South Carolina’s Top Tourist Cities Sue Major Rental Platforms Over Unpaid Taxes and Fees

Charleston, SC — A coalition of South Carolina’s most popular tourist cities, including Charleston, Columbia, and Myrtle Beach, has filed a lawsuit against several major online travel companies. The municipalities contend that these firms have neglected to remit local accommodation taxes and, in some instances, business license fees collected on their platforms from both rental hosts and guests. At the heart of the litigation is the allegation that these digital platforms failed to forward taxes they collected, thereby depriving the municipalities of critical revenue streams intended for local infrastructure and services. This lawsuit illustrates a … Read more

Sundance Short Film Triumph: ‘The Flowers Stand Silently, Witnessing’ Secures Top Honor Amid a Showcase of Global Talent

Park City, Utah — At the Sundance Film Festival, a poignant short film titled “The Flowers Stand Silently, Witnessing,” directed by Palestinian descent Scotland-based filmmaker Theo Panagopoulos, clinched the grand jury prize. The film, which explores themes of colonialism and historical record through archival footage of Palestinian wildflowers, resonated deeply with audiences and critics alike, propelling it to the forefront of this year’s prestigious event. This year’s festival, which unfolded both physically in Park City and online, celebrated exceptional works in the short film category. On Tuesday, the award winners were announced, highlighting a diverse … Read more

Indian Creatives Shine in London: D&AD Awards 2025 Jury Unveils Top Talent and New Creative Frontiers

London, United Kingdom: The 63rd annual D&AD Awards, set to illuminate the creative industry from May 18-22, 2025, at London’s iconic County Hall and the Southbank Centre, will feature a distinguished jury comprised of over 300 global experts, including eight prominent figures from India. This event celebrates outstanding achievements across design, advertising, film, and entertainment, culminating in an awards ceremony on the final day. The D&AD Awards are regarded among the highest honors in the creative fields, attracting entries that demonstrate a profound impact on commercial, economic, social, and cultural spheres. The event not only … Read more

Andhra Pradesh’s Traditional Etikoppaka Toys Earn Top Honors at Republic Day Parade

GUNTUR, India — Andhra Pradesh’s traditional craft, represented by the ancient art of ‘Etikoppaka Bommalu’ (eco-friendly wooden toys), received nationwide acclaim, winning third prize in the jury category at the Republic Day parade held in Kartavya Path, New Delhi, on January 26, 2025. This marks a historical moment for the state as it garners this accolade for the first time in three decades, a significant recognition announced by the Ministry of Defence. The tableau that stole the spotlight was an embodiment of the state’s rich cultural tapestry, spotlighting the 400-year-old toy-making tradition from the small … Read more