The festive season brings a lot of cheer, happiness and prosperity for everyone - even the animals! This community tradition has a way to bless your cuddlesome cute critters.

Easter blessings for the pets!

<p>Los Angeles police chief has said that in addition to Amazon packages, dozens of guns have been looted by thieves who have been breaking into train wagons.</p>

<p>Images of the detritus left behind by thieves who broke&nbsp;into stationary wagons in the middle of the second biggest city in the United States swept the internet this month.</p>

<p>Now the city's top policeman has said that the bandits got away with more than just Amazon packages.</p>

<p>"People were... breaking into these containers and stealing firearms, tens of firearms," Michael Moore told the Police Commission this week.</p>

<p>"That gave us great concern as a source again of further violence in the city."</p>

<p>An AFP team filmed thousands of gutted boxes on the stretch of tracks near the city center, many from major retailers like Target, and being shipped by carriers including UPS and FedEx.</p>

<p>The thieves wait until the long freight trains stop on the tracks and break the locks with bolt cutters.&nbsp;</p>

<p>They then help themselves to parcels, ditching anything too difficult to sell.</p>

<p>The haul could include anything that moves around the country from or to retailers.</p>

<p>And, the police now say, guns.</p>

<p>Firearms purchased online in the United States cannot legally be shipped to the customer, but can be sent instead to a licensed dealer for pick-up.</p>

<p>Since December 2020, rail operator Union Pacific (UP), whose convoys are being targeted, has seen a 160 percent increase in thefts in Los Angeles County.</p>

<p>"In October 2021 alone, the increase reaches 356 percent compared to October 2020," the operator said in a letter to local authorities seen by AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The phenomenon was accelerated in the run-up to Christmas, as freight volumes rocketed.</p>

<p>According to figures reported by UP, more than 90 containers were vandalized on average each day in Los Angeles County in the last quarter of 2021.</p>

<p>The operator, which manages nearly 280 miles (450 kilometers) of track in Los Angeles County, puts the cost of the damage incurred over the course of 2021 at about $5 million.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Los Angeles police chief has said that in addition to Amazon packages, dozens of guns have been looted by thieves who have been breaking into train wagons. Images of the detritus left behind by thieves who broke into stationary wagons in the middle of the second biggest city in the United States swept the internet this month.

Los Angeles police chief has said that in addition to Amazon packages, dozens of guns have been looted by thieves who have been breaking into train wagons. Images of the detritus left behind by thieves who broke into stationary wagons in the middle of the second biggest city in the United States swept the internet this month. Now the city's top policeman has said that the bandits got away with more than just Amazon packages. "People were... breaking into these containers and stealing firearms, tens of firearms," Michael Moore told the Police Commission this week. "That gave us great concern as a source again of further violence in the city." An AFP team filmed thousands of gutted boxes on the stretch of tracks near the city center, many from major retailers like Target, and being shipped by carriers including UPS and FedEx. The thieves wait until the long freight trains stop on the tracks and break the locks with bolt cutters. They then help themselves to parcels, ditching anything too difficult to sell. The haul could include anything that moves around the country from or to retailers. And, the police now say, guns. Firearms purchased online in the United States cannot legally be shipped to the customer, but can be sent instead to a licensed dealer for pick-up. Since December 2020, rail operator Union Pacific (UP), whose convoys are being targeted, has seen a 160 percent increase in thefts in Los Angeles County. "In October 2021 alone, the increase reaches 356 percent compared to October 2020," the operator said in a letter to local authorities seen by AFP. The phenomenon was accelerated in the run-up to Christmas, as freight volumes rocketed. According to figures reported by UP, more than 90 containers were vandalized on average each day in Los Angeles County in the last quarter of 2021. The operator, which manages nearly 280 miles (450 kilometers) of track in Los Angeles County, puts the cost of the damage incurred over the course of 2021 at about $5 million. (With inputs from agencies)

Amazon packages, dozens of guns looted from Los Angeles trains: Police

<p>Adele issued a tearful apology to her fans on Thursday after she announced she had been forced to reschedule her highly-anticipated Las Vegas residency, and now the singer is&nbsp;doing the FaceTime call with some of her die-hard fans who were&nbsp;in the city for the show.<br />
<br />
The 'Easy on Me' singer chatted with some of her fans gathered at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace, where her first show was scheduled to take place on Friday.<br />
<br />
Adele stunned fans who were disappointed after the show was <a href="http://13.235.153.162/entertainment/tearful-adele-postpones-las-vegas-shows-due-to-covid-delays-446317">abruptly cancelled </a>and personally apologised to them via video call.<br />
<br />
''On the casino floor Friday night, some disappointed ticketholders were being handed a phone, apparently by someone from Adele’s management team, to have FaceTime chats with the singer, individually or in groups,'' Variety reported.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Several fans who chatted with the Grammy-winning singer over a video call shared their moment of happiness on their social media accounts.&nbsp;<br />
One Instagram user shared a video on his Instagram Story in which he was seen “forgiving” Adele for putting the shows off, “I really don’t mind coming back from Mexico,” he told her.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-ice-age-makers-on-creating-part-6-of-the-hit-franchise-446464" hreflang="en">The 'Ice Age' makers on creating part 6 of the hit franchise</a><br />
<br />
“I’m thankful for you being so graceful to me. I really appreciate that,” she responded. “That’s my manager right next to you… When you come back, whenever that is, we’ll do a meet-and-greet for free.”</p>

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<p>Another fan named Dominic Crisonino, who flew into Las Vegas from New York, also shared a video of his FaceTime chat with Adele. &nbsp;Sharing the same on his Instagram, he captioned the video as, "I literally was just on FaceTime with @adele!! WHAT IS LIFE."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">UPDATE: Adele just facetimed her and told her she’s gonna cover all her costs, fly her out to the next concert, she’s gonna get to gift her the shirt, and they’re gonna drink wine together. SHE WON!!!! <a href="https://t.co/8QkkIjj8J8">pic.twitter.com/8QkkIjj8J8</a></p>
— Nas (@oyehaanji) <a href="https://twitter.com/oyehaanji/status/1484730957555015683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Adele also apologized to fans with a note at her merchandise store in Caesars Palace, The message read, "Hi guys! I'm so upset to not be with you tonight. But I know some of you are here already so please hang out and look at the outfits, take pics of anything you want. Of yourselves and with each other!"&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-bts-members-to-not-be-exempted-from-military-service-446571" hreflang="en">BTS members to not be exempted from military service?</a></p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Adele sang “All I Ask” with fans via FaceTime. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Adele?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Adele</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeekendsWithAdele?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeekendsWithAdele</a> <a href="https://t.co/vlwTCpovQ3">pic.twitter.com/vlwTCpovQ3</a></p>
— Adele Residency (@AdeleResidency) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdeleResidency/status/1484748729764782083?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The note continued, "There's people in the room I worked with on the store and the merch. There's members of my management in here too to show you around. And any of you in here who were due to come to the shows this weekend can have a gift on me! I'm so sorry again."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Adele sang “Don’t You Remember” with fans via FaceTime. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Adele?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Adele</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeekendsWithAdele?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeekendsWithAdele</a> <a href="https://t.co/qjDjiJcTXm">pic.twitter.com/qjDjiJcTXm</a></p>
— Adele Residency (@AdeleResidency) <a href="https://twitter.com/AdeleResidency/status/1484750051788345347?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, Adele announced that she's pushing her residency in an emotional video posted to Instagram Thursday. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">All dates will be rescheduled<br />
More info coming soon<br />
💔 <a href="https://t.co/k0A4lXhW5l">pic.twitter.com/k0A4lXhW5l</a></p>
— Adele (@Adele) <a href="https://twitter.com/Adele/status/1484296618191069186?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>"Hi, listen I'm so sorry but my show ain't ready. We tried absolutely everything that we can to put it together in time and for it to be good enough for you but we've been absolutely destroyed by delivery delays and COVID. Half my crew, half my team are down with COVID — they still are," Adele said.</p>


Adele issued a tearful apology to her fans on Thursday after she announced she had been forced to reschedule her highly-anticipated Las Vegas residency, and now the singer is doing the FaceTime call with some of her die-hard fans who were in the city for the show.

