SAN FRANCISCO: US auto giant General Motors announced Tuesday it will abandon its robotaxi development efforts after a highly publicized incident last year stymied its progress in the autonomous vehicle field. The Detroit-based manufacturer plans to merge the Cruise robotaxi vehicle unit with GM’s technical teams to concentrate on developing advanced driver assistance systems for personal vehicles, a statement said. The company said it abandoned the Cruise project “given the considerable time and resources that would be needed to scale the business, along with an increasingly competitive robotaxi market.” It marks a major turnaround for GM, which bought the Cruise startup in 2016 and has since spent billions of dollars to make the operation viable. “A robotaxi business is not General Motors’ core business,” said GM CEO Mary Barra in a call with analysts. But Barra said GM’s commitment to autonomous technology “is unwavering.” Honda, an investor in Cruise, had planned to launch a robotaxi service in Japan in 2026, but the Japanese group will now “reassess the project’s future and make necessary adjustments, including potential cancellation, once Cruise finalizes its restructuring,” Honda’s US subsidiary told AFP. The halt of operations comes a year after Cruise was forced to suspend all operations in San Francisco after one of its self-driving cars dragged a woman who had first been hit by a hit-and-run driver in the city. Cruise lost its operating permits from regulators, paused expansions into other states and laid off 900 employees - a quarter of its workforce. Shortly before the incident, California authorities had allowed for expanded driverless taxi services in San Francisco, giving the go-ahead for Alphabet-owned Waymo and Cruise. Cruise’s exit confirms Waymo as the dominant player in the business, which was valued at $45 billion after a fundraising round in October, according to Bloomberg. The company has been expanding its reach and currently runs robotaxi fleets in San Francisco, Phoenix and Los Angeles. And in a team-up with Uber, the company is planning to offer Waymo robotaxi rides in Atlanta and Austin. Amazon’s Zoox meanwhile is conducting robotaxi testing in California and Las Vegas, while Elon Musk recently unveiled what he said was a robotaxi capable of self-driving, predicting it would be available by 2027. GM’s strategic pivot comes as embattled automakers worldwide face mounting pressure to balance investments in emerging technologies with near-term profitability. The auto giant said that the restructuring is expected to generate annual savings exceeding $1 billion once completed in the first half of 2025. GM’s share price was up by more than three percent in after hours trading on Wall Street. — AFPCochin University professor steals the show with groovy dance moves on Pushpa 2's Peelings. Viral videoslot.vip app 。

Planned Parenthood sees spike in demand for contraceptives after electionQLD News Don't miss out on the headlines from QLD News. Followed categories will be added to My News. A young motorbike rider is in a critical condition after coming off her bike and slamming into a kerb after a crash in Brisbane’s south this morning. The crash happened on Nursery Road, Holland Park West, about 7.30am with a woman, believed to be in her 20s, suffering life-threatening neck and arm injuries. A Queensland Ambulance spokesman said the bike had ended up on the side of kerb. The woman was transported to the Princess Alexandra Hospital. A Queensland Police spokeswoman said they received calls to a bike on the footpath. More Coverage ‘You’re gonna kill us’: Teens film alleged joy ride in stolen service cars on Instagram Jonathan O’Neill Boy’s miracle recovery after being pulled from bottom of pool Lexa Smith Originally published as Woman in critical condition after a motorcycle crash at Holland Park West Join the conversation Add your comment to this story To join the conversation, please log in. Don't have an account? Register Join the conversation, you are commenting as Logout More related stories QLD News ‘Start building it already’: Public support ramps up for Vic Park Games plan Queenslanders are overwhelmingly calling for the Crisafulli Government to lock in Victoria Park as the location for the main stadium of the Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games. WHAT YOU SAID Read more QLD News Beefs, blowouts and ‘blank sheets’: The making of a Gabba debacle It’s the Olympic legacy project delivering just that, good or bad. This is the winding, divisive history of the project. SPECIAL REPORT Read more

FBI director says he intends to resign at end of Joe Biden’s termEthiopia and Somalia agree to hold 'technical talks' over breakaway Somaliland region

The opposition People’s National Party’s (PNP) victories in the Aenon Town and Morant Bay divisions have delivered a blow to the governing Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) just 72 hours before its final conference ahead of the next parliamentary election. Nonetheless, the JLP is revelling in its triumph in the by-elections for the constituencies of Trelawny Southern and St Andrew North Western. In Aenon Town in Clarendon Northern, the PNP’s Delroy Dawson, a two-time councillor who the JLP’s Majorie McLeod defeated in February this year, regained the seat for the party, finishing ahead of JLP candidate Suzette Barton by 56 votes, according to the preliminary results from the Electoral Office of Jamaica (EOJ). McLeod’s death in September triggered the by-election. The voter turnout in Aenon Town was 46.7 per cent, higher than the 29.6 per cent national turnout for the municipal elections in February. Those results were followed by the final count in Morant Bay, St Thomas Eastern, where the PNP’s Yvonne Rosemarie Shaw defeated the JLP’s Winston Downie by 118 votes, polling 2,096 to his 1,978. The victory is the seventh for Shaw, a former mayor who has represented both major political parties. The voter turnout was 37 per cent in the division consistently won by the PNP. SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENT The win for the PNP comes against the backdrop of significant development in St Thomas in recent years by the Holness administration, which includes the St Thomas leg of the Southern Coastal Highway Improvement Project and the construction of the $6-billion Morant Bay Urban Centre. PNP President Mark Golding said the party had done the work on the ground to secure the victories, calling it a good day for democracy in Jamaica. “What this win reflects is that with the benefit of the popular support that we have nationally and the strength of our organisation on the ground and as a united political movement under my leadership, we are unstoppable,” Golding said in Aenon Town. He accused the JLP of conducting questionable activities in the division, which general secretary of the party Dr Horace Chang has dismissed as mischief. Golding lamented the absence of a political ombudsman to examine what he described as political misconduct. Further, he insisted that Prime Minister Andrew Holness announce a date for the general election due next September, arguing that the country needs a change in direction. That aside, former House Speaker Marisa Dalrymple Philibert dismissed former JLP Councillor Lloyd Gillings, securing 4,146 votes to his 1,434 in Trelawny Southern. Gillings contested as an independent candidate. The PNP did not field a candidate for the by-election. The victory for Dalrymple Philibert means a fifth term in Gordon House following her resignation in September 2023 over an unfavourable Integrity Commission report. It also validates the JLP’s decision to reselect Dalrymple Philibert as its candidate amid raised eyebrows in some quarters, and a desire by JLP