The quiet borough of Roselle Park received more than its share of unwelcome attention in recent weeks, stemming from its unsuccessful attempt to sanction one of its residents for her vulgar, but constitutionally protected speech. Ms. Andrea Dick of Roselle Park clearly has pronounced views about the comparative performances of our current and immediate past presidents. On her front lawn, located near to a local elementary school, she posted flags that included a photo of Donald Trump raising both his middle fingers and the words “F*** Biden.” [We have redacted the actual word, which Ms. Dick used in its fullness.] Other messages included “Don’t Blame Me I Voted For Trump”, “Joe Biden Sucks”, “F*** Biden Not My President”, and “Socialism Sucks Biden Blows”.

Ms. Dick’s mother (the property owner) was cited for violation of the town ordinance prohibiting public display of “obscene” materials. The municipal court judge found her in violation of that ordinance and fined her $250 a day if she does not remove three of the banners that contain the word “F***.” The judge stated that “This is not a case about politics. It is a case, pure and simple, about language” and added “This ordinance does not restrict political speech.”

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