Ever since typing has replaced handwriting cursive seems to have lost its charm. But US lawmakers are trying to revive it. California has made cursive writing mandatory for public school students from first through sixth grade.

Gravitas: Should cursive be compulsory in schools?

A massive black bear entered the crawlspace of a woman's house in California. When it did not budge and refused to move, the woman had to get creative to make it leave.

A massive black bear entered the crawlspace of a woman's house in California. When it did not budge and refused to move, the woman had to get creative to make it leave. Tina Herzog told CNN, "I went into the basement with my flashlight, it's eyes shone right at me." The several hundred-pound bear first showed up at her house at 04:30 am, as captured by their ring camera. Herzog said when it seemed to linger around, she knew it was trouble. "When I came out at dawn, I saw the crawlspace window was torn off. And I said, 'Oh no! The bear is in there,'" she said. Herzog tried everything to make the unwanted visitor leave, but nothing worked. She turned on the flashlight at the bear and said, "What are you doing? Out, out, and out! Bad bear." She even pleaded with him to get out of the crawlspace and made all sorts of noise to do so. "I even had my leaf bowler. Took it down and turned it on. Didn't work," Herzog told CNN. Herzog and her family members filmed the bear every few hours. ALSO READ | India: IAS officer shares image of new species of butterfly discovered in Western Ghats Although the bear was crammed up, it was comfortable. It was sitting calmly in the shallow, unfinished space below the first floor, open to the stairs leading upstairs. Herzog said, "I moved food I had in the pantry out because I know they have a really strong sense of smell. Hopefully that helps and hopefully it doesn't decide to come upstairs." After trying everything, Animal Control suggested Herzog use mothballs. She threw mothballs into the crawlspace to shoo the bear away, prompting it to creep out immediately. Mothballs are small balls of chemical pesticide and deodorant used to kill moths and protect clothing from other fibre insects. Herzog said, "I don't know what woke this one up and decided to come over here. Yeah, I've heard of it happening before. But I just thought, 'Why me?'" According to Animal Control, the bear might've been sick or hurt, which would've caused him to get inside the crawlspace. (With inputs from agencies)

US: Bear enters crawlspace in woman’s house; here’s what she did to get rid of it

Data revealed California police have stopped and searched black residents and Native Americans the most compared to all racial groups & white residents.

California police's racial bias revealed

Several more States in the United States are implementing gun safety laws known as red flag laws. California, Illinois and Colorado mark the New Year by implementing extreme risk protection orders also known as red flag laws.

US: California to ban guns in most public places

Faced with nearly 100 lawsuits related to decades-old sex abuse claims, the Roman Catholic organisation, Franciscan Friars of California, has filed for bankruptcy.

In a statement, the California-based organisation devoted to helping the poor said it was driven to bankruptcy by a California state law that has enabled sexual abuse victims to file complaints over decade-old incidents. Previously, such complaints were time-barred under the state's statute of limitations, reports Reuters.

<h2>Sexual abuse lawsuits against the organisation</h2>

The Franciscan Friars of California faces 94 lawsuits, most of which have been filed in the western US state of California.&nbsp;

All these lawsuits, as per the group, are based on abuse that allegedly dates back at least 27 years. On Tuesday, the Franciscan Friars of California said that most of the friars accused in these lawsuits are deceased and the six who are still alive are no longer associated with the organisation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-16-year-old-girl-gang-raped-virtually-in-metaverse-police-begins-investigation-676094">UK: 16-year-old girl "gang-raped" virtually in metaverse, police begins investigation</a>

"I am deeply saddened by the sinful acts committed, and the damage caused to abuse survivors — then only children — who put their trust in friars," said Provincial minister Father David Gaa in a statement.

As per Gaa, even if "no apology or any amount of financial compensation can reverse the harm," the bankruptcy would allow the organisation to fairly compensate survivors of abuse.

<h2>Roman catholic organisations and bankruptcy</h2>

The Franciscan Friars of California is one of many Roman Catholic organisations that in recent days have filed for bankruptcy to address sexual abuse lawsuits.&nbsp;

According to Bloomberg News, in 2023, previously Diocese of Santa Rosa, the Archdiocese of San Francisco and the Diocese of Oakland filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/investigations-start-as-charred-japan-airlines-parts-lie-on-tarmac-676084" hreflang="en">Investigations start as charred Japan Airlines parts lie&nbsp;on&nbsp;tarmac</a>

&nbsp;

In its bankruptcy filing from Dec 31,&nbsp;2023, the friars said it has between $1 million and $10 million in assets, while its liabilities are between $10 million and $50 million.

The organisation is known for operating the St. Anthony Foundation in San Francisco's Tenderloin district. There it provides food, clothing, and addiction counselling to those in need. As per the group's spokesperson, its work at the St. Anthony Foundation or elsewhere will not be affected by the bankruptcy filing.

(With inputs from agencies)

Faced with nearly 100 lawsuits related to decades-old sex abuse claims, the Roman Catholic organisation, Franciscan Friars of California, has filed for bankruptcy.

Faced with nearly 100 lawsuits related to decades-old sex abuse claims, the Roman Catholic organisation, Franciscan Friars of California, has filed for bankruptcy. In a statement, the California-based organisation devoted to helping the poor said it was driven to bankruptcy by a California state law that has enabled sexual abuse victims to file complaints over decade-old incidents. Previously, such complaints were time-barred under the state's statute of limitations, reports Reuters. Sexual abuse lawsuits against the organisation The Franciscan Friars of California faces 94 lawsuits, most of which have been filed in the western US state of California. All these lawsuits, as per the group, are based on abuse that allegedly dates back at least 27 years. On Tuesday, the Franciscan Friars of California said that most of the friars accused in these lawsuits are deceased and the six who are still alive are no longer associated with the organisation. Also read | UK: 16-year-old girl "gang-raped" virtually in metaverse, police begins investigation "I am deeply saddened by the sinful acts committed, and the damage caused to abuse survivors — then only children — who put their trust in friars," said Provincial minister Father David Gaa in a statement. As per Gaa, even if "no apology or any amount of financial compensation can reverse the harm," the bankruptcy would allow the organisation to fairly compensate survivors of abuse. Roman catholic organisations and bankruptcy The Franciscan Friars of California is one of many Roman Catholic organisations that in recent days have filed for bankruptcy to address sexual abuse lawsuits. According to Bloomberg News, in 2023, previously Diocese of Santa Rosa, the Archdiocese of San Francisco and the Diocese of Oakland filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Also read | Investigations start as charred Japan Airlines parts lie on tarmac In its bankruptcy filing from Dec 31, 2023, the friars said it has between $1 million and $10 million in assets, while its liabilities are between $10 million and $50 million. The organisation is known for operating the St. Anthony Foundation in San Francisco's Tenderloin district. There it provides food, clothing, and addiction counselling to those in need. As per the group's spokesperson, its work at the St. Anthony Foundation or elsewhere will not be affected by the bankruptcy filing. (With inputs from agencies)

Sexual abuse lawsuits drive Roman Catholic organisation Franciscan Friars of California to file bankruptcy

The world is facing alarming climate challenges. In California, massive waves signal oceanic disturbances, while in India, Delhi NCR's vanishing winters hint at global warming's impact. New Zealand's battle with a rat infestation, spurred by extreme weather, highlights biodiversity threats. These diverse yet interconnected incidents highlight the urgent need for global action to restore our environmental balance.

Gravitas | From California's waves to India's winters: Climate emergencies demand action

Elon Musk's X, formerly Twitter, on Thursday failed in its bid to block a California state law that makes it mandatory for social media companies to publicly disclose how they moderate content on their platforms.

In September, Musk's microblogging platform sued California seeking to undo the content moderation law, however, a judge dismissed the request.

<h2>The law and X's argument against it</h2>

California's content moderation law requires social media companies with a sizeable gross annual revenue to issue semi-annual reports describing their content moderation practices. It also requires them to provide data on the number of objectionable posts moderated and how they were addressed.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-surge-in-pet-surgeries-to-resemble-mickey-mouse-ears-raises-alarms-674446">Concerns mount as China witnesses surge in pet surgeries to mimic 'Mickey Mouse ears'</a>

However, the social media website argues that the California law infringes upon its free speech rights under the US Constitution's First Amendment and California's state constitution.

<h2>The Judge's ruling</h2>

In the eight-page decision, US District Judge William Shubb dismissed X's request and said: "While the reporting requirement does appear to place a substantial compliance burden on social media companies, it does not appear that the requirement is unjustified or unduly burdensome within the context of First Amendment law."

Shubb, as per Reuters, also held the "terms of service" requirement as integral and said that their presence could be a major deciding factor for users.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/microsofts-steve-ballmer-to-be-paid-usd-1-billion-in-2024-for-doing-nothing-674491">Microsoft's Steve Ballmer to be paid USD 1 billion in 2024 for 'doing nothing': Report</a>

The "terms of service requirement" mandates a social media company to post the contact information users can use to ask questions about terms of service. A description of the process users must follow to flag content; and a list of potential actions the platform may take against objectionable content or the user posting it.&nbsp;

Following the start of the ongoing war in the Middle East between Israel and Hamas, social media platforms, including X were flooded with fake images and misleading information.

Since Elon Musk's takeover of the social media giant in October 2022, X has been under fire for its moderation rules. Many major advertisers have even paused their advertisements on the platform due to this.&nbsp;

Elon Musk's X, formerly Twitter, on Thursday failed in its bid to block a California state law that makes it mandatory for social media companies to publicly disclose how they moderate content on their platforms.

Elon Musk's X, formerly Twitter, on Thursday failed in its bid to block a California state law that makes it mandatory for social media companies to publicly disclose how they moderate content on their platforms. In September, Musk's microblogging platform sued California seeking to undo the content moderation law, however, a judge dismissed the request. The law and X's argument against it California's content moderation law requires social media companies with a sizeable gross annual revenue to issue semi-annual reports describing their content moderation practices. It also requires them to provide data on the number of objectionable posts moderated and how they were addressed. Also read | Concerns mount as China witnesses surge in pet surgeries to mimic 'Mickey Mouse ears' However, the social media website argues that the California law infringes upon its free speech rights under the US Constitution's First Amendment and California's state constitution. The Judge's ruling In the eight-page decision, US District Judge William Shubb dismissed X's request and said: "While the reporting requirement does appear to place a substantial compliance burden on social media companies, it does not appear that the requirement is unjustified or unduly burdensome within the context of First Amendment law." Shubb, as per Reuters, also held the "terms of service" requirement as integral and said that their presence could be a major deciding factor for users. Also read | Microsoft's Steve Ballmer to be paid USD 1 billion in 2024 for 'doing nothing': Report The "terms of service requirement" mandates a social media company to post the contact information users can use to ask questions about terms of service. A description of the process users must follow to flag content; and a list of potential actions the platform may take against objectionable content or the user posting it. Following the start of the ongoing war in the Middle East between Israel and Hamas, social media platforms, including X were flooded with fake images and misleading information. Since Elon Musk's takeover of the social media giant in October 2022, X has been under fire for its moderation rules. Many major advertisers have even paused their advertisements on the platform due to this.