protestors weeks ago to have her return. The voter turnout in Trelawny Southern was 22.2 per cent. Similarly, the JLP’s Duane Smith trounced independent candidate and former House Speaker Carl Marshall, albeit in a low-voting by-election, by 1,752 votes in St Andrew North Western. Smith tallied 1,863 votes to the 111 votes secured by Marshall, a former member of parliament who ran on a PNP ticket. The voter turnout was 6.2 per cent. Former PNP candidate Rohan Banks, who was expected to contest the election as an independent, withdrew a day before. He told The Gleaner that he had a conversation with Marshall and both agreed that it was best that only one of them moved forward. The PNP did not contest the by-election. Yesterday, Smith said he was satisfied with the victory and getting 95 per cent of the votes. “The turnout was low but as mentioned several times, it was expected to be low because people in North West St Andrew don’t take by-elections that are being uncontested by any main opposition party seriously,” he said. ‘GAME OF CHANCE’ Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Holness told The Gleaner that he has been speaking about improving the level of representation the party gives to the people, noting that it starts with candidate selection and candidate training. He said the JLP will invest heavily in its representatives’ standard setting. This, he said, will include a code of conduct and technology to improve connection with voters. Holness said he expected to win all four by-elections but noted that elections are a “game of chance”. “There is still a certain variability, uncertainty in outcomes but you mitigate that by first of all selecting good candidates. “We also ensure victory by having good organisation and what we have seen with the Jamaica Labour Party over the last 10 years is that our ability to organise has improved significantly. And I think we are essentially seeing that in the last couple of months that the party is organising and these by-elections are like the heats,” the JLP leader said. editorial@gleanerjm.com

The Dublin Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) has said it has had to allocate additional staff to its helpline to deal with a surge in the numbers seeking support following Nikita Hand’s successful civil case against mixed martial arts fighter Conor McGregor . It said calls to the 24-hour national rape crisis helpline almost doubled over the weekend and the number of first-time callers had increased by 50 per cent. On Friday a High Court jury awarded €248,603 damages to Ms Hand against Mr McGregor after finding she was assaulted by him in a Dublin hotel. Ms Hand had alleged, in her civil action for damages, she was raped by the mixed martial arts star in the Beacon hotel on December 9th, 2018. Mr McGregor had denied her claim. On Monday the fallout from the jury decision continued with calls for a boycott of Mr McGregor’s business interests. The developer of the Hitman video game series said it was removing content featuring Mr McGregor. IO Interactive said in a statement on social media: “In light of the recent court ruling regarding Conor McGregor, IO Interactive has made the decision to cease its collaboration with the athlete, effective immediately. “We take this matter very seriously and cannot ignore its implications. Consequently, we will begin removing all content featuring Mr McGregor from our storefronts starting today.” Mr McGregor entered the brewing business in recent years with a product called Forged Irish Stout which is sold in some off-licences, supermarkets and several pubs. Mr McGregor was also behind Proper No 12 Whiskey, which he sold in 2023. On Sunday the Rape Crisis Network Ireland (RCNI) urged retailers to stop selling Conor McGregor’s stout and whiskey products in the aftermath of the jury’s decision in the High Court. Clíona Saidléar, RCNI executive director, said companies making money from his alcohol and other products needed to look at whether they wanted to align themselves with a man found by a civil jury to have sexually assaulted a woman. Ms Saidléar said on Monday that she had not heard anything back from retailers on the issue. A number of industry sources maintained that while Forged Irish Stout was on sale in some pubs, it was not widely available. The Press Up Group, the country’s largest hospitality group, said it “never stocked any of Conor McGregor’s brands”. One Dublin off-licence operator said on Monday that his store would not be selling McGregor products again. Damien Martin of Martin’s off-licence in Marino, Dublin, said his store did not generally stock such products but had previously secured a case on request for a customer. He said in the aftermath of the court case last week, his store had no interest doing so in the future. Supermarkets Lidl and Aldi also said they did not sell any products owned by Conor McGregor. Supermarkets Supervalu and Tesco did not comment on whether they stocked products linked to Mr McGregor. The DRCC said that following the jury decision on Friday Ms Hand had urged women to “speak up, use your voice”. “Her call has been heard loud and clear, with a huge surge in people seeking support from Dublin Rape Crisis Centre over the past weekend.” The centre’s chief executive, Rachel Morrogh, said: “Our message to anyone who has experienced sexual violence and is considering picking up the phone is that you are one of many people for whom now feels like the right time to make contact. There are experienced counsellors on the line who will listen to you, believe you and support you in whatever way you need.” The DRCC 24-hour national helpline is 1800 778888. Martin Wall is the former Washington Correspondent of The Irish Times. He was previously industry correspondent

Colts defense picks up the pace as offense continues searching for answers to red zone woes

Cutting in line? American Airlines’ new boarding tech might stop you at now over 100 airportsPublished 18:56 IST, December 22nd 2024 PM Modi expressed confidence about strengthening India-GCC ties under Kuwait's presidency, MEA said on Sunday. Kuwait City: Ministry of External Affairs on Sunday said that Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed confidence about further strengthening of relations between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) in his high-level delegation talks with the Kuwaiti leadership. Addressing a media brief about the Prime Minister’s visit, MEA Secretary (CPV & OIA) Arun Kumar Chatterjee said that PM Modi held delegation-level talks with Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait, and discussed around the key strategic areas that can mutually benefit the two countries. “PM Modi also expressed confidence that India-GCC relations will be further strengthened under the Presidency of Kuwait... PM Modi held delegation-level talks with Ahmad Al-Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait... They discussed the strategic partnership in areas including political, trade, investment, energy, defence, health, education, technology, cultural, and people-to-people ties," MEA Secretary Chatterjee said. MEA officials further said that Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait expressed appreciation for the Indian community's contribution to Kuwait's development in his meeting with Prime Minister Modi. “Today morning the PM was given a ceremonial welcome, and a Guard of Honour was accorded to him. He called on the Amir of Kuwait... This was the first meeting between the two leaders... They reaffirmed their full commitment to expanding the bilateral relationship... He also expressed appreciation for the contribution of the Indian community to the development of Kuwait,” Secretary Chatterjee said. PM Modi Receives Kuwait's Highest Honour Kuwait on Sunday conferred its highest honor—'The'Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer'—on' Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his role in strengthening the good relations between the two countries. Prime Minister Modi received the honour from Kuwait's Amir Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al Sabah at the Bayan Palace here. The 'Order of Mubarak Al-Kabeer' is a knighthood order of Kuwait. “PM Modi was conferred by 'The Mukarak Al Kabeer', the highest award of the state of Kuwait... PM Modi conveyed that he accepted this award on behalf of 1.4 billion Indians,” MEA official said. Get Current Updates on India News , Entertainment News along with Latest News and Top Headlines from India and around the world. Updated 18:56 IST, December 22nd 2024

