The Death That Shook Iran

Raisi, who was 63 years old, was a deeply divisive figure both at home and abroad. He was reviled by critics for his role in the mass executions of thousands of political prisoners in 1988 near the end of the Iran-Iraq war. The U.S. and other western nations had sanctioned Raisi over human rights abuses.

His presidency was also marred by the ruthless crackdown on the Mahsa Amini protests that erupted in September 2022 after the young woman died in police custody. Over 500 people were killed and 22,000 arrested in the government’s violent suppression of the nationwide uprising against Iran’s mandatory hijab laws and broader anger at the repressive theocracy.

When the news broke that Raisi had perished in the helicopter crash along with six others, including Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian, spontaneous celebrations erupted in Iranian diaspora hubs like Los Angeles, Toronto, London, and Cologne.

Videos circulated on social media showing crowds of cheering expatriates dancing in the streets and waving protest banners. Some saw the president’s shocking death as a hopeful sign of the regime’s vulnerability.

“For me, I wish this guy stayed alive so he can be taken to an international court, to look in the eyes of his victims and reply to them,” said Nazenin Ansari, editor of the Kayhan London news site. “I’m sorry he won’t be able to stand in a court of law and take responsibility for his actions.”

A Glimmer of Hope

For many in the Iranian diaspora, Raisi’s death represents a potential shifting of the political winds that have kept the repressive Islamic regime in power for over 40 years since the 1979 revolution.

“Each member of this regime that goes is a victory for us,” said Guilda Torabi, spokesperson for the Iranian advocacy group Homa Association in France. “It’s one step to vanquishing the regime. We are getting closer to the objective, which gives us hope.”

Maryam Namazie, a UK-based Iranian women’s rights activist, echoed that sentiment of cautious optimism about what Raisi’s demise could mean for the protest movement seeking democratic reform in Iran.

“Any infighting opens up the space for people to be able to push back the regime, to weaken it,” Namazie said. “It opens up the space for protest. That’s what we need – from below, not any kind of regime change from above.”

The Specter of Retaliation

However, the jubilation over Raisi’s passing is tempered by fears that the regime could respond with a fierce new crackdown as it seeks to project strength and unity during a potential succession crisis.

Pouria Zeraati, a journalist with the Persian-language TV channel Iran International who was stabbed near his London home in March, is among those worried about retaliation against high-profile Iranian dissidents and activists abroad.

“The government is always looking for ways to make an example of journalists, activists and encourage self-censorship,” Zeraati said. “With this power vacuum, they may feel emboldened to strike out even more aggressively.”

Even in the Iranian expatriate enclave of Los Angeles, some feared that publicly celebrating could provoke reprisals against friends and family still in Iran. A husband and wife having lunch at a Persian cafe who gave only their first names, Reza and Nahid, said while they were glad Raisi was gone, they weren’t optimistic about meaningful change.

“Everyone knows someone worse is going to come [to replace Raisi],” Nahid said. “The regime has no humanity. They will just double down on oppressing people.”

Succession Uncertainties

Part of the broader unease stems from the uncertainties around Iran’s line of succession. As president, Raisi was widely seen as a potential successor to the ailing 85-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the true seat of power in Iran’s government.

With Raisi’s sudden death, the regime has called a snap presidential election for June 28th, 2024. In the interim, First Vice President Mohammad Mokhber has taken over as caretaker president. However, Mokhber is another hardline figure close to Khamenei and not seen as a moderate force for change.

“Raisi, however much of a pillar he was, is expendable. There are many others to take his place,” Namazie cautioned, highlighting the challenges facing the protest movement’s quest for reforms.

For Iranians at home and abroad hoping for democratic change, the mixed reactions illustrate the combination of optimism about Raisi’s death creating pressure points on the regime, but also ingrained skepticism that any transition will simply reinforce the status quo.

As Aliasghar Ramezanpoor, executive news director of Iran International summed up: “People are talking about the crash as a kind of sign of hope. Everyone sees how losing a president [caused] national celebration – which sends a powerful message to everyone in the government.”

That message from the jubilant Iranian streets may have been one of hope, but it remains to be seen if it will translate into real momentum for reform or simply be met with doubling down of the crackdown on dissent. I sincerely hope you find this “London to Los Angeles Iranians Abroad React with Mixed Emotions to President’s Passing-Find Out Details” article helpful.

The post London to Los Angeles Iranians Abroad React with Mixed Emotions to President’s Passing-Find Out Details appeared first on Los Angeles Daily News.

The affidavit, made public on Tuesday after media outlets moved to unseal court records, paints a troubling picture of Feuer’s potential misconduct. According to Civetti, “multiple sources of evidence” indicated Feuer obstructed justice and made “materially misleading statements” to the FBI about his knowledge of key events surrounding the bogus lawsuit ploy.

At the heart of the scandal was a scheme by the City Attorney’s office to file a sham class-action lawsuit against the city over erroneous utility bills from the Department of Water and Power (DWP). By colluding with an outside attorney to act as a “friendly” plaintiff, the city aimed to control the litigation and settlement on favorable terms.

However, the plan went awry when a Beverly Hills legal assistant threatened to expose the scheme unless paid nearly $1 million in hush money. The affidavit alleges Feuer not only knew about these threats but “impliedly directed” one of his top deputies, Thomas Peters, to ensure the demands were met through a secret $800,000 payment.