Elon Musk's X fails in its bid to block California's content moderation law

An Indian couple in the US state of California was robbed and assaulted by a group of thieves last week. The robbers allegedly followed the couple to their home and struck when the pair pulled up in the driveway.&nbsp;

Priyanka Wali, a Kashmiri Pandit-American and daughter of the couple took to social media to share the CCTV footage of the incident and narrated how her parents went through the terrifying ordeal.&nbsp;

“On December 22nd at 7:48 PM in Fullerton, CA my father Dr&nbsp;Vijay Wali was assaulted and my mother Dr Wali Jyotika’s purse was stolen containing jewellery and ancestral heirlooms after they returned from the jewellery store in Cerritos. This is calculated organised crime, robbery and assault,” Priyanka recounted.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
**CRIME ALERT UPDATE** New footage shows my parents were FOLLOWED for over 16 miles by a Black Honda Odyssey with tinted windows from the jewelry store in Little India Artesia to Fullerton where robbery &amp; assault was committed in their driveway please share if you have any info <a href="https://t.co/n9o5F70M6z">pic.twitter.com/n9o5F70M6z</a>
— Priyanka Wali, MD (@WaliPriyanka) <a href="https://twitter.com/WaliPriyanka/status/1738800304538398945?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

According to Priyanka, her parents had gone jewellery shopping when the thieves laid a marker upon them. The couple in their white Tesla was followed by a black Honda Odyssey with a tinted window for over 16 miles. The robbers were joined by another white car in the middle and later the thieves from both cars combined to commit the robbery.&nbsp;

In one of the footage, Vijay Wali could be seen getting assaulted by one of the robbers as he attempted to make a dash to save his wife.&nbsp;

"The person who assaulted my father was speaking Spanish saying "quitaselo, quitaselo" which roughly means "take it from her, take it from her" in referring to my mother's purse. Please share widely so we can find this person," Priyanka said.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
**NEW FOOTAGE WITH AUDIO**: The person who assaulted my father was speaking Spanish saying "quitaselo, quitaselo" which roughly means "take it from her, take it from her" in referring to my mother's purse. Please share widely so we can find this person <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/fullerton?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#fullerton</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/crimealert?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#crimealert</a> <a href="https://t.co/oxtAJYitFr">pic.twitter.com/oxtAJYitFr</a>
— Priyanka Wali, MD (@WaliPriyanka) <a href="https://twitter.com/WaliPriyanka/status/1738615563398848566?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chicago-news-crew-reporting-on-robberies-gets-robbed-630766">Watch |&nbsp;Chicago news crew reporting on robberies gets robbed</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/chicago-news-crew-reporting-on-robberies-gets-robbed-630766/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

According to reports, the thieves took away the treasured family heirlooms known as&nbsp;dejhoor, which are long earrings with unique hexagon pendants that symbolise marriage.

"I mean, that's ancestral jewellery that's been in our family for so long and it's priceless. That's really the most important thing that we want back," Priyanka was quoted as saying by ABC7.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/1989-neelkanth-ganjoo-murder-case-fresh-probe-into-killing-of-kashmiri-pandit-judge-623247">Also read |&nbsp;1989 Neelkanth Ganjoo murder case: Fresh probe into killing of Kashmiri Pandit judge</a>

Notably, the Walis, both doctors have served Orange County for the last 35 years but the incident has left a deep imprint on them, with the family&nbsp;fearful of security within the community.

The authorities have launched an investigation and are using the multiple security camera surveillance videos to track down the thieves.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

An Indian couple in the US state of California was robbed and assaulted by a group of thieves last week. The robbers allegedly followed the couple to their home and struck when the pair pulled up in the driveway.

An Indian couple in the US state of California was robbed and assaulted by a group of thieves last week. The robbers allegedly followed the couple to their home and struck when the pair pulled up in the driveway. Priyanka Wali, a Kashmiri Pandit-American and daughter of the couple took to social media to share the CCTV footage of the incident and narrated how her parents went through the terrifying ordeal. “On December 22nd at 7:48 PM in Fullerton, CA my father Dr Vijay Wali was assaulted and my mother Dr Wali Jyotika’s purse was stolen containing jewellery and ancestral heirlooms after they returned from the jewellery store in Cerritos. This is calculated organised crime, robbery and assault,” Priyanka recounted. **CRIME ALERT UPDATE** New footage shows my parents were FOLLOWED for over 16 miles by a Black Honda Odyssey with tinted windows from the jewelry store in Little India Artesia to Fullerton where robbery & assault was committed in their driveway please share if you have any info pic.twitter.com/n9o5F70M6z — Priyanka Wali, MD (@WaliPriyanka) December 24, 2023 × According to Priyanka, her parents had gone jewellery shopping when the thieves laid a marker upon them. The couple in their white Tesla was followed by a black Honda Odyssey with a tinted window for over 16 miles. The robbers were joined by another white car in the middle and later the thieves from both cars combined to commit the robbery. In one of the footage, Vijay Wali could be seen getting assaulted by one of the robbers as he attempted to make a dash to save his wife. "The person who assaulted my father was speaking Spanish saying "quitaselo, quitaselo" which roughly means "take it from her, take it from her" in referring to my mother's purse. Please share widely so we can find this person," Priyanka said. **NEW FOOTAGE WITH AUDIO**: The person who assaulted my father was speaking Spanish saying "quitaselo, quitaselo" which roughly means "take it from her, take it from her" in referring to my mother's purse. Please share widely so we can find this person #fullerton #crimealert pic.twitter.com/oxtAJYitFr — Priyanka Wali, MD (@WaliPriyanka) December 23, 2023 × Watch | Chicago news crew reporting on robberies gets robbed × According to reports, the thieves took away the treasured family heirlooms known as dejhoor, which are long earrings with unique hexagon pendants that symbolise marriage. "I mean, that's ancestral jewellery that's been in our family for so long and it's priceless. That's really the most important thing that we want back," Priyanka was quoted as saying by ABC7. Also read | 1989 Neelkanth Ganjoo murder case: Fresh probe into killing of Kashmiri Pandit judge Notably, the Walis, both doctors have served Orange County for the last 35 years but the incident has left a deep imprint on them, with the family fearful of security within the community. The authorities have launched an investigation and are using the multiple security camera surveillance videos to track down the thieves. (With inputs from agencies)

Video | Kashmiri Pandit-American couple robbed, assaulted in their driveway

The United States on Saturday (Dec 23) condemned the vandalism of the Shri Swaminarayan Temple in California further welcoming the Newark Police Department's efforts to make sure that the ones behind the act are held accountable.

The US State Department for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs took to its official X handle and wrote, "We condemn the vandalism of Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Hindu Temple in California. We welcome efforts by the Newark Police Department to ensure that those responsible are held accountable."

This came after suspected pro-Khalistan activists allegedly defaced the Hindu temple in California's Newark, said the local police further adding that the incident was brought to their notice on Friday (Dec 22).

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
We condemn the vandalism of Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Hindu Temple in California. We welcome efforts by the Newark Police Department to ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
— State_SCA (@State_SCA) <a href="https://twitter.com/State_SCA/status/1738561928396505123?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

The exterior walls of the temple were defaced with anti-India graffiti.

<h2>Consulate General of India in San Francisco condemns defacement</h2>

The Consulate General of India in San Francisco has condemned&nbsp;the act and called for an immediate probe into the matter by the US authorities.

In a post shared on X, the Consulate General of India in San Francisco stated, "We strongly condemn the defacing of SMVS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir at Newark, California with anti-India graffiti. This incident has hurt the sentiments of the Indian community. We have pressed for quick investigation and prompt action against the vandals by the US authorities in this matter."

The Newark Police Service has started&nbsp;a probe into the matter.

As per the temple administration, the vandalism took place on Thursday night.

"One of the devotees, who lives close to the shrine, discovered anti-Hindu and anti-India graffiti in black ink on an exterior wall of the building, and the local administration was immediately informed," news agency ANI quoted Bhargav Raval, the spokesperson for the temple administration as saying.

The spokesperson revealed that the temple authorities were extremely shocked to find the anti-Indian graffiti on its wall.

Sharing more details regarding the incident, Jonathan Arguello, a police captain for the city of Newark, said the 'targeted act' was being probed.

"Based on the graffiti, we believe it was a targeted act, and it's going to be investigated with full thoroughness. I can also tell you that as a member of the Newark Police Department and the Newark community, we're deeply saddened when these types of acts occur, and we think they're senseless and they have no room. We won't tolerate them here in Newark. So today, I wanted to make sure that you understand how seriously we take these situations and know that we will investigate as thoroughly as possible with utmost care and sensitivity. I can also tell you that officers are currently investigating this via evidence collection," the captain told reporters during a press conference.

He also said that the authorities were picking up clues leading to the incident and that the footage from CCTV surveillance cameras was also being looked into.

"Our policies that any acts of violence or threats of violence, property damage, harassment, intimidation, or other crimes motivated by hate or bias are considered very serious and given the utmost care. We're handling this investigation as a hate crime at this point, based on our conversations with you and the physical evidence we've seen," said Arguello.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The United States on Saturday (Dec 23) condemned the vandalism of the Shri Swaminarayan Temple in California further welcoming the Newark Police Department's efforts to make sure that the ones behind the act are held accountable.