Kim Kardashian’s latest lingerie line is upsetting a number of evangelicals — but not for the exact reasons you may think. In a number of Instagram posts to her nearly-360 million followers, showed off some new underwear courtesy of a team-up between her own apparel company, SKIMS, and luxury fashion brand Dolce & Gabbana. While the scantily clad photos swiftly drew ire from certain parts of social media, it’s what Kardashian wearing, versus what she wasn’t, that had the internet aghast. (The Western Journal will not link to those posts, for obvious reasons.) In one of these racy Instagram posts showing the bra and underwear combinations on offer, was seen showing off a white bra and white mesh underwear ... while wearing a rosary. That small- yet-meaningful accessory choice sparked all manner of fury online, according to . The news outlet collected just some of the comments under the controversial post, and none were too pleased with what Kardashian was offering. “Why is she always wearing the cross when she’s half naked?” one Instagram user mused. “Wearing a cross while being half naked. [Would you] make a mockery out of other religions too?” another Instagram user challenged. “The Holy Rosary is NOT a fashion accessory,” one comment pointed out, with another adding, “Nothing about you is holy take the rosaries off lol.” Sentiment wasn’t much better on social media platform X. seems sacrilegious to this Senior Catholic — Ginger Thomas (@purpgingybread) “Seems sacrilegious to this Senior Catholic,” one X user commented under Fox’s post. Others on X lambasted the advertising campaign as “ .” Adding to the brewing culture war, a fair number of comments under Kardashian’s posts were complimentary of the 44-year-old celebrity. This all being said, if Kardashian is one of the celebrities who truly believes that there’s , she would likely consider her racy ad campaign to be a huge success. And that’s because it wasn’t just Fox News reporting on the backlash to her lingerie campaign. From conservative news site to celebrity gossip site to even sports site , many major outlets appeared to have some thoughts on Kardashian’s lingerie + rosary combination. It appears that the rosary that Kardashian is wearing is , and sold by Dolce & Gabbana for $525. We are committed to truth and accuracy in all of our journalism. Advertise with The Western Journal and reach millions of highly engaged readers, while supporting our work. .SAY the name JK Rowling and be ready to take cover as sanctimonious snowflakes screech hate about her views on transgender people. But attempts by leftie woke warriors to cancel the Harry Potter author have failed, with news she will definitely play a key role in a £1.6billion, ten-year TV adaptation of her books about the boy wizard. Advertisement 10 JK Rowling has not let the woke army distract her, with news she will definitely play a key role in a £1.6billion, ten-year TV adaptation of her books about the boy wizard Credit: Getty 10 Daniel Radcliffe Emma Watson and Rupert Grint, stars of the Harry Potter movie franchise, have previously slammed her comments on transgender rights Credit: Alamy 10 The Harry Potter author commenting on double rapist 'Isla Bryson' who wanted to be sent to a women's prison Credit: Twitter/JK Rowling Furious trans activists had complained about Rowling being an executive producer on the show, which is being made in Britain for American TV channel HBO’s streaming service Max. Rowling has previously come under fire for claiming the “trans women are women” mantra is “idiotic”, and for campaigning to preserve safe spaces and women’s toilets for biological females only. JK Rowling has a right to express her personal views. We will remain focused on the development of the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement. HBO But she denies being transphobic — and now excitement about the new TV project has drowned out calls for a boycott of her participation. At the weekend, HBO said: “We are proud to once again tell the story of Harry Potter — the heartwarming books that speak to the power of friendship, resolve and acceptance. Advertisement READ MORE ON JK ROWLING LORDS SNUB JK Rowling says she's turned down peerage TWICE after call for her to join Lords “JK Rowling has a right to express her personal views. “We will remain focused on the development of the new series, which will only benefit from her involvement.” The announcement has quietened those who have lined up to deny the 59-year-old her views on transgender questions. Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint, stars of the Harry Potter movie franchise, have previously slammed her comments on transgender rights. Advertisement Most read in News TV BALLSED UP Lorraine apologises on air for using phrase she 'didn't know' was a swear word BEACH BABE Jean Johansson flaunts incredible toned figure & endless legs on Barbados beach HOST'S PAIN BBC's Glenn Campbell makes shock admission as he gives tumour battle update COMIC'S CASTLE Still Game star takes £150,000 hit to offload luxury £4m Scots castle Casting open to public But Daniel, who played Harry, and Rupert, famed as Potter’s pal Ron Weasley at wizard school Hogwarts, have now both said they are looking forward to HBO bringing back the characters they played in eight films. And well they might — the TV series, which promises to “dive deep into each one of the iconic books” is a seriously big deal. Neville Longbottom delivers an emotional speech Thousands of children have auditioned to play Harry, Ron and their friend Hermione Granger — portrayed in the films by Emma Watson — ahead of the expected start of filming in the spring . Meanwhile, Gary Oldman , who played wizard Sirius Black in the movies, has put his hat in the ring for future projects, saying, “Maybe in a few years I can play [Hogwarts headmaster] Dumbledore”. Advertisement His former fellow cast members, including Helena Bonham Carter, Ralph Fiennes and Jim Broadbent , have all defended Rowling’s right to express her opinions. If there’s a better hill to die on than the rights and safety of women and children, I’ve never found it. JK Rowling These public displays of support for the writer reflect a shift in Holly-wood, which appears to be tiring of political correctness, which has proven to be a turn-off at the box office. Four years ago when Rowling mocked “people who menstruate” as a term to describe “women”, she faced a huge backlash from stars including Emma Watson. But rather than be cowed by the criticism, JK has continued to stand up for her beliefs. Advertisement Last week she posted defiantly: “If there’s a better hill to die on than the rights and safety of women and children, I’ve never found it.” The appeal of the story of orphan schoolboy Harry who discovers he has magical powers appears to be just as strong as ever. Since the first novel was published in 1997, and followed by six sequels, more than 600million books have been sold across the world. Shops selling merchandise, such as scarves and wands, continue to open and next month streaming platform Amazon Prime Video launches a Great British Bake Off-style TV show titled Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. Advertisement When anti-Rowling campaigners called for a boycott of the Hogwarts Legacy video game last year, their protest had little or no effect as sales soared past 12million in just a couple of months. Meanwhile, stage play Harry Potter And The Cursed Child is still going strong in London’s West End after eight years. 