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Maine Sen. Olympia Snowe, GOP moderate, won't seek reelection

Posted: February 28th, 2012, 5:32pm EST

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Olympia Snowe, one of the Senate's few remaining moderate Republicans, announced Tuesday that she will not seek a fourth term in 2012.

Dow closes above 13,000 for first time since financial crisis

Posted: February 28th, 2012, 4:01pm EST

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Wall Street's bulls have reason to celebrate: The Dow Jones industrial average closed above the psychologically important 13,000 mark for the first time since the financial crisis began in 2008.

$375-million Medicare fraud: Dallas doctor accused in record case

Posted: February 28th, 2012, 12:00pm EST

Federal law enforcement officials announced what they called the largest healthcare fraud case in the nation’s history, indicting a Dallas area physician for allegedly bilking Medicare for nearly $375 million in billings for nonexistent home healthcare services.

Facebook IPO could give California nearly $2.5 billion in five years

Posted: February 28th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Even with that infusion of money, California's legislative analyst says he thinks state revenue may be billions less than Gov. Brown has forecast.

Facebook's eagerly anticipated Wall Street debut could pump nearly $2.5 billion into California coffers over the next five years, the state's top budget analyst said Monday.

Gasoline prices create rough road for mobile small businesses

Posted: February 28th, 2012, 1:19am EST

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Delivery truck operators, cab drivers, carpet cleaners and others say their profit or loss is inextricably linked to the price of gas.

It's more night than morning when Jimmy Pastor pulls his blocky 1961 Chevy milk truck out of the Santa Ana parking lot for his delivery run, his white uniform starched, his red-and-white cap snug on his head.

Mitt Romney, Rick Santorum battle for Michigan

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 11:46pm EST

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Santorum, backed by the tea party and evangelicals, is making a powerful bid in Romney's home state. If he wins, the GOP race may last beyond spring.

Mitt Romney and Rick Santorum battled for primacy in advance of Tuesday contests that could reset the Republican presidential race, extending an epic struggle between the Michigan native's money and establishment ties and his challenger's intense following among tea party supporters and evangelical Christians.

Grapevine reopens after being shut down because of snow

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 10:13pm EST

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The Grapevine was reopened Monday evening after being closed because of snow, the California Highway Patrol said.

Wealthy, motivated by greed, are more likely to cheat, study finds

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 10:07pm EST

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People of higher status are more prone to cheating, taking candy from children and failing to wait their turn at four-way stops, a UC Berkeley experiment finds.

The rich really are different from the rest of us, scientists have found — they are more apt to commit unethical acts because they are more motivated by greed.

Germany finds itself back in power in Europe

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 9:45pm EST

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Germany is the unquestioned boss amid Europe's debt crisis and economic woes. But the turnaround has inspired discomfort among its neighbors and among Germans.

For nearly 70 years, Germany's grand national ambition has basically been not to have one.

Romney's at odds with Mormon Church on immigration

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 8:48pm EST

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Some Latinos who share the Republican's faith are distanced by his tough view on the subject. The church has been a voice for moderate border policies in the Southwest.

Celia Alejandra Alvarez spent three months in a Maricopa County jail after deputies arrested her and other illegal immigrants working at a landscaping business.

Officers hurt in Occupy clash across from California Capitol

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 8:32pm EST

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At least two police officers were injured Monday during a clash between Occupy protesters and pro-white demonstrators that spilled into the streets around the state Capitol.

Seattle mayor declares 'public safety emergency'

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 7:45pm EST

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Nobody’s ready to start talking about the "mean streets" of Seattle. But an alarming spike in street violence in this usually mellow city has everyone running scared. Mayor Mike McGinn, calling the increase a “public safety emergency,” pledged Monday to beef up police patrols and urged citizens to help combat lawlessness in their neighborhoods.

California asks for Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac foreclosure hiatus

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 5:55pm EST

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California’s attorney general has asked for a suspension of foreclosures on loans controlled by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

Gas prices keep rising: $3.70 nationally, $4.29 in California

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 2:36pm EST

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Going somewhere? It’ll cost you even more this week, with the national average price of a gallon of regular fuel now up to nearly $3.70 and rising 26 cents to $4.29 in California.

Ohio high school shooting: 1 killed, 4 injured at Chardon High

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 12:51pm EST

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One student was killed and four were injured in a shooting Monday morning at a high school in suburban Chardon, Ohio, authorities have reported.

Shooting reported at Ohio high school

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 9:54am EST

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A shooting occurred at a northeastern Ohio high school Monday morning, with at least one suspect reportedly still at large.

'The Artist' is big winner at Academy Awards

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 3:01am EST

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It wins best picture, best actor and directing honors. Meryl Streep wins the best actress award.

The movie of the fewest words spoke the loudest at the Oscars this year.

Debts closed in on Egypt man who died hanged in his jail cell

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Shawadfi Mohamed had $5,000 worth of IOUs spread out for miles. In the stingy land of the Nile Delta, it was a sum impossible to make good on.

His mother visited him hours before he twisted the edges of his blanket into a rope.

California's parent trigger law meets new tests in Adelanto

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 2:15am EST

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The Adelanto school board rejects parents' petition for change, saying signatures to overhaul Desert Trails Elementary were rescinded. Now a controversy that mirrors one in Compton is simmering.

It was supposed to be a historic victory in Adelanto, marking the first time California parents had forced sweeping changes at their struggling school under the state's pioneering parent trigger law.

Brown gets no promise of federal help for Medi-Cal

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 1:00am EST

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Governor says Sebelius hints that there may be other ways for the state to save money on health insurance for the poor.

Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius on Sunday threw cold water on Gov. Jerry Brown's plan to ask California's poor to contribute to their federally subsidized healthcare — payments the governor has proposed to save the state more than $500 million a year.

Unprecedented number of sea otter deaths along California coast

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 12:28am EST

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After being brought back from the brink of extinction, the mammal is again in peril. The U.S. Geological Survey reported that 335 dead, sick or injured otters were found in 2011, a record high.

After being brought back from the brink of extinction, sea otters are again in peril, with an unprecedented number of deaths along the California coast in the last year.

'The Artist' wins three top Oscars, including best picture

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 12:27am EST

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"The Artist," a black-and-white homage to the early days of Hollywood, was named best picture at the 84th Academy Awards on Sunday. Meryl Streep and Jean Dujardin take top acting awards.

"The Artist," the black-and-white silent film about Hollywood’s rocky transition to the “talkies,” took the biggest honors at the 84th Academy Awards on Sunday night, including best picture, director and lead actor.

Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer endorses Romney

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 12:17am EST

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Her tough stance on illegal immigration may help sway conservatives, but it's unlikely to endear the Republican front-runner to Latinos.

Mitt Romney picked up the endorsement Sunday of Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer, one of the most prominent faces of the legislative and law enforcement fight against illegal immigration.

Santorum and Romney fight their own class war in Michigan

Posted: February 27th, 2012, 12:08am EST

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In a key Republican primary showdown, rhetoric flies about a struggle between the working class and 'elites.'

On the eve of the unlikeliest showdown of a dumbfounding campaign year, the bitter Republican primary battle in Michigan has turned into an all-out class war.

Oscars 2012: 'The Artist' wins for best picture

Posted: February 26th, 2012, 11:46pm EST

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Michel Hazanavicius' "The Artist" was named best picture at the 84th Academy Awards on Sunday.

Oscars 2012: Christopher Plummer wins supporting actor for 'Beginners'

Posted: February 26th, 2012, 10:54pm EST

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It was a win for the history books: Christopher Plummer became the oldest person ever — at 82 — to win an acting Oscar. He took the trophy for supporting actor playing a widower who comes out of the closet in “Beginners.”

Federal raids a 'serious blow' to rhino trade

Posted: February 23rd, 2012, 6:36pm EST

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Wildlife investigators in California and other states crack down on an international smuggling ring that trafficked for years in sawed-off rhinoceros horns.

Federal wildlife investigators in California and other states say they have cracked an international smuggling ring that trafficked for years in sawed-off rhinoceros horns, which fetch stratospheric prices in Vietnam and China for their supposed cancer-curing powers.

Federal raids a 'serious blow' to rhino trade

Posted: February 23rd, 2012, 6:36pm EST

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Wildlife investigators in California and other states crack down on an international smuggling ring that trafficked for years in sawed-off rhinoceros horns.

Federal wildlife investigators in California and other states say they have cracked an international smuggling ring that trafficked for years in sawed-off rhinoceros horns, which fetch stratospheric prices in Vietnam and China for their supposed cancer-curing powers.

Obama goes on offense over gas prices

Posted: February 23rd, 2012, 3:54pm EST

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President Obama tried to deflect criticism over rising gas prices, accusing Republicans of cheering bad economic news and pleading for patience from Americans frustrated by higher costs.

Obama goes on offense over gas prices

Posted: February 23rd, 2012, 3:54pm EST

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President Obama tried to deflect criticism over rising gas prices, accusing Republicans of cheering bad economic news and pleading for patience from Americans frustrated by higher costs.

Sheriff Baca backs driver's licenses for illegal immigrants

Posted: February 23rd, 2012, 2:13pm EST

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Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca said he supports the idea of allowing illegal immigrants to have driver's licenses as long as they have been in the United States for a number of years without committing any crimes.

Sheriff Baca backs driver's licenses for illegal immigrants

Posted: February 23rd, 2012, 2:13pm EST

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Los Angeles County Sheriff Lee Baca said he supports the idea of allowing illegal immigrants to have driver's licenses as long as they have been in the United States for a number of years without committing any crimes.

Power outage causes major delays on Blue Line

Posted: February 23rd, 2012, 9:50am EST

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The Blue Line was experiencing delays of up to two hours Thursday morning because of a power outage, and officials asked commuters to avoid the light rail line.

Power outage causes major delays on Blue Line

Posted: February 23rd, 2012, 9:50am EST

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The Blue Line was experiencing delays of up to two hours Thursday morning because of a power outage, and officials asked commuters to avoid the light rail line.

Arizona copter collision kills 7 Marines; crash under investigation

Posted: February 23rd, 2012, 9:35am EST

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Seven Marines were killed in the collision of two helicopters during a training exercise at a base near Yuma, Ariz., the Marine Corps announced Thursday.

Arizona copter collision kills 7 Marines; crash under investigation

Posted: February 23rd, 2012, 9:35am EST

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Seven Marines were killed in the collision of two helicopters during a training exercise at a base near Yuma, Ariz., the Marine Corps announced Thursday.