Adele issued a tearful apology to her fans on Thursday after she announced she had been forced to reschedule her highly-anticipated Las Vegas residency, and now the singer is doing the FaceTime call with some of her die-hard fans who were in the city for the show. The 'Easy on Me' singer chatted with some of her fans gathered at the Colosseum at Caesars Palace, where her first show was scheduled to take place on Friday. Adele stunned fans who were disappointed after the show was abruptly cancelled and personally apologised to them via video call. ''On the casino floor Friday night, some disappointed ticketholders were being handed a phone, apparently by someone from Adele’s management team, to have FaceTime chats with the singer, individually or in groups,'' Variety reported. Several fans who chatted with the Grammy-winning singer over a video call shared their moment of happiness on their social media accounts. One Instagram user shared a video on his Instagram Story in which he was seen “forgiving” Adele for putting the shows off, “I really don’t mind coming back from Mexico,” he told her. Watch: The 'Ice Age' makers on creating part 6 of the hit franchise “I’m thankful for you being so graceful to me. I really appreciate that,” she responded. “That’s my manager right next to you… When you come back, whenever that is, we’ll do a meet-and-greet for free.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dominic Crisonino (@dominic_crisonino) × Another fan named Dominic Crisonino, who flew into Las Vegas from New York, also shared a video of his FaceTime chat with Adele. Sharing the same on his Instagram, he captioned the video as, "I literally was just on FaceTime with @adele!! WHAT IS LIFE." UPDATE: Adele just facetimed her and told her she’s gonna cover all her costs, fly her out to the next concert, she’s gonna get to gift her the shirt, and they’re gonna drink wine together. SHE WON!!!! pic.twitter.com/8QkkIjj8J8 — Nas (@oyehaanji) January 22, 2022 × Adele also apologized to fans with a note at her merchandise store in Caesars Palace, The message read, "Hi guys! I'm so upset to not be with you tonight. But I know some of you are here already so please hang out and look at the outfits, take pics of anything you want. Of yourselves and with each other!" Also read: BTS members to not be exempted from military service? Adele sang “All I Ask” with fans via FaceTime. #Adele #WeekendsWithAdele pic.twitter.com/vlwTCpovQ3 — Adele Residency (@AdeleResidency) January 22, 2022 × The note continued, "There's people in the room I worked with on the store and the merch. There's members of my management in here too to show you around. And any of you in here who were due to come to the shows this weekend can have a gift on me! I'm so sorry again." Adele sang “Don’t You Remember” with fans via FaceTime. #Adele #WeekendsWithAdele pic.twitter.com/qjDjiJcTXm — Adele Residency (@AdeleResidency) January 22, 2022 × Earlier, Adele announced that she's pushing her residency in an emotional video posted to Instagram Thursday. All dates will be rescheduled More info coming soon 💔 pic.twitter.com/k0A4lXhW5l — Adele (@Adele) January 20, 2022 × "Hi, listen I'm so sorry but my show ain't ready. We tried absolutely everything that we can to put it together in time and for it to be good enough for you but we've been absolutely destroyed by delivery delays and COVID. Half my crew, half my team are down with COVID — they still are," Adele said.

Adele surprises fans with a video call, apologises for postponing Las Vegas shows

A study by a team of researchers in the university of California in Los Angeles could prove to be vital in finding cure for HIV in the future. The UCLA led study continues research on a strategy called kick and kill which many of the same scientists described in a 2017 paper. The approach gently arranges the virus to reveal itself in infected cells so it can then be targeted and killed.

Researchers in University of California conduct study for finding cure of HIV

In a bid to tackle homelessness in Los Angeles, Authorities have come up with tiny villages. They also offer mental health support for them.

Los Angeles authorities come up with tiny villages to tackle homelessness

<p>&nbsp;A 14-year-old girl, Valentina Orellana-Peralta, from Los Angeles, was fatally shot by the police in the dressing room of a clothing store when the officers were trying to fire at an assault suspect. Los Angeles police department’s assistant chief, Dominic Choi said that the police found her dead in a changing room with her mother after seeing a hole in “a solid wall that you can’t see behind.”</p>

<p>As per the authorities, the bullet went through the wall. However, the suspect was also shot and he has died.</p>

<p>It all started after a man began acting weirdly and threatened to throw items from higher floors. Not only this but he also attacked a woman using a bicycle lock. As of now, the investigators have not found a gun at the scene.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/caller-says-lets-go-brandon-to-biden-on-annual-christmas-calls-439763"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Caller says 'Let's Go Brandon' to Biden on annual Christmas calls</strong></a></p>

<p>The incident took place at a Burlington store in the North Hollywood area of the San Fernando Valley.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chief of police, Michel Moore said, "This chaotic incident resulting in the death of an innocent child is tragic and devastating for everyone involved. I am profoundly sorry for the loss of this young girl’s life and I know there are no words that can relieve the unimaginable pain for the family.”</p>

<p>The suspect has not been named as of now.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Investigators are trying to determine if the assault was random or targeted.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A 14-year-old girl, Valentina Orellana-Peralta, from Los Angeles, was fatally shot by the police in the dressing room of a clothing store when the officers were trying to fire at an assault suspect.

A 14-year-old girl, Valentina Orellana-Peralta, from Los Angeles, was fatally shot by the police in the dressing room of a clothing store when the officers were trying to fire at an assault suspect. Los Angeles police department’s assistant chief, Dominic Choi said that the police found her dead in a changing room with her mother after seeing a hole in “a solid wall that you can’t see behind.” As per the authorities, the bullet went through the wall. However, the suspect was also shot and he has died. It all started after a man began acting weirdly and threatened to throw items from higher floors. Not only this but he also attacked a woman using a bicycle lock. As of now, the investigators have not found a gun at the scene. Also read | Caller says 'Let's Go Brandon' to Biden on annual Christmas calls The incident took place at a Burlington store in the North Hollywood area of the San Fernando Valley. Chief of police, Michel Moore said, "This chaotic incident resulting in the death of an innocent child is tragic and devastating for everyone involved. I am profoundly sorry for the loss of this young girl’s life and I know there are no words that can relieve the unimaginable pain for the family.” The suspect has not been named as of now. Investigators are trying to determine if the assault was random or targeted. (With inputs from agencies)

Los Angeles police ends up killing a 14-year-old girl while shooting a male suspect

Joe Biden's pick for U.S. envoy to India Eric Garcetti says he 'will actively raise human rights issue'. Garcetti's own record as Mayor of Los Angeles is abysmal. He's not a seasoned diplomat either. Palki Sharma asks: Is the selection based on merit or his closeness to President Biden?

