Opts

FIRST International Film Festival Breaks Tradition, Opts Not to Award Best Film Prize Amid Quest for Innovation

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Xining, China – In an unprecedented move at the FIRST International Film Festival, which has been celebrating rising cinematic talents since 2006, the top prize for Best Film was notably withheld this year. As the festival unfolded in Xining, situated on the scenic Tibetan Plateau, the jury, led by accomplished filmmaker Guan Hu, opted not to bestow the award, signifying a pivotal moment in the event’s history. The jury’s decision reflects a broader commentary on the current landscape of film production. Guan Hu, known for his Cannes Un Certain Regard-winning film “Black Dog,” articulated the … Read more

Senator Menendez Opts Out of Testifying as Defense Invokes Family History in Corruption Trial

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New York — In a packed Manhattan federal courtroom, Senator Bob Menendez of New Jersey faced charges related to accusations of bribery and activities as a foreign agent. As the trial unfolded, the Democrat’s defense team presented family members and financial experts to refute charges of corruption linked to his interactions with businessmen connected to Egypt and Qatar. Menendez, who did not testify in the trial, saw the presentation of his defense begin this week after prosecutors called 30 witnesses over a seven-week period. Notable among the defense witnesses were Menendez’s sister and sister-in-law, a … Read more

Controversy Arises as North Carolina School Board Opts Out of LGBTQ Provisions, Risking Legal Action

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CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – The Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools board is facing the possibility of legal complaints or action by legislators after choosing to leave out two LGBTQ-related provisions that were directed by the General Assembly for districts to follow. On Thursday, the board unanimously voted in favor of initial approval for several updated policies in compliance with the Parents’ Bill of Rights legislation, which was enacted in 2023 by Republican lawmakers. However, they decided against incorporating a provision that would have required schools to notify parents before a student uses a different name or … Read more