L.A. Unified to report all teacher misconduct cases to state

Posted: February 23rd, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The action, aimed at protecting students, covers hundreds of teachers who have been investigated by school officials or police for alleged misdeeds ranging from sexual abuse to excessive absenteeism.

Los Angeles schools Supt. John Deasy said the district will report all teachers accused of misconduct to the state credentialing commission in an effort to keep those who pose a risk to students out of the classroom.

Beck backs driver's licenses for illegal immigrants

Posted: February 23rd, 2012, 3:00am EST

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LAPD chief advocates a change in state law, saying that licenses would improve highway safety and allow police to identify people they encounter.

Wading into a divisive, politically charged debate, Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Beck said Wednesday that California should issue driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.

Beck backs driver's licenses for illegal immigrants

Posted: February 23rd, 2012, 3:00am EST

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LAPD chief advocates a change in state law, saying that licenses would improve highway safety and allow police to identify people they encounter.

Wading into a divisive, politically charged debate, Los Angeles Police Chief Charlie Beck said Wednesday that California should issue driver's licenses to illegal immigrants.

Arizona debate features clash of Republican front-runners

Posted: February 23rd, 2012, 1:03am EST

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Mitt Romney tries to halt the momentum of fellow GOP hopeful Rick Santorum before next week's primaries in Arizona and Michigan — and ahead of Super Tuesday the following week.

Days before a pair of crucial primaries, Mitt Romney and Rick Santorum clashed Wednesday night in a testy debate that magnified small differences and underscored the big stakes in their neck-and-neck presidential fight.

Romney seeks to undercut Santorum on spending in GOP debate

Posted: February 22nd, 2012, 10:09pm EST

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Wrestling for the front-runner's mantle in the Republican presidential race, Rick Santorum and Mitt Romney clashed fiercely Wednesday night over their conservative credentials and their past support of earmarks as the four GOP candidates met for the first debate in nearly a month.

'Super PAC' leaders profit from lack of oversight

Posted: February 22nd, 2012, 9:38pm EST

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Leaders of some of the new groups are taking advantage of the mammoth donations and the lack of oversight to write themselves big paychecks or hire their own companies.

The Red White and Blue Fund, a "super PAC" backing the presidential bid of Republican Rick Santorum, paid more than half a million dollars last month to a newly formed direct mail firm.

'Super PAC' leaders profit from lack of oversight

Posted: February 22nd, 2012, 9:38pm EST

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Leaders of some of the new groups are taking advantage of the mammoth donations and the lack of oversight to write themselves big paychecks or hire their own companies.

The Red White and Blue Fund, a "super PAC" backing the presidential bid of Republican Rick Santorum, paid more than half a million dollars last month to a newly formed direct mail firm.

Supt. Deasy orders new look at L.A.'s teacher misconduct reports

Posted: February 22nd, 2012, 5:44pm EST

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L.A. schools Supt. John Deasy has ordered his staff to submit or re-submit reports to the state credentialing commission on hundreds of teachers accused of misconduct over the last four years.

Diet drug Qnexa should be approved, panel says

Posted: February 22nd, 2012, 4:55pm EST

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The diet drug Qnexa has cleared a major hurdle toward eventual Food and Drug Administration approval. An independent panel of medical experts who advise the agency voted Wednesday that Qnexa's significant weight-loss benefit outweighed its potential risks.

White House unveils corporate tax changes to fix 'unfair' system

Posted: February 22nd, 2012, 1:49pm EST

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Calling the system unfair, the Obama administration on Wednesday proposed a broad overhaul of the corporate tax code designed to reduce the rate that most companies pay by axing dozens of breaks designed for specific industries, particularly oil and gas production.

49 killed as train slams into retaining wall in Buenos Aires

Posted: February 22nd, 2012, 1:08pm EST

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A commuter train went out of control and slammed into a retaining barrier in a central Buenos Aires train station during peak rush hour Wednesday morning, killing at least 49 people and injuring more than 500, federal police officials said.

Student who jumped off high school roof was bullied, parents say

Posted: February 22nd, 2012, 12:01pm EST

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Days after their 15-year-old son died after jumping off of a third-story building at his high school, the parents of Drew Ferraro said they learned by reading his journal that he had been bullied by classmates in the last months of his life.

O.C. serial killer suspect changed after Iraq, woman says

Posted: February 22nd, 2012, 10:42am EST

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A former Marine accused of fatally stabbing six people pleaded not guilty Tuesday as an acquaintance said Itzcoatl Ocampo's service in Iraq changed him.

Trial begins in case of Rutgers student who filmed gay roommate

Posted: February 22nd, 2012, 9:38am EST

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Opening statements could begin Wednesday in the trial of a former Rutgers University student accused of spying on his gay roommate, Tyler Clementi, who then committed suicide after learning he had been secretly filmed during an encounter with another man in his dorm room.

High stakes for Rick Santorum at tonight's GOP debate

Posted: February 22nd, 2012, 8:47am EST

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The last time the four remaining contenders in the GOP presidential race met on a debate stage, all eyes were on Newt Gingrich, who was trying to ride the momentum off his surprise victory in South Carolina.

Fullerton police didn't intend to deceive public in Kelly Thomas' death, report finds

Posted: February 22nd, 2012, 3:00am EST

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A police watchdog attorney hired by the city says there was no deliberate attempt to make the homeless man, who was beaten by officers, look bad. His father disagrees.

There is no evidence that Fullerton police deliberately released false or negative information and an unflattering photograph of a mentally ill homeless man who died last year after being beaten by police officers, a police watchdog attorney hired by the city said Tuesday.

Lawmakers reach tentative deal to extend payroll tax break

Posted: February 16th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Congressional negotiators, to the dismay of some Republicans, announce an agreement in principle to continue the payroll tax break, extend jobless benefits and avert a pay cut for Medicare doctors.

Despite discomfort in the Republican ranks, House and Senate negotiators reached a deal in principle early Thursday to extend a payroll tax break, continue unemployment benefits and ensure that Medicare doctors do not get a pay cut this year.

Smartphone apps dial up privacy worries

Posted: February 16th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Undisclosed gathering of smartphone users' address book data by Twitter and other social networking companies brings heightened scrutiny by privacy advocates and lawmakers.

A new furor has erupted over digital privacy concerns following disclosures that Twitter Inc. and other social networking companies are reaching into people's smartphones and retrieving their personal contact information without getting explicit permission.

1-year-old dies after mother tries to drown daughters, police say

Posted: February 15th, 2012, 11:41pm EST

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A father returns to his South L.A. home Wednesday to find his wife attempting to drown their daughters, authorities say. The younger girl dies, and the 5-year-old is in extremely critical condition.

The man described as a doting father to his two little girls left for the market Wednesday morning to buy juice and milk. He returned to his South Los Angeles home to find his wife trying to drown his young daughters in an infant tub, authorities say.

U.S. to cut funds for water testing at beaches

Posted: February 15th, 2012, 11:23pm EST

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The EPA plans to cut $10 million in grants it gives annually. Water quality advocates worry that swimmers and surfers will be at even greater risk of illness.

Health testing at beaches in California and across the nation is at risk of being cut under a plan to eliminate federal funds for monitoring whether the water is too contaminated to swim in.

Architect of Hollywood Hills mansion damaged in fire is charged in firefighter's death

Posted: February 15th, 2012, 11:16pm EST

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Prosecutors allege that Gerhard Becker, 48, ignored safety recommendations and installed outdoor fireplaces inside the $11-million home after inspections were completed. He's been charged in the death of L.A. firefighter Glenn Allen. Becker's pleaded not guilty.

When firefighters arrived at the $11-million mansion in the Hollywood Hills last year, they thought they had a chance to save the 13,500-square-foot structure.

D.A., district probe alleged improprieties at Trade-Tech College foundation

Posted: February 15th, 2012, 9:56pm EST

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The foundation paid fees for exclusive clubs and a $1,500-a-month car allowance for its executive director, Rhea Chung, who has been placed on leave.

A foundation created to help needy students at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College paid its director tens of thousands of dollars in bonuses, membership fees at exclusive private clubs and a $1,500 monthly car allowance, according to interviews and records reviewed by The Times.

Mardi Gras beads cause environmental hangover

Posted: February 15th, 2012, 9:11pm EST

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Some green-thinking locals want New Orleans to recycle the tons of plastic necklaces that go flying during parades. But skeptics say it'll never happen.

The beads were flying all around them, some pooling in the street, some caught by revelers and cherished for a moment — most of them destined, in all likelihood, for the landfill.

Mitt Romney can't count on home-state advantage in Michigan

Posted: February 15th, 2012, 9:00pm EST

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With the Republican right increasingly lining up behind Rick Santorum for president, he now struggles for a primary win in his former home state — where he was the conservative victor four years ago.

Mitt Romney left his native Michigan behind 46 years ago. He has returned repeatedly during a presidential pursuit that is now in its sixth year, but rarely with the desperation evinced now.

Mother accused of drowning children may be mentally ill, police say

Posted: February 15th, 2012, 8:52pm EST

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Dina Ceballos was on her way to move her car Wednesday morning when she heard the screaming.

Before current birth-control fight, Republicans backed mandates

Posted: February 15th, 2012, 8:17pm EST

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Republicans are fighting a birth-control rule in President Obama's healthcare law, but several states have enacted contraceptive mandates with the support of GOP lawmakers and governors.

Since President Obama moved to require Catholic hospitals and universities to offer their employees contraceptive health benefits, Republicans have rushed to accuse the administration of an unprecedented attack on religious freedoms.

Prison fire in Honduras leaves at least 272 dead, official says

Posted: February 15th, 2012, 7:05am EST

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A forensic official in Honduras says a fire that swept through a prison has killed at least 272 inmates.

Trapped inmates screamed from their cells as a fire swept through a Honduran prison, killing at least 272 inmates, authorities said Wednesday.

California economic reports forecast modest growth

Posted: February 15th, 2012, 3:01am EST

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The L.A. County Economic Development Corp. sees California adding nearly half a million jobs over the next two years. Meanwhile, S&P raises the state's outlook.

Things are looking up for California's beleaguered economy as the recovery from the recession hits a period of slow, modest growth this year and next, according to two economic reports.

L.A. school board delays vote on massive budget cuts

Posted: February 15th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The superintendent, however, is allowed to begin preparing layoff notices for thousands of teachers and support staff as talks continue to find a way to save adult and early education programs.

After daylong protests, the Los Angeles Board of Education delayed a vote Tuesday on a worst-case $6-billion budget plan that would cause thousands of employees to lose their jobs, end all adult education classes, and remove funding for early education and arts programs.

