedom Defense Initiative (AFDI) is a pro-Israeli advocacy organization, known for its provocative writing on Middle East affairs. AFDI submitted a pro-Israeli political ad to the local Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) for display on the exterior of MTA's vehicles. MTA later rejected the submission under its No-Demeaning Standard. The Standard allowed MTA to reject some but not all ads depending whether they demeaned certain disfavored individuals or groups. However, MTA permitted display of anti-Israeli ads, which allegedly contained demeaning content. In light of that, AFDI sued MTA in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, under 42 U.S.C. § 1983, seeking declaratory, injunctive, and monetary relief. The complaint was filed on September 27, 2011. AFDI, represented by public interest lawyers, claimed that MTA's censorship was unconstitutional, in violation of the Free Speech Clause, the Equal Protection Clause, and the Due Process Clause of the United States Constitution.

On July 20, 2012, the District Court (Judge Paul A. Engelmayer) held that MTA's No-Demeaning Standard was unconstitutional. Am. Freedom Def. Initiative v. Metro. Transp. Auth., 880 F. Supp. 2d 456, 459 (S.D.N.Y. 2012), appeal dismissed (Sept. 25, 2012). The Court further granted AFDI a preliminary injunction preventing MTA from enforcing its No-Demeaning Standard. The Court found that the exterior of the mass transit vehicles a public forum, and that the Standard overly differentiated speech based on its content and target, inconsistent with the First Amendment. MTA appealed this decision to the Second Circuit.

On August 29, 2012, the Court (Judge Engelmayer) converted the existing preliminary injunction to a permanent injunction. Am. Freedom Def. Initiative v. Metro. Transp. Auth., 889 F. Supp. 2d 606 (S.D.N.Y. 2012). In addition, the Court granted a declaratory judgment that MTA's No-Demeaning Standard violated the First Amendment and nominal damages in sum of $1 to AFDI, unopposed by MTA.

Subsequently, MTA voluntarily withdrew its appeal and reached an agreement with AFDI on attorneys' fees and litigation costs. The parties jointly informed the Court of their settlement on October 16, 2012. This ended the case.

Summary Authors

Emma Bao (7/1/2013)

People

For PACER's information on parties and their attorneys, see: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/4349627/parties/american-freedom-defense-initiative-v-metropolitan-transportation/


Judge(s)
Attorney for Plaintiff
Attorney for Defendant

Andalia, Candice Amber (New York)

Barnes, Jason Douglas (New York)

Benson, Craig Robert (New York)

Bhatt, Tina S. (New York)

Bianco, Angelo Mario (New York)

Judge(s)

Engelmayer, Paul Adam (New York)

Attorney for Defendant

Andalia, Candice Amber (New York)

Barnes, Jason Douglas (New York)

Benson, Craig Robert (New York)

Bhatt, Tina S. (New York)

Bianco, Angelo Mario (New York)

Blosveren, Joshua L. (New York)

Briones, Joshua (New York)

Burd, Samantha Maxwell (New York)

Cavaleri, Damian Raphael (New York)

Chin, Ching Wah (New York)

Clark, Shawn Matthew (New York)

Deas, Thomas John (New York)

Deluca, Charles A. (New York)

Devine, Paul S. (New York)

Efron, Steve S. (New York)

Evans, Paige Ann (New York)

Fagen, Leslie Gordon (New York)

Farr, Alec W (New York)

Feder, Eric Joel (New York)

Ferrier, Valerie K (New York)

Fineman, Beck S. (New York)

Fisher, Lorrette (New York)

Fitzpatrick, Brendan Thomas (New York)

Foley, Eamonn F. (New York)

Fragoso, Edwin (New York)

Fromm, Helene (New York)

Fuchs, Stephen Andrew (New York)

Goldstein, Rebecca Ann (New York)

Gross, Jackie L. (New York)

Harrison, Bryan J (New York)

Hechtkopf, Helene Rachel (New York)

Herzog, Steven Craig (New York)

Hickey, Robert O. (New York)

Hoguet, Laura B. (New York)

Hollander, David C (New York)

Hubscher, Sofia C (New York)

James, Joshua A (New York)

Jenkins, Jared Ryan (New York)

Johnson, Gordon Jay (New York)

Jr, Philip Joseph (New York)

Kahn, Elias Jay (New York)

Karmel, Philip Elias (New York)

Kaye, Joshua David (New York)

Keaveney, Andrew Patrick (New York)

Kerwin, James Luke (New York)

Knauth, Daniel Christopher (New York)

Kornikova, Anna A. (New York)

Kovner, Victor A. (New York)

Lambert, Thomas S. (New York)

Lange, Kenneth R. (New York)

Lipton, Ira Jonathan (New York)

MacGregor, Alison Leigh (New York)

Manber, Miriam Jerry (New York)

McCaffrey, Kevin Patrick (New York)

Melzer, Marc Aaron (New York)

Miller, Jeffrey Alan (New York)

Monteleone, Melissa Courtney (New York)

Morales, Esteban (New York)

Mustafa, Sarah Tagrit (New York)

Nolan, Kristen Mary (New York)

Oehsen, Gina M. (New York)

Palencia, Gabriella D (New York)