10 Four years ago when Rowling mocked 'people who menstruate' as a term to describe 'women', she faced a huge backlash from stars including Emma Watson Credit: Getty 10 Harry Potter actor Daniel Radcliffe has also been critical of the author who made him famous Credit: Getty Advertisement 10 Rupert Grint, who played Ron Weasely, is another member of the film franchise who has attacked Rowling's campaigning Credit: Getty It is no surprise, then, that HBO parent company Warner Bros, whose eight Harry Potter films made around £ 7 billion combined, was keen to return to the Hogwarts school of Witch-craft and Wizardry. The movie giant’s streaming channel Max, previously known as HBO Max, will air the TV series in 2026. Succession and Killing Eve producer Francesca Gardiner will lead the project with British director Mark Mylod, whose CV includes Game Of Thrones. Advertisement There are rumours Brit actor Mark Rylance, star of BBC period drama Wolf Hall, is in line to play Hogwarts Professor Albus Dumbledore . In September it was announced that the casting process for all the young Hogwarts characters — from Harry to his nemesis and fellow wizarding student Draco Malfoy — would be open to the public. They are looking for talented kids aged nine to 11 who live in the UK or Ireland. No acting experience is necessary, although show bosses have also been scouting stage schools. Advertisement The website taking applications has now closed due to the huge response. It is a massive boost for the British TV industry, with the bulk of the series set to be made at Warner Bros’ studios in Leavesden, near Watford. The budget for each of the ten seasons is reckoned to be around £159million and the plan is to film each series back to back because bosses do not want the cast to age too much on screen. But it will be tricky because there are strict regulations about the hours school-age actors and actresses are allowed to work. Advertisement Daniel Radcliffe, now aged 35, who had the most scenes in the Potter movies, had to be taught on set between shoots. He earned a reported £86million from the films but it is unlikely any of the wannabe Harrys eyeing up the TV gig would enjoy the same sort of payday. Daniel has backed the remake, saying: “It’ll be cool to see the torch get passed on.” Rupert Grint agrees, telling GQ magazine: “I’d love to see Harry Potter be adapted into a TV show. Advertisement “It would really work.” Rowling, who is worth an estimated £945million, retains the rights to her books and she has always insisted strongly on having her say about any Potter-related projects. It was thanks to the Gloucestershire-born author, who now lives in Scotland , that the movies were not Americanised. HBO and Max chairman and CEO Casey Bloys says Rowling has been “very, very involved in the process of selecting the writer and director” for the telly series. Advertisement Bloys also denied that her comments about trans issues had “affected the casting or hiring of writers or production staff”. Indeed, Warner Bros are not the only ones who wish to work with the hugely imaginative writer. Even though the BBC twice apologised last year after Rowling was described during its programmes as “anti-trans”, the corporation keep adapting her Cormoran Strike crime novels into TV shows. Activists are trying to organise yet another boycott of my work, this time of the Harry Potter TV show. As forewarned is forearmed, I’ve taken the precaution of laying in a large stock of champagne. JK Rowling This December, her fictional detective played by Tom Burke will return for a BBC One four-part dramatisation of her 2022 novel The Ink Black Heart. Advertisement Meanwhile, plenty of actors are backing JK. Broadbent, who played Hogwarts’ Professor Horace Slug-horn in two Potter films, said, “JK Rowling is amazing”, and Bonham Carter, who portrayed evil Bellatrix Lestrange, commented: “She has been hounded.” Fiennes, who played Lord Voldemort, described the attacks on the author as “appalling”, and Evanna Lynch, witch Luna Love-good in the films, said: “I do wish people would just give her more grace and listen to her.” But this type of comment is at odds with much of Gen Z. Advertisement Not that JK is too worried about being cancelled, as she just shrugs if all off. Read more on the Scottish Sun 'DISAPPOINTED' Harry Potter steam train blasted by passengers who 'dreaded' return journey COLD BEERS SPFL side spotted going for a PINT after their bus got stuck in the snow Last April she said: “Activists are trying to organise yet another boycott of my work, this time of the Harry Potter TV show. “As forewarned is forearmed, I’ve taken the precaution of laying in a large stock of champagne.” 10 There are rumours Brit actor Mark Rylance, star of BBC period drama Wolf Hall, is in line to play Hogwarts Professor Albus Dumbledore Credit: Getty Advertisement 10 Rowling has not been afraid to tweet her opinions on trans issues - such as the case of Andrew Miller, also known as Amy George, who identifies as a transgender woman Credit: Twitter/JK Rowling 10 Rowling on the case of Sandra Norris who was convicted for possession of child sex abuse images Credit: Twitter/JK Rowling 10 The author makes her feelings known about Kate Neeves being appointed as the UN Women UK delegate Credit: Twitter/JK Rowling JK HAS DEFIED HATE By Julie Bindel, feminist and friend of JK Rowling JK ROWLING’S pinned tweet, in response to a trans activist claiming he burns her books and toasts marshmallows over the flame, reads: “I get the same royalties whether you read them or burn them. Enjoy your marshmallows!” Having bullied the majority into submission for so long, these activists are now losing ground. Increasingly, they are ignored and sidelined. Rowling is a feminist hero. Since first speaking out against the crazed gender ideology that has swept much of the world, including treasured institutions, she has made an immeasurable difference to women and girls everywhere. As one of the most famous authors ever, Rowling had no need to take a stand on this contentious, toxic issue – she did it because she could not remain silent. Having spent millions supporting orphaned children and other disadvantaged groups through her charitable work, she decided that adding her voice to the fight against those determined to see an end to female-only spaces and facilities would be worth the inevitable backlash. And what a backlash: in addition to innumerable rape and death threats, she has been publicly maligned by those whose fame and fortune she helped create. The actors who played Harry, Ron and Hermione have all stuck the knife in. As a lesbian, and as someone lucky enough to be able to call Rowling a personal friend, I know their claims are utter fabrication. Calls to boycott the new HBO Harry Potter TV series is nothing but bullying and posturing. I don’t know how those responsible sleep at night, when the ideology Rowling speaks out against leads to children being unnecessarily medicalised for life. Asked by a trans activist why she wanted to “die on this hill”, Rowling replied in her usual forthright manner: “If there’s a better hill to die on than the rights and safety of women and children, I’ve never found it.”