Gravitas: US ambassador-designate to India will 'actively raise human rights issue'

Thousands of people gathered on the streets of Los Angeles to protest COVID-19 vaccination mandates on Monday as the city began enforcing some of the nation’s strictest vaccination verification rules for businesses.

US: Thousands protest COVID-19 vaccination mandates in Los Angeles

<p>This year, Priyanka Chopra celebrated Diwali away from her homeland India.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Chopra, who is in Los Angeles, USA, performed Lakshmi Puja at their house on the auspicious occasion of Diwali with her husband and singer Nick Jonas.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-priyanka-chopra-dresses-up-in-white-and-silver-for-diwali-shares-beautiful-photos-426576">Priyanka Chopra dresses up in white and silver for Diwali, shares beautiful photos</a><br />
<br />
Celebrating the festival of lights with much zeal and enthusiasm, Chopra took to her Instagram handle to share a series of photos with Nick as they performed Diwali Puja at their home.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-inside-ekta-kapoors-diwali-bash-salman-khan-ibrahim-ali-khan-and-others-make-it-to-the-star-studded-affair-426584" hreflang="en">Inside Ekta Kapoor's Diwali bash: Salman Khan, Ibrahim Ali Khan and others make it to the star-studded affair</a><br />
<br />
Sharing the pictures, Priyanka penned down a Mantra in a caption and further wrote, "With the blessings of Goddess Mahalakshmi we invite her grace and abundance into our home. Happy Diwali,".</p>

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<p>In the pictures, the 'Quantico' actor was looking stunning in a yellow and white saree and Nick was looking dapper in an&nbsp;embroidered white kurta-pyjama. In the first picture couple holding the Puja thali in their hand and performing aarti.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
Fans praised Priyanka for celebrating Indian culture and rituals across the world. Meanwhile,&nbsp;John Legend and Chrissy Teigen&nbsp;recently turned guests to Indian actor Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas’ Diwali bash.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A day before,&nbsp;Priyanka also attended a pre-Diwali celebration hosted by actor Mindy Kaling.<br />
<br />
On the work front, Priyanka is currently working for the upcoming web series 'Citadel'.</p>


This year, Priyanka Chopra celebrated Diwali away from her homeland India. Chopra, who is in Los Angeles, USA, performed Lakshmi Puja at their house on the auspicious occasion of Diwali with her husband and singer Nick Jonas.

This year, Priyanka Chopra celebrated Diwali away from her homeland India. Chopra, who is in Los Angeles, USA, performed Lakshmi Puja at their house on the auspicious occasion of Diwali with her husband and singer Nick Jonas. Priyanka Chopra dresses up in white and silver for Diwali, shares beautiful photos Celebrating the festival of lights with much zeal and enthusiasm, Chopra took to her Instagram handle to share a series of photos with Nick as they performed Diwali Puja at their home. Inside Ekta Kapoor's Diwali bash: Salman Khan, Ibrahim Ali Khan and others make it to the star-studded affair Sharing the pictures, Priyanka penned down a Mantra in a caption and further wrote, "With the blessings of Goddess Mahalakshmi we invite her grace and abundance into our home. Happy Diwali,". View this post on Instagram A post shared by Priyanka Chopra Jonas (@priyankachopra) × In the pictures, the 'Quantico' actor was looking stunning in a yellow and white saree and Nick was looking dapper in an embroidered white kurta-pyjama. In the first picture couple holding the Puja thali in their hand and performing aarti. Fans praised Priyanka for celebrating Indian culture and rituals across the world. Meanwhile, John Legend and Chrissy Teigen recently turned guests to Indian actor Priyanka Chopra and Nick Jonas’ Diwali bash. A day before, Priyanka also attended a pre-Diwali celebration hosted by actor Mindy Kaling. On the work front, Priyanka is currently working for the upcoming web series 'Citadel'.

In pics: Priyanka Chopra & Nick Jonas perform Lakshmi puja at their Los Angeles home

Britney Spears' father was removed from his role as his daughter's guardian by a Los Angeles judge, ending a long legal battle by the pop singer.

Britney Spears' father Jamie Spears suspended as a conservator

<p>Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) employees have sued over mandatory Covid vaccination directions. They have alleged that the department has created 'hostile work environment' for unvaccinated members of the staff. The employees also argued that the vaccine mandate violated their privacy and civil rights.</p>

<p>The lawsuit has thrown up an aggressive challenge to the vaccine mandate and some police unions across California have threatened mass resignations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US President Joe Biden has taken a strong stance recently with respect to vaccination. It has been made mandatory for government workers to get vaccinated failing which even their jobs would be on the line.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The mandate however is attracting legal challenges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Have at it," a defiant Biden told reporters on Friday when asked about legal challenges to the strict vaccination rules that would affect tens of millions of American workers.</p>

<p>After months of seeking to boost vaccination rates through gentle persuasion and incentives, the Democratic president made it clear on Thursday that he was fed up as the Delta variant sends Covid cases surging across the country.</p>

<p>Biden directly addressed the estimated 80 million eligible Americans who have not yet gotten the shot against a disease that has left 650,000 people dead in the United States.</p>

<p>"We've been patient, but our patience is wearing thin," the 78-year-old president said. "And your refusal has cost all of us. So, please, do the right thing."</p>

<p>Biden's plan mandates vaccinations for all federal employees and contractors and businesses with more than 100 employees. Companies could face fines if they do not comply.</p>

<p>Most of the Americans who have not yet been vaccinated tend to be younger, less educated, and more likely to be Republican, according to studies.</p>

<p>Republican Senator Ted Cruz of Texas said Friday that while he supports the vaccine, getting the shot should be the individual choice of every American.</p>

<p>"The federal government has no authority to force businesses in Texas and across the country to mandate their employees get vaccinated," Cruz said. "It is cruel and burdensome to impose this authoritarian mandate.</p>

<p>"While I support the vaccine and have received it, Americans have the right to exercise personal choice when it comes to their health."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) employees have sued over mandatory Covid vaccination directions. They have alleged that the department has created 'hostile work environment' for unvaccinated members of the staff.

Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) employees have sued over mandatory Covid vaccination directions. They have alleged that the department has created 'hostile work environment' for unvaccinated members of the staff. The employees also argued that the vaccine mandate violated their privacy and civil rights. The lawsuit has thrown up an aggressive challenge to the vaccine mandate and some police unions across California have threatened mass resignations. US President Joe Biden has taken a strong stance recently with respect to vaccination. It has been made mandatory for government workers to get vaccinated failing which even their jobs would be on the line. The mandate however is attracting legal challenges. "Have at it," a defiant Biden told reporters on Friday when asked about legal challenges to the strict vaccination rules that would affect tens of millions of American workers. After months of seeking to boost vaccination rates through gentle persuasion and incentives, the Democratic president made it clear on Thursday that he was fed up as the Delta variant sends Covid cases surging across the country. Biden directly addressed the estimated 80 million eligible Americans who have not yet gotten the shot against a disease that has left 650,000 people dead in the United States. "We've been patient, but our patience is wearing thin," the 78-year-old president said. "And your refusal has cost all of us. So, please, do the right thing." Biden's plan mandates vaccinations for all federal employees and contractors and businesses with more than 100 employees. Companies could face fines if they do not comply. Most of the Americans who have not yet been vaccinated tend to be younger, less educated, and more likely to be Republican, according to studies. Republican Senator Ted Cruz of Texas said Friday that while he supports the vaccine, getting the shot should be the individual choice of every American. "The federal government has no authority to force businesses in Texas and across the country to mandate their employees get vaccinated," Cruz said. "It is cruel and burdensome to impose this authoritarian mandate. "While I support the vaccine and have received it, Americans have the right to exercise personal choice when it comes to their health." (With inputs from agencies)