The United States on Saturday (Dec 23) condemned the vandalism of the Shri Swaminarayan Temple in California further welcoming the Newark Police Department's efforts to make sure that the ones behind the act are held accountable. The US State Department for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs took to its official X handle and wrote, "We condemn the vandalism of Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Hindu Temple in California. We welcome efforts by the Newark Police Department to ensure that those responsible are held accountable." This came after suspected pro-Khalistan activists allegedly defaced the Hindu temple in California's Newark, said the local police further adding that the incident was brought to their notice on Friday (Dec 22). We condemn the vandalism of Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Hindu Temple in California. We welcome efforts by the Newark Police Department to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. — State_SCA (@State_SCA) December 23, 2023 × The exterior walls of the temple were defaced with anti-India graffiti. Consulate General of India in San Francisco condemns defacement The Consulate General of India in San Francisco has condemned the act and called for an immediate probe into the matter by the US authorities. In a post shared on X, the Consulate General of India in San Francisco stated, "We strongly condemn the defacing of SMVS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir at Newark, California with anti-India graffiti. This incident has hurt the sentiments of the Indian community. We have pressed for quick investigation and prompt action against the vandals by the US authorities in this matter." The Newark Police Service has started a probe into the matter. As per the temple administration, the vandalism took place on Thursday night. "One of the devotees, who lives close to the shrine, discovered anti-Hindu and anti-India graffiti in black ink on an exterior wall of the building, and the local administration was immediately informed," news agency ANI quoted Bhargav Raval, the spokesperson for the temple administration as saying. The spokesperson revealed that the temple authorities were extremely shocked to find the anti-Indian graffiti on its wall. Sharing more details regarding the incident, Jonathan Arguello, a police captain for the city of Newark, said the 'targeted act' was being probed. "Based on the graffiti, we believe it was a targeted act, and it's going to be investigated with full thoroughness. I can also tell you that as a member of the Newark Police Department and the Newark community, we're deeply saddened when these types of acts occur, and we think they're senseless and they have no room. We won't tolerate them here in Newark. So today, I wanted to make sure that you understand how seriously we take these situations and know that we will investigate as thoroughly as possible with utmost care and sensitivity. I can also tell you that officers are currently investigating this via evidence collection," the captain told reporters during a press conference. He also said that the authorities were picking up clues leading to the incident and that the footage from CCTV surveillance cameras was also being looked into. "Our policies that any acts of violence or threats of violence, property damage, harassment, intimidation, or other crimes motivated by hate or bias are considered very serious and given the utmost care. We're handling this investigation as a hate crime at this point, based on our conversations with you and the physical evidence we've seen," said Arguello. (With inputs from agencies)

United States condemns vandalism of Swaminarayan Temple in California

Authorities in California said on Wednesday that a body was found in the trunk of a burning vehicle, NBC reported.&nbsp;

In a statement, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said on Thursday that firefighters responded shortly after 8:30 am (local time) to a garage on fire at a home in Quartz Hill.&nbsp;

According to the department, firefighters found the burned body of a female in the trunk of a vehicle in the garage.&nbsp;

The sheriff's department said that the county medical examiner has not identified the woman yet.

The department said that no arrests have been made in the case so far, and no one has been identified as a suspect.&nbsp;

According to the department, Matthew Switalski, who is the owner of the home where the burning vehicle was found, has been identified as a person of interest and is "wanted only for questioning at this time".&nbsp;

The medical examiner was unable to comment Thursday afternoon.&nbsp;

The cause and manner of death will also be determined by the medical examiner.&nbsp;

Authorities in California said on Wednesday that a body was found in the trunk of a burning vehicle, NBC reported. In a statement, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said on Thursday that firefighters responded shortly after 8:30 am (local time) to a garage on fire at a home in Quartz Hill.

Authorities in California said on Wednesday that a body was found in the trunk of a burning vehicle, NBC reported. In a statement, the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said on Thursday that firefighters responded shortly after 8:30 am (local time) to a garage on fire at a home in Quartz Hill. According to the department, firefighters found the burned body of a female in the trunk of a vehicle in the garage. The sheriff's department said that the county medical examiner has not identified the woman yet. The department said that no arrests have been made in the case so far, and no one has been identified as a suspect. According to the department, Matthew Switalski, who is the owner of the home where the burning vehicle was found, has been identified as a person of interest and is "wanted only for questioning at this time". The medical examiner was unable to comment Thursday afternoon. The cause and manner of death will also be determined by the medical examiner.

California: Woman's body found in trunk of burning car

A Hindu temple was defaced with pro-Khalistani slogans in California, US. The incident happened in Newark city. India's Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar says that an investigation is due. Keep watching to know more.

US: California Hindu temple defaced with Pro-Khalistani slogans

In a groundbreaking study, scientists exploring Southern California's Salton Sea, the state's largest lake, have unearthed a staggering lithium reservoir worth an estimated $540 billion. The 'white gold' discovery comes as a game-changer, positioning the United States as a potential leader in lithium production.

This newfound abundance has the potential to supply batteries for over 382 million electric vehicles, propelling the US&nbsp;into a prominent role in the global lithium market.

Governor Gavin Newsom's prior description of Salton Lake as the "Saudi Arabia of lithium" now aligns with reality, as the lake emerges as the largest lithium source globally.

This discovery holds significant implications for energy storage, electric vehicle production, and reducing dependence on foreign lithium imports.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/experts-say-indias-huge-lithium-discovery-can-be-a-boon-for-worlds-white-gold-quest-heres-how-561961">Also read |&nbsp;Experts say India's huge lithium discovery can be a boon for world's 'white gold' quest, here's how</a>

<h2>Challenges in extracting 'white gold'</h2>

While the lithium reservoir is promising, the extraction process presents challenges.

Using&nbsp;geothermal production wells, researchers must carefully manage the process to prevent environmental impact and address potential concerns for the 180,000 residents residing in proximity to the Salton Sea, according to Indy100.

The extraction process also poses questions about water usage and potential effects on the region's water supply from the Colorado River.

The environmental and social considerations underscore the need for responsible extraction practices. As the extraction process unfolds, it must navigate the delicate balance between harnessing the economic potential of the lithium reservoir and safeguarding the well-being of nearby residents and the region's water supply.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Portuguese PM Resigns over lithium deal probe

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-portuguese-pm-resigns-over-lithium-deal-probe-656684/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The lithium reservoir's successful extraction could revolutionise the energy landscape, supplying a significant volume of batteries for the expanding electric vehicle market.

This discovery also aligns with broader sustainability goals, offering the potential for the United States to secure its lithium self-sufficiency and contribute to the global shift toward cleaner energy.

(With inputs from agencies)

In a groundbreaking study, scientists exploring Southern California's Salton Sea, the state's largest lake, have unearthed a staggering lithium reservoir worth an estimated $540 billion.

In a groundbreaking study, scientists exploring Southern California's Salton Sea, the state's largest lake, have unearthed a staggering lithium reservoir worth an estimated $540 billion. The 'white gold' discovery comes as a game-changer, positioning the United States as a potential leader in lithium production. This newfound abundance has the potential to supply batteries for over 382 million electric vehicles, propelling the US into a prominent role in the global lithium market. Governor Gavin Newsom's prior description of Salton Lake as the "Saudi Arabia of lithium" now aligns with reality, as the lake emerges as the largest lithium source globally. This discovery holds significant implications for energy storage, electric vehicle production, and reducing dependence on foreign lithium imports. Also read | Experts say India's huge lithium discovery can be a boon for world's 'white gold' quest, here's how Challenges in extracting 'white gold' While the lithium reservoir is promising, the extraction process presents challenges. Using geothermal production wells, researchers must carefully manage the process to prevent environmental impact and address potential concerns for the 180,000 residents residing in proximity to the Salton Sea, according to Indy100. The extraction process also poses questions about water usage and potential effects on the region's water supply from the Colorado River. The environmental and social considerations underscore the need for responsible extraction practices. As the extraction process unfolds, it must navigate the delicate balance between harnessing the economic potential of the lithium reservoir and safeguarding the well-being of nearby residents and the region's water supply. Also watch | Gravitas: Portuguese PM Resigns over lithium deal probe The lithium reservoir's successful extraction could revolutionise the energy landscape, supplying a significant volume of batteries for the expanding electric vehicle market. This discovery also aligns with broader sustainability goals, offering the potential for the United States to secure its lithium self-sufficiency and contribute to the global shift toward cleaner energy. (With inputs from agencies)

Scientists find massive $540bn lithium deposit at bottom of US lake, and this could be a real game-changer

A jogger in the US state of California has been charged after he allegedly filmed himself fatally shooting a homeless man who was blocking the sidewalk, said the prosecutors announcing the charges against the man.&nbsp;

<h2>What happened?</h2>

The suspect identified as 68-year-old Craig Sumner Elliott was jogging in the afternoon of September 28 with his two dogs in Garden Grove, California when he encountered Antonio García Avalos, 40, who was sleeping in the middle of the sidewalk, said the prosecutors in Orange county.&nbsp;

Elliot who had a pushcart with him used it to nudge Avalos in an attempt to wake him and get around him, as per the news release. Subsequently, the 40-year-old began yelling at the 68-year-old to leave him alone.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-three-students-of-palestinian-descent-shot-in-suspected-hate-crime-police-investigate-663175">US: Suspect arrested for shooting 3 students of Palestinian descent in possible 'hate-motivated crime'</a>

Elliot who had supposedly been filming the entire encounter, the video of which was released by the authorities, shows Avalos standing up and throwing a shoe at Elliot, who then ducks to avoid the shoe.

Subsequently, according to the police statement, the video shows Elliot shooting Avalos three times. The 40-year-old later succumbed to his injuries.&nbsp;

“This is a tragic set of circumstances that unfolded in the worst possible way over a minor inconvenience of a blocked sidewalk, and a man is dead as a result,” the Orange County district attorney, Todd Spitzer, said in a news release.

He added, “This case is a stark reminder that taking the law into your own hands is never the answer and that there are consequences for your actions.”

<h2>Charges against Elliot</h2>

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/shooting-at-shopping-mall-near-kansas-city-wounds-three-one-person-critical-657470">US: Shooting at shopping mall near Kansas City leaves three wounded, one critical</a>

The 68-year-old has been charged with voluntary manslaughter and a felony personal firearm use enhancement for the fatal shooting. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 21 years in state prison, according to the district attorney.

Elliot was arrested on November 17 on a warrant by the Garden Grove Police Department and was released three days later after posting a $100,000 bail. The 68-year-old is scheduled to be arraigned on December 15.

(With inputs from agencies)

A jogger in the US state of California has been charged after he allegedly filmed himself fatally shooting a homeless man who was blocking the sidewalk, said the prosecutors announcing the charges against the man.