Preston, Andrew Kenneth (New York)

Rieman, Walter (New York)

Rievman, Joshua Daniel (New York)

Rosenbaum, Todd Fredrick (New York)

Rosenblatt, Keith Jay (New York)

Rush, Brian P (New York)

Schoolman, Richard (New York)

Shaw, Susan Abigail (New York)

Silverberg, Steven Mark (New York)

Siravo, Michael Paul (New York)

Sistrom, Peter A. (New York)

Steinman, Linda Jane (New York)

Weber, Steven Douglas (New York)

Witkin, Eric Douglas (New York)

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Documents in the Clearinghouse

Document

1:11-cv-06774

Docket [PACER]

Oct. 18, 2012

Oct. 18, 2012

Docket
1

1:11-cv-06774

Complaint

Sept. 27, 2011

Sept. 27, 2011

Complaint
29

1:11-cv-06774

Opinion & Order [Granting Preliminary Injunction]

July 20, 2012

July 20, 2012

Order/Opinion

880 F.Supp.2d 880

32

1:11-cv-06774

Order [Denying Stay Pending Appeal]

Aug. 6, 2012

Aug. 6, 2012

Order/Opinion
38

1:11-cv-06774

Opinion & Order [Granting Permanent Injunction]

Aug. 29, 2012

Aug. 29, 2012

Order/Opinion

889 F.Supp.2d 889

43

1:11-cv-06774

Endorsed Letter

Sept. 28, 2012

Sept. 28, 2012

Order/Opinion
45

1:11-cv-06774

Order [Closing Case]

Oct. 16, 2012

Oct. 16, 2012

Order/Opinion

Resources

Docket

See docket on RECAP: https://www.courtlistener.com/docket/4349627/american-freedom-defense-initiative-v-metropolitan-transportation/

Last updated March 20, 2024, 3:18 a.m.

ECF Number Description Date Link Date / Link
1

COMPLAINT against Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Jay H. Walder(in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer of MTA), Jay H. Walder(in his official capacity as chairman). (Filing Fee $ 350.00, Receipt Number 1017572)Document filed by American Freedom Defense Initiative, Robert Spencer, Pamela Geller.(tro) (Additional attachment(s) added on 9/28/2011: # 1 Exhibit 1, # 2 Ex. 2, # 3 Ex.3, # 4 EX.4, # 5 EX.5, # 6 EX.6, # 7 EX.7, # 8 EX.8, # 9 EX.9, # 10 EX.10, # 11 Index of Exhibits) (ama). (Entered: 09/28/2011)

1 Exhibit 1

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2 Ex. 2

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3 Ex.3

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4 EX.4

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5 EX.5

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6 EX.6

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7 EX.7

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8 EX.8

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9 EX.9

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10 EX.10

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11 Index of Exhibits

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Sept. 27, 2011

Sept. 27, 2011

RECAP
2

RULE 7.1 CORPORATE DISCLOSURE STATEMENT. No Corporate Parent. Document filed by American Freedom Defense Initiative.(tro) (ama). (Entered: 09/28/2011)

Sept. 27, 2011

Sept. 27, 2011

PACER
3

AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE of Summons and Complaint,,. Metropolitan Transportation Authority served on 9/28/2011, answer due 10/19/2011. Service was accepted by Ann Cutler. Document filed by American Freedom Defense Initiative; Robert Spencer; Pamela Geller. (Yerushalmi, David) (Entered: 10/06/2011)

Oct. 6, 2011

Oct. 6, 2011

PACER
4

AFFIDAVIT OF SERVICE of Summons and Complaint,,. Jay H. Walder(in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer of MTA) served on 9/28/2011, answer due 10/19/2011. Service was accepted by Ann Culter. Document filed by American Freedom Defense Initiative; Robert Spencer; Pamela Geller. (Yerushalmi, David) (Entered: 10/06/2011)

Oct. 6, 2011

Oct. 6, 2011

PACER
5

NOTICE OF APPEARANCE by Peter Andrew Sistrom on behalf of Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Jay H. Walder(in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer of MTA), Jay H. Walder(in his official capacity as chairman) (Sistrom, Peter) (Entered: 10/19/2011)

Oct. 19, 2011

Oct. 19, 2011

PACER
6

ANSWER to 1 Complaint,,. Document filed by Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Jay H. Walder(in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer of MTA), Jay H. Walder(in his official capacity as chairman).(Sistrom, Peter) (Entered: 10/19/2011)

Oct. 19, 2011

Oct. 19, 2011

PACER
7

ORDER: The Court has received the Complaint in this case, and Defendant's Answer, filed yesterday. The parties are directed, by November 4, 2011, to submit a joint case management plan and scheduling order, consistent with this Court's Individual Rules. In addition, Defendants are directed, by the same date, to clarify whether Defendants plan to move to dismiss the Complaint or to move for judgment on the pleadings. The Court raises this question because the first affirmative defense in the Answer, and also the prayer for relief, appear to indicate that Defendants are moving for dismissal on the pleadings, but no such motion was filed with the Court. (Signed by Judge Victor Marrero signing for Judge Paul A. Engelmayer on 10/20/2011) (djc) Modified on 10/20/2011 (djc). (Entered: 10/20/2011)

