Bong Joon Ho to Lead Star-Studded Jury at Marrakech International Film Festival

MARRAKECH, Morocco — Acclaimed South Korean filmmaker Bong Joon Ho, who achieved international recognition with his Oscar-winning film “Parasite,” has been appointed as the jury chair for the upcoming 22nd Marrakech International Film Festival. The festival is scheduled to take place from November 28 to December 6. The jury’s primary role is to award the prestigious Étoile d’Or to one standout film among the 14 entries competing in the festival’s international feature competition. Bong expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating that Marrakech has celebrated innovative cinema for years. He said he is honored to … Read more

Madison Jury Convicts Devonte Gafford of Homicide in 2023 Harmony Apartments Shooting

MADISON, Wis. — A jury has convicted Devonte Gafford in connection with a 2023 shooting that resulted in the death of 20-year-old Devon Grant at the Harmony Apartments. The case stemmed from a robbery and drug deal that allegedly spiraled out of control. Gafford’s trial commenced in late February 2024, where the jury first found him guilty of a firearm-related charge. However, they were unable to reach a unanimous decision on two additional counts during that initial deliberation. In a subsequent trial, Gafford faced two significant charges: First Degree Recklessly Endangering Safety and First Degree … Read more

Groundbreaking Jury Verdict: $20 Million Awarded to Woman Left Paralyzed by Ski Lift Incident in Colorado

A jury has awarded $20 million to a woman who suffered paralysis after a ski lift accident in Colorado. The decision comes after an extensive trial in which the plaintiff, 29-year-old Kelsey R. Smith, detailed her life-altering experience on the slopes. The incident occurred in January 2021 at Winter Park Resort, where Smith fell from a ski lift. The jury determined that the resort’s negligence contributed significantly to the accident that left her unable to walk. The case centered around safety practices and the responsibilities ski resorts hold to ensure guest safety. During the trial, … Read more

Federal Jury Slaps American Express with $12.5 Million Verdict for Unfair Practices Amid Antitrust Claims Dismissal

NEW YORK — A federal jury has ordered American Express Co. to pay $12.5 million in damages after finding the company engaged in unfair practices under Illinois law, although it was cleared of various antitrust allegations that had also been brought against it. The verdict, delivered on Thursday in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York, stemmed from a protracted legal battle initiated by state consumers. Those consumers challenged certain nondiscrimination clauses present in American Express’s agreements with merchants who accept its credit cards. These provisions specifically prohibit steering practices, which … Read more