A jogger in the US state of California has been charged after he allegedly filmed himself fatally shooting a homeless man who was blocking the sidewalk, said the prosecutors announcing the charges against the man. What happened? The suspect identified as 68-year-old Craig Sumner Elliott was jogging in the afternoon of September 28 with his two dogs in Garden Grove, California when he encountered Antonio García Avalos, 40, who was sleeping in the middle of the sidewalk, said the prosecutors in Orange county. Elliot who had a pushcart with him used it to nudge Avalos in an attempt to wake him and get around him, as per the news release. Subsequently, the 40-year-old began yelling at the 68-year-old to leave him alone. ALSO READ | US: Suspect arrested for shooting 3 students of Palestinian descent in possible 'hate-motivated crime' Elliot who had supposedly been filming the entire encounter, the video of which was released by the authorities, shows Avalos standing up and throwing a shoe at Elliot, who then ducks to avoid the shoe. Subsequently, according to the police statement, the video shows Elliot shooting Avalos three times. The 40-year-old later succumbed to his injuries. “This is a tragic set of circumstances that unfolded in the worst possible way over a minor inconvenience of a blocked sidewalk, and a man is dead as a result,” the Orange County district attorney, Todd Spitzer, said in a news release. He added, “This case is a stark reminder that taking the law into your own hands is never the answer and that there are consequences for your actions.” Charges against Elliot ALSO READ | US: Shooting at shopping mall near Kansas City leaves three wounded, one critical The 68-year-old has been charged with voluntary manslaughter and a felony personal firearm use enhancement for the fatal shooting. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 21 years in state prison, according to the district attorney. Elliot was arrested on November 17 on a warrant by the Garden Grove Police Department and was released three days later after posting a $100,000 bail. The 68-year-old is scheduled to be arraigned on December 15. (With inputs from agencies)

US: California jogger charged after he ‘filmed himself killing homeless man’ who blocked sidewalk

A court in California sentenced a male nanny to over 700 years in prison for sexually assaulting 16 young boys he was babysitting, as per the office of Orange County District Attorney.

A court in California sentenced a male nanny to over 700 years in prison for sexually assaulting 16 young boys he was babysitting, as per the office of Orange County District Attorney. The court found 34-year-old Matthew Antonio Zakrzewski guilty of dozens of charges, including sexually assaulting boys between two and 12 years of age. He was also found guilty of exposing his 17th victim to child pornography to sexually assault him. Zakrzewski's heinous crimes did not stop there. He filmed several of his crimes against the young children. The authorities initially charged him with three felony counts of lewd and lascivious conduct with a minor under 14, one felony count of oral copulation of a child under ten, and one felony count of child pornography. The district attorney's office reported that the crimes occurred between January 2014 and May 2019. The Laguna Beach police Department arrested Zakrzewski in May 2019 at a local airport after a couple filed a complaint against him for touching their eight-year-old son inappropriately. ALSO READ | Ohio woman charged after her toddler accidentally fires her gun at Walmart The investigators found more video evidence and tips against him during the probe. Zakrzewski had a website where he called himself the "original sitter buddy." He also portrayed himself as a manny, providing multiple services like mentorships, big brother relationships, and overnight and vacationing babysitting. In the court, the parents of the young victims expressed their anger towards Zakrewski through victim impact statements, narrating how he tricked them into gaining access to their children. A mother of a boy who fell victim to Zakrzewski's crimes described her pain in the court, saying she will never know how her little one should've turned out in the absence of the trauma of being sexually assaulted. The young boy was only two when Zakrzewski molested him. However, Zakrzewski did not show any remorse or apologise. Instead, he said, "I prided myself on bringing smiles to your children, and all the good times we shared were 100 per cent genuine." Several parents present in the court covered their ears and wept while he spoke. Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer said, "This monster disguised by smiles and giggles engaged in the most horrific and calculated manipulation to ensure he would continue to have unfettered access to what these parents cherish the most." He added, "These innocent little boys must bear a lifetime of trauma, and their parents will bear a lifetime of pain knowing that they put their precious children in the arms of an animal because they believed who he said he was." (With inputs from agencies)

Male nanny who sexually assaulted 16 young boys sentenced to over 700 years in prison

Wolves, which once thrived in California, are making their way back to the US state after the 2021 wildfires caused massive destruction in the area.

The Windy Fire, which tore through Tulare County in central California, burnt nearly 100,000 acres of land and levelled the dense forest. It supercharged the grass growth that provided food for the cattle.

This made it a perfect place for predators. Wolves that were hunted to extinction here almost 100 years ago have since reclaimed the land, as per a report by The Guardian.&nbsp;

A pack of wolves, that feast on cattle, is back in the area which has sparked a debate with some rejoicing on its arrival hoping to see wildlife return to its previous habitat, and others worried about the potential dangers it can cause for cattle ranchers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-joe-biden-first-lady-jill-biden-light-diya-on-occasion-of-diwali-658452">US President Joe Biden, First Lady Jill Biden light 'diya' on occasion of Diwali</a>

“You can’t kill a wolf even if it kills your cattle because wolves are federally protected,” The Guardian quoted William McDarment, a rancher on the Tule River Reservation in Tulare County, California as saying. “So, what do we do?”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sinkhole-discovered-under-iceland-town-sparks-fears-of-massive-volcanic-eruption-658283">Sinkhole under Iceland town adds to fears as locals brace for volcano eruption</a>

As per a study by the US Department of Agriculture, less than 4 per cent of cattle deaths were caused by wolves.&nbsp;

The study further found that the number of cattle deaths caused by predators in 2010 alone constituted nearly 5.5 per cent of all cattle deaths and led to a loss of approximately $98.5 million.

As per the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, gray wolves returned to California on their own after disappearing from the state in the 1920s as a result of hunting.

(With inputs from agencies)

Wolves, which once thrived in California, are making their way back to the US state after the 2021 wildfires caused massive destruction in the area. The Windy Fire, which tore through Tulare County in central California, burnt nearly 100,000 acres of land and levelled the dense forest.

Wolves, which once thrived in California, are making their way back to the US state after the 2021 wildfires caused massive destruction in the area. The Windy Fire, which tore through Tulare County in central California, burnt nearly 100,000 acres of land and levelled the dense forest. It supercharged the grass growth that provided food for the cattle. This made it a perfect place for predators. Wolves that were hunted to extinction here almost 100 years ago have since reclaimed the land, as per a report by The Guardian. A pack of wolves, that feast on cattle, is back in the area which has sparked a debate with some rejoicing on its arrival hoping to see wildlife return to its previous habitat, and others worried about the potential dangers it can cause for cattle ranchers. Also read: US President Joe Biden, First Lady Jill Biden light 'diya' on occasion of Diwali “You can’t kill a wolf even if it kills your cattle because wolves are federally protected,” The Guardian quoted William McDarment, a rancher on the Tule River Reservation in Tulare County, California as saying. “So, what do we do?” Also read: Sinkhole under Iceland town adds to fears as locals brace for volcano eruption As per a study by the US Department of Agriculture, less than 4 per cent of cattle deaths were caused by wolves. The study further found that the number of cattle deaths caused by predators in 2010 alone constituted nearly 5.5 per cent of all cattle deaths and led to a loss of approximately $98.5 million. As per the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, gray wolves returned to California on their own after disappearing from the state in the 1920s as a result of hunting. (With inputs from agencies)

Wolves on verge of extinction make their way back to central California

Oakland, California, paid tribute to the late hip-hop icon Tupac Shakur on Friday, renaming a section of MacArthur Boulevard in his honour nearly 27 years after his tragic killing. The unveiling of "Tupac Shakur Way" was met with reverence and heartfelt speeches by family members, friends, and collaborators, including Oakland native MC Hammer.

Tupac Shakur, born in New York and raised in both New York and Baltimore, moved to the San Francisco Bay Area with his mother in the late 1980s. He eventually called Oakland his adopted hometown and immersed himself in its culture.

City Councilwoman Carroll Fife spearheaded the effort to rename the street in honour of Tupac, emphasising his deep connection to the city. "He claimed Oakland," Fife declared, "He said Oakland gave him his game."

The emotional ceremony, which lasted nearly two hours, featured heartfelt speeches from those who knew Tupac personally. The late rapper's sister, Sekyiwa "Set" Shakur, spoke tearfully to the gathered crowd, saying, "Let his spirit live on the rest of these years in these streets and in your hearts." Moments later, the sign for Tupac Shakur Way was unveiled, a lasting testament to the enduring legacy of the rapper.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-al-pacino-83-to-pay-an-eye-watering-amount-to-girlfriend-noor-alfallah-29-in-child-support-654716">Al Pacino, 83, to pay an eye-watering amount to girlfriend Noor Alfallah, 29, in child support</a>

MC Hammer, who was with Tupac during his final months before his tragic death in 1996, shared his admiration for his late friend, saying, "Hands down, the greatest rapper ever, there's not even a question of that."

Other prominent figures from the hip-hop world, including Money-B and Too Short, also addressed the crowd, sharing their personal memories and highlighting Tupac's lasting impact on the music industry.

The renaming ceremony took place just a day after a former Southern California street gang leader, Duane Keith "Keffe D" Davis, pleaded not guilty to murder charges related to the Las Vegas shooting death of Tupac Shakur. Davis is the only surviving person who was in the vehicle from which the fatal shots were fired.&nbsp;

Shakur's relatives, however, maintained a distance from the prosecution, making only passing reference to the ongoing legal proceedings. Sekyiwa Shakur acknowledged her brother's tragic fate, stating, "He died at 25 years old in gang violence, by the hands of another Black man, by the planning of another Black man, whoever that man may be."

(With inputs from agencies)

Oakland, California, paid tribute to the late hip-hop icon Tupac Shakur on Friday, renaming a section of MacArthur Boulevard in his honour nearly 27 years after his tragic killing.