Oct. 20, 2011

Oct. 20, 2011

PACER
8

NOTICE OF APPEARANCE by Richard Schoolman on behalf of Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Jay H. Walder(in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer of MTA) (Schoolman, Richard) (Entered: 10/20/2011)

Oct. 20, 2011

Oct. 20, 2011

PACER
9

FILING ERROR - ELECTRONIC FILING FOR NON-ECF DOCUMENT - RULE 26(f) DISCOVERY PLAN REPORT.Document filed by American Freedom Defense Initiative, Pamela Geller, Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Robert Spencer, Jay H. Walder(in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer of MTA).(Yerushalmi, David) Modified on 10/28/2011 (ka). (Entered: 10/27/2011)

Oct. 27, 2011

Oct. 27, 2011

PACER
10

CIVIL CASE MANAGEMENT PLAN AND SCHEDULING ORDER: Amended pleadings may not be filed and additional parties may not be joined except with leave of the Court. Any motion to amend or to join additional parties shall be filed within 60 days from the date of this Order The parties do not consent to conducting all further proceedings before a Magistrate Judge, including motions and trial. This case is not to be tried to a jury Counsel for the parties have conferred and their present best estimate of the length of trial is 1-2 days. Deposition due by 4/6/2012. Discovery due by 5/18/2012. Case Management Conference set for 12/9/2011 at 02:30 PM in Courtroom 18C, 500 Pearl Street, New York, NY 10007 before Judge Paul A. Engelmayer. (Signed by Judge Paul A. Engelmayer on 10/31/2011) (js) (Entered: 10/31/2011)

Oct. 31, 2011

Oct. 31, 2011

PACER
11

MOTION for Robert J. Muise to Appear Pro Hac Vice. Document filed by American Freedom Defense Initiative, Pamela Geller, Robert Spencer.(bwa) (Entered: 11/10/2011)

Nov. 9, 2011

Nov. 9, 2011

PACER
12

ORDER FOR ADMISSION PRO HAC VICE granting 11 Motion for Robert J. Muise to Appear Pro Hac Vice. (Signed by Judge Victor Marrero signing for Judge Paul A. Engelmayer on 11/16/2011) (djc) (Entered: 11/17/2011)

Nov. 17, 2011

Nov. 17, 2011

PACER
13

NOTICE OF CHANGE OF ADDRESS by David Eliezer Yerushalmi on behalf of American Freedom Defense Initiative, Pamela Geller, Robert Spencer. New Address: American Freedom Law Center, 640 Eastern Parkway, Suite 4C, Brooklyn, New York, USA 11213, 646.262.0500. (Yerushalmi, David) (Entered: 01/28/2012)

Jan. 28, 2012

Jan. 28, 2012

PACER
14

NOTICE OF CHANGE OF ADDRESS by Robert J. Muise on behalf of American Freedom Defense Initiative, Pamela Geller, Robert Spencer. New Address: American Freedom Law Center, PO Box 131098, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA 48113, (734) 635-3756. (Muise, Robert) (Entered: 01/29/2012)

Jan. 29, 2012

Jan. 29, 2012

PACER
15

FILING ERROR - DEFICIENT DOCKET ENTRY - MOTION for Preliminary Injunction. Document filed by American Freedom Defense Initiative, Pamela Geller, Robert Spencer. Return Date set for 2/14/2012 at 05:00 PM. (Attachments: # 1 Memorandum of Law in Support of Motion for Preliminary Injunction, # 2 Index of Exhibits, # 3 Exhibit 1--Declaration of Pamela Geller, # 4 Exhibit A--"Muslims for Peace" Advertisement, # 5 Exhibit B--"Jesus for Jews" Advertisement, # 6 Exhibit C--"Million New Yorkers Without God" Advertisement, # 7 Exhibit D--Religious Freedom Advertisement, # 8 Exhibit E--Demeaning Advertisements Approved by MTA, # 9 Exhibit F--Anti-Israel Advertisement, # 10 Exhibit G--Pro-Israel Advertisement, # 11 Exhibit H--MTA's Initial Rejection, # 12 Exhibit I--MTA's Advertising Standard 5.05 (excerpt), # 13 Exhibit J--Plaintiffs' Response to MTA's Initial Rejection, # 14 Exhibit K--MTA's Final Rejection)(Muise, Robert) Modified on 2/1/2012 (ldi). (Entered: 01/31/2012)

1 Memorandum of Law in Support of Motion for Preliminary Injunction

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2 Index of Exhibits

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3 Exhibit 1--Declaration of Pamela Geller

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4 Exhibit A--"Muslims for Peace" Advertisement

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5 Exhibit B--"Jesus for Jews" Advertisement

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6 Exhibit C--"Million New Yorkers Without God" Advertisement

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7 Exhibit D--Religious Freedom Advertisement

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8 Exhibit E--Demeaning Advertisements Approved by MTA

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9 Exhibit F--Anti-Israel Advertisement

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10 Exhibit G--Pro-Israel Advertisement

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11 Exhibit H--MTA's Initial Rejection

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12 Exhibit I--MTA's Advertising Standard 5.05 (excerpt)

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13 Exhibit J--Plaintiffs' Response to MTA's Initial Rejection