" Abang Adik " ( Malaysia ) Takes Home Snow Leopard for Best Film Wu Kang -ren ( " Abang Adik " ) Named Best Actor Diamond Bou Abboud ( "Arze" ) Wins Best Actress Sergei Bodrov Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award HOLLYWOOD, Calif. , Nov. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The 10th annual Asian World Film Festival (AWFF) announced its winners at a star-studded Closing Night Gala Awards Ceremony Thursday, November 21 , at the Culver Theater. Over 60 films and special screenings, including 24 Academy Award submissions for Best International Feature Film, were presented over the nine days of the AWFF, held November 13 - 21. The ceremony was hosted by Kyrgyz director and actress Elnura Osmanalieva and TV host, Golden Globe member, filmmaker and actor Mico Saad . FOR PHOTOS: CLICK HERE The Main Competition presented a series of exclusive Snow Leopard Awards with the assistance of Iris Wang , Jury President, producer ("Kung Fu Yoga," "The Composer"). Crime/drama " Abang Adik " ( Malaysia ), directed by Jin Ong , won the Snow Leopard Award for Best Film . The film also won the Snow Leopard Best Actor Award for Wu Kang -ren . The Snow Leopard for Best Actress went to Diamond Bou Abboud for the social dramedy "Arze" ( Lebanon ), directed by Mira Shaib . The Snow Leopard Special Jury Prize went to family drama " In the Arms of the Tree" ( Iran ) directed by Babak Khajeh Pasha . The Snow Leopard Panavision Award for Best Cinematography , along with a $45,000 Panavision Camera Package Grant, was awarded to cinematographer Zhanrbek Yeleubek for Kazakhstan's coming of age drama " Bauryna Salu, " and accepted by the film's director Askhat Kuchinchirekov and producer Dias Feld. The Snow Leopard Audience Award went to " The Glassworker " ( Pakistan ), directed by Usman Riaz . Writer, director and producer Sergei Bodrov ("Mongol," "Prisoner of the Mountains") received the AWFF Lifetime Achievement Award . The award was presented by Kazakhstan actress Ayanat Ksenbai ("About Mannequin"). Hong Kong filmmaker Peter Ho-Sun Chan ("Warlords," "Comrades: Almost a Love Story ") was presented with the Outstanding Cinematic Achievement Award by producer Andre Morgan ("The Cannonball Run," "The Warlords"). The Rising Star Award went to Filipino actress Kathryn Bernardo ("The Hows of Us," "Hello, Love, Goodbye") presented by actress Kieu Chinh ("The Joy Luck Club," "Hamburger Hill"). Executive Director Georges N. Chamchoum said, "There is always a beginning and end to everything—except at the Asian World Film Festival. This 10 th Anniversary year was filled with inspiring milestones, discovery, joy, and thrills! The myriads of movies we screened, the special country spotlights and the dedicated filmmaker panels, have brought the richness of our heritage to the forefront. Asia is a wellspring of incredibly talented filmmakers, offering valuable lessons, especially in this age of technology. The AWFF continues to showcase exceptional movies filled with heart, soul, and captivating storytelling. Onward to November 2025!" The Bruce Lee Award , in partnership with the Bruce Lee Foundation, was presented to martial artist and actor Mark Dacascos ("Brotherhood of the Wolf," " John Wick : Chapter 3 – Parabellum") by Lee's daughter Shannon Lee , CEO of the Bruce Lee Foundation. The Asian Vision Best Film Award was given to "Night Courier" ( Saudi Arabia ), directed by Ali Kalthami. The Short Film Jury composed of filmmakers and industry professionals from the U.S. and abroad, was headed by Jury President, Head of HDR Content Workflow, Barco) Joachim Zell . The Best Short Film , with a prize of a $15,000 Panavision Camera Package grant, went to " Lullaby" (UK/ Vietnam ) directed by Chi Thai . The award was presented by producer Zhu Xufang and accepted by actress Mai Thu Huyen ("A Fragile Flower," "Kieu"). A Special Mention was given to " Mar Mama " (Palestine), directed by Majdi El Omari . The complete awards list is as follows: SNOW LEOPARD COMPETITION AWARDEES SNOW LEOPARD HONORARY AWARDS ASIAN VISION BEST FILM AWARD: "Night Courier" ( Saudi Arabia ) directed by Ali Kalthami AWFF BRUCE LEE AWARD (in partnership with the Bruce Lee Foundation) Mark Dacascos SHORT FILM FINALISTS The AWFF series of Snow Leopard Awards is bestowed in partnership with The Snow Leopard Trust to raise awareness for the endangered snow leopard and their Asian ecosystem. AWFF SPONSORS The Asian World Film Festival is proudly sponsored by Aitysh Film, Pechanga Casino Resort, Panavision, Bruce Lee Foundation, Korean Cultural Center ( Los Angeles ), Korean Film Council (KOFIC), Taiwan Academy ( Los Angeles ), Hollywood Arab Film Association ( Los Angeles ), Vietnam Cinema Association ( Hanoi, Vietnam ), Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office, Kyrgyz Film, Ministry of Culture & Tourism Republic of Turkiye, Directorate General of Cinema (Turkiye), Republic of Turkiye Los Angeles Consulate General, Beirut Film Association ( Lebanon ), Meihodo ( Japan ), MoRedii, Culver City Arts Foundation, CAPE ( Los Angeles ), AARP ( California ), Blackmagic Design, Emporium Thai ( Los Angeles ), NAMOO ( Marina Del Rey ), Jackson Market & Deli (Culver City, Shin Beijing ( Los Angeles ), H.C. Foods and Asahi Beer , among many others. ABOUT THE ASIAN WORLD FILM FESTIVAL (AWFF) Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2024, the Asian World Film Festival (AWFF) was founded by Kyrgyz public figure Sadyk Sher-Niyaz to bring the best of Asian cinema to Los Angeles and to strengthen ties between the Asian and Hollywood film industries. The festival screens feature films from more than 50 countries, spanning from Japan to Turkey and Russia to India and Southeast Asia . As of 2024, AWFF is the only Los Angeles -based festival that showcases most Asian submissions Academy Award ® and Golden Globe ® for Best International Feature Film and Best Motion Picture - Non-English Language respectively. AWFF is a non-profit organization under Aitysh USA . Follow AWFF on: Website: https://www.asianworldfilmfest.org/ X (formally Twitter): https://twitter.com/asianworldff Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AsianWorldFilmFest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asianworldff/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@asianworldfilmfestival3974 Media Contact: Rick Markovitz 818-421-3334 386812@email4pr.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/10th-annual-asian-world-film-festival-announces-winners-at-closing-night-gala-302314470.html SOURCE Asian World Film Festival‘Even if we lose votes’: Malema not backing down on pushing 'silent leaders' aside

Regional parties that go with the Congress will also sink like the grand old party, says Joshi