LAPD officials file lawsuit against compulsory Covid vaccination

<p>In a bid to make sure students can come back to schools in a safe environment, Los Angeles board of education has decided that all students above the age of 12 will have to be vaccinated.</p>

<p>All students who wish to attend in-person classes will have to get fully vaccinated if they are aged 12 and above.</p>

<p>As of now, school authorities have been regularly testing students and faculty members for Covid. Masks are compulsory indoors and outdoors for all students and employees. In addition to this, all faculty members have been asked to compulsorily get fully vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus.</p>

<p>All students who participate in sports and other extracurricular activities will have to get fully vaccinated by the end of October. Other students have been given a deadline of December 19.</p>

<p><a href="&lt;div class=&quot;videoWrapper trancodeVideo&quot;&gt;&lt;iframe src=&quot;https://www.wionews.com/videos/joe-biden-unvaccinated-people-hampering-us-vaccine-drive-412057/embed&quot; width=&quot;560&quot; height=&quot;350&quot; style=&quot;width:100%;max-width:560px;&quot; class=&quot;includeVideo&quot; frameborder=&quot;0&quot; autoplay=1 allowfullscreen&gt;&lt;/iframe&gt;&lt;/div&gt;"><strong>WATCH |</strong></a></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/joe-biden-unvaccinated-people-hampering-us-vaccine-drive-412057/embed" style="width:100%; max-width:560px" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"It is easy to wait for someone to tell us what to do. LA Unified is leading because we must. Our communities cannot wait," Mónica García, a board member, said before the vote. "This action is not about violating anybody’s rights. This action is about doing our job to be able to offer public schools that children can come to school and be safe."</p>

<p>The Los Angeles Unified School District is the second largest in the whole country as it trains more than 600,000 students.</p>

<p>As the country was fighting another surge due to Delta variant, LA Unified raised their voices to keep schools closed and continue with virtual classroom, citing health concerns as a major reason.</p>

<p>"It is our moral, ethical, religious, political- pick a word- it’s our responsibility to protect the children under 12 who cannot get protected any other way," Board member Jackie Goldberg said.</p>

<p>However, some parents have opposed the move by saying it should be up to the parents to decide whether or not they would like their child to be vaccinated against coronavirus.</p>

<p>As of now, vaccines for children under the age of 12 have not been authorised yet.</p>


In a bid to make sure students can come back to schools in a safe environment, Los Angeles board of education has decided that all students above the age of 12 will have to be vaccinated.

In a bid to make sure students can come back to schools in a safe environment, Los Angeles board of education has decided that all students above the age of 12 will have to be vaccinated. All students who wish to attend in-person classes will have to get fully vaccinated if they are aged 12 and above. As of now, school authorities have been regularly testing students and faculty members for Covid. Masks are compulsory indoors and outdoors for all students and employees. In addition to this, all faculty members have been asked to compulsorily get fully vaccinated against the deadly coronavirus. All students who participate in sports and other extracurricular activities will have to get fully vaccinated by the end of October. Other students have been given a deadline of December 19. WATCH | "It is easy to wait for someone to tell us what to do. LA Unified is leading because we must. Our communities cannot wait," Mónica García, a board member, said before the vote. "This action is not about violating anybody’s rights. This action is about doing our job to be able to offer public schools that children can come to school and be safe." The Los Angeles Unified School District is the second largest in the whole country as it trains more than 600,000 students. As the country was fighting another surge due to Delta variant, LA Unified raised their voices to keep schools closed and continue with virtual classroom, citing health concerns as a major reason. "It is our moral, ethical, religious, political- pick a word- it’s our responsibility to protect the children under 12 who cannot get protected any other way," Board member Jackie Goldberg said. However, some parents have opposed the move by saying it should be up to the parents to decide whether or not they would like their child to be vaccinated against coronavirus. As of now, vaccines for children under the age of 12 have not been authorised yet.

Los Angeles students instructed to get fully vaccinated to attend schools

<p>Former Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein pleaded not guilty on Wednesday to charges of rape and sexual assault involving five women in Los Angeles ahead of a second trial.<br />
<br />
Weinstein, 69, arrived at Los Angeles Superior Court for his first appearance there in a wheelchair, wearing a brown jail uniform, after being extradited from New York on Tuesday where he was serving 23 years in prison for rape and other sexual offenses.<br />
<br />
Weinstein has denied having nonconsensual sex with anyone and is appealing his 2020 New York conviction and sentence.<br />
<br />
In Los Angeles, he faces 11 charges of attacking five women between 2004 to 2013. They include forcible rape, forcible oral copulation, sexual battery by restraint, and sexual penetration by use of force. If convicted, Weinstein could spend the rest of his life in prison.<br />
<br />
Weinstein`s lawyer said there was no forensic evidence or credible witnesses to the allegations.<br />
<br />
"They are baseless, they are from long, long ago, they are uncorroborated," Mark Werksman told reporters outside the courthouse.<br />
"We are confident that if we can have a fair trial in this case that Mr Weinstein will be acquitted," Werksman said.<br />
<br />
After entering his not guilty plea through his attorney on Wednesday, Weinstein was ordered to remain in jail until the next hearing on July 29.<br />
<br />
Werksman said he was seeking dismissal of three charges relating to 2004 and 2005 on the grounds that the 10 year statute of limitations in California has expired.<br />
<br />
Weinstein, once one of the most powerful men in Hollywood, is accused of raping two women at hotels in Beverly Hills on separate occasions, and with sexually assaulting three other women in the Beverly Hills or Los Angeles areas, according to the charges.<br />
<br />
He had been fighting extradition on medical grounds. Werksman said he was going blind in one eye and that he was unable to walk because of back problems.<br />
<br />
More than 80 women have accused Weinstein of sexual misconduct going back decades but only a handful of the allegations have resulted in criminal charges.<br />
<br />
He co-founded the Miramax film studio, whose hit movies included "Shakespeare in Love" and "Pulp Fiction." His film studio filed for bankruptcy in March 2018.</p>


Former Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein pleaded not guilty on Wednesday to charges of rape and sexual assault involving five women in Los Angeles ahead of a second trial.

Former Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein pleaded not guilty on Wednesday to charges of rape and sexual assault involving five women in Los Angeles ahead of a second trial. Weinstein, 69, arrived at Los Angeles Superior Court for his first appearance there in a wheelchair, wearing a brown jail uniform, after being extradited from New York on Tuesday where he was serving 23 years in prison for rape and other sexual offenses. Weinstein has denied having nonconsensual sex with anyone and is appealing his 2020 New York conviction and sentence. In Los Angeles, he faces 11 charges of attacking five women between 2004 to 2013. They include forcible rape, forcible oral copulation, sexual battery by restraint, and sexual penetration by use of force. If convicted, Weinstein could spend the rest of his life in prison. Weinstein`s lawyer said there was no forensic evidence or credible witnesses to the allegations. "They are baseless, they are from long, long ago, they are uncorroborated," Mark Werksman told reporters outside the courthouse. "We are confident that if we can have a fair trial in this case that Mr Weinstein will be acquitted," Werksman said. After entering his not guilty plea through his attorney on Wednesday, Weinstein was ordered to remain in jail until the next hearing on July 29. Werksman said he was seeking dismissal of three charges relating to 2004 and 2005 on the grounds that the 10 year statute of limitations in California has expired. Weinstein, once one of the most powerful men in Hollywood, is accused of raping two women at hotels in Beverly Hills on separate occasions, and with sexually assaulting three other women in the Beverly Hills or Los Angeles areas, according to the charges. He had been fighting extradition on medical grounds. Werksman said he was going blind in one eye and that he was unable to walk because of back problems. More than 80 women have accused Weinstein of sexual misconduct going back decades but only a handful of the allegations have resulted in criminal charges. He co-founded the Miramax film studio, whose hit movies included "Shakespeare in Love" and "Pulp Fiction." His film studio filed for bankruptcy in March 2018.