L.A. City Council redistricting discussions turn nasty

Posted: February 15th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Old rivalries resurface, fraud is alleged and activists renew their efforts as the deadline nears for approving a new high-stakes map of City Council districts.

The once-a-decade ritual to redraw Los Angeles City Council district lines has become an increasingly messy and acrimonious bit of political theater as lawmakers and community groups jockey for favored positions.

Cracking down on parking meter cheaters

Posted: February 15th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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They use disabled-driver placards that they don't deserve. But thanks to the LAPD and DOT, some of them get the hefty fines they really do deserve.

As the scoundrels arrived to look for parking, little did the unsuspecting offenders of decency know that an undercover sting had been set up to ruin their day.

Pekingese becomes America's top dog at Westminster

Posted: February 14th, 2012, 11:36pm EST

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This Peke was at his peak.

Villaraigosa will chair Democratic National Convention

Posted: February 14th, 2012, 7:12pm EST

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Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa has been selected chairman of this summer's Democratic National Convention, elevating his role as a surrogate in the Latino community and raising his national profile at a time Villaraigosa considers his political future.

Birth control debate riled few beyond parties' bases

Posted: February 14th, 2012, 5:39pm EST

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The fight over the Obama administration's rule requiring that all employers provide birth control coverage to their workers, including religiously affiliated hospitals, universities and charities, is the kind of dispute Washington likes best.

Lawmakers near deal to extend payroll tax break

Posted: February 14th, 2012, 4:32pm EST

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This post has been corrected. See the note at the bottom for details.

Whitney Houston death probe shifts to prescription drugs

Posted: February 14th, 2012, 10:49am EST

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The focus of the Whitney Houston investigation is shifting to an examination of the prescription medicines found in her room and whether she had taken any drugs that might have contributed to her death.

Teacher's aide in South L.A. arrested on suspicion of sex crime

Posted: February 14th, 2012, 10:25am EST

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A teacher's aide at a South Los Angeles high school has been arrested on suspicion of committing a sex crime involving children.

Nonprofits fear money in center's care vanished

Posted: February 14th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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About 200 small California groups may have lost hundreds of thousands of dollars in donated funds.

More than 200 nonprofit groups, from animals rights organizations to political activists, said most of their donated funds appear to have vanished after the organization that watched over the money suddenly ceased operations last month.

Houston found underwater in hotel bathtub, authorities say

Posted: February 14th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Investigators collected several bottles of prescription drugs from Whitney Houston's suite at the Beverly Hilton. Detectives are still piecing together the last hours of the singer's life and are awaiting toxicology results.

Whitney Houston was found underwater in the bathtub of a Beverly Hills hotel suite, authorities said Monday as they continued to investigate her death, including examining prescription drugs found in her room.

Sheriff's Department may revise policy on jail duty for deputies

Posted: February 14th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Deputies who spend their entire careers working in lockups could be promoted to chief under a new fast-track proposal. But a recent survey finds that 80% of jail supervisors would not want to continue the duty.

Like the inmates inside Los Angeles County lockups, many of the jails' deputies are itching to get back out on the streets. But sheriff's officials are betting deputies will become more enthusiastic about jail duty if a new proposal to fast-track promotions inside the lockups is implemented.

China seizes iPads as Apple trademark fight escalates

Posted: February 14th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The confiscation of dozens of the tablet computers is the result of a complaint filed by a Chinese company that says it holds the trademark for the hot-selling device in that country.

Apple Inc.'s fight to use the iPad name in China has hit another snag after authorities seized dozens of the Apple tablet computers from store shelves in northern China.

California's political watchdog panel eases its approach to ethics issues

Posted: February 14th, 2012, 12:59am EST

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The Fair Political Practices Commission has eased restrictions on gifts to lawmakers, called fewer open meetings and stopped notifying the public of pending investigations. Some good-government advocates are angry.

Reporting from Sacramento -- Three decades after Gov. Jerry Brown played a key role in creating a state political watchdog, the panel — now dominated by his appointees — has retreated from its aggressive approach to ethics enforcement.

House Republican leaders agree to extend payroll tax cut

Posted: February 13th, 2012, 11:39pm EST

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In an about-face after a political bruising, they will not demand that the cost be offset by spending reductions.

Surrendering to political reality, House Republican leaders did an about-face and said they were willing to extend a payroll tax cut for 160 million working Americans without insisting that it be paid for with spending cuts.

Iran, Israel trade blame over embassy attacks

Posted: February 13th, 2012, 9:25pm EST

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A bomb injures an Israeli diplomat's wife. Analysts say the twin attacks in India and Georgia may be the latest round of retaliatory violence between Iran and Israel.

The technique had a familiar ring.

Poll: Santorum surges past Romney, both Republicans trail Obama

Posted: February 13th, 2012, 12:54pm EST

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President Obama for the first time has opened a sizable lead over his most likely Republican opponents, thanks to growing support among independent voters, according to a new Pew Research Center poll .

Obama sells budget as effort to 'keep this recovery on track'

Posted: February 13th, 2012, 11:42am EST

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President Obama gave Congress a budget this morning that calls for $3.8 trillion in spending next year -- $901 billion more than the government will take in.

Whitney Houston death: 'too early' to confirm drug link

Posted: February 13th, 2012, 11:25am EST

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Los Angeles County coroner's officials said Monday they have not established a link between prescription drugs and the death of Whitney Houston, adding such a determination could only come after toxicology tests are completed.

Grammys 2012: Adele is affirmed, Whitney Houston is grieved

Posted: February 13th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The 54th Grammy Awards will be remembered as a story of two women with towering, timeless voices -- Adele and Whitney Houston -- one representing youthful triumph and boundless possibility, the other a reminder of fresh tragedy and a life unraveled.

Greece approves spending cuts as protesters riot

Posted: February 13th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The legislation features about $4 billion in severe budget trims, including 15,000 job reductions this year alone. Furious crowds chant outside Parliament, and several Athens buildings are set on fire.

As thousands of protesters took to the streets and violence ripped through central Athens, Greece's Parliament approved yet another round of punishing spending cuts to secure international rescue funds and ease fears of a calamitous financial collapse, potentially perilous for global markets and Europe's single currency.

Grammys 2012: Adele is affirmed, Whitney Houston is grieved

Posted: February 13th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The dramatic awards night honors rising star Adele and fallen star Whitney Houston.

The 54th Grammy Awards will be remembered as a story of two women with towering, timeless voices — Adele and Whitney Houston — one representing youthful triumph and boundless possibility, the other a reminder of fresh tragedy and a life unraveled.

L.A. Coliseum Commission officials cash in on unused sick leave

Posted: February 13th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Executives use sick-day stash accumulated over up to 35 years to boost their public pension benefits and to receive lump-sum payments worth thousands.

Top officials at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum have shown a knack for banking healthy chunks of unused sick leave on the public payroll — in one case, about 35 years' worth.

'Speed Freak' killer's disclosures bring both peace and turmoil

Posted: February 13th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Wesley Shermantine spilled his secrets for cash. Now, as authorities look for victims near Stockton, some families get closure while the community wonders: 'How many more bodies will they find?'

The abandoned well sits off a country road in a region of open pastures and hills stamped with oak tree silhouettes.

Obama budget is preview of election battle

Posted: February 13th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The president's plan, due out Monday, aims to cast him as a guardian of the middle class. Republicans say it's too light on deficit reduction.

President Obama's 2013 budget, scheduled for release Monday, offers a preview of the November election as both parties angle to refine the vision they hope to sell to voters.

Historic tales unfolding in Syria

Posted: February 13th, 2012, 12:42am EST

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Amid violence and paranoia, powerful scenes play out on both sides of the conflict in an increasingly polarized Damascus.

As the evening call to prayer sounded through the alleyways of old Damascus, the aging storyteller known as Abu Shadi clambered into an elevated chair at the Nawfara cafe, slipped on a pair of rimless reading glasses and turned to the page where he'd left off.

Officials trying to determine whether Houston drowned in bathtub

Posted: February 12th, 2012, 11:46pm EST

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It will be weeks before investigators determine an official cause of death. The 48-year-old singer was found unresponsive in her suite at the Beverly Hilton Hotel shortly before she was to attend a pre-Grammy Awards gala.

When paramedics arrived at Whitney Houston's hotel suite in Beverly Hills, they found her unresponsive in the bathtub, and officials said that drowning is one of the possible causes of death being investigated.

For Albert Pujols and Angels, numbers don't lie . . . or do they?

Posted: February 12th, 2012, 8:00pm EST

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Albert Pujols' age (32 this season) and recent decline in production suggest Angels may live to regret giving him a 10-year, $240-million deal. But some who know him say team will be amply rewarded.

Reporting from St. Louis -- There are certain numbers related to Albert Pujols that should concern the Angels.

Whitney Houston death: Bathtub drowning among scenarios probed

Posted: February 12th, 2012, 7:34pm EST

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Investigators probing the death of Whitney Houston are trying to determine whether she drowned while in a bathtub at the Beverly Hilton on Saturday shortly before she was set to attend a pre-Grammy Awards gala, according to a source who has been briefed about the case.

Whitney Houston, pop titan, dies at 48

Posted: February 12th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The singer is found unresponsive at the Beverly Hilton hours before Clive Davis' annual pre-Grammy Awards party. Once a ruler of the pop charts, Houston had seen addiction take a toll on her success.

Whitney Houston, a willowy church singer with a towering voice who became a titan of the pop charts in the 1980s and 1990s but then saw much of her success crumble away amid the fumes of addiction and reckless ego, has died. She was 48.

Arrests shatter recent signs of Miramonte school's progress

Posted: February 12th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The school was doing better on test scores, student activities and parental involvement. Charges against two teachers suddenly threaten those gains.

Until the photos surfaced, it didn't appear that anything was seriously amiss at Miramonte Elementary School.

China political star Xi Jinping a study in contrasts

Posted: February 12th, 2012, 12:53am EST

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Vice President Xi Jinping arrives in the U.S. this week for a visit. On track to take China's top post this year, he was sent as a teen to a dirt-poor village.

In 1969, a pale, gangly 15-year-old walked down a dirt road flanked by desiccated yellow cliffs from which generations of Chinese farmers had eked out a subsistence living.

Serial killer spills secrets for cash

Posted: February 12th, 2012, 12:43am EST

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A bounty hunter's offer could finally bring closure to Central Valley families, as authorities seek remains of women who disappeared in the 1980s and '90s.

One by one, the young women vanished from the dusty farm towns of the Central Valley.

Testing pot in a legal vacuum

Posted: February 11th, 2012, 11:51pm EST

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Few standards apply to quality of marijuana, because the federal government considers all use illegal.