CRM Lead Management Market is Booming Worldwide | Big Giants Salesforce, HubSpot, Microsoft DynamicsThe City of Pembroke says repair work at the Kinsmen Pool is in its final stages, and it could reopen early in the new year. The city closed the public pool at the start of January, describing the 51-year-old building as "at its end of life." Council voted to move forward with a $1.4-million repair plan , which the City of Pembroke said in a news release Monday was initially expected to be completed in September , but it has faced delays related to lighting and extensive damage to the tile on the pool deck. "The lighting repairs are done, which has allowed the contractors to start the repairs on the damaged tile. Unfortunately, the repairs couldn't be done simultaneously because of the installation and cure time requirements of tile," the release said. Once contracted work is complete, there would be additional work by the city's Parks and Recreation Department to prepare for opening. City staff said there is no confirmed date yet for when the pool will reopen. "A date for the pool's re-opening is not available currently as work is still underway, but it is expected to reopen in the early part of the New Year," the City of Pembroke said. To help pay for the expense, Pembroke called on surrounding municipalities and organizations to help cover costs. The City said Monday that the Township of Laurentian Valley has confirmed that it would contribute up to 30 per cent of the net cost to a maximum of $420,000, and that the Friends of the Regional Pool group has managed to raise $92,000 so far through fundraising efforts. "The ongoing renovations have been unexpected, but necessary to be ready for safe use of our pool facility," said Mayor Ron Gervais in the release. "We are excited to see the project continuing to move along and continue to ask for patience as we finalize the project." Pembroke City Council initially voted against the repair plan, suggesting instead the City explore building a brand new pool, at an estimated cost of $40 million, with a five to seven-year build time. Community members pushed back against that idea, and council later agreed to go ahead with repairs. The repair work has been ongoing since June. Ottawa Top Stories FREEZING RAIN WARNING | 1 to 3 mm of freezing rain possible in Ottawa-Gatineau tonight OC Transpo well below punctuality targets on 'less frequent' routes Cargo ship runs aground in St. Lawrence River near Morrisburg, Ont. OC Transpo hands out 1,900 fines to riders not paying fares in 2 months Katy Perry coming to Ottawa next summer Renovated pool in Pembroke, Ont. could reopen in early 2025 $10k worth of cannabis stolen from Renfrew, Ont. store MISSING | Ottawa police seek help locating missing 31-year-old man CTVNews.ca Top Stories 'It's just not fair': Retirees speak out on being excluded from federal rebate cheques Carol Sheaves of Moncton, N.B., says it's not fair that retirees like her won't get the government's newly proposed rebate cheques. Sheaves was among the seniors who expressed their frustrations to CTVNews.ca about not being eligible for the $250 government benefit. Warren Buffett gives away another US$1.1B, announces plans for distributing $147B fortune after death Investor Warren Buffett renewed his Thanksgiving tradition of giving by announcing plans Monday to hand more than US$1.1 billion of Berkshire Hathaway stock to four of his family's foundations, and he offered new details about who will be handing out the rest of his fortune after his death. Premiers seek 'urgent' meeting with Trudeau before Trump returns to White House Canada's premiers are asking Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to hold an urgent first ministers' meeting ahead of the return to office of president-elect Donald Trump. Deer spotted wearing high-visibility safety jacket in Northern B.C. Andrea Arnold is used to having to slow down to let deer cross the road in her Northern B.C. community. But this weekend she saw something that made her pull over and snap a photo. Canada Post says progress 'limited' at negotiating table as strike continues Canada Post says they have made 'limited progress' with the union at the negotiating table 11 days after the strike began. Los Angeles judge postpones hearing on release of Menendez brothers A Los Angeles County judge on Monday postponed a hearing over the possible release of Lyle and Erik Menendez after 35 years in prison for the shotgun murder of their parents, saying he wanted to hear from a new district attorney due to take office on Dec. 3. Canadian Army corporal fined for stolen valour at Remembrance Day ceremony A corporal in the Canadian Army has been fined $2,000 and given a severe reprimand for wearing service medals he didn't earn during a Remembrance Day ceremony in Alberta two years ago. Defence Minister Bill Blair 'ready to go faster' on spending timeline Defence Minister Bill Blair said Monday that he's ready to work with the incoming Donald Trump administration to speed up Canada's timeline to meet its NATO alliance spending targets. CEOs demand changes to Liberals' military spending plan The federal government risks jeopardizing the economy unless it meets its NATO military alliance spending obligations within the next five years, says the Business Council of Canada. Shopping Trends The Shopping Trends team is independent of the journalists at CTV News. We may earn a commission when you use our links to shop. Read about us. Editor's Picks 27 Of The Absolute Best Stocking Stuffers For Men 24 Of The Best Host And Hostess Gifts You Can Find Online Right Now 21 Of The Absolute Best Stocking Stuffers For Kids (And They're All From Amazon Canada) Home Our Guide To The Best Stand Mixers In Canada In 2024 (And Where To Get Them) Our Guide To The Best Nespresso Machines in Canada in 2024 (And Where to Get Them) Our Guide to the Best Jewellery Boxes You Can Find Online Right Now Gifts 19 Of The Best Tech Gifts Under $100 17 Gifts Your Husband Actually Wants 23 Gifts, Add-Ons, And Stocking Stuffers For Anyone Who Spends A Lot Of Time In Their Car Beauty 20 Anti-Aging Skincare Products That Reviewers Can’t Stop Talking About 12 Budget-Friendly Makeup Brushes And Tools Worth Adding To Your Kit If You Suffer From Dry Skin, You'll Want To Add At Least One Of These Hydrating Moisturizers To Your Cart Deals From Anthropologie To Adidas: Here Are The Best Early Black Friday Deals On Clothing And Accessories These Apple Products Are Majorly On Sale On Amazon Canada Right Now, So It Might Be Time To Upgrade Your Tech Black Friday Has Begun On Amazon Canada: Here Are The Best Deals Atlantic 'It's just not fair': Retirees speak out on being excluded from federal rebate cheques Carol Sheaves of Moncton, N.B., says it's not fair that retirees like her won't get the government's newly proposed rebate cheques. Sheaves was among the seniors who expressed their frustrations to CTVNews.ca about not being eligible for the $250 government benefit. Man charged with unsafe storage of a firearm in Tyson MacDonald homicide: RCMP A 61-year-old man is facing unsafe storage charges in connection with the homicide of 17-year-old Tyson MacDonald on P.E.I., last December. From cellphones to dentures: Inside Halifax Transit’s lost and found Every single item misplaced on a bus or ferry in the Halifax Regional Municipality ends up in a small office at the Halifax Transit Bridge Terminal in Dartmouth, N.S. Toronto Ontario government passes bill to limit bike lanes Ontario's Progressive Conservative government has passed a controversial law that will force municipalities to seek approval for installing new bike lanes on arterial roads and could see some existing bike lanes torn up. Toronto mother now facing murder charge in death of four-month old baby Toronto police say they have charged a mother with second-degree murder following the death of her infant, who was found with critical injuries in midtown Toronto last week. 