Consumer Advocates Rally Against ‘Junk Fees’ as States Push for Clearer Pricing Standards

Minneapolis, Minnesota — Consumer advocates are intensifying their campaign against “junk fees,” compelling lawmakers to enforce regulations that require businesses to disclose upfront costs for goods and services. This ongoing push comes in response to growing frustration among consumers dealing with unexpected charges from various industries, including ticketing, car rentals, airlines, hotels, and food delivery services. Several states are also taking measures to limit or eliminate such fees, reflecting a broader consumer demand for transparency. In California, lawmakers took a bold step by prohibiting credit card surcharges entirely, although they later decided to exempt restaurants … Read more

NCCA to Honor Filipino Composers at 2025 Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino Celebration

Intramuros, Philippines — The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) will honor outstanding contributions to Filipino music during its upcoming event on July 29, 2025. As part of the Linggo ng Musikang Pilipino (LMP) celebration, the NCCA will present awards to the winners of the prestigious biennial Composition Prize at the Tanghalang Leandro V. Locsin, starting at 3 p.m. Established in 2016, the NCCA Composition Prize aims to promote concert hall music that transcends traditional and popular compositions. This year’s competition highlighted an impressive array of entries, with works evaluated by a panel … Read more

Legal Luminary Roy Black, Key Architect of Epstein’s Plea Deal, Passes Away at 80

Coral Gables, Florida — Roy Black, a renowned criminal defense attorney recognized for his landmark legal work, has passed away at the age of 80 after a prolonged illness. His wife, Lea Black, confirmed his death, which occurred at their home on Monday. In a heartfelt post on Instagram, Lea thanked their supporters and mentioned plans for a tribute to honor his legacy. Black first captured national attention in 1991 when he represented William Kennedy Smith, the nephew of President John F. Kennedy, in a highly publicized rape trial that was broadcast live. His successful … Read more

New Leadership in Latah County: Ramalingam Steps Up as Magistrate Judge Following Megan Marshall’s Appointment

Lewiston, Idaho – A new chapter in the local judiciary is set to begin as Judge Kenneth Ramalingam has been appointed as the Latah County magistrate judge. Ramalingam, who has served in this role since 2019, previously held an academic position as an assistant clinical professor at the University of Idaho’s College of Law, where he earned his law degree. The magistrate judge position became available following the appointment of Megan Marshall to the 2nd District Bench in May by Idaho Governor Brad Little. Marshall had been serving as Latah County’s magistrate judge since 2018 … Read more