Reflects

Veteran Judge Donovan J. Foughty Reflects on 37 Years of Service as He Bids Farewell to the Bench

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DEVILS LAKE, N.D. — After a distinguished 37-year career, Ramsey County Presiding Judge Donovan J. Foughty has announced his retirement, concluding an era marked by significant contributions to state and tribal judicial relationships. Foughty’s retirement will take effect on September 30. Reflecting on his career, Foughty expressed gratitude for his journey in the North Dakota judiciary, which began in 1987. He emphasized the rewarding nature of judicial work, where problem-solving becomes a daily challenge. “It’s always nice learning something new, and being retired means those opportunities will be fewer,” he remarked about what he anticipates … Read more

Shoojit Sircar Reflects on the Art of Judging Cinema as He Prepares for IFFM 2025 Amid National Award Controversies

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Melbourne, Australia — Celebrated filmmaker Shoojit Sircar is embracing a new role as a judge for the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM). This year marks his second consecutive time serving on the jury, where he will help select the Best Short Films. Ahead of the festival’s 2025 edition, Sircar shared insights about the challenges of evaluating cinematic art. Although Sircar typically refrains from serving on juries, he expressed a personal connection to the IFFM, describing it as almost a family affair. "This festival is very dear to me, and the organizers are close friends," … Read more

Embracing the Challenge: A Solo Adventurer Reflects on Surviving the Coldest Day in Boundary Waters History

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Minneapolis, Minnesota — The impact of individual actions on the environment might seem minimal, but every step counts. Each effort made towards ecological preservation contributes significantly to the longevity of life and the equilibrium of nature. However, it requires a certain humility to acknowledge one’s small role in a much larger system. Ultimately, individuals can take pride in their efforts, knowing they chose to engage rather than stand idly by. Reflecting on personal outdoor experiences, one adventurer recalls a particularly memorable day spent in the Boundary Waters. He shared that his best and worst outdoor … Read more

Inside the Mind of a Controversial Lawyer: Ira Lee Sorkin Reflects on Representing Bernie Madoff

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New York, N.Y. — In a revealing conversation, attorney Ira Lee “Ike” Sorkin shares insights into his controversial decision to represent Bernie Madoff, the infamous financier behind the largest investor fraud in history. Madoff’s scheme unraveled in 2008, leading to a guilty plea in 2009 that shocked the financial world and devastated countless investors. Sorkin, known for taking on high-profile criminal cases, discusses the moral and professional complexities of advocating for a figure like Madoff, whose actions led to a staggering loss of billions for investors. He reflects on the motivations that guided his choice … Read more