98-0

That was the vote confirming Darrin Gayles to the District bench.  Congratulations to Judge Gayles!

Judge Gayles to be confirmed tomorrow!

He has his final Senate vote tomorrow.  Good luck to Judge Gayles! (My sources tell me he was moved up to this group for the historic vote of two openly gay judges and that Beth Bloom will be in the next group.)

In less exciting news, Chief Judge Moreno has abolished the bankruptcy appeals case assignment wheel in administrative order 2014-57: "After consideration of relevant circumstances and after consultation with the Judge of this District, the Court has determined that the administration of justice at this time would be best served by returning to the purely random assignment of Bankruptcy Appeals that existed prior to the establishment of the pilot project for assignment of Bankruptcy Appeals."

Meantime, the Court surprised Judge Moreno with a party last week, recognizing his incredible 7-year tenure as Chief Judge of this District.  Amazingly, Judge Moreno seemed genuinely surprised, which was cool.   Here's a picture by 3rd DCA Judge Kevin Emas of yours truly and Judge Moreno:     

Also last week, Judge Huck had his yearly seminar with the summer and young associates.  It was really well-attended.  Below is a picture of a panel with Judge Huck moderating Judges Altonaga, Scola, and Goodman:

So you wanna be a district judge?

The JNC is now taking applications for Judge Rosenbaum's seat.  They are due July 30.  Interviews will be September 4 and the finalists will be sent to the senators by September 8.