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14 Exhibit K--MTA's Final Rejection

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Jan. 31, 2012

Jan. 31, 2012

PACER
16

MOTION for Preliminary Injunction. Document filed by American Freedom Defense Initiative, Pamela Geller, Robert Spencer. Return Date set for 2/15/2012 at 05:00 PM.(Muise, Robert) (Entered: 02/01/2012)

Feb. 1, 2012

Feb. 1, 2012

PACER
17

MEMORANDUM OF LAW in Support re: 16 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction.. Document filed by American Freedom Defense Initiative, Pamela Geller, Robert Spencer. (Attachments: # 1 Index of Exhibits, # 2 Exhibit 1--Declaration of Pamela Geller, # 3 Exhibit A--"Muslims for Peace" Advertisement, # 4 Exhibit B--"Jesus for Jews" Advertisement, # 5 Exhibit C--"Million New Yorkers Without God" Advertisement, # 6 Exhibit D--Religious Freedom Advertisement, # 7 Exhibit E--Demeaning Advertisements Approved by MTA, # 8 Exhibit F--Anti-Israel Advertisement, # 9 Exhibit G--Pro-Israel Advertisement, # 10 Exhibit H--MTA's Initial Rejection, # 11 Exhibit I--MTA's Advertising Standard 5.05 (excerpt), # 12 Exhibit J--Plaintiffs' Response to MTA's Initial Rejection, # 13 Exhibit K--MTA's Final Rejection)(Muise, Robert) (Entered: 02/01/2012)

1 Index of Exhibits

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2 Exhibit 1--Declaration of Pamela Geller

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3 Exhibit A--"Muslims for Peace" Advertisement

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4 Exhibit B--"Jesus for Jews" Advertisement

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5 Exhibit C--"Million New Yorkers Without God" Advertisement

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6 Exhibit D--Religious Freedom Advertisement

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7 Exhibit E--Demeaning Advertisements Approved by MTA

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8 Exhibit F--Anti-Israel Advertisement

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9 Exhibit G--Pro-Israel Advertisement

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10 Exhibit H--MTA's Initial Rejection

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11 Exhibit I--MTA's Advertising Standard 5.05 (excerpt)

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12 Exhibit J--Plaintiffs' Response to MTA's Initial Rejection

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13 Exhibit K--MTA's Final Rejection

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Feb. 1, 2012

Feb. 1, 2012

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ORDER: Friday, Telephone Conference set for 2/3/2012 at 10:15 AM before Judge Paul A. Engelmayer to discuss a briefing schedule for plaintiffs' motion for a preliminary injunction. The parties should jointly call Chambers at (212) 805-0268 at the appointed time. (Signed by Judge Paul A. Engelmayer on 2/1/2012) (cd) (Entered: 02/01/2012)

Feb. 1, 2012

Feb. 1, 2012

PACER
19

ORDER: On Friday, February 3, 2012, the Court held a telephonic conference in this matter, in which counsel for all parties participated, to discuss a briefing schedule for plaintiffs' motion for a preliminary injunction. This order memorializes the schedule set at that conference. Plaintiffs' motion for a preliminary injunction was filed on February 1,2012. Opposition papers are due March 9,2012; reply papers, if any, are due March 21,2012. Promptly after the filing of opposition papers, counsel are instructed to meet and confer, after which plaintiffs shall alert the Court as to whether they believe the taking of depositions, or any other additional discovery, is necessary prior to filing reply papers. Responses due by 3/9/2012 Replies due by 3/21/2012. (Signed by Judge Paul A. Engelmayer on 2/6/2012) (ft) (Entered: 02/07/2012)

Feb. 7, 2012

Feb. 7, 2012

PACER
20

MOTION for Erin Elizabeth Mersino to Appear Pro Hac Vice. Document filed by American Freedom Defense Initiative, Pamela Geller, Robert Spencer.(arc) (Entered: 02/28/2012)

Feb. 21, 2012

Feb. 21, 2012

PACER
21

ORDER FOR ADMISSION PRO HAC VICE granting 20 Motion for Erin Elizabeth Mersino to Appear Pro Hac Vice. (Signed by Judge Paul A. Engelmayer on 3/1/2012) (rjm) (Entered: 03/02/2012)

March 2, 2012

March 2, 2012

PACER
22

MEMORANDUM OF LAW in Opposition re: 16 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction.. Document filed by Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Jay H. Walder(in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer of MTA), Jay H. Walder(in his official capacity as chairman). (Sistrom, Peter) (Entered: 03/09/2012)

March 9, 2012

March 9, 2012

PACER
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DECLARATION of Jeffrey B. Rosen in Opposition re: 16 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction.. Document filed by Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Jay H. Walder(in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer of MTA), Jay H. Walder(in his official capacity as chairman). (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A, # 2 Exhibit B, # 3 Exhibit C, # 4 Exhibit D, # 5 Exhibit E, # 6 Exhibit F, # 7 Exhibit G, # 8 Exhibit H, # 9 Exhibit I, # 10 Exhibit J, # 11 Exhibit K, # 12 Exhibit L, # 13 Exhibit M, # 14 Exhibit N, # 15 Exhibit O, # 16 Exhibit P)(Sistrom, Peter) (Entered: 03/09/2012)