'Embarrassing:' NHL team ditches bus and walks to Scotiabank Arena amid gridlock The Utah Hockey Club got the full Toronto experience Sunday night ahead of their first-ever matchup against the Maple Leafs—bumper-to-bumper traffic that forced the team to walk to the game. Montreal More people hurt in Quebec road accidents after fall time change, data shows New data from Quebec's auto insurance board shows that evening road accidents -- including those involving pedestrians -- rise sharply in the 30 days following the fall time change, when the sun sets earlier. Montreal mayor says Friday pro-Palestinian protests were taken over by 'professional vandals' Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante told journalists 'professional vandals' took over protests and smashed windows at the Palais des Congres. Teen girls engage in more risky behaviour than boys: Quebec study Fewer young people in Quebec secondary schools are drinking alcohol, consuming sugary drinks and eating junk food, but not all their habits are improving. More of them are also inactive, taking action to change their weight and not eating breakfast before going to school, according to a recent study. Northern Ontario Elliot Lake, Ont., woman charged with choking neighbour's dog An intoxicated woman in Elliot Lake has been charged with breaking into her neighbour's apartment and choking their dog. Winter weather advisory in effect for most of northeastern Ont. Environment Canada has issued a winter weather advisory for areas in and around Greater Sudbury, North Bay, Sault Ste. Marie and Timmins. Drug bust after a suspect pointed handgun at victim at northern Ont. gas station Three people have been charged with numerous drug and weapons offences following an incident at a gas station in Bruce Mines, Ont., on Nov. 21. Windsor 'Active investigation' underway in Windsor Windsor police are on the scene of what's being called an, "active investigation." "Expect a sustained police presence in the area," read a post on social media. Memorial put up on Walker Road after fatal crash A memorial is located on Walker Road to mark the site where a Windsor couple was killed after getting struck by a vehicle. Alleged impaired mom found asleep at the wheel with two kids in the backseat Windsor police arrested two motorists for impaired driving in separate incidents over the weekend, including a mom with two small children in the backseat. London 'It’s getting dangerous downtown': Rear entrance of London business sprayed with gunfire London police said that no-one was injured when the back entrance of a downtown cannabis shop was sprayed with gunfire early on Monday morning. 'I just knew something was up': London family recounts rushing to their burning home where pet perished A weekend house fire has left a family displaced and taken the life of a beloved pet. The blaze at 454 Alston Road broke out shortly after 12:30 p.m. Christmas tax break will be 'challenging' for small businesses, says gift shop owner Tom Fincher is all for a tax break for consumers but implementing the GST tax break announced by the federal government last week at his till will be easier said than done. Kitchener Waterloo reviews most collision-prone areas to improve safety The City of Waterloo is trying to make its roads safer by putting together a report on some of the locations with the most crashes in the past five years. Driver warned after police receive complaints about car decked out in Christmas lights in Waterloo Drivers are being reminded not to take the holiday spirit too far after police received complaints about a distracting vehicle in Waterloo. Kitchener, Ont. doctor officially claims second Guinness World Record A Kitchener, Ont. emergency room doctor has officially earned his second Guinness World Records title. Barrie 'James deceived us,' Slain Collingwood, Ont. woman's family speak ahead of husband's sentencing James Schwalm sat in the prisoner’s box Monday morning weeping as friends and family members told the court about the devastation he caused when he murdered his wife, Ashley Milne, two years ago inside their Collingwood, Ont. home. Novice driver charged with speeding 95km/h over limit on Hwy 11 accused of being impaired A Thornhill resident accused of driving at a high rate of speed along Highway 11 in Muskoka while impaired faces charges. 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Regina commits to clearing all 'high priority roads' of snow by Tuesday morning Following a second significant dump of snow in less than a week, the City of Regina says it plans to have all high priority roadways cleared by 7:00 a.m. Tuesday. Regina police release images of suspects following early morning armed robbery Regina police are looking for two people following an early morning armed robbery in the city's downtown on Monday. Saskatoon Sask. Party prioritizes affordability, civility with opposition in Throne Speech The Saskatchewan Party government said it will prioritize affordability in the coming months during its Throne Speech on Monday, that officially kicked off a short two-week sitting inside the legislature. Saskatoon's second big snowfall in a week won't trigger emergency response: City City crews and contractors are at it again — clearing roadways after another major snowfall. Two dead after crash on Saskatchewan Highway 4 Two people are dead following a two-vehicle crash on Highway 4 Friday evening. Vancouver Deer spotted wearing high-visibility safety jacket in Northern B.C. Andrea Arnold is used to having to slow down to let deer cross the road in her Northern B.C. community. But this weekend she saw something that made her pull over and snap a photo. Wild weather behind 11-cent surge in Vancouver gas prices, analyst says The intense storms that battered parts of B.C. and the United States last week are partly to blame for a significant surge in Vancouver gas prices, according to a petroleum analyst. Canadian border agents seize 246 kilos of cocaine in B.C. Canadian border officials in British Columbia have seized nearly a quarter-tonne of cocaine that was coming into the province in three separate smuggling incidents in recent weeks, according to the agency. Vancouver Island Canadian Army corporal fined for stolen valour at Remembrance Day ceremony A corporal in the Canadian Army has been fined $2,000 and given a severe reprimand for wearing service medals he didn't earn during a Remembrance Day ceremony in Alberta two years ago. Deer spotted wearing high-visibility safety jacket in Northern B.C. Andrea Arnold is used to having to slow down to let deer cross the road in her Northern B.C. community. But this weekend she saw something that made her pull over and snap a photo. Vancouver Whitecaps drop head coach Vanni Sartini Two weeks after the Vancouver Whitecaps’ playoff run ended in the first round, the team has fired head coach Vanni Sartini. Kelowna Man in hospital following targeted shooting in Kamloops Police are appealing for information on a targeted shooting that resulted in the hospitalization of a man in Kamloops. Police cleared of fault in fatal 2023 crash in B.C.'s Interior British Columbia's independent police watchdog has cleared officers of wrongdoing in a crash where three people were killed south of Kamloops in July of last year. B.C. woman sentenced for stealing $14K in funds raised for schoolkids A B.C. woman who stole more than $14,000 in volunteer-raised funds that were supposed to be spent on school supplies and programs – including hot meals for vulnerable kids – won't spend any time in jail. Stay Connected" Abang Adik " ( Malaysia ) Takes Home Snow Leopard for Best Film Wu Kang -ren ( " Abang Adik " ) Named Best Actor Diamond Bou Abboud ( "Arze" ) Wins Best Actress Sergei Bodrov Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award HOLLYWOOD, Calif. , Nov. 