Harvey Weinstein pleads not guilty ahead of rape trial in Los Angeles

<p>Hollywood actress Judy Greer will play the female lead in an independent feature film, ‘LA Bound’, claim reports.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
The film is based on a small-town high school football star and how he ruins his college scholarship to shift base to Los Angeles to become an actor, and pay tribute to his late sister’s passion for creative arts.&nbsp;</p>

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<p>As per reports, the film’s written and directed by Chris McGowan.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
Greer, who will play Carol Berry opposite Brec Bassinger in ‘LA Bound’, will soon be seen in the highly anticipated sequel to 2018 hit film ‘Halloween’—titled ‘Halloween Kills’. &nbsp;Just like the previous installment, the upcoming sequel’s been co-written and directed by David Gordon Green.&nbsp;</p>


Hollywood actress Judy Greer will play the female lead in an independent feature film, ‘LA Bound’, claim reports. The film is based on a small-town high school football star and how he ruins his college scholarship to shift base to Los Angeles to become an actor, and pay tribute to his late sister’s passion for creative arts.

Hollywood actress Judy Greer will play the female lead in an independent feature film, ‘LA Bound’, claim reports. The film is based on a small-town high school football star and how he ruins his college scholarship to shift base to Los Angeles to become an actor, and pay tribute to his late sister’s passion for creative arts. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Judy Greer (@missjudygreer) × As per reports, the film’s written and directed by Chris McGowan. Greer, who will play Carol Berry opposite Brec Bassinger in ‘LA Bound’, will soon be seen in the highly anticipated sequel to 2018 hit film ‘Halloween’—titled ‘Halloween Kills’. Just like the previous installment, the upcoming sequel’s been co-written and directed by David Gordon Green.

‘27 Dresses’ actor Judy Greer to headline indie film ‘LA Bound’

<p>In Los Angeles, dozens of people were arrested after a chaotic and sometimes violent demonstration by anti-transgender protesters who targeted a Koreatown spa. It has a trans-inclusive policy allowing trans women to use women’s facilities.</p>

<p>On Saturday, the protests completed two weekends of violent protests this month in the streets around Wi Spa. It is a neighbourhood that has found itself at the heart of a right-wing media storm over an alleged incident where a customer filmed herself complaining about a trans woman in the women’s area of the spa.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Amber Hooper and Chloe watched the violence at the previous Wi Spa protest and were shocked. They came today from OC to represent their community. “We just want the violence to stop,” Chloe said. “Trans rights are human rights,” Amber said. <a href="https://t.co/YlWo47d1mu">pic.twitter.com/YlWo47d1mu</a></p>
— Lois Beckett (@loisbeckett) <a href="https://twitter.com/loisbeckett/status/1416436207089700864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Just got thrown to the ground by right-wing anti-pedophile protesters as a crowd coverged on me and chased me. They threw water at me and screamed about Jesus and said to grab my phone. Police would not let me through the police line but after I got thrown on the ground they did. <a href="https://t.co/LDGqkua3fi">pic.twitter.com/LDGqkua3fi</a></p>
— Lois Beckett (@loisbeckett) <a href="https://twitter.com/loisbeckett/status/1416467648364220418?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The protestors called for a boycott of Wi Spa and chanted baseless claims about paedophilia. Women were seen carrying a sign that read, &nbsp;“protect female spaces” and “It’s worse in women’s shelters”.</p>

<p>A Los Angeles police department spokesperson said that the police made several dozen arrests for failure to disperse after declaring an unlawful assembly shortly after 11 am.</p>

<p>LAPD also fired rubber bullets at trans rights demonstrators from a close distance. This comes despite a recent judge's rule restricting the department’s use of certain “less lethal” projectile launchers against protesters.&nbsp;</p>


In Los Angeles, dozens of people were arrested after a chaotic and sometimes violent demonstration by anti-transgender protesters who targeted a Koreatown spa. It has a trans-inclusive policy allowing trans women to use women’s facilities.

In Los Angeles, dozens of people were arrested after a chaotic and sometimes violent demonstration by anti-transgender protesters who targeted a Koreatown spa. It has a trans-inclusive policy allowing trans women to use women’s facilities. On Saturday, the protests completed two weekends of violent protests this month in the streets around Wi Spa. It is a neighbourhood that has found itself at the heart of a right-wing media storm over an alleged incident where a customer filmed herself complaining about a trans woman in the women’s area of the spa. Amber Hooper and Chloe watched the violence at the previous Wi Spa protest and were shocked. They came today from OC to represent their community. “We just want the violence to stop,” Chloe said. “Trans rights are human rights,” Amber said. pic.twitter.com/YlWo47d1mu — Lois Beckett (@loisbeckett) July 17, 2021 × Just got thrown to the ground by right-wing anti-pedophile protesters as a crowd coverged on me and chased me. They threw water at me and screamed about Jesus and said to grab my phone. Police would not let me through the police line but after I got thrown on the ground they did. pic.twitter.com/LDGqkua3fi — Lois Beckett (@loisbeckett) July 17, 2021 × The protestors called for a boycott of Wi Spa and chanted baseless claims about paedophilia. Women were seen carrying a sign that read, “protect female spaces” and “It’s worse in women’s shelters”. A Los Angeles police department spokesperson said that the police made several dozen arrests for failure to disperse after declaring an unlawful assembly shortly after 11 am. LAPD also fired rubber bullets at trans rights demonstrators from a close distance. This comes despite a recent judge's rule restricting the department’s use of certain “less lethal” projectile launchers against protesters.

Protestors arrested in Los Angeles as anti-trans protest outside spa turns violent

<p>A flight from Los Angeles to Nashville was diverted to New Mexico on Friday afternoon after a passenger tried to break into the cockpit, Delta Air Lines said.</p>

<p>The 'unruly'&nbsp;man made the unsuccessful attempt on the locked cockpit aboard Delta Air Lines Flight 386 but other passengers and crew managed to detain him, the airline said.</p>

<p>Video taken aboard the plane shows the zip-tied and shoeless man surrounded by passengers and crew members as he repeats over and over again: "Stop this plane!"</p>

<p>He finally was picked up and hauled to the back of the plane, which was diverted to Albuquerque International Sunport. "The plane landed safely and the passenger was removed by police and the FBI. He is in custody now," Delta said in a statement.</p>

<p>No one was injured, and the FBI is investigating the incident. Frank Fisher, spokesman for the FBI in Albuquerque, confirmed that the agency had responded to a report of a plane diverted to the city's airport but said there had been no threat to the public. He said no other information was immediately available.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


A flight from Los Angeles to Nashville was diverted to New Mexico on Friday afternoon after a passenger tried to break into the cockpit, Delta Air Lines said. The 'unruly' man made the unsuccessful attempt on the locked cockpit aboard Delta Air Lines Flight 386 but other passengers and crew managed to detain him, the airline said.