Despite Feuer’s longstanding denials of any knowledge about collusion or the hush money plot, Civetti’s affidavit suggests otherwise based on Peters’ statements, calendar entries, text messages, and recorded calls. The agent accuses Feuer of a “narrative of apparent obfuscation, false and misleading statements, and omissions” motivated by political ambition, noting Feuer told investigators he wanted to run for mayor in 2022.

Conflicting Accounts and Obstruction Allegations

While Feuer has maintained he only learned about his office’s collusive lawsuit involvement in April 2019, the affidavit contradicts this timeline. According to Peters’ account cited in the document, he informed Feuer about the legal assistant’s threats as early as fall 2017, with follow-up discussions in December 2017 and a pivotal January 2019 meeting.

At that January 2019 gathering, Peters claimed he warned Feuer that incriminating documents proving the City Attorney’s office drafted the sham lawsuit were likely to become public. Civetti describes Feuer as being in “a state of extreme shock” and “highly emotional and visibly upset, covering his face with his hands for a long period.”

After this meeting, Peters allegedly called the outside attorneys involved at “Mike’s request” – referring to Feuer – with a plan to address the impending document leak, according to a surreptitious recording cited in the affidavit.

The allegations of Feuer misleading the FBI about his knowledge of events and obstructing the investigation arise from his statements to agents in July 2019 during raids on City Hall. Civetti asserts Feuer’s answers about the lawsuit’s origins and his awareness of it were “material and misleading.”

Feuer has vigorously denied any wrongdoing, stating this week: “Any claim that I knew about collusion and tried to conceal it is absurd. I cooperated fully with the U.S. Attorney’s staff and am glad they ultimately obtained all the actual facts.” He accused Peters of lying and questioned the affidavit’s credibility.

However, Peters stood by his statements to the FBI, telling the LA Times: “I am pleased, but not at all surprised, to see that my statements to the FBI about Feuer were corroborated by multiple, independent sources.”

Unanswered Questions and Fallout

Despite the damning affidavit, federal prosecutors never charged Feuer with obstruction, lying to investigators, or any other crimes related to the scandal. A spokesperson for the U.S. Attorney’s office declined to comment on the lack of charges but stated they did not pursue cases where evidence fell short of proving federal crimes beyond a reasonable doubt.

Three individuals did face convictions, including Peters (for aiding extortion), the outside attorney who filed the sham lawsuit, and a former DWP cybersecurity chief involved in a bribery ploy. Feuer requested and received a letter from prosecutors in 2022 stating he was not a target, and they informed media outlets late last year that the probe was closed.

The newly unsealed records, totaling around 1,400 pages of search warrants and materials, offer long-awaited insights into what investigators uncovered about Feuer’s potential culpability. However, they also raise fresh questions about why the former City Attorney avoided charges despite the FBI agent’s stark claims of misleading statements and implied obstruction.

As a longtime political figure who cultivated an ethical “Saint Michael” reputation, the corruption allegations represent a stunning rebuke of Feuer’s public image. While he maintains his innocence, the affidavit’s revelations deal a substantial blow and leave a cloud of doubt hanging over the former top Los Angeles prosecutor.

Only time will tell if further investigations or revelations emerge. But for now, the FBI documents have ignited a political firestorm, casting Feuer’s legacy in a harsh new light and underlining how swiftly fortunes can shift when scandal touches the highest echelons of power. I sincerely hope you find this “Former Los Angeles City Attorney Misled Federal Authorities? FBI Confidential Documents Suggest” article helpful.

The post Former Los Angeles City Attorney Misled Federal Authorities? FBI Confidential Documents Suggest appeared first on Los Angeles Daily News.

According to USA TODAY, For over a year, LA County’s Department of Public Health has been developing a comprehensive strategy to track patient debt and hospital collections, boost medical bill forgiveness for low-income patients, and directly purchase and eliminate billions in outstanding medical debt.

A Public Health Crisis, Not Just a Financial One

What sets LA County’s approach apart is its framing of medical debt as a urgent public health threat on par with conditions like asthma and diabetes, rather than merely an economic or political problem.

“Nobody in LA County facing economic limitations should have that impact their ability to access essential healthcare services and support for optimal well-being,” said Barbara Ferrer, director of the public health department, at a recent medical debt symposium.

Mona Shah of the national health equity organization Community Catalyst praised the county’s “bold” efforts to address both immediate debt relief and the root causes of medical debt. She highlighted the significance of tackling this issue in a region with around 10 million residents.

Pushback from Hospital Industry

However, on the eve of the April 10th symposium, the powerful Hospital Association of Southern California urged LA County to revise its plan. In a letter, the association’s CEO George Greene argued the proposed debt relief program would “only burden hospitals with unnecessary requirements, without ultimately helping to address the underlying issue.”

Many of the county’s recommendations would require hospitals to change billing and reporting processes. For example, LA County wants hospitals to notify it when sending patient debt to collections and improve access to financial assistance programs, which patient advocates say are often difficult to navigate despite state requirements.

The association’s LA County VP Adena Tessler told KFF Health News that hospitals already provide ample financial aid, claiming the county places too much emphasis on hospitals when other healthcare sectors like insurers share blame for the medical debt crisis.

A Widespread and Inequitable Burden

But the scale of the problem in LA County is staggering. Analysis by the public health department found nearly 785,000 county residents were burdened with $2.9 billion in total medical debt in 2022 alone.

The data shows this debt disproportionately affects people of color, low-income families, and households with children. Having outstanding medical bills more than doubled the likelihood of delaying care, struggling to afford housing, or going hungry.

While a few states have begun limiting medical debt collection or mandating hospital financial assistance, LA County’s public health-centered approach is unprecedented. Some jurisdictions have provided direct debt relief, and new state and federal laws ban including medical debt on credit reports, which can cripple someone’s ability to find housing, jobs, and loans.