1 Exhibit A

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2 Exhibit B

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3 Exhibit C

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4 Exhibit D

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5 Exhibit E

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6 Exhibit F

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7 Exhibit G

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8 Exhibit H

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9 Exhibit I

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10 Exhibit J

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11 Exhibit K

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12 Exhibit L

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13 Exhibit M

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14 Exhibit N

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15 Exhibit O

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16 Exhibit P

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March 9, 2012

March 9, 2012

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DECLARATION of Peter Sistrom in Opposition re: 16 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction.. Document filed by Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Jay H. Walder(in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer of MTA), Jay H. Walder(in his official capacity as chairman). (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit A, # 2 Exhibit B, # 3 Exhibit C, # 4 Exhibit D, # 5 Exhibit E, # 6 Exhibit F, # 7 Exhibit G)(Sistrom, Peter) (Entered: 03/09/2012)

1 Exhibit A

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3 Exhibit C

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4 Exhibit D

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5 Exhibit E

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6 Exhibit F

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7 Exhibit G

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March 9, 2012

March 9, 2012

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DECLARATION of Richard Schoolman in Opposition re: 16 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction.. Document filed by Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Jay H. Walder(in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer of MTA), Jay H. Walder(in his official capacity as chairman). (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit Q, # 2 Exhibit R, # 3 Exhibit S, # 4 Exhibit T)(Sistrom, Peter) (Entered: 03/09/2012)

1 Exhibit Q

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2 Exhibit R

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3 Exhibit S

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4 Exhibit T

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March 9, 2012

March 9, 2012

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REPLY MEMORANDUM OF LAW in Support re: 16 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction.. Document filed by American Freedom Defense Initiative, Pamela Geller, Robert Spencer. (Attachments: # 1 Index of Exhibits)(Muise, Robert) (Entered: 03/22/2012)

1 Index of Exhibits

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March 22, 2012

March 22, 2012

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DECLARATION of David Yerushalmi, Esq. in Support re: 16 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction.. Document filed by American Freedom Defense Initiative, Pamela Geller, Robert Spencer. (Attachments: # 1 Exhibit 1--NY Times Article, # 2 Exhibit 2--NY Times Article, # 3 Exhibit 3--NY Times Article, # 4 Exhibit 4--NY Times Article, # 5 Exhibit 5--NY Times Article, # 6 Exhibit 6--NY Times Article, # 7 Exhibit 7--NY Times Article, # 8 Exhibit 8--NY Times Article, # 9 Exhibit 9--NY Times Article, # 10 Exhibit 10--NY Times Article, # 11 Exhibit 11--NY Times Article, # 12 Exhibit 12--NY Times Article, # 13 Exhibit 13--NY Times Article, # 14 Exhibit 14--NY Times Article, # 15 Exhibit 15--NY Times Article, # 16 Exhibit 16--NY Times Article, # 17 Exhibit 17--NY Times Article, # 18 Exhibit 18--NY Times Article, # 19 Exhibit 19--NY Times Article, # 20 Exhibit 20--NY Times Article, # 21 Exhibit 21--NY Times Article, # 22 Exhibit 22--NY Times Article, # 23 Exhibit 23--NY Times Article, # 24 Exhibit 24--NY Times Article, # 25 Exhibit 25--NY Times Article, # 26 Exhibit 26--NY Times Article, # 27 Exhibit 27--NY Times Article, # 28 Exhibit 28--NY Times Article, # 29 Exhibit 29--NY Times Article, # 30 Exhibit 30--United States v. Rahman, # 31 Exhibit 31--United States v. Abu-Jihaad, # 32 Exhibit 32--Jihad Article, # 33 Exhibit 33--Jihad Article, # 34 Exhibit 34--Jihad Article, # 35 Exhibit 35--Jihad Article, # 36 Exhibit 36--Jihad Article, # 37 Exhibit 37--Jihad Article, # 38 Exhibit 38--Jihad Article, # 39 Exhibit 39--Jihad Article, # 40 Exhibit 40--Jihad Article, # 41 Exhibit 41--Jihad Article, # 42 Exhibit 42--Jihad Article)(Muise, Robert) (Entered: 03/22/2012)

1 Exhibit 1--NY Times Article

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2 Exhibit 2--NY Times Article

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3 Exhibit 3--NY Times Article

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4 Exhibit 4--NY Times Article

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5 Exhibit 5--NY Times Article

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6 Exhibit 6--NY Times Article

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8 Exhibit 8--NY Times Article

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9 Exhibit 9--NY Times Article

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10 Exhibit 10--NY Times Article

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11 Exhibit 11--NY Times Article

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12 Exhibit 12--NY Times Article

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13 Exhibit 13--NY Times Article

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14 Exhibit 14--NY Times Article

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15 Exhibit 15--NY Times Article

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16 Exhibit 16--NY Times Article

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17 Exhibit 17--NY Times Article

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18 Exhibit 18--NY Times Article

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19 Exhibit 19--NY Times Article

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20 Exhibit 20--NY Times Article

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21 Exhibit 21--NY Times Article

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22 Exhibit 22--NY Times Article