A flight from Los Angeles to Nashville was diverted to New Mexico on Friday afternoon after a passenger tried to break into the cockpit, Delta Air Lines said. The 'unruly' man made the unsuccessful attempt on the locked cockpit aboard Delta Air Lines Flight 386 but other passengers and crew managed to detain him, the airline said. Video taken aboard the plane shows the zip-tied and shoeless man surrounded by passengers and crew members as he repeats over and over again: "Stop this plane!" He finally was picked up and hauled to the back of the plane, which was diverted to Albuquerque International Sunport. "The plane landed safely and the passenger was removed by police and the FBI. He is in custody now," Delta said in a statement. No one was injured, and the FBI is investigating the incident. Frank Fisher, spokesman for the FBI in Albuquerque, confirmed that the agency had responded to a report of a plane diverted to the city's airport but said there had been no threat to the public. He said no other information was immediately available. (With inputs from agencies)

Unruly passenger forces LA-to-Nashville flight diversion

Two stolen hand-carved artifacts, sandstone lintels dating back to the 9th and 10th centuries, were returned to the Thai government on Tuesday in a ceremony more than 50 years overdue.

Ceremony marks return of stolen Thai antiquities

<p>Westbrook ties Robertson for most NBA triple-doubles all-time</p>

<p>Washington's Russell Westbrook notched the 181st triple-double of his career on Saturday, tying Oscar Robertson for the most in NBA history.</p>

<p>Westbrook matched Robertson with his 10th assist of the night in the third quarter of the Wizards' 133-132 overtime victory over the Pacers in Indianapolis.<br />
Westbrook finished with 33 points, 19 rebounds, and 15 assists, draining the go-ahead free-throws with one second left in overtime then blocking the Pacers' last shot.<br />
Bradley Beal scored 50 points for the Wizards, so it was no surprise that when Westbrook secured his triple-double with his 10th assist late in the third it was with an arching pass to Beal for a floater in the lane.</p>

<p>Westbrook has 35 triple-doubles on the season -- including 25 in his last 32 games.<br />
"Man, it's unbelievable," Westbrook said of matching Robertson, who played from 1960-74. "I'm truly blessed and thankful. I'm just thankful for everybody along the way along this journey."</p>

<p><strong>Grateful to Oscar</strong><br />
It's not the first time Westbrook has etched his name alongside that of Robertson.<br />
Westbrook was playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2017 when he broke Robertson's single-season record with 42 triple-doubles -- recording double digits in three major statistical categories in a feat that has become a measuring stick of all-around excellence.<br />
In that 2016-17 season, he joined Robertson as the only player to average a triple-double for the season -- which Westbrook has now done for the fourth time in five years.</p>

<p>"To be in conversation with Oscar, one, I want to just thank him because he set the stage," Westbrook said. "He sacrificed a lot of things for us to be able to go out and play, and the times he played in and the things he was able to do back in the day has allowed me to be able to do things I want to do today.</p>

<p>"Just grateful for him, grateful for his words and appreciative of his support, as well," added Westbrook, who can pass Robertson on Monday when the Wizards play the Hawks in Atlanta.</p>

<p>Los Angeles Lakers great Magic Johnson is third on the NBA's all-time triple-double list with 138 and Jason Kidd is fourth on 107.<br />
Current Lakers superstar LeBron James is the only other active player in the top five, with 99 career triple-doubles. But Westbrook had his eye on a different stat, as the narrow victory in a game that featured 33 lead changes saw the Wizards inch ahead of the Pacers into ninth place in the Eastern Conference standings.<br />
The seventh through 10th-placed teams will compete in the play-in tournament for a berth in the playoffs proper.</p>

<p>"I take so much pride in going out and leaving everything I have on the floor," Westbrook said. "Tonight was another one of those nights where you've got to grind it out and figure it out."</p>

<p>Beal, who took a knock early but returned to the game before departing for good late in the fourth, wasn't on the floor when Westbrook blocked Caris LeVert's attempted game-winner for Indiana -- taking care not to foul him.</p>

<p>"I used my left hand on purpose," he said. "I tried to swipe left so I could go by him and block the shot.<br />
"I'm happy it worked this time. Fortunately, we got the win -- a big win for us, it moved us up in the standings a little bit."<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Westbrook ties Robertson for most NBA triple-doubles all-time Washington's Russell Westbrook notched the 181st triple-double of his career on Saturday, tying Oscar Robertson for the most in NBA history.

Westbrook ties Robertson for most NBA triple-doubles all-time Washington's Russell Westbrook notched the 181st triple-double of his career on Saturday, tying Oscar Robertson for the most in NBA history. Westbrook matched Robertson with his 10th assist of the night in the third quarter of the Wizards' 133-132 overtime victory over the Pacers in Indianapolis. Westbrook finished with 33 points, 19 rebounds, and 15 assists, draining the go-ahead free-throws with one second left in overtime then blocking the Pacers' last shot. Bradley Beal scored 50 points for the Wizards, so it was no surprise that when Westbrook secured his triple-double with his 10th assist late in the third it was with an arching pass to Beal for a floater in the lane. Westbrook has 35 triple-doubles on the season -- including 25 in his last 32 games. "Man, it's unbelievable," Westbrook said of matching Robertson, who played from 1960-74. "I'm truly blessed and thankful. I'm just thankful for everybody along the way along this journey." Grateful to Oscar It's not the first time Westbrook has etched his name alongside that of Robertson. Westbrook was playing for the Oklahoma City Thunder in 2017 when he broke Robertson's single-season record with 42 triple-doubles -- recording double digits in three major statistical categories in a feat that has become a measuring stick of all-around excellence. In that 2016-17 season, he joined Robertson as the only player to average a triple-double for the season -- which Westbrook has now done for the fourth time in five years. "To be in conversation with Oscar, one, I want to just thank him because he set the stage," Westbrook said. "He sacrificed a lot of things for us to be able to go out and play, and the times he played in and the things he was able to do back in the day has allowed me to be able to do things I want to do today. "Just grateful for him, grateful for his words and appreciative of his support, as well," added Westbrook, who can pass Robertson on Monday when the Wizards play the Hawks in Atlanta. Los Angeles Lakers great Magic Johnson is third on the NBA's all-time triple-double list with 138 and Jason Kidd is fourth on 107. Current Lakers superstar LeBron James is the only other active player in the top five, with 99 career triple-doubles. But Westbrook had his eye on a different stat, as the narrow victory in a game that featured 33 lead changes saw the Wizards inch ahead of the Pacers into ninth place in the Eastern Conference standings. The seventh through 10th-placed teams will compete in the play-in tournament for a berth in the playoffs proper. "I take so much pride in going out and leaving everything I have on the floor," Westbrook said. "Tonight was another one of those nights where you've got to grind it out and figure it out." Beal, who took a knock early but returned to the game before departing for good late in the fourth, wasn't on the floor when Westbrook blocked Caris LeVert's attempted game-winner for Indiana -- taking care not to foul him. "I used my left hand on purpose," he said. "I tried to swipe left so I could go by him and block the shot. "I'm happy it worked this time. Fortunately, we got the win -- a big win for us, it moved us up in the standings a little bit."