“Medical debt is a huge public health problem,” said Naman Shah, the LA public health department’s medical and dental affairs director. “We try to shift societal determinants that deeply and widely impact health. Medical debt fulfills both – it’s important we see this as a health issue, not just a regulatory one.”

A Phased, Collaborative Approach

With backing from the County Board of Supervisors, which labeled medical debt a “pervasive” cause of harm to marginalized communities, the public health department developed a phased plan after releasing initial recommendations last year.

Over the next several months, LA County will score hospitals on the accessibility of their financial assistance and provide templates to simplify byzantine billing practices, similar to efforts in Washington, Oregon and Maryland.

The county also aims to prevent future medical debt through consumer education on avoiding surprise billing and out-of-network charges in collaboration with health plans and providers.

While agreeing hospitals should not be the sole focus, Naman Shah defended starting with a major debt source, noting nearly 75% of adults owe some medical debt to hospitals.

“We want to get the most bang for our buck,” Shah said. “The largest bill a patient receives is not a dental or office bill – it’s a hospital bill.”

Despite the hospital lobby’s resistance, Shah said the county is moving forward with its plan after addressing some “misunderstandings” through ongoing dialogue with the association.

A National Model for Justice

By asserting that medical debt is first and foremost a critical public health equity issue, Los Angeles County is charting new territory in the nationwide struggle against a burden impacting two out of every five U.S. adults.

Through strategic debt relief, systematic reforms to make hospital billing more consumer-friendly, and preventative efforts across the healthcare system, LA’s sweeping initiative could become a model for other states and localities aiming to proactively tackle an injustice that perpetuates poverty and barriers to care.

As Barbara Ferrer powerfully stated, optimal health and wellbeing should be possible for all LA County residents regardless of economic status. By confronting the medical debt crisis as a public health imperative, this diversity-rich region is taking major strides toward that ideal. I sincerely hope you find this “Los Angeles County Really Erase Medical Debt? Here’s What’s Happening” article helpful.

The post Los Angeles County Really Erase Medical Debt? Here’s What’s Happening appeared first on Los Angeles Daily News.

As the council engaged in intense debate over law enforcement spending, a recurring source of friction, the overarching budget calculus required tough trade-offs—delivering pay hikes for police and civilian employees while still balancing the books through vacancy reductions. The impact on staffing levels and service delivery promises to be felt across the city in the year ahead.

Cuts Across the Board to Fund Negotiated Raises

The eliminated 1,700 vacant positions span agencies as diverse as animal services, public works, transportation, cultural affairs, and building maintenance according to city budget analysts. This downsizing was deemed necessary largely to cover a series of recently negotiated raises for sworn LAPD officers as well as tens of thousands of municipal civilian workers including gardeners, clerks, custodians, mechanics and librarians.

“There’s no sugarcoating the reality that we face next year,” warned Councilmember Bob Blumenfield, chair of the Budget Committee. “Services will remain stagnant at best because we will be operating under a bare-bones budget.”

While no current employees face layoffs, the cuts dramatically shrink LA’s budgeted workforce from just maintaining already-vacant roles, setting the stage for reduced services and resources across many city functions.

Backlash on Police Spending Persists

The council’s left wing, consisting of Nithya Raman, Hugo Soto-Martinez and Eunisses Hernandez, voted against the budget out of dismay over the reductions as well as the continued high level of police funding. Hernandez pointed out nearly 25% of the budget goes to LAPD even as other agencies downsize.

“I cannot vote for a budget that adds funding to an already overfunded department, while at the same time cutting $2.5 million from after-school programming,” stated Hernandez, an advocate for reallocating police funds to community services.

Partial Reversals to Protect Key Services

While approving Bass’ broad plan, the council did intervene to restore some proposed cuts—preserving about 400 positions primarily at the parks and recreation departments as well as the street services bureau which maintains roads and infrastructure.

They also voted to reverse eliminations impacting senior meals and four vacant fire department roles, recognizing a need to protect essential services and public safety functions despite the fiscal constraints.

Police Hiring Funds Hotly Debated

One of the most contentious discussions centered on a proposal by Soto-Martinez and Hernandez to withhold $34.7 million allocated for new police hiring until LAPD actually meets its recruitment goals. Though voted down, the debate reflected an ongoing divide over police resourcing.

Council President Paul Krekorian defended prioritizing police hiring to combat rising crime and staff shortages that have left LA as “the most thinly policed big city in America.” With LAPD down 1,200 officers since 2019, he argued the raises were vital “to prevent the department from losing officers even more rapidly.”

The Long-Term Cost of Raises

While acknowledging the budget’s difficulty, Budget Chair Blumenfeld said council members knew the pay increases “would be painful when they approved them” last year to keep up with inflation and stabilize the workforce long-term.

Councilmember Tim McOsker echoed that “the most valuable thing we have is our people, and we’re investing in our people” through the hard-fought raises.

The Path Forward

Mayor Bass expressed gratitude for council’s leadership on this challenging budget while affirming her priorities like homelessness initiatives and improving city services. Her Inside Safe program received $185 million to continue transitioning unhoused individuals into temporary and permanent housing, though significant numbers have cycled back onto the streets according to recent data.

Ultimately, LA now faces tough choices on service levels, staffing and resource allocation in the new fiscal year starting July 1st. The vacant position eliminations hint at leaner times ahead as the city shoulders the major financial burden of new pay agreements while still obligated to provide essential municipal functions.