Oakland, California, paid tribute to the late hip-hop icon Tupac Shakur on Friday, renaming a section of MacArthur Boulevard in his honour nearly 27 years after his tragic killing. The unveiling of "Tupac Shakur Way" was met with reverence and heartfelt speeches by family members, friends, and collaborators, including Oakland native MC Hammer. Tupac Shakur, born in New York and raised in both New York and Baltimore, moved to the San Francisco Bay Area with his mother in the late 1980s. He eventually called Oakland his adopted hometown and immersed himself in its culture. City Councilwoman Carroll Fife spearheaded the effort to rename the street in honour of Tupac, emphasising his deep connection to the city. "He claimed Oakland," Fife declared, "He said Oakland gave him his game." The emotional ceremony, which lasted nearly two hours, featured heartfelt speeches from those who knew Tupac personally. The late rapper's sister, Sekyiwa "Set" Shakur, spoke tearfully to the gathered crowd, saying, "Let his spirit live on the rest of these years in these streets and in your hearts." Moments later, the sign for Tupac Shakur Way was unveiled, a lasting testament to the enduring legacy of the rapper. Also read: Al Pacino, 83, to pay an eye-watering amount to girlfriend Noor Alfallah, 29, in child support MC Hammer, who was with Tupac during his final months before his tragic death in 1996, shared his admiration for his late friend, saying, "Hands down, the greatest rapper ever, there's not even a question of that." Other prominent figures from the hip-hop world, including Money-B and Too Short, also addressed the crowd, sharing their personal memories and highlighting Tupac's lasting impact on the music industry. The renaming ceremony took place just a day after a former Southern California street gang leader, Duane Keith "Keffe D" Davis, pleaded not guilty to murder charges related to the Las Vegas shooting death of Tupac Shakur. Davis is the only surviving person who was in the vehicle from which the fatal shots were fired. Shakur's relatives, however, maintained a distance from the prosecution, making only passing reference to the ongoing legal proceedings. Sekyiwa Shakur acknowledged her brother's tragic fate, stating, "He died at 25 years old in gang violence, by the hands of another Black man, by the planning of another Black man, whoever that man may be." (With inputs from agencies)

Tupac Shakur Way: Oakland renames street in honour of late rapper Tupac, 27 years after his death

A Southern&nbsp;California&nbsp;wildfire fueled by desert winds burned 2,200 acres (890 hectares) and prompted evacuation orders for 4,000 people in Riverside County, officials said on Tuesday (Oct&nbsp;31).

The Highland Fire nearly doubled in size overnight, pushed to the west by Santa Ana winds. The seasonal phenomenon occurs when dry desert air blows toward the ocean, creating a fire hazard in Southern&nbsp;California.

The fire was unchecked as of Tuesday morning, the&nbsp;California&nbsp;Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) said, with crews attacking the blaze on the ground and aircraft dropping fuchsia-colored retardant.

The Riverside County Fire Department ordered the evacuation of roughly 4,000 people, including the small town of Aguanga, where the fire started on Monday.

Watch:&nbsp;UK: Concerns over alleged Chinese activities; Chiefs of the 'Five Eyes' meet in California

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uk-concerns-over-alleged-chinese-activities-chiefs-of-the-five-eyes-meet-in-california-wion-648549/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Officials opened one refugee centre for people and another for animals, while those staying at a resort for recreational vehicles drove their campers to a Walmart parking lot in Temecula about 15 miles (25 km) away.

Evacuees said they left the RV resort at the prodding of first responders, escaping flames that later entered the site.

"I had to grab dog food and basically just get in my van and leave," said Barb Bommarito.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/us-near-extinct-animal-spotted-near-national-monument-for-the-first-time-in-100-years-645686">Also read:&nbsp;US: Elusive creature on the brink of extinction spotted for the first time in 100 years</a>

Robert Duke, 85, said people were uncertain about whether the evacuation was necessary, but "it was made mandatory with law-enforcement cars coming around with red and blue flashing lights and broadcasting ... that we should all leave."

The cause of the fire was being investigated, Cal Fire said, adding that the blaze was a continuing threat with several roads closed and evacuation orders in effect.

Southern&nbsp;California&nbsp;has so far had a mild fire year in 2023, after unusually heavy rainfall that included the first tropical storm to reach heavily populated areas in the state in 84 years.

(With inputs from agencies)

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

A Southern California wildfire fueled by desert winds burned 2,200 acres (890 hectares) and prompted evacuation orders for 4,000 people in Riverside County, officials said on Tuesday (Oct 31).

A Southern California wildfire fueled by desert winds burned 2,200 acres (890 hectares) and prompted evacuation orders for 4,000 people in Riverside County, officials said on Tuesday (Oct 31). The Highland Fire nearly doubled in size overnight, pushed to the west by Santa Ana winds. The seasonal phenomenon occurs when dry desert air blows toward the ocean, creating a fire hazard in Southern California. The fire was unchecked as of Tuesday morning, the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal Fire) said, with crews attacking the blaze on the ground and aircraft dropping fuchsia-colored retardant. The Riverside County Fire Department ordered the evacuation of roughly 4,000 people, including the small town of Aguanga, where the fire started on Monday. Watch: UK: Concerns over alleged Chinese activities; Chiefs of the 'Five Eyes' meet in California × Officials opened one refugee centre for people and another for animals, while those staying at a resort for recreational vehicles drove their campers to a Walmart parking lot in Temecula about 15 miles (25 km) away. Evacuees said they left the RV resort at the prodding of first responders, escaping flames that later entered the site. "I had to grab dog food and basically just get in my van and leave," said Barb Bommarito. Also read: US: Elusive creature on the brink of extinction spotted for the first time in 100 years Robert Duke, 85, said people were uncertain about whether the evacuation was necessary, but "it was made mandatory with law-enforcement cars coming around with red and blue flashing lights and broadcasting ... that we should all leave." The cause of the fire was being investigated, Cal Fire said, adding that the blaze was a continuing threat with several roads closed and evacuation orders in effect. Southern California has so far had a mild fire year in 2023, after unusually heavy rainfall that included the first tropical storm to reach heavily populated areas in the state in 84 years. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US: 4,000 evacuated as massive wildfire ravages southern California

A gunman&nbsp;has opened fire at a mall in California on Saturday (October 28). The mall in Chula Vista, California was put under&nbsp;lockdown as the police arrived but the lockdown was later lifted.

The shopping mall is located at 2015 Birch Road. The shooting took place at around 7 pm local time, as per local police. NBC News quoted the Chula Vista Police Department as saying that this does not appear to be a hate crime or a terrorist act based on initial inputs. Three people have been injured.

The shooter reportedly fled after opening fire at the mall and the police were&nbsp;on a manhunt.

As per some claims made on social media, the shooter was wearing a sweatshirt with 'Olympian High School' written on it.

The police have said that the shooting was a result of a gang feud and have added that there was no longer&nbsp;a threat to people inside the mall or living in the neighbourhood.

"Shooting reportedly occurred during a dispute between 2 groups. There does not appear to be an active threat to the mall nor surrounding neighborhoods. Officers remain on the scene gathering evidence," the local police posted on X (formerly Twitter)

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Shooting reportedly occurred during a dispute between 2 groups. There does not appear to be an active threat to the mall nor surrounding neighborhoods. Officers remain on the scene gathering evidence.
— Chula Vista Police Department (@ChulaVistaPD) <a href="https://twitter.com/ChulaVistaPD/status/1718479797570166866?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2023</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

It has been reported that one person has been shot in the leg but there were no casualties in addition to three injured people.

This incident has taken place close on the heels of a mass shootout in Maine which resulted in the deaths of 18 people.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/could-the-maine-bloodshed-have-been-averted-652537">Could the Maine bloodshed have been averted?</a>

Forty-year-old Robert Card, a US Army reservist who had gun training, opened fire at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley in Lewiston.

He was at large after his killing spree and police had launched a manhunt. He later committed suicide and his body was found at a recycling facility where he recently worked.

Police later said that Card suffered from mental illnesses. Maine Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck told the media that Card had reported been hearing voices and suffered from paranoia.

Mass shootouts are common in the US and every time such a tragedy occurs, the debate over easy availability of guns resurfaces. The gun lobby in the country is powerful and has political influence. The gun-rights lobby opposes any move to tighten gun laws everytime any political move is made in such a direction.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false"><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

A gunman has opened fire at a mall in California on Saturday (October 28). The mall in Chula Vista, California was put under lockdown as the police arrived but the lockdown was later lifted.

A gunman has opened fire at a mall in California on Saturday (October 28). The mall in Chula Vista, California was put under lockdown as the police arrived but the lockdown was later lifted. The shopping mall is located at 2015 Birch Road. The shooting took place at around 7 pm local time, as per local police. NBC News quoted the Chula Vista Police Department as saying that this does not appear to be a hate crime or a terrorist act based on initial inputs. Three people have been injured. The shooter reportedly fled after opening fire at the mall and the police were on a manhunt. As per some claims made on social media, the shooter was wearing a sweatshirt with 'Olympian High School' written on it. The police have said that the shooting was a result of a gang feud and have added that there was no longer a threat to people inside the mall or living in the neighbourhood. "Shooting reportedly occurred during a dispute between 2 groups. There does not appear to be an active threat to the mall nor surrounding neighborhoods. Officers remain on the scene gathering evidence," the local police posted on X (formerly Twitter) Shooting reportedly occurred during a dispute between 2 groups. There does not appear to be an active threat to the mall nor surrounding neighborhoods. Officers remain on the scene gathering evidence. — Chula Vista Police Department (@ChulaVistaPD) October 29, 2023 × It has been reported that one person has been shot in the leg but there were no casualties in addition to three injured people. This incident has taken place close on the heels of a mass shootout in Maine which resulted in the deaths of 18 people. Also Read | Could the Maine bloodshed have been averted? Forty-year-old Robert Card, a US Army reservist who had gun training, opened fire at Schemengees Bar and Grille and at Just-In-Time Recreation bowling alley in Lewiston. He was at large after his killing spree and police had launched a manhunt. He later committed suicide and his body was found at a recycling facility where he recently worked. Police later said that Card suffered from mental illnesses. Maine Public Safety Commissioner Mike Sauschuck told the media that Card had reported been hearing voices and suffered from paranoia. Mass shootouts are common in the US and every time such a tragedy occurs, the debate over easy availability of guns resurfaces. The gun lobby in the country is powerful and has political influence. The gun-rights lobby opposes any move to tighten gun laws everytime any political move is made in such a direction. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US: Shooter at large after opening fire in California mall; three injured

The supervolcano of California, which carries the power of burying Los Angeles underneath more than 3,000 feet of ash, has been showing signs of activity. 
 
More than 2,000 earthquakes were identified rumbling across the Long Valley Caldera in the last few years by scientists at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). 
 
