Hole

Utah Legislature Wins ‘Black Hole’ Award for Lack of Transparency in Public Records

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Salt Lake City, Utah – The Utah Legislature has garnered significant criticism for its approach to public records, leading to the state receiving a damning appraisal as a “Black Hole” by a recognized freedom of information advocacy group. This designation highlights profound issues regarding the accessibility of public records in Utah, reflecting a broader concern about transparency in governmental operations. This criticism stems primarily from recent legislative actions perceived as tightening the reins on public records accessibility. Particularly contentious is the enactment of HB 2022, which opponents argue introduces prohibitive fees and cumbersome processes that … Read more

Incarcerated Jury at Sing Sing Awards Top Honors to ‘Songs From the Hole’ in Groundbreaking Film Festival

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Ossining, N.Y. — In a groundbreaking cultural moment, Sing Sing prison, held its first-ever film festival judged entirely by a panel of five incarcerated men. The winner of the top award, Contessa Gayles’ “Songs From the Hole,” captivated attendees with its penetrating look into the life of musician James “JJ’88” Jacobs, who is serving a double life sentence in California. Described as a “documentary visual album,” Gayles’ film uses Jacobs’ own music as a soundtrack to his emotionally charged narrative, revealing his complex experiences of causing and suffering immense loss. The film stood out for … Read more