Public Safety, Infrastructure, Homelessness Priorities Challenged

From police patrols and 911 response to road repairs, park upkeep and homeless outreach – the eliminated 1,700 vacant roles almost inevitably mean reduced bandwith and capabilities for numerous services residents rely upon daily. Public safety, infrastructure maintenance and homelessness are all termed top priorities yet face potential operational impacts from the personnel downsizing.

The LA City Council has arduous work ahead to identify strategic service cuts, enact efficiencies and explore potential revenue enhancers as this austerity budget is operationalized over the next year. While preventing layoffs, their approval of Bass’ plan acknowledges harsh trade-offs to meet towering salary obligations while still keeping the city solvent and functioning at adequate levels.

Some services being diminished may spur outsourcing to contractors. Other efficiency initiatives through technology and organizational restructuring could help do more with less staffing. But officials concede stagnant or reduced levels of city outputs ranging from tree trimming to street sweeping to park programming may be unavoidable realities in the year ahead.

Calls for New Revenue and Fiscal Reform

Even some members who voted for the budget, like Bob Blumenfield, warn “bare-bones” service delivery is likely as the city downsizes while grappling with salary spikes. This dynamic has sparked fresh calls for LA to contemplate raising fees, exploring new revenue streams, and pursuing long-overdue fiscal reforms to avoid continually having to cut services and vacancy levels when labor costs escalate.

Thursday’s divisive council vote captured the tension between investing in employees through hard-fought raises while still adequately funding city operations and initiatives like homelessness relief, public safety, community services and infrastructure maintenance. It is a delicate balance LA’s newly-elected leaders must now strike through their budgeting and policymaking in the months ahead.

As the 2023-2024 fiscal year dawns, Los Angeles faces a sobering reality check on its finances and the ever-present challenges of delivering quality municipal services while prudently managing its resources. Mayor Bass and the City Council have setLA on an austerity course for now, but sustained progress on civic priorities demands they continue exploring sustainable budgetary solutions. I sincerely hope you find this “LA City Council Approves Mayor Karen Bass’ Plan, 1,700 Vacant Positions Axed – What’s the Impact?” article helpful.

The post LA City Council Approves Mayor Karen Bass’ Plan, 1,700 Vacant Positions Axed – What’s the Impact? appeared first on Los Angeles Daily News.

During a recent Board of Police Commission meeting, the LAPD shared encouraging updates on the reductions across different crime categories so far this year. Understanding the specific areas where Los Angeles has made progress can help inform future policing strategies and community programs to sustain these downward trends.

Key Highlights on Violent and Property Crime Reductions

As of May, the LAPD reported that violent crime has decreased 2.4% and property crime has decreased 3.3% compared to the same period last year. Homicides in particular have been trending down since mid-March, falling from a year-to-date increase of 13.8% to just over 4.2%.

So far there have been 113 homicides citywide, which includes 35 gang-related deaths. For context, there were 106 total homicides last year, with 59 being gang-related. So while homicides are up 6.6% over 2023, they remain 19.9% lower than 2022 levels.

The number of shooting victims is also down to 399, a reduction of 47 victims compared to this time last year. Of those 399 shot, 150 occurred in the LAPD’s South Bureau. These figures indicate progress is being made in reducing lethal violent crime involving firearms.

On the property crime side, robberies are up significantly between 8.2% and 13.4% over the past seven weeks. However, robberies involving a firearm have still decreased since early March. Total robberies year-to-date are 13.4% higher than 2023 but 4.5% lower than 2022.

Motor vehicle thefts declined between 9.6% and 5% from March through late April. But they increased again by 5.6% this month compared to 2023. Kias, Chevrolets and Hyundais remain the most commonly stolen vehicle types.

Analyzing the Drivers Behind Los Angeles’ Falling Crime Rates

Criminologists will certainly be studying the various factors that could be contributing to Los Angeles’ recent declines in violent and property crime. While the exact drivers are yet to be determined, we can speculate on some of the potential influences based on crime trends over recent years.

The COVID-19 pandemic and its economic fallout were associated with dramatic increases in homicide and aggravated assault rates nationwide in 2020 and 2021. As the acute impacts of the pandemic have attenuated, criminal violence may be reverting closer to pre-pandemic baselines.

Los Angeles has also implemented data-driven anti-gang initiatives over the past several years. Community-based violence intervention programs like Gang Reduction and Youth Development (GRYD) aim to reduce gang activity through localized deterrence strategies in the neighborhoods that need it most.

Recent inflationary pressures and rising gas prices may have also discouraged opportunistic property crimes like car thefts and robberies. Criminologists have previously associated economic recessions with temporary dips in acquisitive crimes.

Ongoing police reform efforts could additionally be playing a role in violence reduction. The LAPD has expanded its community policing programs, crisis intervention training, and alternative response options for situations involving those with mental illness. A reorientation away from confrontational enforcement may be helping improve community trust and cooperation.

Of course, crime rates naturally fluctuate from year to year and even week to week. But if Los Angeles’ current downward trajectory in homicides, shootings and other violent offenses can be sustained, it would mark a major accomplishment for public safety.

Translating Short-Term Crime Reductions Into Long-Term Community Benefits

While the LAPD’s latest crime statistics clearly warrant celebration, the city must channel that optimism into effective violence prevention policies. Without proactive efforts to address root causes, periodic progress can quickly reverse.

Los Angeles leaders should use this moment to evaluate what specific strategies may be working and double down on them. Bolstering community investment, youth engagement programs, crisis response infrastructure, and targeted deterrence of the most active offenders can help lock in the positive momentum.