A new investigation was conducted by the team to observe if the seismic activity was hinting at the volcano's massive eruption. Detailed underground images of the caldera of Caltech researchers were created to find how the recent seismic activity resulted from the gases and fluids released after the temperature of the area decreased.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/catastrophic-earthquake-to-strike-pakistan-dutch-scientist-makes-startling-prediction-641802">Catastrophic earthquake to strike Pakistan? Dutch scientist makes startling prediction</a>

Speaking to Daily Mail, the study's author Zhongwen Zhan said, “We don't think the region is gearing up for another supervolcanic eruption, but the cooling process may release enough gas and liquid to cause earthquakes and small eruptions. For example, in May 1980, there were four magnitude 6 earthquakes in the region alone.”

<h2>Long-dormant volcano exploded around 767,000 years ago</h2>

A critical examination of the images revealed that the magma chamber of the volcano is covered by a crystallised rock's hardened lid which gets formed after liquid magma cools down and solidifies. 
 
Around 767,000 years ago, the long-dormant volcano exploded and released 140 miles of lava into the atmosphere, which resulted in the devastation of the land.

WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Great Himalayan Earthquake: How long before Delhi crumbles?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-great-himalayan-earthquake-how-long-before-delhi-crumbles-642263/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

 
Dozens of seismometers were placed by Zhan and his team across the Eastern Sierra region to capture seismic measurements through a process called distributed acoustic sensing (DAS). The team covered 62 miles of the caldera with cables for capturing underground snapshots. 
 
For more than a year and a half, the cable was used by the team for measuring more than 2,000 seismic events. Those measurements were then processed by a machine learning algorithm and developed into a resulting image, which showed every quake's location. 
 
An expert on the Long Valley Caldera Emily Montgomery-Brown, who was not part of the study, speaking to the LA Times stated that the swarms of earthquakes began in 2011. 
 
After the quakes, a ground deformation occurred in which the land had risen and the tremors had dissipated in 2020, which left the region quiet and stable. In 2018, a study was carried out in which it was found that 240 cubic miles of magma was present below the surface of Long Valley Caldera. 
 
“And so even if the Long Valley magma reservoir is moribund, there are other pockets of magma in the area,” stated Montgomery-Brown.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

The supervolcano of California, which carries the power of burying Los Angeles underneath more than 3,000 feet of ash, has been showing signs of activity. More than 2,000 earthquakes were identified rumbling across the Long Valley Caldera in the last few years by scientists at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech).

The supervolcano of California, which carries the power of burying Los Angeles underneath more than 3,000 feet of ash, has been showing signs of activity. More than 2,000 earthquakes were identified rumbling across the Long Valley Caldera in the last few years by scientists at the California Institute of Technology (Caltech). A new investigation was conducted by the team to observe if the seismic activity was hinting at the volcano's massive eruption. Detailed underground images of the caldera of Caltech researchers were created to find how the recent seismic activity resulted from the gases and fluids released after the temperature of the area decreased. ALSO READ | Catastrophic earthquake to strike Pakistan? Dutch scientist makes startling prediction Speaking to Daily Mail, the study's author Zhongwen Zhan said, “We don't think the region is gearing up for another supervolcanic eruption, but the cooling process may release enough gas and liquid to cause earthquakes and small eruptions. For example, in May 1980, there were four magnitude 6 earthquakes in the region alone.” Long-dormant volcano exploded around 767,000 years ago A critical examination of the images revealed that the magma chamber of the volcano is covered by a crystallised rock's hardened lid which gets formed after liquid magma cools down and solidifies. Around 767,000 years ago, the long-dormant volcano exploded and released 140 miles of lava into the atmosphere, which resulted in the devastation of the land. WATCH | Gravitas: Great Himalayan Earthquake: How long before Delhi crumbles? Dozens of seismometers were placed by Zhan and his team across the Eastern Sierra region to capture seismic measurements through a process called distributed acoustic sensing (DAS). The team covered 62 miles of the caldera with cables for capturing underground snapshots. For more than a year and a half, the cable was used by the team for measuring more than 2,000 seismic events. Those measurements were then processed by a machine learning algorithm and developed into a resulting image, which showed every quake's location. An expert on the Long Valley Caldera Emily Montgomery-Brown, who was not part of the study, speaking to the LA Times stated that the swarms of earthquakes began in 2011. After the quakes, a ground deformation occurred in which the land had risen and the tremors had dissipated in 2020, which left the region quiet and stable. In 2018, a study was carried out in which it was found that 240 cubic miles of magma was present below the surface of Long Valley Caldera. “And so even if the Long Valley magma reservoir is moribund, there are other pockets of magma in the area,” stated Montgomery-Brown. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

California's supervolcano shows signs of activity, over 2,000 earthquakes rumble beneath valley

California citizens can now wipe all their personal information off the internet. On Tuesday (Oct 10th), California governor Gavin Newsom signed into law, a bill that enables residents to put in a request for the deletion of all their personal data from the coffers of data brokers in the state.&nbsp;

<h2>Delete Act</h2>

The bill called Delete Act or SB 362 was originally introduced back in April 2023, by California Senator Josh Becker. This bill aims to give Californians more control over their privacy by enabling data deletion from a single page bypassing the previous tedious process.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-warns-elon-musk-to-tackle-dissemination-of-disinformation-on-x-after-hamas-attack-on-israel-645136">EU warns Elon Musk to tackle dissemination of disinformation on X after Hamas attack on Israel</a>

It adds to a pre-existing right, under which California citizens can request data deletion, regardless of how the data was acquired by data brokers.&nbsp;

However, the earlier law requires individuals to file a request with each individual company.

<h2>Other bill provisions</h2>

The bill, as per The Guardian report, reinforces that all data brokers in the state must register with the California Privacy Protection Agency (CPPA).

It also requires the CPPA to establish an easy and free way for residents&nbsp;to request data deletion through "a single page".

<h2>Is there a penalty for non-compliance?</h2>

Data brokers that don't comply with these rules can be fined and otherwise penalised.

As per an earlier report by Digiday, data brokers that fail to register with the CPPA would be fined $200 each, additionally failure to comply with data deletion requests will attract a $200/day fine per request.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/south-african-rand-tumbles-to-4-month-low-amidst-anticipation-of-us-jobs-data-644807">South African rand tumbles to 4-month low amidst anticipation of US jobs data</a>

Talking to the press, Senator Josh Becker lauded the passing of the bill and said, "Data brokers possess thousands of data points on each and every one of us, and they currently sell reproductive healthcare, geolocation and purchasing data to the highest bidder. The Delete Act protects our most sensitive information."

Proponents of the bill laud the less tedious and user-friendly process. However, advertising companies argue that the bill would undermine their industry.&nbsp;

In a letter, a group of trade bodies said that "absent this data, smaller enterprises will lose a critical path to reach and attract new customers, and consumers overall will have less exposure to new products and services that may interest them."

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

California citizens can now wipe all their personal information off the internet. On Tuesday (Oct 10th), California governor Gavin Newsom signed into law, a bill that enables residents to put in a request for the deletion of all their personal data from the coffers of data brokers in the state.

California citizens can now wipe all their personal information off the internet. On Tuesday (Oct 10th), California governor Gavin Newsom signed into law, a bill that enables residents to put in a request for the deletion of all their personal data from the coffers of data brokers in the state. Delete Act The bill called Delete Act or SB 362 was originally introduced back in April 2023, by California Senator Josh Becker. This bill aims to give Californians more control over their privacy by enabling data deletion from a single page bypassing the previous tedious process. Also read | EU warns Elon Musk to tackle dissemination of disinformation on X after Hamas attack on Israel It adds to a pre-existing right, under which California citizens can request data deletion, regardless of how the data was acquired by data brokers. However, the earlier law requires individuals to file a request with each individual company. Other bill provisions The bill, as per The Guardian report, reinforces that all data brokers in the state must register with the California Privacy Protection Agency (CPPA). It also requires the CPPA to establish an easy and free way for residents to request data deletion through "a single page". Is there a penalty for non-compliance? Data brokers that don't comply with these rules can be fined and otherwise penalised. As per an earlier report by Digiday, data brokers that fail to register with the CPPA would be fined $200 each, additionally failure to comply with data deletion requests will attract a $200/day fine per request. Also read | South African rand tumbles to 4-month low amidst anticipation of US jobs data Talking to the press, Senator Josh Becker lauded the passing of the bill and said, "Data brokers possess thousands of data points on each and every one of us, and they currently sell reproductive healthcare, geolocation and purchasing data to the highest bidder. The Delete Act protects our most sensitive information." Proponents of the bill laud the less tedious and user-friendly process. However, advertising companies argue that the bill would undermine their industry. In a letter, a group of trade bodies said that "absent this data, smaller enterprises will lose a critical path to reach and attract new customers, and consumers overall will have less exposure to new products and services that may interest them." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

California residents can now delete all their personal info from internet

California Governor Gavin Newsom on Sunday (Oct 8) rejected a bill that would have made free condoms available to all public high school students in the US state.

California Governor Gavin Newsom on Sunday (Oct 8) rejected a bill that would have made free condoms available to all public high school students in the US state. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, Governor Newsom argued that Senate Bill 541 was too expensive for a state with a budget deficit of over $30 billion. “This bill would create an unfunded mandate to public schools that should be considered in the annual budget process,” Newsom said. The governor said that programmes increasing access to condoms are “important to supporting improved adolescent sexual health.” But he said this bill was one of several measures lawmakers passed this year that, when added together, would add $19 billion in costs to the state budget. The bill and its implication Senate Bill 541 would have required all public schools that have grades nine through 12 to make condoms available for free to all students. The bill would have required public schools with grades seven through 12 to allow condoms to be made available as part of educational or public health programmes. "The bill would authorize a state agency, the State Department of Education, or a public school to accept gifts, grants, and donations from any source for the support of a public school carrying out these provisions, including, but not limited to, the acceptance of condoms from a manufacturer or wholesaler," an official summary of the bill said The bill would have also made it illegal for retailers to refuse to sell condoms to youth. State Senator Caroline Menjivar, who authored the bill, said it would have helped “youth who decide to become sexually active to protect themselves and their partners from (sexually transmitted infections), while also removing barriers that potentially shame them and lead to unsafe sex.” (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: California governor rejects bill to make condoms available for high school students

The White House said that it has started making plans for a meeting to be held in San Francisco between United States President Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in November, an attempt which is aimed at stabilising the tumultuous relationship between the two countries, as per senior administration officials.