The tech broke the bud of marijuana into small flakes, measuring 200 milligrams into a vial. He had picked up the strain, Ghost, earlier that day from a dispensary in the Valley and guessed by its pungency and visible resin glands that it was potent.

Mitt Romney wins Maine caucuses straw poll

Posted: February 11th, 2012, 11:48pm EST

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He narrowly defeats Ron Paul, boosting his campaign after losses to Rick Santorum in three Republican nominating contests earlier in the week.

In a reprieve after his embarrassing losses last week in three states, Mitt Romney eked out a win Saturday in the symbolic straw poll tied to Maine's multiday caucuses, narrowly defeating Ron Paul, the only other candidate to actively campaign there.

Whitney Houston: Voice for the ages tarnished by addictions

Posted: February 11th, 2012, 11:17pm EST

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The voice floats confidently but quietly in the first few lines of Whitney Houston's version of "I Will Always Love You," the song for which the superstar vocalist, who died Saturday of unknown causes at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, will always be remembered.

Metrolink pushing forward with system designed to prevent crashes

Posted: February 11th, 2012, 10:59pm EST

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The system, which officials say would have prevented the '08 Chatsworth crash, is expected to be running next year. A bid in the House to delay a nationwide mandate could make the Southland a test lab.

More than three years after the deadly Metrolink crash in Chatsworth, the commuter railroad is forging ahead with the most sophisticated collision avoidance system in the country despite efforts in Congress to relax requirements to install the safety improvement nationwide.

Virgil Harms' way: 50 years as a mayor in the 'other' Colorado

Posted: February 11th, 2012, 10:48pm EST

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No opponents and no controversy are his keys to longevity in tiny Paoli on the state's northeastern Plains.

In these increasingly partisan times, Mayor Virgil Harms, a lifelong Democrat in a sea of Republicans, recently celebrated half a century in office, a job he's won without spending a dime or sullying a reputation.

Whitney Houston dead at 48; she was spotted displaying erratic behavior

Posted: February 11th, 2012, 10:47pm EST

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Houston died Saturday afternoon, a representative for the singer told the Associated Press. Houston's death comes on the eve of the Grammys and on the night of Clive Davis' annual pre-Grammy gala, at which she performed last year and was expected to attend this year.

British police arrest eight tied to phone-hacking scandal

Posted: February 11th, 2012, 1:33pm EST

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Police arrested eight people in London and southern England on Saturday morning in their investigation of corruption connected to the ongoing phone-hacking scandal.

Maine caucuses: Romney looks to rebound after Santorum sweep

Posted: February 11th, 2012, 10:16am EST

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Looking to snap a string of losses that have raised questions about his inevitability as the Republican Party's eventual nominee, Mitt Romney is hoping for a win Saturday evening when Republican Party officials announce the results of a straw poll tied to Maine's multi-day caucuses.

Problems cast shadows of doubt on solar project

Posted: February 11th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The unexpected deaths of kit foxes and discovery of ancient human settlements threaten to delay or even cancel a $1-billion, 250-megawatt installation on federal land in the desert near Blythe.

Reporting from Blythe, Calif. -- One of California's showcase solar energy projects, under construction in the desert east of Los Angeles, is being threatened by a deadly outbreak of distemper among kit foxes and the discovery of a prehistoric human settlement on the work site.

Prosecutors not charging Rose Parade official in 2004 killing

Posted: February 11th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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L.A. County prosecutors say DNA evidence cited in the arrest of Richard Allen Munnecke is insufficient to prove he killed Donna Lee Kelly.

Prosecutors on Friday declined to file murder charges against former Tournament of Roses official Richard Allen Munnecke, finding that DNA evidence presented by sheriff's detectives was insufficient to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

Tejon Ranch to pay fine for killing mountain lions

Posted: February 11th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The corporation, which illegally killed at least 11 cats to keep them away from game wanted by high-paying trophy hunters, must pay $136,500, according to a settlement with the state fish and game agency.

The Tejon Ranch has agreed to pay $136,500 in fines and restitution for illegally killing at least 11 mountain lions to prevent them from competing for game with high-paying trophy hunters, the Kern County district attorney's office announced Friday.

Crowding hampers L.A. County hospitals' handling of mentally ill

Posted: February 11th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Psychiatric patients at Olive View-UCLA Medical Center and Harbor-UCLA Medical Center often sleep on mattresses on the floor. A complaint to supervisors calls conditions 'dangerous and unsanitary.'

The psychiatric emergency services at two county-run hospitals are so overcrowded that mentally ill patients have to sleep on mattresses on the floor, health officials acknowledged this week.

Foreclosure settlement not likely to lift home builders' stocks

Posted: February 11th, 2012, 12:07am EST

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Many analysts advise investors to stay away from builders' shares, despite recent encouraging news for the housing industry.

The $25-billion foreclosure settlement between the government and major banks might lift the U.S. housing market over time.

Book review: 'Killing the Messenger' by Thomas Peele

Posted: February 10th, 2012, 11:42pm EST

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The murder of Oakland journalist Chauncey Bailey and a family's violent rise to prominence is given gripping life.

On a morning in August 2007, a slender masked man ran up to Chauncey Bailey on an Oakland sidewalk and fired two shotgun blasts at the journalist. The first slug tore through Bailey from the side, at shoulder level, shredding the tops of his lungs and his trachea. The second came nearly straight on from the front and tore open his abdomen. The gunman began to run off, but then turned back to fire one more shot that tore away half of Bailey's head.

Syria bombings hit a city seen as key to Assad's future

Posted: February 10th, 2012, 11:40pm EST

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Rebels and the government of President Bashar Assad trade blame for the twin bombings in Aleppo, which killed at least 28.

A pair of car bombs killed at least 28 people and left hundreds injured in the northern Syrian city of Aleppo, bringing the violence that has raged across much of the country to a pro-government commercial hub whose allegiance is regarded as vital to the survival of President Bashar Assad.

Obama plan seeks to defuse birth control debate

Posted: February 10th, 2012, 9:10pm EST

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President Obama offers an 'accommodation' in hopes of ending the debate over a mandate that religiously affiliated groups provide birth control coverage. Many critics welcome the move, but not all.

For days President Obama had been hammered over a regulation in the 2010 healthcare law that required religiously affiliated hospitals, charities and universities to provide birth control coverage for their female employees even if that conflicted with church teachings.

Romney makes an appeal to the right

Posted: February 10th, 2012, 9:08pm EST

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Speaking to the Conservative Political Action Conference, the former Massachusetts governor promises 'a pro-life presidency' and says he'd push to ban same-sex marriage.

Amid the furor over an Obama administration rule on contraceptives, three GOP presidential candidates hammered away at social issues Friday as they sought to appeal to a major gathering of conservative activists.

Proposal to establish rights for domestic workers splits lawmakers

Posted: February 10th, 2012, 8:26pm EST

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Proponents say it would extend basic protections to more employees, but opponents say it would drive up costs.

Reporting from Sacramento -- Maria Moctezuma's workday began at 6 a.m. and often ran until midnight when she was nanny, housekeeper and cook for a family of four in Rancho Cucamonga.

Not business as usual at L.A. Unified

Posted: February 10th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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L.A. Unified's swift action in response to the alleged sex abuse at Miramonte Elementary is a striking about-face for a district known for trying to contain scandals by sweeping them under the rug.

The meeting began like so many post-crisis sessions in Los Angeles Unified:

Lakers steal overtime victory from Boston

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 11:23pm EST

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The Lakers' road woes ended, at least for one night.

Settlement doesn't end all mortgage-related problems for banks

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 9:07pm EST

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The agreement with 49 states gives five large banks immunity from complaints about some aspects of their home-seizure practices, but prosecutors and regulators are focusing on other parts of the mortgage crisis.

A nationwide settlement on foreclosure practices has ended one headache for the banks involved, but there are signs that it is only the beginning of many others.

Q&A: What the foreclosure settlement means for homeowners

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 3:17pm EST

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Here's how homeowners can get their share of the $25-billion foreclosure settlement.

Homeowners who were affected by the collapse of the housing market and a wave of foreclosure abuses may get a share of the $25-billion settlement announced Thursday morning.

Steve Jobs' FBI file: Drug use, bomb threats and bits o' gossip

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 2:54pm EST

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Anyone want to peek at Steve Jobs' FBI file? Yes, please!

Gallup tracking shows Santorum surging, Gingrich stalling

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 2:31pm EST

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Rick Santorum’s sweep of contests in Colorado, Minnesota and Missouri this week has sent his popularity soaring in the latest national opinion polling by Gallup.

Former Giffords aide will run to fill her seat in Congress

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 2:31pm EST

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A former aide to Gabrielle Giffords who was wounded in the shooting that nearly took her life announced his candidacy for a special election to replace the Arizona Democrat in Congress.

Carmen Trutanich will run for L.A. district attorney

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 1:44pm EST

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Los Angeles City Atty. Carmen Trutanich announced Thursday he will run for district attorney, ending months of speculation.

Obama administration grants 10 waivers from No Child Left Behind

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 1:37pm EST

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The Obama administration has given 10 states a waiver from the federal law known as No Child Left Behind -- once a bipartisan hope to raise education standards, but now generally regarded as too cumbersome and draconian.

CPAC: Conservative gathering opens amid uncertain GOP race

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 1:36pm EST

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Conservative activists began a three-day gathering in the nation's capital Thursday with a clear mission -- defeating President Obama -- if not a clear sense of how to get there.

NRC approves first new reactors in U.S. since 1978

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 1:28pm EST

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The Nuclear Regulatory Commission on Thursday approved construction of the first new nuclear reactors to be built in the United States since 1978. The commission's board approved the decision by a 4-1 vote, with its chairman Gregory B. Jaczko casting the dissenting vote.

Officials say $25-billion foreclosure deal will help heal market

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 12:24pm EST

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In unveiling a landmark $25-billion settlement of investigations of foreclosure abuses, federal and state officials said Thursday they were holding the nation’s five largest mortgage servicers accountable for the problems while also providing help to up to 2 million homeowners affected by the collapse of the housing market.

California to get largest slice of foreclosure settlement

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 12:22pm EST

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California appears to have walked away with the biggest chunk of the landmark foreclosure settlement struck by states and big banks.

Insider trading bill clears the House

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 12:11pm EST

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The GOP-led House passed a tamed-down version of a sweeping ethics bill that would ban lawmakers insider trading for personal gain, setting up a showdown with the Senate, which approved a stricter version.