Policymakers should also prepare contingency plans in case economic conditions, post-pandemic behavioral health challenges, or other external variables trigger recidivism among at-risk groups. Being caught flat-footed would squander the hard-fought security gains Los Angeles has achieved.

On the other hand, if the current diverse portfolio of social and situational crime prevention programs can yield sustained reductions, the benefits for communities would be immense. Years of additional life, health, and prosperity would be restored to neighborhoods most impacted by violent crime.

The best crime fighting strategy is preventing violence before it occurs in the first place. Los Angeles’ status as an enduring safe city will be determined by its ability to translate ephemeral statistical improvements into meaningful community impact.

Key Takeaways on Los Angeles’ Declining 2023 Crime Rates

To recap the top insights from the LAPD’s latest violent and property crime data:

• Violent crime down 2.4% and property crime down 3.3% year-to-date over 2023
• Homicides down 4.2% since mid-March, now just above 2023 rate
• Shooting victims down nearly 12% from 399 to 347
• Robberies spiking over 7 weeks but firearm robberies still dropping
• Motor vehicle thefts rising again after March/April declines
• Pandemic normalization, gang prevention, and crime deterrence may be slowing offenses
• Can temporary gains be solidified through continued community investment?

Los Angeles has made notable strides in reducing homicides, shootings and other serious crimes so far this year. But policymakers cannot take a victory lap yet. Sustaining and building upon fragile progress remains imperative going into the summer months when violence typically surges.

With strategic interventions rooted in community partnerships, Los Angeles has an opportunity to buck seasonal upward trends. But absent proactive prevention efforts, short-term declines could easily reverse. The fate of recent crime rate improvements now lies in the hands of policymakers and community leaders.

Through data-driven action, Los Angeles can turn the page on past crime waves and replace them with enduring neighborhood safety and wellbeing. That is the challenge and responsibility facing the city in the months ahead. I sincerely hope you find this “Violent and Property Crime Decrease in L.A? Safety Improvement?” article helpful.

The post Violent and Property Crime Decrease in L.A? Safety Improvement? appeared first on Los Angeles Daily News.

The Gold House Gala, held this year at the iconic Music Center in downtown Los Angeles on May 11th, brings together top Asian Pacific and multicultural leaders to celebrate the annual A100 List. The A100 List highlights 100 of the most impactful Asian Pacific changemakers across culture and society from the past year. Honorees across various industries are recognized as trailblazers at the forefront of the “new gold age.”

Sharing the news of his award, Karan wrote: “Humbled and Honoured to receive the Gold Legend Honor @goldhouseco’s Gold Gala in LA…”

He went on to express his gratitude to the organization Gold House for not only celebrating Asian achievement and talent globally but also for their stand on representation and inclusivity.

Karan also thanked Gold House co-founder Prabal Gurung, a world-renowned fashion designer, who served as the first-ever Creative Director for the Gold Gala this year.

“Prabal is a force of nature and a powerhouse of talent…always pushing boundaries and maintaining fashion relevance for the ages…everyday!!!! He makes us all so proud!!” Karan declared about his “dearest friend.”

The eclectic A100 list this year includes names like actor and director Dev Patel, NVIDIA co-founder Jensen Huang, LVMH Chairman Anish Melwani, gaming star Rachell “Valkyrae” Hofstetter, and the Maui First Responders.

Karan dedicated his Gold Legend award to his mother on the occasion of Mother’s Day, crediting her for his 25 years in the movie business during which he has many more stories still left to tell.

Other attendees glittering up this year’s Gold Gala included Steven Yeun, Lucy Liu, Bang Si-hyuk and adorable pop icon Hello Kitty.

With a theme of “A Gold New World,” imagining a tomorrow built by all for all, the event was brought to life by designer Prabal Gurung’s creative vision.

Karan Johar’s Prolific Directorial Venture

Known for his directorial finesse and keen understanding of the pulse of Indian audiences, Karan Johar has delivered some of the biggest blockbusters of Indian cinema.

He made his directorial debut in 1998 with the runaway hit Kuch Kuch Hota Hai starring Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol and Rani Mukerji. The iconic love triangle continues to remain etched in public memory for the characters of Rahul, Anjali and Tina.

In 2001, Karan explored the complexities of married life and infidelity in Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham, starring Amitabh Bachchan, Jaya Bachchan, Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Hrithik Roshan and Kareena Kapoor.

The multi-starrer family drama broke several box-office records and became the highest-grossing Indian film overseas at the time.

Karan’s next Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna in 2006 delved into the taboo subject of an extra-marital affair. The topical film with a striking ensemble cast of Shah Rukh Khan, Rani Mukerji, Abhishek Bachchan and Preity Zinta received mixed reviews but much appreciation for sensitively portraying the complexity of modern relationships.

His most ambitious directorial venture was the epic drama My Name is Khan starring Shah Rukh Khan and Kajol. The film tackled the sensitive topic of discrimination against Muslims post 9/11 in the US through an interracial love story.

While receiving critical acclaim and commercial success for dealing with an unconventional storyline, My Name is Khan also showed Karan’s growing prowess as a topical storyteller.

In 2012, Karan Johar directed the remake of the iconic film Agneepath featuring Hrithik Roshan and Sanjay Dutt. While the film met with mixed responses, Hrithik’s performance as the angst-ridden hero Vijay Dinanath Chauhan earned immense praise.

His segment ‘Lust Stories’ in the 2018 Netflix anthology by the same name was much appreciated for depicting female desire from a woman’s point of view.