White House plans Biden’s face-to-face meeting with China’s Xi Jinping in California

Laphonza Butler will replace deceased California Senator Dianne Feinstein in the Senate, Governor Gavin Newsom of California announced on Sunday (October 1).&nbsp;

Butler, the first openly Lesbian senator to represent California, is likely to be sworn in on Wednesday. It is not clear whether&nbsp;Butler will run to serve a full six-year term.

Butler, 44, has been in politics for fifteen years. She is a former leader of the state's largest labour union. She has also been an adviser to the US Vice President Kamala Harris.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-californias-longest-serving-senator-dianne-feinstein-dies-at-90-641024">US: California’s longest-serving Senator Dianne Feinstein dies at 90</a>

In 2021, Laphonza Butler became the president of Emily's List, a fund-raising organisation that works towards electing female candidates and supporters of abortion rights.

Butler was the first Black woman to lead the Emily's List.

Senator Feinstein died at 90 on Thursday in Washington, DC.

Her body was flown over the weekend back to San Francisco, where a memorial service has been scheduled for later this week.

"As we mourn the enormous loss of Senator Feinstein, the very freedoms she fought for — reproductive freedom, equal protection and safety from gun violence — have never been under greater assault," Newsom said in a statement. "Laphonza will carry the baton left by Senator Feinstein, continue to break glass ceilings and fight for all Californians in Washington, D.C."

<h2>What does it mean?</h2>

Butler's appointment would bring a difference as compared to the late Senator Feinstein, a wealthy centrist who was raised in an affluent San Francisco family, and graduated from Stanford University.

Butler's humble origins have now come into the spotlight.&nbsp;

She is the daughter of a woman, who after the loss of her husband, raised Butler while working as a security guard, and among other jobs as a gas station cashier, home-care worker and teaching assistant.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: US could face its fourth partial government shutdown in a decade

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-could-face-its-fourth-partial-government-shutdown-in-a-decade-641071/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Before taking a role at Emily's List, she spent nearly two decades at the Service Employees International Union.

She organised nurses and janitors at the SEIU before moving in 2009 to California.

In California, she rose to eventually lead the largest union in California, a branch of S.E.I.U. representing 325,000 home-care workers. Her accomplishments in California included the passage of a $15 minimum wage.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Laphonza Butler will replace deceased California Senator Dianne Feinstein in the Senate, Governor Gavin Newsom of California announced on Sunday (October 1). Butler, the first openly Lesbian senator to represent California, is likely to be sworn in on Wednesday.

Laphonza Butler will replace deceased California Senator Dianne Feinstein in the Senate, Governor Gavin Newsom of California announced on Sunday (October 1). Butler, the first openly Lesbian senator to represent California, is likely to be sworn in on Wednesday. It is not clear whether Butler will run to serve a full six-year term. Butler, 44, has been in politics for fifteen years. She is a former leader of the state's largest labour union. She has also been an adviser to the US Vice President Kamala Harris. Also read | US: California’s longest-serving Senator Dianne Feinstein dies at 90 In 2021, Laphonza Butler became the president of Emily's List, a fund-raising organisation that works towards electing female candidates and supporters of abortion rights. Butler was the first Black woman to lead the Emily's List. Senator Feinstein died at 90 on Thursday in Washington, DC. Her body was flown over the weekend back to San Francisco, where a memorial service has been scheduled for later this week. "As we mourn the enormous loss of Senator Feinstein, the very freedoms she fought for — reproductive freedom, equal protection and safety from gun violence — have never been under greater assault," Newsom said in a statement. "Laphonza will carry the baton left by Senator Feinstein, continue to break glass ceilings and fight for all Californians in Washington, D.C." What does it mean? Butler's appointment would bring a difference as compared to the late Senator Feinstein, a wealthy centrist who was raised in an affluent San Francisco family, and graduated from Stanford University. Butler's humble origins have now come into the spotlight. She is the daughter of a woman, who after the loss of her husband, raised Butler while working as a security guard, and among other jobs as a gas station cashier, home-care worker and teaching assistant. Also watch | Gravitas: US could face its fourth partial government shutdown in a decade × Before taking a role at Emily's List, she spent nearly two decades at the Service Employees International Union. She organised nurses and janitors at the SEIU before moving in 2009 to California. In California, she rose to eventually lead the largest union in California, a branch of S.E.I.U. representing 325,000 home-care workers. Her accomplishments in California included the passage of a $15 minimum wage. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Laphonza Butler to become California's first openly Lesbian senator

United States Senator Dianne Feinstein known for being a trailblazer for women in American politics and spending&nbsp;more than three decades in the Senate passed away at the age of 90, her office confirmed on Friday (Sep 29) after multiple American media reports.&nbsp;

She was also the oldest member of the US Senate where she served since 1992 and held her seat in the chamber longer than any other woman or senator from the state of California.&nbsp;

Feinstein, a Democrat, has been an advocate for gun control in the US and spearheaded the first federal assault weapons ban and documented the CIA’s torture of foreign terrorism suspects.&nbsp;

She had shattered multiple glass ceilings during her nearly 31 years in office, including being the first woman to head the influential Senate Intelligence Committee. Feinstein cast her last vote in the Senate late Thursday (Sep 28) morning, reported the American media citing Senate records.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Never backed away’</h2>

According to a statement by her office, Feinstein passed away at her home in Washington, DC. “Senator Feinstein never backed away from a fight for what was just and right,” said her chief of staff James Sauls.

It added, “There are few women who can be called senator, chairman, mayor, wife, mom and grandmother. Senator Feinstein was a force of nature who made an incredible impact on our country and her home state.”&nbsp;

“She left a legacy that is undeniable and extraordinary.”&nbsp;

California Governor Gavin Newsom is now expected to appoint a temporary replacement for Feinstein.&nbsp;

<h2>Declining health</h2>

Amid her reported declining health and cognitive abilities many called for her retirement as well as highlighted concerns about America’s aging politicians. She had been facing questions for months about her abilities and also got into a conflict with her fellow Democrats over her refusal to step down.

In February, she announced that she would not be seeking reelection in 2024. Feinstein was also sidelined from Congress for three months after suffering from shingles and complications, including encephalitis and Ramsay Hunt Syndrome.

In April, she was admitted to the hospital after a “minor fall” at her home and took on lighter duties upon her return and moved around the Capitol using a wheelchair.&nbsp;

<h2>About Dianne Feinstein&nbsp;</h2>

Born on 22 June 1933, Feinstein grew up in San Francisco and is a graduate of Stanford University. She was elected in 1969 to the San Francisco County Board of Supervisors and became the city’s first female mayor in 1978 after then-Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk were assassinated by Dan White, a former member of the same board.

Speaking about her experience of that day Feinstein said that she rushed to Milk’s office after hearing gunshots and while searching for his pulse, her finger found a bullet hole.&nbsp;

The horror of that experience never left her and she went on to author and introduce, the federal ban on military-style assault weapons in 1994 both a landmark bill and one of her biggest legislative achievements, which expired in 2004.&nbsp;

As the Intelligence Committee chair, Feinstein led a years-long review of the CIA’s controversial interrogation programme of foreign terrorists following the 9/11 attacks in 2001.

“The CIA’s actions are a stain on our values and our history,” she had said at the time.&nbsp;

The report also concluded, despite the CIA’s claims their use of “coercive interrogation techniques in some cases amounting to torture” on at least 119 detainees, played no no role in disrupting any terrorism plots.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp; 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

United States Senator Dianne Feinstein known for being a trailblazer for women in American politics and spending more than three decades in the Senate passed away at the age of 90, her office confirmed on Friday (Sep 29) after multiple American media reports.

United States Senator Dianne Feinstein known for being a trailblazer for women in American politics and spending more than three decades in the Senate passed away at the age of 90, her office confirmed on Friday (Sep 29) after multiple American media reports. She was also the oldest member of the US Senate where she served since 1992 and held her seat in the chamber longer than any other woman or senator from the state of California. Feinstein, a Democrat, has been an advocate for gun control in the US and spearheaded the first federal assault weapons ban and documented the CIA’s torture of foreign terrorism suspects. She had shattered multiple glass ceilings during her nearly 31 years in office, including being the first woman to head the influential Senate Intelligence Committee. Feinstein cast her last vote in the Senate late Thursday (Sep 28) morning, reported the American media citing Senate records. ‘Never backed away’ According to a statement by her office, Feinstein passed away at her home in Washington, DC. “Senator Feinstein never backed away from a fight for what was just and right,” said her chief of staff James Sauls. It added, “There are few women who can be called senator, chairman, mayor, wife, mom and grandmother. Senator Feinstein was a force of nature who made an incredible impact on our country and her home state.” “She left a legacy that is undeniable and extraordinary.” California Governor Gavin Newsom is now expected to appoint a temporary replacement for Feinstein. Declining health Amid her reported declining health and cognitive abilities many called for her retirement as well as highlighted concerns about America’s aging politicians. She had been facing questions for months about her abilities and also got into a conflict with her fellow Democrats over her refusal to step down. In February, she announced that she would not be seeking reelection in 2024. Feinstein was also sidelined from Congress for three months after suffering from shingles and complications, including encephalitis and Ramsay Hunt Syndrome. In April, she was admitted to the hospital after a “minor fall” at her home and took on lighter duties upon her return and moved around the Capitol using a wheelchair. About Dianne Feinstein Born on 22 June 1933, Feinstein grew up in San Francisco and is a graduate of Stanford University. She was elected in 1969 to the San Francisco County Board of Supervisors and became the city’s first female mayor in 1978 after then-Mayor George Moscone and Supervisor Harvey Milk were assassinated by Dan White, a former member of the same board. Speaking about her experience of that day Feinstein said that she rushed to Milk’s office after hearing gunshots and while searching for his pulse, her finger found a bullet hole. The horror of that experience never left her and she went on to author and introduce, the federal ban on military-style assault weapons in 1994 both a landmark bill and one of her biggest legislative achievements, which expired in 2004. As the Intelligence Committee chair, Feinstein led a years-long review of the CIA’s controversial interrogation programme of foreign terrorists following the 9/11 attacks in 2001. “The CIA’s actions are a stain on our values and our history,” she had said at the time. The report also concluded, despite the CIA’s claims their use of “coercive interrogation techniques in some cases amounting to torture” on at least 119 detainees, played no no role in disrupting any terrorism plots. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US: California’s longest-serving Senator Dianne Feinstein dies at 90

The second Republican Presidential debate has kicked off. Seven GOP candidates are facing the litmus test in California. Former US President Donald, the front runner has snapped the debate yet again for the second time.