Greek leaders agree to new spending cuts in bid to avert default

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 10:27am EST

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Greece's political leaders have agreed with foreign creditors on steep austerity cuts, officials in Athens said Thursday, hours after a dangerous deadlock stalled talks on a new rescue package designed to stave off a chaotic default.

Miramonte school to reopen in wake of sex-abuse scandal

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 10:16am EST

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Miramonte Elementary School was set to reopen Thursday after a two-day closure to change out the school's entire staff following a series of allegations of lewd acts by teachers.

U.S. unemployment aid applications near 4-year low

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 8:59am EST

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The number of Americans seeking unemployment aid neared a four-year low last week, an encouraging sign that strong hiring could continue in the coming months.

The number of Americans seeking unemployment aid neared a four-year low last week, an encouraging sign that strong hiring could continue in the coming months.

Foreclosure settlement with major banks close to completion

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 4:25am EST

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State attorneys general hammer out the final issues in a proposed $25-billion settlement over faulty foreclosure proceedings. Holdouts California and New York are said to be close to signing.

A nationwide plan to help nearly 2 million homeowners hit by the mortgage meltdown and improper foreclosure practices could be announced as early as Thursday under a multi-state settlement hammered out by states' attorneys general and the nation's major lenders.

Clifton's Cafeteria reveals original facade, hidden for 50 years

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The aluminum covering on the Broadway landmark has been taken down as the restaurant undergoes a major renovation.

The house specialty at Clifton's Cafeteria on Wednesday was filet de grille , with the promise of a beaux-arts surprise for dessert.

L.A. Unified faces hefty costs from Miramonte School scandal

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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With two Miramonte teachers accused of lewd acts on students, the district faces potential legal liability that could run into the millions of dollars. In addition, the district is paying the old staff and a replacement staff.

As the scandal over two Miramonte Elementary School teachers accused of committing lewd acts on children grows, it's becoming clear the Los Angeles Unified School District faces a heavy financial cost.

White supremacists revive dream of a homeland in Northwest

Posted: February 9th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Kevin Harpham's attempted bombing of a Martin Luther King parade in Spokane, Wash., reflects the foothold white supremacy has in the region.

Three sanitation workers found it along the route of a Martin Luther King Jr. Day march: a nest of wires in a backpack.

Birth-control fight turns into a campaign and fundraising tool

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 11:49pm EST

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The contraceptive rule in the new healthcare law becomes a political weapon for Democrats and Republicans. GOP candidates rail against it on the campaign trail.

The Obama administration's new requirement that most health insurance plans provide contraceptive services has exploded into a high-octane political weapon, with combatants on both sides scrambling to score points among the electorate and gin up fundraising from their most ardent supporters.

Republican presidential field still lacks a unifier

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 11:44pm EST

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Losses to Rick Santorum in all three contests Tuesday highlight Mitt Romney's weakness with conservatives.

The road to the Republican presidential nomination just got longer, steeper and less predictable.

Gay marriage fight may hinge on Supreme Court's Anthony Kennedy

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 10:30pm EST

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Justice Anthony Kennedy, a Republican, hasn't toed the conservative line on gay rights. That may deter the Supreme Court from taking the Proposition 8 case.

The Supreme Court has nine justices, but if the constitutional fight over same-sex marriage reaches them this year, the decision will probably come down to just one: a California Republican and Reagan-era conservative who has nonetheless written the court's two leading gay rights opinions.

Aleppo, Syria, long loyal to the government, appears to waver

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 9:01pm EST

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The nation's second-largest city looks increasingly divided over the uprising. Major unrest there would be a significant blow to President Bashar Assad.

In the apartment of an elderly Aleppo woman, the TV was tuned to the pro-government channel Al Dunya.

State attorneys general closer to foreclosure settlement

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 8:40pm EST

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Attorneys general appeared close to reaching a massive multistate settlement over faulty foreclosure proceedings Wednesday night, though California and New York remained in negotiations, a person not authorized to speak publicly on the matter said.

Washington state lawmakers pass gay marriage bill

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 8:20pm EST

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Washington state lawmakers voted to approve gay marriage Wednesday, setting the stage for the state to become the seventh in the nation to allow same-sex couples to wed.

John Boehner vows to fight new contraceptive rules

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 12:42pm EST

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In a rare show of political force, House Speaker John A. Boehnertook to the House floor to criticize the Obama administration's new rules on contraceptives and vowed the GOP-led chamber will work to overturn what he characterized as an attack on religious freedoms.

Nokia to cut 4,000 jobs, move manufacturing to Asia

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 11:41am EST

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Nokia is cutting 4,000 jobs and will end its manufacturing in Hungary, Mexico and its home nation of Finland as it moves its phone making to Asia, the company announced Wednesday.

After big night, Santorum says he's the candidate with momentum

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 9:33am EST

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With a smile on his face, Rick Santorum shrugged off renewed attacks on his Washington background after his sweep of Tuesday's triad of Republican presidential contests.

Second accused South Los Angeles teacher fired, charged

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The three felony counts against Miramonte Elementary School teacher Martin Springer involve one girl. A second had said he fondled her, but she recanted, a source says.

One of two teachers accused of abusing students at Miramonte Elementary School was charged Tuesday with three felony counts and fired by the Los Angeles Board of Education.

Permalink for 'Los_Angeles_Times___Top_News/2012/02/08/California_was_ahead_of_the_curve_on_gay_marriage___8212__for_a_while'

California was ahead of the curve on gay marriage — for a while

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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California's early granting of same-sex marriage licenses led to the backlash culminating in Proposition 8, banning the unions. Meanwhile, other states have passed the state by on the rights issue.

California's turbulent relationship with gay marriage can be traced back eight years, almost to the day, when San Francisco abruptly began issuing marriage licenses to gay couples. So many people showed up, they had to say their vows three and four couples at a time under the dome of City Hall, some in matching gowns and tuxedos, many spilling into the streets in buoyant celebration.

Divided court rejects Proposition 8

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The 9th Circuit panel declares that California's gay-marriage ban is unconstitutional.

Reporting from San Francisco and Los Angeles -- A federal appeals court has declared California's 2008 voter-approved ban on same-sex marriage unconstitutional, concluding that the prohibition served no purpose other than to "lessen the status and human dignity of gays and lesbians."

FBI investigates bribery allegations at Department of Building and Safety

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Multiple complaints were lodged against an inspector assigned to the Koreatown area who quit after being placed on leave.

FBI agents probing allegations of bribe-taking at the Los Angeles Department of Building and Safety have obtained records and questioned individuals about a soft-spoken building inspector who retired from his post nearly a year ago.

Rick Santorum wins Republican votes in Minnesota, Missouri and Colorado

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 2:15am EST

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His victories are setbacks for Republican presidential front-runner Mitt Romney — and for Newt Gingrich's hopes of being the conservative alternative to Romney.

Republican long shot Rick Santorum poked holes in Mitt Romney's aura of inevitability Tuesday night with a trio of upset victories that shifted the dynamic of the 2012 presidential contest.

Komen executive quits as questions persist

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 1:11am EST

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As Karen Handel, the executive at the center of the funding controversy, steps down, many Komen supporters question the foundation's salaries, legal strategies and ties with certain products.

The Susan G. Komen for the Cure foundation took another step toward rehabilitating its standing in the breast cancer community with the resignation of the executive at the center of the Planned Parenthood funding controversy.

Rick Santorum sweeps Tuesday contests with Colorado win

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 1:10am EST

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Rick Santorum won the Colorado GOP presidential preference straw poll, according to the Colorado Republican Party.

Sending manufacturing overseas is not the easy road

Posted: February 8th, 2012, 12:22am EST

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One firm forced by economic pressures to move much of its work abroad finds it cheaper overall but at the expense of manufacturing efficiency and management time.

Manufacturing products overseas is an easy way to save money, right?

Santorum rips Obama, Romney in victory speech

Posted: February 7th, 2012, 11:32pm EST

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Tuesday night is when Rick Santorum became relevant again.

U.S., allies weigh options in Syria

Posted: February 7th, 2012, 11:07pm EST

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With President Bashar Assad refusing to cede power, U.S. options include arming Syrian rebels or looking the other way if others do. Some foresee a proxy war.

Rick Santorum scores another victory in Minnesota caucuses

Posted: February 7th, 2012, 10:38pm EST

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Rick Santorum scored another victory Tuesday night in Minnesota's caucuses, fueling the former Pennsylvania senator's case that he is the leading conservative alternative to Mitt Romney in the GOP race.

Santorum deals Romney a setback by winning Missouri

Posted: February 7th, 2012, 10:14pm EST

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Rick Santorum dealt Mitt Romney a setback Tuesday night, winning the presidential primary in Missouri as Republicans in three states voted on a day that could produce a shift in the momentum of the 2012 race.

Rick Santorum wins Missouri 'beauty contest'

Posted: February 7th, 2012, 9:53pm EST

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Rick Santorum won Missouri’s presidential primary Tuesday, according to an Associated Press projection, but the only thing he can claim as a result is some newfound momentum.

Mexico arrests Sinaloa drug cartel's reputed enforcer

Posted: February 7th, 2012, 8:57pm EST

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Jose Antonio Torres Marrufo allegedly amassed weapons from the U.S. government's Fast and Furious gun program. He is also wanted in the U.S. on drug charges.

Mexican authorities have arrested a reputed enforcer for the country's most powerful drug cartel, a man also alleged to have amassed weapons from the U.S. government's failed Fast and Furious gun smuggling operation.

Disneyland's Matterhorn ride closes for extensive overhaul

Posted: February 7th, 2012, 7:57pm EST

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One of the park's most popular and visible attractions, the 147-foot-tall Matterhorn is down for six months for one of the longest overhauls since it opened in 1959. Disneyland officials say the roller coaster will be spruced up but otherwise won't change much.

The Scharff family of Spokane, Wash., made a special trip to Disneyland recently to celebrate the birthday of 5-year-old Mason with a ride on the Matterhorn.

Staff of Miramonte replaced pending sex abuse inquiry

Posted: February 7th, 2012, 3:17am EST

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L.A. Unified Supt. John Deasy seeks to assure angry parents, who demonstrated at campus over allegations against two teachers. Officials say no other instructors are under suspicion.

In a dramatic move to quell parents' fears, Los Angeles school officials said they will temporarily replace the entire staff of an elementary school south of downtown Los Angeles, where two teachers have been accused of lewd acts against students.

A broken heart led LAPD officer to kill woman, prosecutor says

Posted: February 7th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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'I'm truly in love with John,' Stephanie Lazarus wrote in a letter to her former boyfriend's mother after he became engaged to Sherri Rae Rasmussen. Lazarus is on trial in Rasmussen's 1986 killing.

