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Today: January 22, 2025
Today: January 22, 2025
Pooja Mamnoor

Pooja Mamnoor

Staff Writer

Pooja is a content specialist with a knack for writing. With a deep rooted interest in news and content writing, she has worked as a journalist with brands like CNBC-TV18 and Mirror Now. She has a PG Diploma in TV journalism and has worked across all sectors of content creation - TV production, content creation for digital platforms, anchor videos for YouTube and writing for various digital websites. Currently covering news on the LA Post, her goal is to write content that piques reader interest. Pooja spends her free time dancing, traveling and playing.

Latest From Pooja Mamnoor

Health|Lifestyle

Social media users discover why graham crackers were invented

Social media users are just discovering the unexpected origins of graham crackers, a snack invented by a 19th-century Presbyterian minister to suppress sexual desires and promote moral purity. Recent posts on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, have reignited interest in the history of these widely consumed crackers. Sylvester Graham created them as part of his broader mission to combat what he perceived as society’s moral decline through dietary reform. “I need you all to go Google why graham crackers were invented,” wrote one social media user on X, highlighting the renewed public interest in the story. Another user summarized

Social media users discover why graham crackers were invented
Lifestyle

Why affluent boomers are cutting back despite retirement savings

Wealthy boomers who hold more than half of America’s wealth are living well below their means instead of enjoying their retirement years, daunted by the prospect of financing life into their nineties, according to a new study from Prudential Financial reported by Fortune. The Fortune 500 investment and retirement planning firm surveyed approximately 20,000 people over 50 and found that married 65-year-olds with at least $100,000 in financial assets withdrew an average of 2.1% of their savings annually—nearly half the usual spending rate of retirees. David Blanchett, head of retirement research at PGIM DC Solutions, a Prudential Financial affiliate and

Why affluent boomers are cutting back despite retirement savings
Education

How multilingualism may boost cognitive skills in children with autism

Recent research suggests that children with autism spectrum disorder may experience significant cognitive benefits from growing up in multilingual environments, according to a study by University of California, Los Angeles Health researchers. The study, published in Autism Research, reveals that children from multilingual households, both with and without autism, demonstrated enhanced executive function capabilities compared to their peers in monolingual households. These improvements encompassed crucial skills such as attention control, cognitive flexibility, and social perspective-taking. Dr. Lucina Uddin, professor of Psychiatry and Biobehavioral Sciences at UCLA Health and director of the UCLA Brain Connectivity and Cognition Laboratory, led the investigation.

How multilingualism may boost cognitive skills in children with autism
Lifestyle

Concerns rise as Gen Z employees struggle with some skills

A growing number of business owners report that their Gen Z employees cannot distinguish between genuine and counterfeit U.S. currency, particularly when handling older bills. This leads to increasing incidents of legitimate money being incorrectly labeled as fake. At a Florida frozen yogurt shop, an assistant manager discovered his teenage employees had marked several authentic bills as counterfeit, permanently damaging the currency with permanent marker. “I shed a tear because of the sharpie they scrawled onto the bills,” said the manager, identified only as Sam, in a widely circulated Reddit post reported by Newsweek. The incident involved pre-1999 currency, including

Concerns rise as Gen Z employees struggle with some skills
Health

Are cold-related deaths rising across the United States?

Cold-related deaths in the United States have more than doubled between 1999 and 2022. According to new research examining data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 3,571 fatalities have been recorded in 2022 alone.  “Even though we are in this warming world, cold-related deaths are still a public health issue in the U.S.,” said Michael Liu, a Harvard Medical School student and lead author of the study.. While winters across America are now averaging four degrees warmer compared to 50 years ago, as reported by Climate Central, an independent research group, climate change has introduced more frequent episodes

Are cold-related deaths rising across the United States?
News|Finance

What This Homebuyer Discovered After His Sheriff's Auction Purchase

A $5,000 bargain turned into a legal nightmare for a Butler County man who discovered his sheriff’s auction purchase included not just a vacant lot but an entire residential street in Trenton, Ohio. Jason Fauntleroy planned to build a home when he bought what he thought was an empty lot at the Butler County Sheriff’s Office auction in 2021. The purchase, however, came with an unexpected addition – ownership of the private drive providing sole access to several existing homes. According to Yahoo, Fauntleroy said of his attempts to resolve the situation with city officials “they shut me out.” .

What This Homebuyer Discovered After His Sheriff's Auction Purchase
Science

This Probiotic Approach to Hangovers Has Everyone Talking – But Why?

Companies are marketing a new category of probiotic supplements that claim to reduce hangover symptoms, despite limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness. The United States Food and Drug Administration classifies these products as dietary supplements rather than medications, meaning manufacturers can make health claims without FDA evaluation. San Francisco-based ZBiotics and Swedish company De Faire Medical AB promote their products “Pre-Alcohol” and “Myrkl” as pre-drinking solutions. The supplements contain live bacteria designed to process acetaldehyde, a carcinogenic byproduct created when the body metabolizes alcohol that contributes to hangover symptoms like nausea and stomach discomfort. Early adopters report mixed results. Eric

This Probiotic Approach to Hangovers Has Everyone Talking – But Why?
Health

What Really Happens to Your Body During Dry January

As the new year begins, many people look for fresh starts and resolutions. One popular option gaining traction is Dry January, a month-long challenge where participants abstain from alcohol. While a desire for health benefits often inspires the decision to take on this challenge, health experts suggest it can also offer an opportunity to reassess one’s relationship with alcohol. According to recent studies from the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, even moderate drinking can interfere with sleep quality, impair sexual function, and increase the risk of certain diseases, including cancer. In the United States, alcohol-related deaths have more

What Really Happens to Your Body During Dry January
Food

Which generation is leading the charge in Italian pasta mastery?

