Open Meeting Law Dispute Closely Watched: School Board Trustees Indemnified Amid Controversy over Private Legal Consultations

CARSON VALLEY, Nev. — A recent decision by the Nevada Attorney General’s Office concluded that three school board members did not violate Open Meeting Laws during a private consultation with legal counsel on April 9. Trustee Yvonne Wagstaff and former trustees Carey Kangas and Linda Gilkerson faced scrutiny when residents Virginia Starrett and David Seat filed an Open Meeting Law complaint against them. The complaint arose while the trustees were discussing a potential settlement to a lawsuit alleging records violations against four other board members. The Attorney General ruled on May 23 that the trio … Read more

"Celebration of Creative Excellence: 2025 Zion International Film Festival Honors Top Films at Historic Blue Mouse Theatre"

TACOMA, Wash. — The Zion International Film Festival (ZIFF) wrapped up its 2025 event this past weekend, culminating in a vibrant awards ceremony held at the historic Blue Mouse Theatre on June 29. The festival, which ran from June 27 to July 3, showcased a diverse array of independent films, celebrating the art of storytelling, acting, and cinematography. At the awards party, jurors representing filmmakers and industry professionals recognized a variety of films for their outstanding achievements. Notably, the award for Best Narrative Feature went to “Tre Regole Infallibili” (Three Infallible Rules). In the category … Read more

Inspiring Journey: Calvin Duncan Shares Insights from His Memoir ‘The Jailhouse Lawyer’

Calvin Duncan, a former inmate, has opened up about his experiences in the criminal justice system through his new memoir, “The Jailhouse Lawyer.” The book offers a personal account of his journey as a self-taught lawyer while serving time, highlighting the struggles he faced and the systemic issues within the prison system. Duncan, who spent nearly three decades behind bars, navigated the complexities of the legal system without formal training. His memoir not only delves into the trials he faced but also sheds light on the broader implications of legal access for incarcerated individuals. He … Read more

From the Bench to the Hive: Retired Judge Wendy Bartlett Celebrates a Lifetime of Dedication and Service

Gillette, Wyoming – Wendy Bartlett, a retired circuit court judge, has left a lasting mark on the judiciary and the community she served. With a career that has spanned decades, Bartlett reflected on her experiences and the principles that guided her decisions from the bench. Raised in a small town, Bartlett developed a strong sense of justice early on. She pursued her legal education with determination, ultimately earning her J.D. and being sworn in as a judge. Known for her unwavering commitment to fairness and integrity, she navigated complex cases while adhering to the rule … Read more