Ceremony

Seattle International Film Festival Celebrates Diversity in Cinema with 51st Awards Ceremony

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Seattle, Washington, celebrated the conclusion of the 51st Seattle International Film Festival on Sunday, marking a significant gathering for film enthusiasts as the winners of its juried and audience awards were unveiled during a ceremony at Tagney Jones Hall. The festival’s top honor, the Official Competition Grand Jury Prize, was awarded to “Seeds,” a documentary by Brittany Shyne that delves into the experiences of Black generational farmers in Thomasville, Georgia. The film spotlights the Williams family, who have cultivated their land since 1883, showcasing their enduring legacy and the challenges they face. In addition to … Read more

Aussie Lawyer Joins Opus Dei Prelature in Historic Ordination Ceremony in Rome

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ROME, Italy — An Australian lawyer was ordained in Rome, becoming a member of the Opus Dei prelature, an institution within the Catholic Church known for its focus on personal sanctity and the sanctification of work. The ceremony took place at the Church of Santa Maria della Strada, where family, friends, and clergy gathered to witness the special event. The newly ordained lawyer, whose identity is significant due to his dual roles in law and faith, aims to integrate his profession with his spiritual commitments. He expressed a profound dedication to serving both the church … Read more

Cannes 2025 Celebrates Bold Cinematic Voices: Jafar Panahi Takes Home Palme d’Or Amid Star-Studded Closing Ceremony

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CANNES, France — After a thrilling twelve days showcasing global cinema, the 2025 Cannes Film Festival concluded with a star-studded awards ceremony. The renowned festival recognized the achievements of filmmakers and actors from around the world, culminating in the announcement of its top honors. Juliette Binoche, the French screen legend and jury president, revealed the prestigious Palme d’Or winner at the closing event on Saturday. Jafar Panahi, an Iranian filmmaker known for his daring storytelling and activism, received the coveted award. This marks Panahi’s return to Cannes after more than two decades, following the lifting … Read more

Trailblazer in the Courtroom: Sacramento’s First Black Presiding Judge Reflects on Her Journey at Judge of the Year Ceremony

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Sacramento, California – Presiding Judge Bunmi O. Awoniyi of the Sacramento County Superior Court reflected on her groundbreaking role as the first Black person to lead the court during a recent awards ceremony. While accepting the Judge of the Year Award from the Sacramento County Bar Association, Awoniyi addressed her reluctance to focus on the significance of her position amidst a sensitive social climate. During her remarks, Awoniyi emphasized the importance of her personal journey, noting that her achievements extend beyond her own experience. She articulated a deeper message about representation and the collective significance … Read more