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23 Exhibit 23--NY Times Article

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24 Exhibit 24--NY Times Article

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25 Exhibit 25--NY Times Article

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26 Exhibit 26--NY Times Article

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27 Exhibit 27--NY Times Article

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28 Exhibit 28--NY Times Article

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29 Exhibit 29--NY Times Article

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30 Exhibit 30--United States v. Rahman

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31 Exhibit 31--United States v. Abu-Jihaad

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32 Exhibit 32--Jihad Article

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33 Exhibit 33--Jihad Article

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34 Exhibit 34--Jihad Article

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35 Exhibit 35--Jihad Article

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36 Exhibit 36--Jihad Article

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37 Exhibit 37--Jihad Article

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38 Exhibit 38--Jihad Article

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39 Exhibit 39--Jihad Article

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40 Exhibit 40--Jihad Article

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42 Exhibit 42--Jihad Article

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March 22, 2012

March 22, 2012

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ORDER: The pretrial conference in this matter scheduled for April 23, 2012, is adjourned sine die. (Signed by Judge Paul A. Engelmayer on 4/6/2012) (mro) (Entered: 04/09/2012)

April 9, 2012

April 9, 2012

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OPINION & ORDER re: #102084 16 MOTION for Preliminary Injunction filed by American Freedom Defense Initiative, Robert Spencer, Pamela Geller. For the reasons discussed above, AFDI's motion for a preliminary injunction enjoining the enforcement of MTA's no-demeaning standard is GRANTED. In order to enable MTA to consider its appellate options and alternatives to the current regulation, the Court, in the public interest, will stay the effect of this Order for 30 days. Absent a court order extending it, after 30 days, this stay will expire. The Clerk of Court is directed to terminate the motion pending at docket entry number 16. A conference in this case is scheduled for August 29, 2012, at 11:00 a.m., at the U.S. Courthouse, 500 Pearl Street, New York, New York 10007. The parties are directed to meet and confer in advance of the conference, and to advise the Court by joint letter, due August 24, 2012, as to their respective views on the next steps to be taken, if any, in this litigation. (Signed by Judge Paul A. Engelmayer on 7/20/2012) (mro) Modified on 7/23/2012 (jab). (Entered: 07/20/2012)

July 20, 2012

July 20, 2012

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INTERNET CITATION NOTE: Material from decision with Internet citation re: 29 Memorandum & Opinion. (Attachments: # 1 Just Peace, # 2 SayYesToPeace.org, # 3 show) (tro) (Entered: 08/21/2012)

1 Just Peace

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2 SayYesToPeace.org

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3 show

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July 20, 2012

July 20, 2012

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NOTICE OF INTERLOCUTORY APPEAL from 29 Memorandum & Opinion,,,,. Document filed by Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Jay H. Walder(in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer of MTA), Jay H. Walder(in his official capacity as chairman). Form C and Form D are due within 14 days to the Court of Appeals, Second Circuit. (Sistrom, Peter) (Entered: 08/06/2012)

Aug. 6, 2012

Aug. 6, 2012

PACER
31

Letter addressed to Judge Paul A Engelmayer from James B Henly and Peter Sistrom dated 8/6/2012 re: Request that the time for additional brief time the stay of this Court's 7/20/12 Opinion. Document filed by Metropolitan Transportation Authority.(cd) (Entered: 08/07/2012)

Aug. 6, 2012

Aug. 6, 2012

PACER
32

ORDER: The Court has received a letter, dated August 6,2012, from the defendants, asking that the Court's order invalidating MTA's no-demeaning standard be stayed pending appeal or, alternatively, pending MTA's Board meeting, scheduled for Thursday, September 27,2012. The stay that is currently in place-which lasts for 30 days after the Court's July 20, 2012 ruling--expires on August 19, 2012. A conference in this case is presently scheduled for Wednesday, August 29, 2012, at 11:00 a.m. The Court hereby extends the stay through and including August 29,2012, to permit the Court to use the upcoming conference to discuss with counsel MTA's request for an extended stay. The Court invites plaintiffs to submit a letter, before the conference, setting forth their views as to this request. Such a letter is due Thursday, August 16,2012. The Court's present view is that a stay pending appeal is not merited, for two reasons, and as further set forth in this document. (Signed by Judge Paul A. Engelmayer on 8/6/2012) (cd) (Entered: 08/07/2012)

Aug. 6, 2012

Aug. 6, 2012

PACER
33

NOTICE OF CHANGE OF ADDRESS by David Eliezer Yerushalmi on behalf of All Plaintiffs. New Address: American Freedom Law Center, 640 Eastern Parkway, Suite 4C, Brooklyn, New York, USA 11213, 646-262-0500. (Yerushalmi, David) (Entered: 08/13/2012)

Aug. 13, 2012

Aug. 13, 2012

PACER
34

Letter addressed to Judge Paul A. Engelmayer from Robert J. Muise and David Yerushalmi dated 8/14/2012 re: Plaintiff's counsels submit the following with regard to the MTAs request for a stay of this Court's order granting Plaintiff's motion for a preliminary injunciton pending appeal. In sum, Plaintiffs agree with the "Court's present view that a stay pending appeal is not merited." (Doc. No. 32). Document filed by American Freedom Defense Initiative.(ago) (Entered: 08/16/2012)