US Presidential elections 2024: Second GOP Presidential debate kicks off

The US state of California will now ban people from carrying firearms in most public places while doubling the taxes on guns and ammunition sold in the state under two new laws Governor Gavin Newsom signed on Tuesday (Sep 26).

The US state of California will now ban people from carrying firearms in most public places while doubling the taxes on guns and ammunition sold in the state under two new laws Governor Gavin Newsom signed on Tuesday (Sep 26). The federal government already taxes the sale of guns and ammunition at either 10% or 11%, depending on the type of gun. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, gun control advocacy group Brady said that the new law Governor Newsom signed added another 11% tax on top of that, making California the only state with a separate tax on guns and ammunition. Tax money to pay for school safety The report said that the tax money would pay for security improvements at public schools and a variety of gun violence prevention programmes. The two new laws were among nearly two dozen gun control measures Newsom signed on Tuesday. However, he acknowledged that many of these laws might not survive legal challenges now that the Supreme Court imposed a new standard on interpreting the country's gun laws. "It may mean nothing if the federal courts are throwing them out. We feel very strongly that these bills meet the (new standard), and they were drafted accordingly. But I’m not naive about the recklessness of the federal courts and the ideological agenda," the governor said. The report further said that the California Rifle and Pistol Association already sued to block one new law Newsom signed that banned people from carrying guns in most public places, including parks, churches, banks, zoos, and any other privately owned commercial establishment that is open to the public unless the owner puts up a sign saying guns are allowed. Chuck Michel, the president of the association, said that these laws would not make people safer. "They are an unconstitutional retaliatory and vindictive response to the Supreme Court’s affirmation that the Second Amendment protects an individual’s right to choose to own a firearm for sport or to defend your family," Michel added. Violent crimes in California increase Even though California has some of the lowest gun death rates in the country, violent crimes have increased recently. As per the state's Department of Justice, the violent crime rate increased by 6.1%. The taxes on guns and ammunition sold will have some exceptions. They will not apply to police officers and it would not apply to businesses with sales of less than $5,000 over three months. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

US: California doubles taxes on guns and ammunition sold. Details here

The migrant crisis unfolding here in the United States as thousands of migrants have crossed into the United States in recent days from California to Texas. They're making their way here to the East Coast New York as well many more are arriving from the Mexican border and their towns.

Viral video shows migrants atop US-bound cargo train

California claims oil companies have deceived the public for decades about how the burning of fossil fuels is destroying the planet. The lawsuit alleges that oil and gas executives knew since the 1950s that relying on fossil fuels would have catastrophic results but they suppressed the information.

California accuses oil firms of covering up the risks of climate change | WION Climate Tracker

Google will be coughing up $93 million to settle a lawsuit, filed by California’s Attorney General Rob Bonta over the company’s deceptive and misleading tactics for managing location data of users.&nbsp;

Bonta announced the settlement on Thursday (September 14), saying the search engine giant had&nbsp;agreed to a number of&nbsp;new restrictions pertaining to its location services and deceptive communications.

The case was filed after it emerged that Google was not delivering the 'privacy' experience it had promised its users.

The Golden State in its complaint said Google was able to "profile" and bombard users with targeted advertising, even when they had turned off their "Location History" setting. Meaning, that the company deceived the public about their ability, or rather inability to block ads they did not want.&nbsp;

"Google was telling its users one thing that it would no longer track their location once they opted out but doing the&nbsp;opposite&nbsp;and continuing to&nbsp;track&nbsp;its users' movements&nbsp;for its own commercial gain. That's unacceptable," Bonta was quoted as saying by Reuters.

Advertisements are the major source of revenue for Google. In the first half of 2023, the company has managed to generate $110.9 billion in ad revenue alone, which is 81 per cent of its total $137.7 billion earnings.&nbsp;

<h2>Repeated offender</h2>

Notably, Thursday wasn't the first instance when Google has agreed to pay such a fine. In November last year, the tech behemoth agreed to&nbsp;pay $391.5 million to resolve similar allegations by 40 US states.

While California chose to sue Google on its own, states such as Arizona and Washington settled.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-justice-department-to-sue-google-for-the-second-time-report-555359">US justice department to sue Google for the second time over market dominance: Report</a>

<h2>Antitrust trial against Google&nbsp;</h2>

Google agreeing to pay the settlement comes days after one of the biggest antitrust trials in US history in the last two decades, got underway in&nbsp;Washington.&nbsp;

During the opening remarks, the US Department of Justice (DoJ)&nbsp;accused Google of paying a whopping $10 billion a year to Apple and other companies to maintain its monopoly in the search engine market.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-suing-google-for-anti-trust-violations-us-state-allies-not-seeking-monetary-penalty-wion-635324">Watch |&nbsp;US suing Google for anti-trust violations; US &amp; state allies not seeking monetary penalty | WION</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-suing-google-for-anti-trust-violations-us-state-allies-not-seeking-monetary-penalty-wion-635324/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Justice Department lawyer Kenneth Dintzer told&nbsp;Judge Amit P. Mehta, who is presiding over the case that Google paid the said $10 billion amount every year to Apple and others to&nbsp;secure its search engine's default status on phones and web browsers, thereby burying upstarts before they have a chance to grow.

Unlike the California settlement,&nbsp;Google is not expected to face a monetary penalty in the trial as the DoJ and state allies are seeking an injunction barring Google from continuing the alleged "exclusionary" anti-competitive practices.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Google will be coughing up $93 million to settle a lawsuit, filed by California’s Attorney General Rob Bonta over the company’s deceptive and misleading tactics for managing location data of users.

Google will be coughing up $93 million to settle a lawsuit, filed by California’s Attorney General Rob Bonta over the company’s deceptive and misleading tactics for managing location data of users. Bonta announced the settlement on Thursday (September 14), saying the search engine giant had agreed to a number of new restrictions pertaining to its location services and deceptive communications. The case was filed after it emerged that Google was not delivering the 'privacy' experience it had promised its users. The Golden State in its complaint said Google was able to "profile" and bombard users with targeted advertising, even when they had turned off their "Location History" setting. Meaning, that the company deceived the public about their ability, or rather inability to block ads they did not want. "Google was telling its users one thing that it would no longer track their location once they opted out but doing the opposite and continuing to track its users' movements for its own commercial gain. That's unacceptable," Bonta was quoted as saying by Reuters. Advertisements are the major source of revenue for Google. In the first half of 2023, the company has managed to generate $110.9 billion in ad revenue alone, which is 81 per cent of its total $137.7 billion earnings. Repeated offender Notably, Thursday wasn't the first instance when Google has agreed to pay such a fine. In November last year, the tech behemoth agreed to pay $391.5 million to resolve similar allegations by 40 US states. While California chose to sue Google on its own, states such as Arizona and Washington settled. Also read | US justice department to sue Google for the second time over market dominance: Report Antitrust trial against Google Google agreeing to pay the settlement comes days after one of the biggest antitrust trials in US history in the last two decades, got underway in Washington. During the opening remarks, the US Department of Justice (DoJ) accused Google of paying a whopping $10 billion a year to Apple and other companies to maintain its monopoly in the search engine market. Watch | US suing Google for anti-trust violations; US & state allies not seeking monetary penalty | WION × Justice Department lawyer Kenneth Dintzer told Judge Amit P. Mehta, who is presiding over the case that Google paid the said $10 billion amount every year to Apple and others to secure its search engine's default status on phones and web browsers, thereby burying upstarts before they have a chance to grow. Unlike the California settlement, Google is not expected to face a monetary penalty in the trial as the DoJ and state allies are seeking an injunction barring Google from continuing the alleged "exclusionary" anti-competitive practices. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Google to cough up $93 million to California in deceptive 'location privacy' settlement

California has named a highway stretch after an Indian-origin policeman Ronil Singh. He was shot dead on duty in 2018 by an illegal migrant.

"Ronil Singh Memorial Highway": Why is this California highway named after an Indian-origin man?

A judge in the US state of California has temporarily halted a school district in the southern region of the state from requiring parents to be informed if their children change their gender identification or pronouns at the school.

A judge in the US state of California has temporarily halted a school district in the southern region of the state from requiring parents to be informed if their children change their gender identification or pronouns at the school. Judge Thomas S. Garza of the San Bernardino County Superior Court passed the judgement after California Attorney General Rob Bonta sued the Chino Valley Unified School District for adopting the policy. During the hearing, the judge questioned why the policy came up in the first place and how did it protect students. In the lawsuit, Bonta accused the school district of violating the Protection Clause and Education and Government Code and constitutional right to privacy. He said the policy will out transgender students to their parents and threaten their well-being. “Today’s decision by the San Bernardino Superior Court rightfully upholds the state rights of our LGBTQ+ students and protects kids from harm by immediately halting the board’s forced outing policy,” Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a statement. "While this fight is far from over, today’s ruling takes a significant step towards ensuring the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of inclusivity," he added. Also read | This US state has approved construction of monument dedicated to aborted fetuses School district expresses disappointment After the verdict, Sonja Shaw, president of the Chino Valley Unified Board of Education said she was disappointed but hoped that the ruling would bring attention to the issue. “I don’t understand why they are so gung ho on this issue, but everything else we have to inform the parents about. There is obviously an issue and parents are concerned," she said. "They picked the wrong parents to fight with. These are our children and we love them, and we care for them, and we are not a danger to them, and we will make sure that is known, and we will show our children that we will not be submissive to unlawful ways to shut us out." WATCH | Transgender rights activists clash with Neo-Nazi's in Melbourne Notably, it was in July that the school district, located about 35 miles (60 kilometres) east of Los Angeles, approved the policy that required officials to notify parents if their child changed pronouns or insisted on using different bathrooms that did not align with their birth certificate. Across the US, the debate over transgender rights has intensified as some states have imposed bans on gender-affirming care and prohibited transgender athletes from competing in girls' and women's sports. Similarly, other state laws require schools to "out" transgender and nonbinary students to their parents. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

California court blocks school district's transgender parent disclosure policy

california

California, News on California, stories on California, articles on California, California stories at Wion, California news, California latest news