Karan’s last directorial film was the 2016 sports drama Ae Dil Hai Mushkil starring Ranbir Kapoor, Anushka Sharma and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. His portrayal of unrequited love, moving on and friendship against the backdrop of music and relationships resonated with both audiences and critics.

The Legacy of Dharma Productions

In addition to his directorial pursuits, Karan Johar has created a successful production house in Dharma Productions which was established by his father late Yash Johar in 1976.

Some of the iconic films that Dharma Productions delivered under Karan’s leadership include Kal Ho Naa Ho, Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani, 2 States, Kapoor and Sons, Dostana and The Lunchbox among others.

Known for his knack in identifying talent, Karan has launched several prominent actors, directors and writers in Bollywood through Dharma Productions.

He is known for his eye for good content and storytelling which reflects in the diverse cinema churned out by Dharma over the years.

The production house delivered the highest-grossing Hindi film of all time through Ayan Mukerji’s fantasy epic Brahmastra Part One: Shiva starring Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt.

Karan also produces Hindi films through a subsidiary Dharmatic Entertainment specifically meant to generate digital content for online consumption.

His popular talk show Koffee with Karan has also spawned several seasons giving the Indian audience a peek into celebrities’ lives while being witty and candid.

The show brought Karan fame as an engaging host adept at getting even tight-lipped stars to open up on his couch.

With his fingers on the pulse of the Indian audience’s evolving tastes, Karan Johar continues pushing boundaries through his own work and by launching new talent in Bollywood.

The Gold Legend recognition at the prestigious Gold House Gala is a testament to Karan’s trailblazing legacy as one of the most influential figures in Indian cinema globally.

At just 50 years old, the filmmaker has many glorious miles still left of his cinematic journey with many stories yet waiting to be told on celluloid. I sincerely hope you like reading this “Karan Johar Honored with Gold Legend Award at The Golden Gala in Los Angeles” article.

The post Karan Johar Honored with Gold Legend Award at The Golden Gala in Los Angeles appeared first on Los Angeles Daily News.

In Los Angeles alone, six Starbucks stores are being shuttered:

• Hollywood Blvd and Vine St
• Santa Monica Blvd and Westmount Dr in West Hollywood
• 1st and Los Angeles St (inside DoubleTree hotel)
• Hollywood Blvd and Western Ave
• Ocean Front Walk and Moss Ave in Santa Monica
• 2nd and San Pedro St

The company referenced drug use, threatening behavior, and an overall unsafe environment as reasons for closing these LA area stores. But the closures have sparked controversy, with some customers and employees questioning the true motives.

A Tale of Two Perspectives

For regulars like Anna Gonzalez, who frequents the downtown LA store across from LAPD headquarters, the closure is disappointing but not entirely surprising given the growing homeless population and petty crime in the area. “It’s only going to get worse without the business,” she lamented.

Others like Liz Venz, a customer at the Hollywood and Vine location, expressed frustration at the city’s inability to address safety issues. “You can’t walk to work, you can’t live comfortably and nothing’s being done about it…It’s not a good neighborhood anymore.”

However, some are skeptical of Starbucks’ stated reasons. Chris Muncey, who visited the doomed 1st and Los Angeles store, called safety a “palatable excuse” if there were financial motives behind the closures.

An anonymous employee who worked at the two closing downtown spots revealed she had been threatened, cursed at, and even had hot water thrown at her – yet Starbucks failed to provide adequate security despite her filing incident reports.

The Unionization Angle

Adding more fuel to the controversy are claims by the union Starbucks Workers United that several of the stores slated for closure had either voted to unionize or petitioned for a union vote, fueling suspicions that the closures are really an anti-union tactic.

Starbucks has vehemently denied these allegations, stating the move is simply “part of our business operations.” However, the company has been plagued by charges of illegally firing union organizers amid a wave of recent unionization efforts.

The Homelessness and Crime Link

It’s no secret that Los Angeles, like many major cities, is grappling with an escalating homelessness crisis intricately linked to property crimes and safety issues – factors frequently cited by Starbucks as motivations for the store closures.

In West Hollywood, Mayor Pro Tem Sepi Shyne acknowledged an “uptick of reports of aggressive behavior” near the Santa Monica Blvd store, with workers complaining about response times from law enforcement.

Crime data from the Hollywood and Vine location shows 101 calls for service since January, including 14 assaults. Private security guards admit having to frequently remove individuals from that Starbucks location.

The downtown stores near LAPD headquarters have seen 77 calls since the start of 2023, mostly for theft but also 12 assaults.

A City-Wide or National Issue?

While Los Angeles is taking the brunt with six store closures, the same scenes have played out in Seattle, Philadelphia, Washington D.C and other cities where Starbucks is shuttering locations.

Some have blamed “woke” policies and progressive criminal justice reforms by Democratic leaders in these cities. On Fox News, former White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany claimed, “Until you fix the problem up here with elected officials…you’re not going to fix the problems in the streets, and the businesses are leaving.”

A Wider Economic Impact

Beyond Starbucks, the store closures could have a rippling economic effect on surrounding businesses that rely on the foot traffic the coffee giant provides.

In West Hollywood’s “Bo-Ho” neighborhood, the Starbucks closure is being called a “shock to the community” that could impact other area businesses and shake up the lively dynamic of the region.

The Debate Rages On

As the Starbucks closures move forward, the debate continues to rage about whether the coffee behemoth is being fully transparent about its motives and reasonings.