Aug. 16, 2012

Aug. 16, 2012

PACER
36

Letter addressed to Judge Paul A. Engelmayer from David Yerushalmi, Robert J. Muise, Peter Sistrom, Richard Schoolman dated 8/24/2012 re: Pursuant to this Courts Opinion and Order of July 20, 2012 (Doc. No. 29), granting Plaintiffs motion for preliminary injunction, the parties hereby jointly notify the Court that they have met and conferred by telephonic conference held on Wednesday, August 22, 2012, to discuss and to prepare a joint letter as to their respective views on the next steps to be taken in this litigation in advance of the conference scheduled for August 29, 2012. Document filed by Metropolitan Transportation Authority, Jay H. Walder(in his capacity as Chief Executive Officer of MTA), Jay H. Walder(in his official capacity as chairman).(ama) (Entered: 08/23/2012)

Aug. 23, 2012

Aug. 23, 2012

PACER
37

ENDORSED LETTER addressed to Judge Paul A. Engelmayer from David Yerushalmi dated 8/28/2012 re: In anticipation of tomorrow's conference, while I will participate by physically attending, I would request that my co-lead counsel Robert Muise (Ann Arbor) be included in the conference telephonically. ENDORSEMENT: Denied. Counsel who wish to participate must appear in person. (Signed by Judge Paul A. Engelmayer on 8/28/2012) (lmb) (Entered: 08/29/2012)

Aug. 28, 2012

Aug. 28, 2012

PACER
38

OPINION & ORDER # 102276 . For the reasons discussed above: 1. AFDI's motion for a permanent injunction enjoining the enforcement of MTA's no-demeaning standard as presently written is GRANTED. 2. MTA's motion for a stay of this Order pending the resolution of its appeal is DENIED. However, in order to enable MTA to appeal to the Second Circuit the Court's denial of a stay pending appeal, the Court will extend the current stay of its Order enjoining MTA from enforcing the no-demeaning regulation as presently written until Wednesday, September 12, 2012. Absent an order from the Second Circuit, however, this stay will expire at midnight on September 12, 2012. 3. AFDI's motion for a declaratory judgment that the no-demeaning standard as presently written violates the First Amendment is GRANTED. 4. AFDI's motion for $1 in nominal damages for the violation of its First Amendment rights is GRANTED. 5. The Court's consideration of AFDI's application for reasonable attorney's fees, costs and expenses, pursuant to 42 U.S.C. § 1988(b) is DEFERRED pending the resolution of MTA's appeal. The Court directs MTA's general counsel to furnish this Opinion and Order, and also the Court's July 20 Decision, forthwith to the MTA's full Board, so as to ensure that the Board is fully informed of the potential consequences of MTA's decision to defer consideration of an alternative regulation or regulations until after the current stay has expired. (Signed by Judge Paul A. Engelmayer on 8/29/2012) (lmb) Modified on 9/6/2012 (ft). (Entered: 08/29/2012)

Aug. 29, 2012

Aug. 29, 2012

RECAP
39

ENDORSED LETTER addressed to Judge Paul A. Engelmayer from David Yerushalmi and Robert J. Muise dated 8/30/2012 re: Plaintiff's respectfully request a clarification of the Court's order regarding the 14-day period provided under the Rules for the filing of Plaintiffs' motion for attorney's fees and costs. ENDORSEMENT: AFDI's understanding is correct. The Court extends the period for filing a motion for attorney's fees until 14 days after a mandate has issued from the Court of Appeals. (Signed by Judge Paul A. Engelmayer on 8/30/2012) (lmb) (Entered: 08/30/2012)

Aug. 30, 2012

Aug. 30, 2012

PACER
40

TRANSCRIPT of Proceedings re: HEARING held on 4/3/2012 before Judge Paul A. Engelmayer. Court Reporter/Transcriber: Rebecca Forman, (212) 805-0300. Transcript may be viewed at the court public terminal or purchased through the Court Reporter/Transcriber before the deadline for Release of Transcript Restriction. After that date it may be obtained through PACER. Redaction Request due 10/15/2012. Redacted Transcript Deadline set for 10/25/2012. Release of Transcript Restriction set for 12/21/2012.(McGuirk, Kelly) (Entered: 09/19/2012)

Sept. 19, 2012

Sept. 19, 2012

PACER
41

NOTICE OF FILING OF OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT Notice is hereby given that an official transcript of a HEARING proceeding held on 4/3/12 has been filed by the court reporter/transcriber in the above-captioned matter. The parties have seven (7) calendar days to file with the court a Notice of Intent to Request Redaction of this transcript. If no such Notice is filed, the transcript may be made remotely electronically available to the public without redaction after 90 calendar days...(McGuirk, Kelly) (Entered: 09/19/2012)

Sept. 19, 2012

Sept. 19, 2012

PACER
42

ORDER: This case remains open to permit the parties, following completion of defendants' appeal, to litigate plaintiffs' application for attorney's fees. The Court directs that, no later than September 30, 2012, and every 90 days thereafter, counsel for plaintiff shall submit a jointly prepared status letter to the Court, apprising it of the status of the case, including the status of defendants' appeal. (Signed by Judge Paul A. Engelmayer on 9/21/2012) (djc) (Entered: 09/21/2012)

