Santa Barbara Grand Jury Report Reveals Gender Disparities in Jail Work and Education Opportunities for Female Inmates

SANTA BARBARA, Calif. — A recent Grand Jury report in Santa Barbara County highlights significant disparities in work and educational opportunities between male and female inmates in the local jail system. It specifically notes that female inmates at both the Main Jail and Northern Branch Jail face challenges that limit their personal development while incarcerated. The report reveals that only about 12% of inmates at the Main Jail and 11% at the Northern Branch Jail are women, resulting in insufficient numbers to fill educational classes and work crews. In 2024, data indicated that of the … Read more

Governor Evers Names Emily Nolan-Plutchak as First Female Judge for Wood County Circuit Court

WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. — Governor Tony Evers has named Emily Nolan-Plutchak to the Wood County Circuit Court, filling the vacancy left by Judge Todd Wolf’s retirement. Nolan-Plutchak’s term is set to conclude on July 31, 2026. “I am honored to take on this role and to serve the people of Wood County,” Nolan-Plutchak stated. “I appreciate Governor Evers for his trust and confidence in me. My dedication to the residents of this beautiful county is clear: I will base my decisions on facts and the law, ensure respect for everyone who appears before me, collaborate … Read more

Mascha Schilinski’s ‘Sound of Falling’ Captivates Cannes, Earning Jury Prize for Its Powerful Female Perspective

CANNES, France — Mascha Schilinski, a 41-year-old director and screenwriter, experienced a surreal moment when her film “Sound of Falling” was awarded the Jury Prize at the Cannes International Film Festival. The filmmaker expressed her joy, stating that having her work featured in the festival’s main competition was a dream come true. This year, Germany was represented by notable filmmakers, including Fatih Akin, whose historical film “Amrum” was screened out of competition, and Christian Petzold with “Mirrors No. 3,” showcased at the Directors’ Fortnight. However, Schilinski stood out as the only German director with a … Read more

US Judge Reflects on Impact of Gender Bias Concerns Following Advocacy for Female Lawyers

A U.S. district judge has expressed regret over a recent decision that has raised concerns about bias after advocating for female attorneys in a high-profile case. The judge, who presides in a jurisdiction facing scrutiny for gender representation, acknowledged the implications of her remarks during a court session that called attention to the need for more women in the legal profession. In a statement, the judge emphasized her intentions to promote diversity and inclusion within the legal field. However, her comments have sparked a debate about whether encouraging female lawyers may inadvertently suggest that male … Read more