Russell Westbrook ties Oscar Robertson for most NBA triple-doubles all-time

<p>Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti is in talks with the Biden administration about becoming US ambassador to India.</p>

<p>Garcetti was widely rumoured to be in the running for President Biden’s pick for Transportation secretary before Pete Buttigieg was nominated. He is said to be eager to land a new role after serving as mayor of Los Angeles since 2013.</p>

<p>Los Angeles mayor Eric Garcetti served as co-chair of US president Joe Biden's campaign and said in December that he turned down an unspecified position in the administration to remain in his current post. He might now be posted as Ambassador to India.</p>

<p>US president Joe Biden is considering naming Los Angeles mayor Eric Garcetti as Ambassador to India.</p>

<p>According to the news site Axios, which cited people close to the matter, Garcetti is one of many people being considered for the post.</p>

<p>Garcetti served as co-chair of Biden's campaign and said in December that he turned down an unspecified position in the administration to remain Los Angeles mayor.</p>

<p>The appointment as India's ambassador would come as the nation of 1.36 billion people deals with a spike in Covid-19 cases, reported Axios.</p>

<p>Axios reported that Biden was presented with a list of potential ambassadors in March, and a final decision on the appointment has not yet been made.&nbsp;</p>


Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti is in talks with the Biden administration about becoming US ambassador to India. Garcetti was widely rumoured to be in the running for President Biden’s pick for Transportation secretary before Pete Buttigieg was nominated.

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti is in talks with the Biden administration about becoming US ambassador to India. Garcetti was widely rumoured to be in the running for President Biden’s pick for Transportation secretary before Pete Buttigieg was nominated. He is said to be eager to land a new role after serving as mayor of Los Angeles since 2013. Los Angeles mayor Eric Garcetti served as co-chair of US president Joe Biden's campaign and said in December that he turned down an unspecified position in the administration to remain in his current post. He might now be posted as Ambassador to India. US president Joe Biden is considering naming Los Angeles mayor Eric Garcetti as Ambassador to India. According to the news site Axios, which cited people close to the matter, Garcetti is one of many people being considered for the post. Garcetti served as co-chair of Biden's campaign and said in December that he turned down an unspecified position in the administration to remain Los Angeles mayor. The appointment as India's ambassador would come as the nation of 1.36 billion people deals with a spike in Covid-19 cases, reported Axios. Axios reported that Biden was presented with a list of potential ambassadors in March, and a final decision on the appointment has not yet been made.

US President considering naming Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti as next US Ambassador to India: Report

Los Angeles police officer shot a man who was wearing body Armour after he backed his vehicle into a police car and confronted the officers. The man was then struck by gunfire and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Los Angeles police shot man wearing body Armour after confrontation

<p>If you've been driving in California's central valley this week and spotted a bear walking on its hind legs, you're not imagining it. But don't worry, it's also not a real bear; it's just a man wearing a bear suit.</p>

<p>Jesse Larios says he does not know exactly what inspired him to dress up as the character he has named Bearsun and start the over 400-mile (644-km) trip, but he has been pleased with the attention the move has received.</p>

<p>"It was an impulsive decision for sure. I didn't plan it out. I had the basics down. I was like ok, cool, I'm going to walk," Larios said during a stop in Gilroy on Wednesday (April 21).</p>

<p>The impulse decision by Larios has morphed into something bigger. His journey has drawn fans from all over, including some who wanted to donate.</p>

<p>Larios has taken the fans up on their offers and started a GoFundMe account. Upon reaching&nbsp;San&nbsp;Francisco, Larios said he plans to hold an online vote to determine where to donate the money. As of Wednesday, he had raised $7,100.</p>

<p>"I just want to help people out," he said.</p>

<p>With news of his journey spreading, some folks have taken to searching him out and stopping for photos.</p>

<p>Crystal Gomez, 37, loaded up the family from nearby Gilroy and brought them to see "Bearsun."</p>

<p>"I just think it's awesome that he's doing that. It's cool that the kids got to see this because you know that's a far walk from LA to&nbsp;San&nbsp;Francisco, so yeah. I just think it's amazing," Gomez said.</p>

<p>Larios has been making stops along the way to sleep and eat but not much else. He started the journey on April 12. The trip has already taken longer than anticipated but he's not in a huge rush.</p>

<p>Instead, he's walking, enjoying the views, which he posts on Instagram, and taking inspiration from the journey and all the folks he's met along the way.</p>

<p>"Everything's been pretty wild, to be honest," Larios said. "It inspires me to do new things. It brings new ideas. It fuels my creativity. It helps out a lot and it feels good too."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


If you've been driving in California's central valley this week and spotted a bear walking on its hind legs, you're not imagining it. But don't worry, it's also not a real bear; it's just a man wearing a bear suit.

If you've been driving in California's central valley this week and spotted a bear walking on its hind legs, you're not imagining it. But don't worry, it's also not a real bear; it's just a man wearing a bear suit. Jesse Larios says he does not know exactly what inspired him to dress up as the character he has named Bearsun and start the over 400-mile (644-km) trip, but he has been pleased with the attention the move has received. "It was an impulsive decision for sure. I didn't plan it out. I had the basics down. I was like ok, cool, I'm going to walk," Larios said during a stop in Gilroy on Wednesday (April 21). The impulse decision by Larios has morphed into something bigger. His journey has drawn fans from all over, including some who wanted to donate. Larios has taken the fans up on their offers and started a GoFundMe account. Upon reaching San Francisco, Larios said he plans to hold an online vote to determine where to donate the money. As of Wednesday, he had raised $7,100. "I just want to help people out," he said. With news of his journey spreading, some folks have taken to searching him out and stopping for photos. Crystal Gomez, 37, loaded up the family from nearby Gilroy and brought them to see "Bearsun." "I just think it's awesome that he's doing that. It's cool that the kids got to see this because you know that's a far walk from LA to San Francisco, so yeah. I just think it's amazing," Gomez said. Larios has been making stops along the way to sleep and eat but not much else. He started the journey on April 12. The trip has already taken longer than anticipated but he's not in a huge rush. Instead, he's walking, enjoying the views, which he posts on Instagram, and taking inspiration from the journey and all the folks he's met along the way. "Everything's been pretty wild, to be honest," Larios said. "It inspires me to do new things. It brings new ideas. It fuels my creativity. It helps out a lot and it feels good too." (With inputs from agencies)