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The 10th annual Asian World Film Festival (AWFF) announced its winners at a star-studded Closing Night Gala Awards Ceremony Thursday, November 21 , at the Culver Theater. Over 60 films and special screenings, including 24 Academy Award submissions for Best International Feature Film, were presented over the nine days of the AWFF, held November 13 - 21. The ceremony was hosted by Kyrgyz director and actress Elnura Osmanalieva and TV host, Golden Globe member, filmmaker and actor Mico Saad . FOR PHOTOS: CLICK HERE The Main Competition presented a series of exclusive Snow Leopard Awards with the assistance of Iris Wang , Jury President, producer ("Kung Fu Yoga," "The Composer"). Crime/drama " Abang Adik " ( Malaysia ), directed by Jin Ong , won the Snow Leopard Award for Best Film . The film also won the Snow Leopard Best Actor Award for Wu Kang -ren . The Snow Leopard for Best Actress went to Diamond Bou Abboud for the social dramedy "Arze" ( Lebanon ), directed by Mira Shaib . The Snow Leopard Special Jury Prize went to family drama " In the Arms of the Tree" ( Iran ) directed by Babak Khajeh Pasha . The Snow Leopard Panavision Award for Best Cinematography , along with a $45,000 Panavision Camera Package Grant, was awarded to cinematographer Zhanrbek Yeleubek for Kazakhstan's coming of age drama " Bauryna Salu, " and accepted by the film's director Askhat Kuchinchirekov and producer Dias Feld. The Snow Leopard Audience Award went to " The Glassworker " ( Pakistan ), directed by Usman Riaz . Writer, director and producer Sergei Bodrov ("Mongol," "Prisoner of the Mountains") received the AWFF Lifetime Achievement Award . The award was presented by Kazakhstan actress Ayanat Ksenbai ("About Mannequin"). Hong Kong filmmaker Peter Ho-Sun Chan ("Warlords," "Comrades: Almost a Love Story ") was presented with the Outstanding Cinematic Achievement Award by producer Andre Morgan ("The Cannonball Run," "The Warlords"). The Rising Star Award went to Filipino actress Kathryn Bernardo ("The Hows of Us," "Hello, Love, Goodbye") presented by actress Kieu Chinh ("The Joy Luck Club," "Hamburger Hill"). Executive Director Georges N. Chamchoum said, "There is always a beginning and end to everything—except at the Asian World Film Festival. This 10 th Anniversary year was filled with inspiring milestones, discovery, joy, and thrills! The myriads of movies we screened, the special country spotlights and the dedicated filmmaker panels, have brought the richness of our heritage to the forefront. Asia is a wellspring of incredibly talented filmmakers, offering valuable lessons, especially in this age of technology. The AWFF continues to showcase exceptional movies filled with heart, soul, and captivating storytelling. Onward to November 2025!" The Bruce Lee Award , in partnership with the Bruce Lee Foundation, was presented to martial artist and actor Mark Dacascos ("Brotherhood of the Wolf," " John Wick : Chapter 3 – Parabellum") by Lee's daughter Shannon Lee , CEO of the Bruce Lee Foundation. The Asian Vision Best Film Award was given to "Night Courier" ( Saudi Arabia ), directed by Ali Kalthami. The Short Film Jury composed of filmmakers and industry professionals from the U.S. and abroad, was headed by Jury President, Head of HDR Content Workflow, Barco) Joachim Zell . The Best Short Film , with a prize of a $15,000 Panavision Camera Package grant, went to " Lullaby" (UK/ Vietnam ) directed by Chi Thai . The award was presented by producer Zhu Xufang and accepted by actress Mai Thu Huyen ("A Fragile Flower," "Kieu"). A Special Mention was given to " Mar Mama " (Palestine), directed by Majdi El Omari . The complete awards list is as follows: SNOW LEOPARD COMPETITION AWARDEES Best Picture : " Abang Adik " ( Malaysia ) directed by Jin Ong Best Actor: Wu Kang -ren in " Abang Adik " ( Malaysia ) Best Actress: Diamond Bou Abboud in "Arze" ( Lebanon ) Panavision Best Cinematography: Zhanrbek Yeleubek for "Bauryna Salu" ( Kazakhstan ) Special Jury Prize: " In the Arms of the Tree" ( Iran ) directed by Babak Khajeh Pasha Audience Award: " The Glassworker" ( Pakistan ) directed by Usman Riaz SNOW LEOPARD HONORARY AWARDS Lifetime Achievement Award – Sergei Bodrov Outstanding Cinematic Achievement – Peter Ho-Sun Chan Rising Star Award – Kathryn Bernardo ASIAN VISION BEST FILM AWARD: "Night Courier" ( Saudi Arabia ) directed by Ali Kalthami AWFF BRUCE LEE AWARD (in partnership with the Bruce Lee Foundation) Mark Dacascos SHORT FILM FINALISTS Best Short Film: " Lullaby" (UK/ Vietnam ) directed by Chi Thai Special Mention: " Mar Mama " (Palestine) directed by Majdi El Omari The AWFF series of Snow Leopard Awards is bestowed in partnership with The Snow Leopard Trust to raise awareness for the endangered snow leopard and their Asian ecosystem. AWFF SPONSORS The Asian World Film Festival is proudly sponsored by Aitysh Film, Pechanga Casino Resort, Panavision, Bruce Lee Foundation, Korean Cultural Center ( Los Angeles ), Korean Film Council (KOFIC), Taiwan Academy ( Los Angeles ), Hollywood Arab Film Association ( Los Angeles ), Vietnam Cinema Association ( Hanoi, Vietnam ), Hong Kong Economic & Trade Office, Kyrgyz Film, Ministry of Culture & Tourism Republic of Turkiye, Directorate General of Cinema (Turkiye), Republic of Turkiye Los Angeles Consulate General, Beirut Film Association ( Lebanon ), Meihodo ( Japan ), MoRedii, Culver City Arts Foundation, CAPE ( Los Angeles ), AARP ( California ), Blackmagic Design, Emporium Thai ( Los Angeles ), NAMOO ( Marina Del Rey ), Jackson Market & Deli (Culver City, Shin Beijing ( Los Angeles ), H.C. Foods and Asahi Beer , among many others. ABOUT THE ASIAN WORLD FILM FESTIVAL (AWFF) Celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2024, the Asian World Film Festival (AWFF) was founded by Kyrgyz public figure Sadyk Sher-Niyaz to bring the best of Asian cinema to Los Angeles and to strengthen ties between the Asian and Hollywood film industries. The festival screens feature films from more than 50 countries, spanning from Japan to Turkey and Russia to India and Southeast Asia . As of 2024, AWFF is the only Los Angeles -based festival that showcases most Asian submissions Academy Award ® and Golden Globe ® for Best International Feature Film and Best Motion Picture - Non-English Language respectively. AWFF is a non-profit organization under Aitysh USA . Follow AWFF on: Website: https://www.asianworldfilmfest.org/ X (formally Twitter): https://twitter.com/asianworldff Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AsianWorldFilmFest Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/asianworldff/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@asianworldfilmfestival3974 Media Contact: Rick Markovitz 818-421-3334 386812@email4pr.com View original content to download multimedia: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/10th-annual-asian-world-film-festival-announces-winners-at-closing-night-gala-302314470.html SOURCE Asian World Film Festival © 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.