Some Los Angeles regulars have accepted the closures with resignation, noting the unfortunate reality of crisis-level homelessness and crime. As Starbucks employee Anthony Flores stated about the downtown store nearest City Hall, “It’s downtown, so it kind of comes with the territory.”

Others remain firmly skeptical that safety and crime are the sole factors, suspecting financial motivations or an anti-union agenda lurking beneath the surface of Starbucks’ public statements.

One thing is certain – the loss of the community hubs and meeting places that Starbucks stores have become will leave a noticeable void in many Los Angeles neighborhoods. Whether the closures truly stem from unsafe conditions or are rooted in other controversies, only time will tell how the city’s landscape is reshaped in their absence. I sincerely hope you find this “Why Starbucks Claims Certain LA Stores are Too Unsafe to Operate? Discover The Reason” article helpful.

The post Why Starbucks Claims Certain LA Stores are Too Unsafe to Operate? Discover The Reason appeared first on Los Angeles Daily News.

All three victims are expected to survive, but the bloodshed highlights a spate of violence aboard Metro buses and trains over the last several weeks, including a killing at a Studio City train station and a driver who was stabbed on a bus full of passengers.

On Monday, a fight broke out among a group of passengers aboard a Metro bus around 7 p.m., according to a Metro spokesperson. The driver stopped the bus on Los Feliz Road at South Central Avenue in Glendale, where a man and three teenage boys got off and continued to fight in the street, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.

Two of the four were stabbed, Metro authorities said. At first the teenagers ran, but two of them were apprehended and arrested after the Sheriff’s Department and the Glendale Police Department responded. The man, who was stabbed in the arm, was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, according to the Sheriff’s Department.

One of the teenagers taken into custody was stabbed in the leg, according to authorities. He was taken to a hospital and was stable, but it’s unclear how he was injured, the Sheriff’s Department said. Authorities were still looking for the third teenager as of Tuesday afternoon.

Just a few hours later, a man attacked a woman on an elevator at the Vermont/Athens Metro Station alongside the 105 Freeway, according to the Sheriff’s Department.

The woman was stabbed in the arm shortly before 9 p.m., and the attacker boarded a westbound train headed toward the Hawthorne/Lennox Station, a Sheriff’s Department spokesperson told TV station KTLA. The woman was taken to a hospital, treated and released, authorities said.

Anyone with information about either incident can contact the Sheriff’s Department at (323) 563-5000.

Safer Than You Might Think

Although multiple attacks on Metro passengers have been in the news recently, the agency says fewer crimes are being reported per passenger. According to Metro, there were a little over 5 crimes reported per 1 million boardings in March, about 28% lower than in February and 41% lower than in March 2023.

The total number of Metro bus and train boardings in March 2024 was 25.8 million. That’s over 25 million opportunities for something to go wrong – but relatively few incidents compared to the total ridership.

While the recent violent events are alarming, the statistics indicate that riding the Metro is still generally safe. The likelihood of being the victim of a crime is low compared to the huge numbers of people using the system every day.

Still, the spate of violence is concerning. In the last several weeks, Metro passengers and drivers have been attacked, stabbed and in one case killed while trying to use the transportation system. Here are some of the incidents:

• On April 13, a 70-year-old man was stabbed around 1:30 a.m. by another passenger aboard a Metro bus. The man was stabbed during an argument and was taken to a hospital in stable condition.
• On April 14, a man stabbed a Metro bus driver while passengers watched the driver beg for help. The driver was released from the hospital.
• On April 22, a man fatally slashed the throat of a 66-year-old woman as she was getting off a Metro train in Studio City. The attacker has been charged with murder.
• On the same day, a Metro official asked the executive board to speed up the installation of protective barriers for bus drivers.

Clearly, Metro and law enforcement need to continue efforts to prevent violence and make the system safe. But with over 1.2 million boardings per day, eliminating all crime is an impossible task. Riders and drivers should remain vigilant, report any suspicious activity and have a safety plan.

Overall, however, statistics show public transit in Los Angeles remains relatively safe compared to its massive ridership. While concerning, the violent incidents are still isolated events given the sheer numbers of people using Metro every day.

What Metro is Doing to Improve Safety

Metro says it is working hard to prevent violence and improve safety across its transportation network. Strategies and measures include:

• Installing security cameras in all Metro buses, trains and stations. Over 10,000 security cameras are currently in place.
• Increased police patrols and security personnel present across the Metro system. Both the Los Angeles Police Department and Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department help patrol Metro property.
• Emergency call boxes installed across Metro stations allowing riders to immediately connect with security personnel if needed.
• Improved lighting across all Metro property to reduce areas that could harbor criminal activity.
• Launching a new mobile safety app that allows riders to easily report crimes or suspicious activity and request assistance.
• Working with local communities and advocacy groups to identify safety issues and areas for improvement.
• Exploring advanced technology like artificial intelligence that can automatically detect dangerous situations and alert authorities.
• Installation of protective driver barriers on Metro buses that shield operators from confrontational riders.

Metro CEO Phillip Washington has stated safety is the agency’s primary concern and guiding principle for operations. With over $1 billion a year dedicated specifically to safety and security measures, Metro takes its responsibility seriously.

The recent violent events, while rare, do present an opportunity to examine current practices, identify gaps, and explore new technology and partnerships to further boost safety. Metro officials have stated they will leave no stone unturned when it comes to protecting passengers and employees.

The Last Word on Metro Safety

While the recent attacks are tragic, Los Angeles Metro buses and trains remain a relatively safe transportation option given the system’s massive size and ridership. The likelihood of being the victim of a crime on Metro property is still extremely small.