Los Angeles man wearing bear suit hits highway to San Francisco

<p>Disney`s animated adventure 'Raya and the Last Dragon'&nbsp;led the domestic box office in its third weekend, illustrating the appeal of family films as Hollywood attempts to mount a moviegoing revival. 'Raya and the Last Dragon'&nbsp;collected $5.2 million from 2,261 theatres through Sunday, representing a scant 5% decline.<br />
<br />
Disney can thank the reopening of Los Angeles movie theatres for the stellar hold in ticket sales. Cinemas in the City of Angels were given permission to resume operations on March 12, but most film exhibitors weren`t able to get up and running until now.<br />
<br />
Capacity in Los Angeles area movie theaters will be capped at 25%, or 100 people per auditorium, which is double the limit in New York, where its restricted to 50 people. Even with restrictions, Los Angeles accounted for nearly 9% of all movie tickets sold this weekend, according to Comscore.<br />
"This weekend showed solid results from holdovers, demonstrating the revenue-generating a horsepower of opening the biggest box-office market in North America," said Paul Dergarabedian, a senior media analyst with Comscore. "Eager movie fans in Los Angeles showed up in solid numbers to enjoy the big screen experience once again."<br />
<br />
AMC Theatres, the cinema chain with the biggest footprint in the country, has reopened 98% of its locations, including 40 venues in California, as of March 19. The circuit expects to reopen even more locations by March 26.<br />
<br />
"It was exactly one year ago that we closed all AMC locations in the United States," said Adam Aron, the CEO of AMC. "It gives me immense joy to say that by the end of next week we expect that 99% of our U.S. locations will have reopened."<br />
"Raya and the Last Dragon" amassed another $8 million overseas from 29 countries. The film, which is available to Disney Plus subscribers for an additional $30, has generated $71 million globally to date<br />
.<br />
Without much in the way of competition, "Raya and the Last Dragon" was able to easily repeat No. 1 in North America. Two new movies -- "The Courier" and "City of Lies" -- opened theatrically while several awards season hopefuls got a post-Oscar nomination boost.<br />
"The Courier," a Cold War drama led by Benedict Cumberbatch and Rachel Brosnahan, landed in third place with $2 million from 1,433 locations. Directed by Dominic Cooke, the movie premiered at last year`s Sundance Film Festival (with the title "Ironbark") to mostly positive reviews. Roadside Attractions and Lionsgate, the film`s backers, reported strong turnout in Salt Lake City, Orlando and Dallas.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, Johnny Depp`s "City of Lies," a crime drama about corruption in the LAPD, mostly fell flat. The poorly reviewed film cinched 11th place on box office charts, scraping together $275,049 from 501 screens.<br />
Focus Feature`s dark comedy "Promising Young Woman," which landed five Academy Award nominations, enjoyed a 117% increase in ticket sales, with $195,000 over the three days for a total of $5.7 million. And A24`s "Minari," a heartwarming drama about a Korean American family that scored six Oscar nods, saw receipts climb 85%. The film earned $306,000 this weekend, bringing its tally to $1.3 million. Sony Pictures Classics` "The Father," the only best picture nominee to have a traditional theatrical release, made another $275,000 following nominations, lifting its total sales to $879,000.<br />
<br />
"Raya and the Last Dragon" wasn`t the only title that witnessed a modest decline in ticket sales; none of the films in the top five dipped more than 15% from the weekend prior.Warner Bros.` live-action-animated hybrid "Tom and Jerry" remained in second place with $3.8 million from 2,508 screens, a 7% drop from last weekend. The film, which is also playing on HBO Max for 31 days, has made $33 million at the domestic box office. Internationally, "Tom and Jerry" added another $4 million, bringing its overseas tally to $43.5 million and global haul to $77.2. million.<br />
<br />
At No. 3, Lionsgate`s sci-fi thriller "Chaos Walking" took in $1.9 million from 2,132 theaters, marking a slight 14% fall. After three weeks of release, the Daisy Ridley and Tom Holland-led film has made $9.69 million. Universal`s "The Croods: A New Age" rounded out the top five with $620,000 from 1,411 screens. The animated family film has made $55 million since it was released last November. Globally, "The Croods" sequel has made $160 million.</p>


Disney`s animated adventure 'Raya and the Last Dragon' led the domestic box office in its third weekend, illustrating the appeal of family films as Hollywood attempts to mount a moviegoing revival.

Disney`s animated adventure 'Raya and the Last Dragon' led the domestic box office in its third weekend, illustrating the appeal of family films as Hollywood attempts to mount a moviegoing revival. 'Raya and the Last Dragon' collected $5.2 million from 2,261 theatres through Sunday, representing a scant 5% decline. Disney can thank the reopening of Los Angeles movie theatres for the stellar hold in ticket sales. Cinemas in the City of Angels were given permission to resume operations on March 12, but most film exhibitors weren`t able to get up and running until now. Capacity in Los Angeles area movie theaters will be capped at 25%, or 100 people per auditorium, which is double the limit in New York, where its restricted to 50 people. Even with restrictions, Los Angeles accounted for nearly 9% of all movie tickets sold this weekend, according to Comscore. "This weekend showed solid results from holdovers, demonstrating the revenue-generating a horsepower of opening the biggest box-office market in North America," said Paul Dergarabedian, a senior media analyst with Comscore. "Eager movie fans in Los Angeles showed up in solid numbers to enjoy the big screen experience once again." AMC Theatres, the cinema chain with the biggest footprint in the country, has reopened 98% of its locations, including 40 venues in California, as of March 19. The circuit expects to reopen even more locations by March 26. "It was exactly one year ago that we closed all AMC locations in the United States," said Adam Aron, the CEO of AMC. "It gives me immense joy to say that by the end of next week we expect that 99% of our U.S. locations will have reopened." "Raya and the Last Dragon" amassed another $8 million overseas from 29 countries. The film, which is available to Disney Plus subscribers for an additional $30, has generated $71 million globally to date . Without much in the way of competition, "Raya and the Last Dragon" was able to easily repeat No. 1 in North America. Two new movies -- "The Courier" and "City of Lies" -- opened theatrically while several awards season hopefuls got a post-Oscar nomination boost. "The Courier," a Cold War drama led by Benedict Cumberbatch and Rachel Brosnahan, landed in third place with $2 million from 1,433 locations. Directed by Dominic Cooke, the movie premiered at last year`s Sundance Film Festival (with the title "Ironbark") to mostly positive reviews. Roadside Attractions and Lionsgate, the film`s backers, reported strong turnout in Salt Lake City, Orlando and Dallas. Meanwhile, Johnny Depp`s "City of Lies," a crime drama about corruption in the LAPD, mostly fell flat. The poorly reviewed film cinched 11th place on box office charts, scraping together $275,049 from 501 screens. Focus Feature`s dark comedy "Promising Young Woman," which landed five Academy Award nominations, enjoyed a 117% increase in ticket sales, with $195,000 over the three days for a total of $5.7 million. And A24`s "Minari," a heartwarming drama about a Korean American family that scored six Oscar nods, saw receipts climb 85%. The film earned $306,000 this weekend, bringing its tally to $1.3 million. Sony Pictures Classics` "The Father," the only best picture nominee to have a traditional theatrical release, made another $275,000 following nominations, lifting its total sales to $879,000. "Raya and the Last Dragon" wasn`t the only title that witnessed a modest decline in ticket sales; none of the films in the top five dipped more than 15% from the weekend prior.Warner Bros.` live-action-animated hybrid "Tom and Jerry" remained in second place with $3.8 million from 2,508 screens, a 7% drop from last weekend. The film, which is also playing on HBO Max for 31 days, has made $33 million at the domestic box office. Internationally, "Tom and Jerry" added another $4 million, bringing its overseas tally to $43.5 million and global haul to $77.2. million. At No. 3, Lionsgate`s sci-fi thriller "Chaos Walking" took in $1.9 million from 2,132 theaters, marking a slight 14% fall. After three weeks of release, the Daisy Ridley and Tom Holland-led film has made $9.69 million. Universal`s "The Croods: A New Age" rounded out the top five with $620,000 from 1,411 screens. The animated family film has made $55 million since it was released last November. Globally, "The Croods" sequel has made $160 million.

'Raya and the Last Dragon' leads box office as L.A. theater revival boosts ticket sales

In a room with dimmed lights, a few brooms and a cart with heat protective gear sits a cremation chamber behind golden doors. It's where Eddie Martinez has been spending a lot of time lately.

Ashes and grief, the footprint of the pandemic in a crematorium

"rage room" just outside Los Angeles has found a steady stream of new customers looking to shed some stress by beating the heck out of things.

Novel idea to de-stress in California

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