The letter read aloud in a downtown Los Angeles courtroom Monday was written more than 25 years ago by a young cop. If prosecutors are correct, they were the words of a heart-broken woman on the verge of committing murder in a jealous rage.

In Syria, a once-quiet village tips into revolution

Posted: February 7th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Anadan, in the shadow of Syria's second-largest city, has expelled Bashar Assad's forces. It's another tug on the tightrope the president is walking.

Off the main highway leading from the city of Aleppo, a handful of Kalashnikov-toting young men, some with their faces covered in scarves, stand at a checkpoint near the entrance to this small village. Close by flutters the green, white and black flag of Syria's opposition.

Schools chief announces entire Miramonte staff to be replaced

Posted: February 6th, 2012, 10:11pm EST

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Los Angeles schools Supt. John Deasy told parents Monday evening that the district is replacing the entire staff of Miramonte Elementary School in the wake of the arrests last week of two teachers on lewd conduct charges.

Miracle Mile shooting shuts Wilshire, snarls traffic

Posted: February 6th, 2012, 8:13pm EST

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A section of Wilshire Boulevard in the Miracle Mile district was shut down Monday afternoon as police investigated a shooting. The situation was snarling traffic in the busy area.

Eastwood's Super Bowl ad sparks the discord it decries

Posted: February 6th, 2012, 5:30pm EST

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Perhaps the most attention-getting Super Bowl ad — other than that dog blackmailing his owner with tortilla chips to keep quiet over a felinicide, of course — was Clint Eastwood’s paean to a resurgent auto industry in Detroit.

Sex-abuse claims at L.A. school: Parents applaud two-day closing

Posted: February 6th, 2012, 2:52pm EST

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Parents of Miramonte Elementary students applauded the Los Angeles Unified School District's decision to close the school for two days this week as the campus reels from allegations that two teachers engaged in lewd conduct with students.

California may join multi-state mortgage settlement

Posted: February 6th, 2012, 2:03pm EST

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California has until Monday to share in a multi-state deal with banks to obtain mortgage relief and reforms. Atty. Gen. Kamala Harris, who walked away from talks last year, says the door remains open.

With a Monday deadline at hand, California officials have resumed direct talks with the Obama administration about joining a multibillion-dollar, multi-state mortgage settlement with the nation's largest banks, a source said Sunday.

Gay marriage: Appeals court to decide fate of Prop. 8 on Tuesday

Posted: February 6th, 2012, 1:58pm EST

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A federal appeals court is expected to rule Tuesday on the constitutionality of Proposition 8, the 2008 ballot measure that banned gay marriage in California.

Utah police vow to continue probe into Susan Powell's disappearance

Posted: February 6th, 2012, 12:30pm EST

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Police in Utah said Monday that the death of Josh Powell -- the only person of interest in the disappearance of his wife, Susan, near Salt Lake City in 2009 -- will not necessarily hinder their ongoing efforts to solve the perplexing case.

U.S. suspends operations at embassy in Syria for security reasons

Posted: February 6th, 2012, 10:14am EST

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The State Department said Monday it was suspending operations at the U.S. Embassy in Syria's capital because of growing safety risks and had removed the ambassador and all other American personnel.

Explosive fire kills husband, two sons of missing Utah woman

Posted: February 6th, 2012, 2:01am EST

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Police believe Josh Powell deliberately set the blaze after a state social worker brought the boys for a supervised visit near Graham, Wash.

A case whose sad twists and turns perplexed authorities for more than two years took a last, tragic turn Sunday when what was left of missing Utah stockbroker Susan Powell's family died in a powerful and apparently murderous fire.

Eli Manning, Giants don't let Super Bowl slip through fingers

Posted: February 6th, 2012, 12:45am EST

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Manning earns MVP award in New York's 21-17 win after leading late drive to the winning TD against Patriots for the second time in last five Super Bowls. A long pass to Mario Manningham is key play.

Reporting from Indianapolis -- His older brother built this house.

Obama in Super Bowl interview: 'I deserve a second term'

Posted: February 5th, 2012, 5:32pm EST

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President Obama said Sunday that he deserves a second term despite suggesting in a similar interview three years ago that if he didn’t turn around the economy in three years, his presidency was going to be a “one-term proposition.’

Egyptian security forces fortify Interior Ministry against protesters

Posted: February 5th, 2012, 3:35pm EST

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REPORTING FROM CAIRO -- Egyptian security forces fortified barricades around the Interior Ministry on Sunday after four days of deadly clashes with protesters demanding that the nation’s ruling generals hand power to a civilian government.

Egyptian judges want Americans at democracy groups held for trial

Posted: February 5th, 2012, 1:16pm EST

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REPORTING FROM CAIRO -- Americans working for pro-democracy groups in Egypt have been ordered to stand trial on criminal charges of receiving illicit funding, a move certain to further strain relations between Washington and Cairo’s ruling army generals.

Sunny Super Bowl Sunday, but rain possible Tuesday

Posted: February 5th, 2012, 1:15pm EST

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Savor your sunny Sunday, Los Angeles -- rain and gusty winds may be coming to Los Angeles by Tuesday.

Sacrificing the desert to save the Earth

Posted: February 5th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Environmentalists are torn over the high cost of breaking reliance on fossil fuels. Public comment has been sought, but insiders are calling the shots.

Construction cranes rise like storks 40 stories above the Mojave Desert. In their midst, the "power tower" emerges, wrapped in scaffolding and looking like a multistage rocket.

Beer brewers revise playbooks to win back lost customers

Posted: February 5th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Beer sales have been hurt by changing tastes and the growing appeal of wine and liquor in recent years, with U.S. shipments down 1.4% last year.

Super Bowl Sunday promises to be another epic day in the annals of gluttony, with Americans consuming 1.3 billion chicken wings, 2,000 tons of popcorn and enough avocados to cover the floor of the Indianapolis stadium 28 feet deep.

Romney is on a roll after big win in Nevada

Posted: February 5th, 2012, 12:33am EST

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Coasting to an easy victory over his GOP rivals in the Nevada caucuses, Mitt Romney keeps his focus on President Obama as the nominating contest moves to Minnesota, Colorado and Missouri.

Mitt Romney spent years cultivating voters in Nevada, and it paid off with a commanding victory that not only pushed him closer to the GOP nomination but laid a strong marker in a state both parties will fight to carry in November.

Tens of thousands brave Moscow cold to protest against Putin

Posted: February 4th, 2012, 11:57pm EST

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The third mass protest in Moscow in two months against Russia leader Vladimir Putin and demanding fair elections appeared to have been the largest yet.

Russia, China veto new U.N. resolution on Syria

Posted: February 4th, 2012, 11:54pm EST

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The resolution backed an Arab League plan calling on President Bashar Assad to cede power. In the Syrian city of Homs, shelling leaves 200 dead, activists say.

Doctor's suicide in wake of accusations shakes Mammoth Lakes

Posted: February 4th, 2012, 11:45pm EST

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Despite the sense of unease over the charges involving a 14-year-old girl, the close-knit community rallies around the memory of Andrew Bourne, a popular surgeon.

Dr. Andrew Bourne seemed to have it all: A loving family, a successful surgical practice in Mammoth Lakes, a mountain home where he could ski with friends or plunge into the wild with his dog, Oreo. He even had time to volunteer; he served on the local school board and last year organized his sixth foreign medical mission, this one to an impoverished town in Mexico.

One child may be the victim of two Miramonte teachers

Posted: February 4th, 2012, 11:42pm EST

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She gave her parents photos she said were taken by suspect Mark Berndt, and later said she was touched inappropriately by Martin Bernard Springer.

In 2008, a second-grader at Miramonte Elementary School went home from school and showed her parents two photos she said were taken by her teacher, Mark Berndt.

Nevada caucuses: What's next in the GOP race?

Posted: February 4th, 2012, 9:50pm EST

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Imagine if the Super Bowl was played three weeks after the Pro Bowl. That is essentially the situation in the race for the Republican presidential nomination, which is about to see an unusual break between contests before the most significant cache of delegates will be up for grabs.

While Romney roars, Santorum hopes for race reset

Posted: February 4th, 2012, 9:12pm EST

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With the GOP caucuses in Nevada shaping up tonight as the fourth straight defeat for Rick Santorum, the former Pennsylvania senator took his “faith, family and freedom” tour to Colorado, where he asked conservatives to “reset this presidential race” in a party contest here next week.

Special caucus delays release of Nevada results

Posted: February 4th, 2012, 8:41pm EST

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As results from the Nevada Republican presidential caucuses trickle in, tallies from one county – a big one – are notably tardy.

Ron Paul turns to Minnesota

Posted: February 4th, 2012, 7:44pm EST

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The last time Nevada Republicans caucused in a presidential contest, they delivered a stunning second-place finish to Texas Rep. Ron Paul, the libertarian-minded candidate who had been largely written off, averaging last place in polls leading up to caucus day.

Russia, China block U.N. resolution on Syria violence

Posted: February 4th, 2012, 1:53pm EST

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Russia and China on Saturday blocked a United Nations Security Council resolution backing an Arab League plan that may have hastened the departure of Syrian President Bashar Assad.

Nevada caucuses lack the suspense of previous GOP contests

Posted: February 4th, 2012, 12:01pm EST

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Republican caucuses have now begun across much of Nevada, the fifth -- and thus far least contentious -- contest for GOP delegates in the 2012 campaign.

Wave of Syrian violence called 'massacre,' comes ahead of U.N. vote

Posted: February 4th, 2012, 10:37am EST

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Fresh violence was reported Saturday across Syria as opposition activists alleged that security forces had committed a "massacre" in the battlefield city of Homs, leaving more than 200 dead during a bombardment that began late Friday.

School stunned at arrest of second teacher for alleged lewd acts

Posted: February 4th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Martin Bernard Springer, a second-grade teacher at Miramonte Elementary School in South Los Angeles, allegedly fondled two girls within the last three years. He has taught at the school since 1986.

An elementary school in South Los Angeles was left reeling Friday after authorities arrested a second teacher accused of lewd acts with students.

DNA key in case against Ocampo, D.A. says

Posted: February 4th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Suspect's friend Eder Herrera is released in the deaths of his brother and mother in Yorba Linda.

A "significant DNA link" convinced prosecutors Friday to drop charges against a man accused of killing his mother and older brother in October and instead has connected suspected serial killer Itzcoatl Ocampo to the crimes.

Lance Armstrong doping investigation is dropped

Posted: February 4th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Federal prosecutors will not file charges against the seven-time Tour de France winner and his cycling team.