Metro also continues to invest heavily in safety measures and advanced technology while working with law enforcement to prevent violence. Riders should stay vigilant, report suspicious activity and have a safety plan when using public transportation. But overall statistics show Metro transportation is safer than many alternatives even as officials continue working to improve.

The recent incidents, while alarming, should not deter the vast majority of riders who rely on the affordable and efficient Metro system daily. Transit safety must remain a top priority for Metro leadership. But a few isolated events should not cast public transit as dangerous considering the millions of successful trips in Los Angeles each month. Avoiding sensationalism and keeping perspective is important even as Metro officials redouble efforts to protect passengers and prevent future violence. I sincerely hope you find this “Los Angeles Metro System as Safe as You Think? Uncover the Details” article helpful.

The post Los Angeles Metro System as Safe as You Think? Uncover the Details appeared first on Los Angeles Daily News.

The post Los angeles Red Lobster made a mistake by offering customers all-you-can-eat shrimp? What really Happened? appeared first on Los Angeles Daily News.

As of Monday evening, the Post Fire has consumed 15,611 acres and is 20% contained, according to the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE). According to CNN, Over 1,000 firefighters are battling the relentless flames, with more crews arriving to assist. Strong winds up to 60-70 mph are fueling the fire and making it difficult to control.

“We’re getting people on notice that if we have to issue a mandatory evacuation order that they need to leave,” said Los Angeles County Fire Department Section Chief Kenichi Ballew-Haskett in an interview on Monday morning. “Once the sheriffs come by or law enforcement asks you to leave, it means the danger is imminent.”

Where and When the Fire Started

The Post Fire originated on Saturday afternoon in Gorman, an unincorporated area in northwestern Los Angeles County. The specific cause remains under investigation by CAL FIRE authorities.

By Monday evening, the aggressive fire had ravaged 15,611 acres of land and was still completely uncontained. Strong winds are driving the flames toward the west, though fire crews are working tirelessly to maintain the perimeter.

Evacuation Orders

In Place Several evacuation orders are currently active for communities near the Post Fire:

• Areas west of Interstate 5 between Pyramid Lake and Gorman
• South of Pyramid Lake between Old Ridge Route and the Los Angeles County line
• South of Pyramid Lake, west of I-5, east of the County line, and just north of Templin Highway

California State Park Services has evacuated approximately 1,200 people from Hungry Valley Park so far. Evacuation warnings are also in place for residents south of Pyramid Lake.

Battle Against the Flames

Over 1,000 firefighters are actively working to contain the Post Fire and prevent further spread. More crews and resources are arriving regularly to join the fight.

As of Monday afternoon, the fire was not expanding outside of its perimeter, though strong winds remain a major concern. Crews are patrolling the fire lines and watching for spot fires that could spark new blazes.

According to Los Padres National Forest Public Information Officer Flemming Bertelsen, the most active area of the fire is near Piru Creek. If the fire crosses the creek, it could enter the dense mountain terrain nearby. Bertelsen noted that the crews expect another challenging night on Monday, with wind gusts potentially reaching 60 mph.

The National Weather Service has also issued a red flag warning for the Interstate 5 corridor due to the extreme fire risk from high winds. The red flag warning for Los Angeles and Ventura counties remains in effect until Tuesday afternoon. Low humidity levels in the single digits are further worsening conditions.

Impact and Damage

So far, the Post Fire has destroyed at least one commercial building, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. Two adults and one child have also been hospitalized with minor burn injuries.

Pyramid Lake remains closed to the public due to the immediate threat of the raging wildfire. Over 1,200 people have evacuated from Hungry Valley Park, but many more residents may be displaced if the flames continue spreading.

Firefighters are working around the clock to protect homes, businesses, and lives from the destructive wildfire. However, gusty winds and extremely dry conditions are hampering their efforts to control the blaze. Officials urge residents near the active fire area to remain alert and ready to evacuate if needed.

Other Wildfires in California

The Post Fire is just one of several destructive wildfires currently burning across California. In Northern California, the Point Fire has consumed around 1,190 acres in Sonoma County as of Monday evening. At least two structures have been destroyed by the Point Fire so far.

CAL FIRE has deployed 36 fire engines, three helicopters, seven dozers, six hand crews, and three water tenders to battle the Point Fire. As of Monday night, crews had achieved 20% containment on the wildfire. Over 900 acres southeast of Sacramento have also burned in the dangerously fast-moving Aero Fire.

Additionally, the Sites Fire in Colusa County has scorched over 4,400 acres and remains completely uncontained as of the latest update from CAL FIRE officials on Monday night.

Fire season in California has grown longer and more extreme in recent years, fueled by hotter temperatures and years of drought creating tinderbox conditions. Wildfires now burn nearly year-round, destroying homes and resources across the state.

Stay Informed

With multiple large fires burning through California simultaneously, it is critical to stay updated on the latest evacuation orders in your area. Sign up for emergency text alerts, follow local fire department social media accounts, and have an emergency go-bag ready in case fires approach your neighborhood.

As climate change worsens, extreme wildfires will continue to threaten communities across the Western United States each year. Prepare now and help fire crews keep your region safe by reporting fires immediately and heeding all evacuation directives. Working together, we can mitigate the damage caused by these natural disasters. I sincerely hope you find this “Massive Wildfire Ravages 15,000 Acres in Los Angeles County-Find Out Details” article helpful.

The post Massive Wildfire Ravages 15,000 Acres in Los Angeles County-Find Out Details appeared first on Los Angeles Daily News.