County’s Top Lawyer Exits with $535,000 Payout Amid Legal Turmoil and Performance Review Controversy

San Diego, Calif. — The sudden retirement of the county’s chief legal officer, Claudia Silva, is set to result in a substantial financial payout of at least $535,000. This figure comes after Silva signed an agreement shortly before her departure, which will take effect when her paid leave ends on August 22. Official documents indicate that the settlement will provide Silva with a lump sum payment equivalent to 18 months of her nearly $363,000 annual salary. However, the county plans to deduct more than $9,000 from this amount to cover her share of health insurance … Read more

Judge Dismisses Co-Author Claim in ‘Top Gun: Maverick’ Lawsuit, Leaves Room for Copyright Infringement Case

NEW YORK — A federal judge has dismissed part of a lawsuit involving a writer’s claim to co-authorship of the screenplay for “Top Gun: Maverick,” a major Hollywood release. The case, initiated by Shaun Gray, contended that he significantly contributed to the film’s script and sought recognition and financial compensation as a result. U.S. District Judge Jed Rakoff ruled on Wednesday that Gray would not be recognized as a joint author of the screenplay, which could have entitled him to a share of the blockbuster’s profits. However, the court left the possibility open for Gray … Read more

Adams Family Makes History: ‘Mother of Flies’ Sweeps Top Honors at Fantasia Fest 2025

Montreal, Canada — The 29th edition of Fantasia Fest has showcased a host of talent and creativity as it approaches its conclusion. On Saturday night, filmmakers and jury members gathered at the Cinéma du Musée to celebrate the festival’s impressive roster, distributing awards across seven of the eight competitive categories. The regional award for Les Fantastiques Week-Ends Du Cinéma Québécois was revealed in advance of the ceremony. Among the standout films, “Mother of Flies” claimed the prestigious Cheval Noir for Best Film, marking a significant milestone as the first U.S. production to win this accolade. … Read more

Global Creative Leaders Unite as AWARD School Reveals 2025 Super Jury for Top Student Selection

Sydney, Australia — The Australasian Writers and Art Directors (AWARD) School has unveiled an esteemed roster of international judges, known as the “Super Jury,” who will select the top student for its 2025 program. The panel consists of high-profile creative leaders, including Executive Creative Directors (ECDs), Chief Creative Officers (CCOs), and strategists, continuing a tradition of excellence within the region’s premier educational course for budding creatives. Among the distinguished members of the 2025 Super Jury are Beth O’Brien, Creative Co-Founder of Princess – A Creative Company; Daniel Walton, Creative Strategist at Meta – Creative Shop … Read more