Federal prosecutors announced Friday that they have closed a two-year inquiry without filing criminal charges in a case that sources said related to doping allegations involving seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong and his cycling team.

Dodgers ask judge to reject claims for damages filed by Stow

Posted: February 4th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Attorneys for the team and its owner, Frank McCourt, say they have no liability for the March 31 assault in a Dodger Stadium parking lot that left Giants fan Bryan Stow in a coma for months.

The Los Angeles Dodgers on Friday asked a federal bankruptcy judge to reject all claims for damages filed by San Francisco Giants fan Bryan Stow over his severe beating in a Dodger Stadium parking lot on Opening Day of the 2011 season.

Sandy Banks: No room for sick in marijuana crackdown

Posted: February 4th, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The LAPD's Devonshire Division has done a thorough job of closing the area's pot dispensaries. Legitimate medical marijuana patients are the ones to suffer for it.

Forget years of conflicting rules, hazy regulations, hard lines and soft bans.

TV prices plunge ahead of Super Bowl

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 11:23pm EST

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Retailers are throwing in extras such as free delivery and installation, offers to pay the sales tax and complimentary Blu-ray players and 3-D glasses to attract customers.

Whether the New England Patriots or the New York Giants win the Super Bowl this weekend, television buyers will be the ones scoring big.

For GOP candidates in Nevada, stumping is a high-stakes gamble

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 9:08pm EST

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In anything-goes Nevada, the Republican presidential candidates must tread a fine line between voters and vice.

This is not a place of farmhouses, mom-and-pop diners, chitchats with voters over apple pie. This is a place of neon signs, abandoned homes, billboards promising quick vasectomies and slot machines shouting: Wheel! Of! Fortune!

Susan G. Komen for the Cure has long been under pressure

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 9:00pm EST

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Antiabortion activists have tried for years to break the foundation's ties to Planned Parenthood.

As a minority women's health activist, Eve Sanchez Silver was proud of her work with Susan G. Komen for the Cure. The organization had almost single-handedly turned breast cancer awareness into a national cause, with its pink ribbons appearing on tote bags, containers of yogurt and even NFL football fields.

Two kidnapped American women released in Egypt

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 12:38pm EST

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Two American tourists and their guide who were kidnapped by armed men earlier Friday in the Sinai Peninsula have been released, according to media reports.

Protests erupt across Egypt urging military leaders to step down

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 12:28pm EST

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Young men wearing surgical masks and hurling stones rushed police barricades Friday against the pop, pop of tear gas rounds that laid a gauze of white smoke over the street as protesters retreated with the injured draped in their arms.

Komen reverses decision to cut Planned Parenthood funding

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 12:16pm EST

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In a reversal of policy after a nationwide uproar over its decision to cut funding to Planned Parenthood, Susan G. Komen for the Curesaid Friday that it will amend its new funding rules and allow continued funding of breast health programs operated by the clinic.

Abuse allegation against 2nd teacher at L.A. school, source says

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 11:47am EST

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A second teacher was removed from campus Thursday morning at the Los Angeles school where Mark Berndt, accused child abuser, taught. School officials reported an abuse allegation by a student against the second educator to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, according to a source familiar with the case. Investigators are just beginning to look into the matter and stressed they are still trying to corroborate the allegation, said the source, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because the case was ongoing.

Cooked eggs recalled in California, 33 other states

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 11:45am EST

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Cooked eggs are being recalled in California and 33 other states over concerns about possible listeria contamination.

Dow hits highest level since financial crisis

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 11:22am EST

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The collapse of Lehman Brothers is feeling like a bad dream today.

A distraught Don Cornelius called son shortly before death

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 11:04am EST

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A distraught "Soul Train" creator Don Cornelius called his son early Tuesday morning, shortly before he is believed to have fatally shot himself in the head, law enforcement sources said.

Unemployment rate falls to 8.3%; fifth straight monthly decline

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 9:20am EST

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The U.S. job market strengthened at the start of the year as employers added an unexpectedly large number of new jobs and the unemployment rate in January dropped for the fifth straight month to 8.3%--the lowest in nearly three years.

Smugglers allegedly used black drivers to avert suspicion at border

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Five people are charged in a plot to employ African Americans, mostly from Compton, to avert suspicion when bringing illegal immigrants across the border.

In the calculus of cross-border human smuggling, Maria Lopez-Diaz allegedly concluded that black instead of brown equals green.

Smugglers allegedly used black drivers to avert suspicion at border

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Five people are charged in a plot to employ African Americans, mostly from Compton, to avert suspicion when bringing illegal immigrants across the border.

In the calculus of cross-border human smuggling, Maria Lopez-Diaz allegedly concluded that black instead of brown equals green.

Appeals court refuses to make public the videotapes of Prop. 8 trial

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 3:00am EST

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A three-judge panel of the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals said the tapes should remain sealed because the trial judge had promised defenders of the same-sex marriage ban that they would be used only within the court.

Reporting from San Francisco -- A federal appeals court refused Thursday to make public videotapes of the historic trial weighing the constitutionality of California's same-sex marriage ban, a victory for backers of Proposition 8.

Appeals court refuses to make public the videotapes of Prop. 8 trial

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 3:00am EST

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A three-judge panel of the U.S. 9th Circuit Court of Appeals said the tapes should remain sealed because the trial judge had promised defenders of the same-sex marriage ban that they would be used only within the court.

Reporting from San Francisco -- A federal appeals court refused Thursday to make public videotapes of the historic trial weighing the constitutionality of California's same-sex marriage ban, a victory for backers of Proposition 8.

Accused teacher Mark Berndt was target of investigation in 1994

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 3:00am EST

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A female student reported that the Miramonte Elementary teacher had tried to fondle her. Her mother informed school administrators, who notified the Sheriff's Department, but the case was dropped because of insufficient evidence.

Mark Berndt, the teacher accused of committing lewd acts against nearly two dozen elementary school children, was the target of a police investigation 18 years ago when a female student reported that he had tried to fondle her, authorities said.

Accused teacher Mark Berndt was target of investigation in 1994

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 3:00am EST

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A female student reported that the Miramonte Elementary teacher had tried to fondle her. Her mother informed school administrators, who notified the Sheriff's Department, but the case was dropped because of insufficient evidence.

Mark Berndt, the teacher accused of committing lewd acts against nearly two dozen elementary school children, was the target of a police investigation 18 years ago when a female student reported that he had tried to fondle her, authorities said.

California lawmakers keep school buses rolling

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The California Legislature restores $248 million for home-to-school transportation. Gov. Jerry Brown had eliminated school busing money after state revenues fell short of projections.

School buses are likely to keep rolling for now, as the Legislature on Thursday restored $248 million for home-to-school transportation that was particularly crucial for small and rural school districts that need to take students across long distances.

California lawmakers keep school buses rolling

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The California Legislature restores $248 million for home-to-school transportation. Gov. Jerry Brown had eliminated school busing money after state revenues fell short of projections.

School buses are likely to keep rolling for now, as the Legislature on Thursday restored $248 million for home-to-school transportation that was particularly crucial for small and rural school districts that need to take students across long distances.

Miramonte teacher investigated in '94 after girl saw 'Oprah' show

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 2:54am EST

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A veteran Los Angeles teacher accused of committing lewd acts on 23 children was investigated in 1994 for attempting to fondle a girl after she saw an "Oprah" television episode that explained "good touches" and "bad touches," sheriff's officials said.

Lawmakers investigating gun scheme may cite Holder for contempt

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 2:12am EST

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House Republicans say the attorney general refuses to turn over key documents about the ATF's failed Fast and Furious operation.

House Republicans threatened Atty. Gen. Eric H. Holder Jr. with a criminal contempt of Congress citation Thursday, alleging the Justice Department has refused for a year to turn over key documents in lawmakers' investigation of the failed Fast and Furious gun-tracking operation.

Lawmakers investigating gun scheme may cite Holder for contempt

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 2:12am EST

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House Republicans say the attorney general refuses to turn over key documents about the ATF's failed Fast and Furious operation.

House Republicans threatened Atty. Gen. Eric H. Holder Jr. with a criminal contempt of Congress citation Thursday, alleging the Justice Department has refused for a year to turn over key documents in lawmakers' investigation of the failed Fast and Furious gun-tracking operation.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure founder defends Planned Parenthood decision

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 1:45am EST

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Nancy G. Brinker says abortion is not the reason that grants for breast cancer exams are being cut off. Lawmakers, women's health advocates and others continue to criticize the move, and both groups see donations pour in.

As the backlash grew against the decision by Susan G. Komen for the Curefoundation to cease awarding grants to Planned Parenthood, Komen officials ended two days of silence on Thursday and tried to manage the uproar.

Susan G. Komen for the Cure founder defends Planned Parenthood decision

Posted: February 3rd, 2012, 1:45am EST

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Nancy G. Brinker says abortion is not the reason that grants for breast cancer exams are being cut off. Lawmakers, women's health advocates and others continue to criticize the move, and both groups see donations pour in.

As the backlash grew against the decision by Susan G. Komen for the Curefoundation to cease awarding grants to Planned Parenthood, Komen officials ended two days of silence on Thursday and tried to manage the uproar.

Donald Trump endorses Mitt Romney for Republican nomination

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 11:18pm EST

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It was an unusually brief and theatrics-free announcement by Trump in Las Vegas ahead of Saturday's Nevada caucuses.

For an event so politically fraught, it flashed by in what seemed like a New York minute.

Donald Trump endorses Mitt Romney for Republican nomination

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 11:18pm EST

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It was an unusually brief and theatrics-free announcement by Trump in Las Vegas ahead of Saturday's Nevada caucuses.

For an event so politically fraught, it flashed by in what seemed like a New York minute.

Allergan halts Lap-Band sales to 1-800-GET-THIN clinics

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 9:26pm EST

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Lap-Band's maker, Allergan, will no longer sell the device to facilities affiliated with the marketing campaign.

The maker of the Lap-Band will no longer sell its product to clinics affiliated with the 1-800-GET-THIN marketing company — a blow to Southern California surgery centers that have built an empire implanting the weight-loss devices in people looking to shed pounds.

Allergan halts Lap-Band sales to 1-800-GET-THIN clinics

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 9:26pm EST

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Lap-Band's maker, Allergan, will no longer sell the device to facilities affiliated with the marketing campaign.

The maker of the Lap-Band will no longer sell its product to clinics affiliated with the 1-800-GET-THIN marketing company — a blow to Southern California surgery centers that have built an empire implanting the weight-loss devices in people looking to shed pounds.