Sept. 21, 2012

Sept. 21, 2012

PACER
43

ENDORSED LETTER addressed to Judge Paul A. Engelmayer from Peter Sistrom dated 9/28/2012 re: Pursuant to this Court's Order of September 21, 2012 (Doc. No. 42), the parties hereby jointly notify the Court of the status of the case, including the status of defendants' appeal. ENDORSEMENT: Granted. The parties are directed to notify the Court, by October 15, 2012, whether the settlement discussions were successful, or if plaintiffs will be filing their motion by October 26, 2012. In the event that such a motion is filed, defendants' opposition will be due on November 2, 2012., ( Motions due by 10/26/2012., Responses due by 11/2/2012.) (Signed by Judge Paul A. Engelmayer on 9/28/2012) (lmb) (Entered: 09/28/2012)

Sept. 28, 2012

Sept. 28, 2012

PACER
44

MANDATE of USCA (Certified Copy) as to 30 Notice of Interlocutory Appeal, filed by Jay H. Walder, Metropolitan Transportation Authority. USCA Case Number 12-3174. Appellants have filed a motion for voluntary dismissal (withdrawal) of the appeal. IT IS HEREBY ORDERED that the motion is GRANTED with prejudice. Catherine O'Hagan Wolfe, Clerk USCA for the Second Circuit. Issued As Mandate: 10/16/2012. (nd) (Entered: 10/16/2012)

Oct. 16, 2012

Oct. 16, 2012

PACER
45

ORDER: On August 29,2012, the Court issued an Opinion and Order granting plaintiffs' motion for a preliminary injunction, denying defendants' motion for a stay of that Order pending appeal, and granting declaratory relief and nominal damages to plaintiffs. In that Order, the Court deferred consideration of plaintiffs' motion for attorney's fees, pending the resolution of defendants' appeal. Defendants have since voluntarily dismissed that appeal. On October 16, 2012, the Court received a joint letter from the parties, stating that they have reached a settlement regarding attorney's fees, and that plaintiffs will not be seeking any further relief. Accordingly, that issue is now resolved. The Clerk of Court is directed to close the case. (ago) (Entered: 10/16/2012)

Oct. 16, 2012

Oct. 16, 2012

PACER
46

TRANSCRIPT of Proceedings re: HEARING held on 4/3/2012 before Judge Paul A. Engelmayer. Court Reporter/Transcriber: Rebecca Forman, (212) 805-0300. Transcript may be viewed at the court public terminal or purchased through the Court Reporter/Transcriber before the deadline for Release of Transcript Restriction. After that date it may be obtained through PACER. Redaction Request due 11/13/2012. Redacted Transcript Deadline set for 11/26/2012. Release of Transcript Restriction set for 1/22/2013.(Moya, Goretti) (Entered: 10/18/2012)

Oct. 18, 2012

Oct. 18, 2012

PACER
47

NOTICE OF FILING OF OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPT Notice is hereby given that an official transcript of a HEARING proceeding held on 4/3/2012 has been filed by the court reporter/transcriber in the above-captioned matter. The parties have seven (7) calendar days to file with the court a Notice of Intent to Request Redaction of this transcript. If no such Notice is filed, the transcript may be made remotely electronically available to the public without redaction after 90 calendar days...(Moya, Goretti) (Entered: 10/18/2012)

Oct. 18, 2012

Oct. 18, 2012

PACER

Case Details

State / Territory: New York

Case Type(s):

Speech and Religious Freedom

Special Collection(s):

Multi-LexSum (in sample)

Key Dates

Filing Date: Sept. 27, 2011

Closing Date: Oct. 16, 2012

Case Ongoing: No

Plaintiffs

Plaintiff Description:

A pro-Israeli advocacy organization, whose submission of a provocative political ad was rejected by the local Metropolitan Transportation Authority.

Plaintiff Type(s):

Private Plaintiff

Public Interest Lawyer: Yes

Filed Pro Se: No

Class Action Sought: No

Class Action Outcome: Not sought

Defendants

State of New York, State

Defendant Type(s):

Transportation

Case Details

Causes of Action:

42 U.S.C. § 1983

Constitutional Clause(s):

Due Process

Freedom of speech/association

Equal Protection

Available Documents:

Trial Court Docket

Complaint (any)

Monetary Relief

Injunctive (or Injunctive-like) Relief

Non-settlement Outcome

Any published opinion

Outcome

Prevailing Party: Plaintiff

Nature of Relief:

Injunction / Injunctive-like Settlement

Attorneys fees

Preliminary injunction / Temp. restraining order

Damages

Declaratory Judgment

Source of Relief:

Settlement

Litigation

Form of Settlement:

Private Settlement Agreement

Voluntary Dismissal

Amount Defendant Pays: $1 + atty fees

Order Duration: 2012 - None

Content of Injunction:

Preliminary relief granted

Discrimination Prohibition

Issues

General:

Access to public accommodations - governmental

Government services

Discrimination-area:

Disparate Treatment

Accommodation / Leave

Type of Facility:

Government-run