Vacancy

‘Sailing Song of June’ Triumphs with Grand Jury Prize Amidst Unexpected Best Feature Film Vacancy at China’s Prestigious FIRST Film Festival

by

In Xining, China, the FIRST International Film Festival, renowned as a hub for avant-garde independent cinema, concluded its ninth day with an unexpected twist that left attendees in a mix of surprise and approval. This year, the jury decided not to award the Best Feature Film, citing a landscape of diversity but no singularly outstanding work to merit the festival’s highest honor. The festival, which took place from July 20-28, often sets the stage for groundbreaking films and this decision underscored its commitment to excellence, setting high standards for future contenders. Instead of a winner … Read more

Hudson Valley Property Owners Challenge Poughkeepsie’s Rent Control Law in Supreme Court, Cite Faulty Vacancy Data

by

Poughkeepsie, NY – The Hudson Valley Property Owners Association has escalated a dispute with the city of Poughkeepsie to the U.S. Supreme Court, challenging the legality of newly adopted rent control measures under the Emergency Tenant Protection Act. The association contends that the enactment of this law, which activates rent control in cities with vacancy rates under 5%, was based on an erroneous assessment of local housing data. In June, Poughkeepsie determined that its vacancy rate fell within the prescribed threshold to trigger the rent control stipulations, a move meant to stabilize soaring rental costs … Read more

Unexpected Vacancy: U.S. District Judge Joshua Kindred Steps Down from Alaska Bench

by

Anchorage, Alaska – In a sudden yet quiet departure, U.S. District Court Judge Joshua Kindred has resigned from his position in Alaska. His resignation, set to take effect on July 8, was confirmed through a posting on the court’s website though no formal press release was issued. Appointed in 2019 by then-President Donald Trump, Kindred has served the District of Alaska following a career path that bridges both the legal and the oil industries. He earned his law degree from Willamette University College of Law in 2005, after completing his undergraduate studies at the University … Read more

New Indiana Court of Appeals Vacancy Announced as Judge Terry Crone Prepares for Retirement

by

Indianapolis, Indiana – The Indiana Judicial Nominating Commission will soon begin accepting applications for a new vacancy on the Indiana Court of Appeals. Following the retirement of Judge Patricia Riley this summer, Judge Terry Crone has announced his plans to retire this fall. Both judges have dedicated nearly 100 years to the legal profession, and their departures create the need for qualified successors. In order to maintain regional representation, the new judge must come from the 20 counties in northern Indiana, just like Crone and Riley. The Indiana Supreme Court expressed its gratitude for their … Read more