GOP criticizes plan to transfer 'high-level' Guantanamo detainees

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 8:57pm EST

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Lawmakers denounce an Obama administration proposal to send abroad five Guantanamo Bay detainees on a no-transfer list to mollify the Taliban before Afghanistan peace talks.

Members of Congress are reacting sharply to a plan being considered by the White House to transfer abroad five of the most dangerous prisoners from Guantanamo Bay as a gesture to the Taliban in advance of Afghanistan peace talks.

GOP criticizes plan to transfer 'high-level' Guantanamo detainees

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 8:57pm EST

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Lawmakers denounce an Obama administration proposal to send abroad five Guantanamo Bay detainees on a no-transfer list to mollify the Taliban before Afghanistan peace talks.

Members of Congress are reacting sharply to a plan being considered by the White House to transfer abroad five of the most dangerous prisoners from Guantanamo Bay as a gesture to the Taliban in advance of Afghanistan peace talks.

No end in sight to the warm winter

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 8:35pm EST

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Forecasters are perplexed by the mild weather across the U.S., and they expect more of the same. Many residents are delighted, but ski areas and other season-oriented businesses are struggling.

Birds were singing. Insects were buzzing. And a large skunk suddenly appeared in the road in front of meteorologist Paul Pastelok as he drove to work in rural Pennsylvania.

No end in sight to the warm winter

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 8:35pm EST

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Forecasters are perplexed by the mild weather across the U.S., and they expect more of the same. Many residents are delighted, but ski areas and other season-oriented businesses are struggling.

Birds were singing. Insects were buzzing. And a large skunk suddenly appeared in the road in front of meteorologist Paul Pastelok as he drove to work in rural Pennsylvania.

Allergan halts Lap-Band sales to 1-800-GET-THIN clinics

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 4:04pm EST

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Irvine-based Allergan Inc. said it will no longer sell its Lap-Band weight-loss device to companies affiliated with the 1-800-GET-THIN marketing company.

Gingrich challenges Florida's winner-take-all delegate plan

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 3:56pm EST

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Newt Gingrich is challenging Florida's winner-take-all primary, arguing in a letter that is being sent Thursday that since the state held its primary early it must award delegates proportionally under existing Republican National Committee policies.

U.N. official warns of looming crisis in South Sudan

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 2:11pm EST

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The world's newest nation, South Sudan, faces a devastating humanitarian crisis that could grow worse as people flee a border conflict with Sudan, the United Nations' emergency relief coordinator warned Thursday.

In Komen fallout, abortion-breast cancer myth is resurrected

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 1:42pm EST

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The long-debunked idea that abortions can contribute to breast cancer is reappearing amid the outpouring of comments this week on Susan G. Komen for the Cure's decision to stop funding Planned Parenthood breast-health programs.

Proposition 8 trial video will remain sealed, appeals court rules

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 1:20pm EST

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A federal appeals court refused Thursday to make public the video of the Proposition 8 same-sex marriage trial, a victory for opponents of gay marriage.

Reports cite big job cuts in January, more job-seekers in market

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 1:19pm EST

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The unemployment rate rose in January, while job cuts soared as much as 39% year over year, according to three separate reports Thursday. But don’t panic -- Experts say the new data is not only expected, but possibly even promising.

Intel panel chair: 'Dangerous line' crossed in talks with Taliban

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 12:45pm EST

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The Republican chairman of the House intelligence committee took aim Thursday at an Obama administration plan to transfer five prisoners out of U.S. Naval Station Guantanamo Bay as part of a package of negotiations with the Taliban.

Bernanke: Economy faces 'significant headwinds'

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 12:38pm EST

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In what has become a familiar refrain from the chairman of the Federal Reserve, Ben S. Bernanke described the economic recovery Thursday as “frustratingly slow” and said that “significant headwinds” face consumers and the broader economy.

Accused teacher investigated in 1994 for allegedly fondling girl

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 12:15pm EST

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The longtime Los Angeles teacher accused of committing lewd acts on 23 children was investigated for allegedly fondling a girl in 1994, but no charges were filed, authorities said.

Donald Trump will endorse Mitt Romney for president

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 11:48am EST

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Donald Trump plans to announce his support for GOP frontrunner Mitt Romney on Thursday, a source close to the Romney campaign confirms.

House GOP threatens to hold Holder in contempt over Fast and Furious

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 11:39am EST

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House Republicans investigating the Fast and Furious operation threatened Thursday to seek a contempt of Congress citation against Atty. Gen. Eric H. Holder Jr., saying his Department of Justice has refused to turn over key documents in the Department of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms gun-tracking investigation and that the Obama administration is trying to hide its involvement in the program that allowed hundreds of U.S. weapons to fall into the hands of Mexican drug cartels.

Thousands march in protest of Egypt's soccer violence

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 11:35am EST

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Thousands of protesters marched on the Interior Ministry in Cairo as Egypt began three days of mourning Thursday for 74 people killed in a soccer riot that renewed anger against the nation's police and ruling military council.

Nevada poll: Romney leading by a wide margin

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 11:03am EST

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With just days before the Nevada GOP presidential caucuses, front runner Mitt Romney appears poised to win the state by a considerable margin.

Don Cornelius' health problems probed by investigators

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 10:31am EST

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Authorities investigating the death of "Soul Train" creator Don Cornelius continued to sift for clues after he was found in his Encino home Wednesday with a self-inflicted gunshot wound to the head.

California criticizes utility over outages after windstorm

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Regulators say some Southern California Edison equipment didn't meet standards and some evidence wasn't preserved after the fall barrage. The utility cites the 'dynamic situation' that confronted it.

State regulators on Wednesday slammed Southern California Edison for outages that left nearly a quarter of a million customers without power —- some for more than a week — during a windstorm late last year.

Planned Parenthood supporters denounce Komen's funding halt

Posted: February 2nd, 2012, 1:39am EST

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The Susan G. Komen for the Cure's move to end funding for Planned Parenthood affiliates elicits criticism and a fundraising drive to replace the lost money. Komen officials defend the decision.

He won't be sporting that pink tie anymore.

Questions swirl around teacher as more allegations arise

Posted: February 1st, 2012, 8:29pm EST

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L.A. Unified tries to determine why Mark Berndt escaped suspicion for years as former students recount previous complaints. Detectives say inquiry moved slowly due to sensitive subject.

The Los Angeles Unified School District launched an internal investigation to determine how a teacher accused of bizarre acts of lewd conduct against the students in his classroom escaped suspicion for so long.

Honda loses Civic hybrid Small Claims Court lawsuit

Posted: February 1st, 2012, 7:22pm EST

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The owner of a Honda Civic hybrid won an unusual Small Claims Court lawsuit against American Honda Motor Co.

Facebook files for initial public stock offering

Posted: February 1st, 2012, 7:19pm EST

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The social networking company has submitted registration documents with the SEC that set a preliminary goal of raising $5 billion. Facebook is expected to be valued at $75 billion to $100 billion.

Facebook has filed papers for what's expected to be the largest initial public offering ever to come out of Silicon Valley and one of the largest in U.S. history.

Has the GOP lost its enthusiasm edge?

Posted: February 1st, 2012, 4:47pm EST

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Fewer Republicans turned out to vote in this year’s Florida primary than in 2008 -- down about 14%. A sign of trouble ahead?

Egyptian soccer riot: Death toll at 73

Posted: February 1st, 2012, 4:29pm EST

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REPORTING FROM CAIRO -- The death toll rose to at least 73 people late Wednesday after hooligans from the winning team stormed onto the field after an Egyptian soccer match between two longtime rivals and attacked opposing players and fans.

U.S. and allies will shift Afghan mission to training next year

Posted: February 1st, 2012, 2:38pm EST

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REPORTING FROM BRUSSELS -- The U.S. and its allies will formally change their military mission in Afghanistan to training and advising Afghan troops next year, a shift meant to extricate the alliance from a combat role after more than a decade of war, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta said Wednesday.

Five more alleged victims accuse L.A. teacher of abuse

Posted: February 1st, 2012, 11:38am EST

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The children's allegations must all be verified to determine whether any additional charges can be filed against Mark Berndt, 61, who is expected in court Wednesday for arraignment on 23 counts of lewd acts against children, said Los Angeles County Sheriff's spokesman Steve Whitmore.

Five more alleged victims have contacted sheriff's investigators since they announced the arrest of a longtime Miramonte Elementary School teacher accused of abusing children in his classroom, authorities said.

'Soul Train' creator Don Cornelius dead in apparent suicide

Posted: February 1st, 2012, 10:50am EST

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A family member of Don Cornelius arrived at his Mulholland Drive home in Encino on Wednesday morning and found the "Soul Train" creator with a gunshot wound to the head, authorities said.

Coliseum officials made $1 million in cash payments to union

Posted: February 1st, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Bundles of cash were used to pay wages of IATSE members for concerts and other productions, with no controls on disbursement. The U.S. Labor Department is investigating.

For at least five years, officials with the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum passed bundles of cash totaling more than $1 million to a union representative, sometimes in a suitcase packed with $100 bills.

Mitt Romney's Florida win won't seal race

Posted: February 1st, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Despite his landslide victory, the battle for enough delegates to secure the Republican presidential nomination could run for weeks or months.

Mitt Romney rode one of the most negative primary campaigns in modern presidential politics to a landslide victory in delegate-rich Florida, but the Republican contest is likely to rumble on for weeks.

California needs to find $3 billion by March

Posted: February 1st, 2012, 3:00am EST

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Controller warns that the state could be in the red by then. Republicans and Democrats snipe over the severity of the problem.

Reporting from Sacramento -- State lawmakers moved to avoid a cash crunch Tuesday as the controller warned that California could be in the red by early March.

Monterey County hospital group to award more large retirement packages

Posted: February 1st, 2012, 3:00am EST

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The financially struggling hospital district, criticized last year for its large payout to an executive, confirms that several other officials will get lucrative benefits as well.

A Monterey County hospital district, which came under fire last year for giving its chief executive one of the largest public pensions in California history, announced this week that several other top officials are receiving generous retirement packages.

Albatross wanders into L.A.

Posted: February 1st, 2012, 3:00am EST

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After a ride in a pickup and four days of rest and relaxation at a wildlife rescue center in San Pedro, it sets out for home again.

Call it the case of the stowaway seabird.

News From Yellow Business Pages » Los Angeles Times - Top News » February 2012

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Los Angeles Times - Top News (257 unread)

Posted: February 28th, 2012, 5:32pm EST

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Posted: February 23rd, 2012, 3:00am EST