A new survey by pasta manufacturer Barilla reveals that Generation Z displays superior knowledge of traditional Italian pasta preparation compared to baby boomers. The survey highlights significant differences in cooking techniques across age groups. The Parma, Italy-based company’s research shows that 56% of Gen Z respondents understand the importance of salting pasta water, while only 33% of baby boomers incorporate this essential step. Millennials fall between the two groups, with 51% following this fundamental practice. “No matter how spectacular the sauce is, if you do not salt the water enough, the pasta will be bland and, therefore, the whole dish

Which generation is leading the charge in Italian pasta mastery?
Local

California introduces e-bike incentive voucher program

California launched its E-Bike Incentive Project in December 2024, offering vouchers worth up to $2,000 to eligible residents for purchasing electric bicycles as part of the state’s initiative to promote zero-emissions transportation. The California Air Resources Board program aims to make e-bikes more accessible to residents with lower incomes. The first application window opened on Dec. 18 at 6 p.m. PST, and 1,500 vouchers were available on a first-come, first-served basis. Priority applicants with annual household incomes below 225% of the federal poverty level, which is $33,885 for an individual, qualify for the maximum $2,000 voucher. Those earning less than

California introduces e-bike incentive voucher program
Lifestyle

A new unconventional spa treatment may have skincare benefits

Spa facilities across the United States are introducing therapeutic beer-based soaking treatments, marking an emerging trend in wellness services that providers claim offer skin and hair care benefits. These specialized treatments range from beer-infused water baths to treatments incorporating traditional brewing ingredients. Piva Beer Spa, which opened in Chicago in 2019, offers specialized treatments, including massages, salt rooms, and soaks incorporating hops, barley, and brewer’s yeast. The facility claims these ingredients contain antioxidants that exfoliate and improve skin elasticity, while the antibacterial properties of the alcohol and epidermal growth factor in the barley can clear up acne. The spa also

A new unconventional spa treatment may have skincare benefits
Health

Are glittery pickles safe? Here's what experts say

A new social media trend combining pickles with glitter has sparked both fascination and health concerns, prompting safety warnings from federal regulators about the consumption of decorative materials. The trend, known as “glickles” – pickles covered in glitter – has gained significant traction on TikTok, with one video garnering nearly six million views. The viral videos typically showcase pickles being submerged in pink glitter and stirred with a butter knife, creating a sparkly appearance. The FDA emphasizes the importance of using only glitter specifically labeled as edible. FDA spokesperson Dr. Marianna Naum stated, “Consumers should carefully check the label of

Are glittery pickles safe? Here's what experts say
Travel

New SF to LA Sleeper Train Offers Luxury Coastal Journey

Plans for a luxury overnight train service connecting San Francisco and Los Angeles are moving forward. The service, named the Golden Coast Express, will offer California travelers a new alternative to flying or driving between the state’s largest cities. Reservations will begin in summer 2025. Newport Beach-based transit company Dreamstar Lines is developing the rail service, partnering with BMW Group’s Designworks to create the train’s interior accommodations. The planned route will operate between San Francisco’s Transbay Terminal and Los Angeles Union Station, covering nearly 400 miles of California’s landscape. The journey will take approximately 12 hours, with departures from San

New SF to LA Sleeper Train Offers Luxury Coastal Journey
Local

Key details on California's 2025 consumer protection laws unveiled

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – California is set to implement a comprehensive package of consumer protection laws in 2025, marking a significant expansion of financial safeguards for state residents. Gov. Gavin Newsom signed multiple bills aimed at addressing banking fees, medical debt, subscription services, and tenant rights. “California’s new laws tackle today’s biggest emerging challenges head-on. Through partnership with the Legislature, we’re strengthening public safety, building more housing, and providing more resources for our communities. These practical reforms protect what matters most while creating more opportunities for all Californians,” Newsom said. Under Assembly Bill 2017, authored by former Assemblymember Timothy Grayson, state-chartered

Key details on California's 2025 consumer protection laws unveiled
Health

Hidden in the Crust: Why Your Bread Choice Matters

Your morning toast could be doing more than satisfying hunger. While most breads spike blood sugar and trigger digestive issues. Recent studies show sourdough bread, through its traditional fermentation process, may offer several health advantages, according to research published in the Journal of Nutrition. “It’s easy to incorporate sourdough into meals—top toasted sourdough with cottage cheese and tomato, mashed cannellini beans, or a runny egg,” says Elizabeth Barnes, RDN, medical expert at at Verywell Health. The fermentation process involves lactic acid bacteria and yeast, which produce prebiotic properties that enhance gut health, according to a 2023 study. While high baking

Hidden in the Crust: Why Your Bread Choice Matters
Local

California Expands Gun Control Laws with Four New Bills for 2025

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed multiple bills in September 2024 aimed at strengthening gun control measures and preventing mass shootings, including new restrictions on firearm purchases and expanded safety requirements for gun owners. The legislation, which takes effect in 2025, introduces changes to private party transactions, mandates enhanced safety education, and broadens the scope of gun violence restraining orders. These measures build upon California’s existing gun safety framework, which has contributed to a gun death rate 43% lower than the national average, according to the governor’s office. “The laws build on California’s successful strategies to address gun violence, including new

California Expands Gun Control Laws with Four New Bills for 2025
Health

Are Your Eye Symptoms Actually Warning You About Something More Serious?

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are now being linked to eye complications, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). While STIs affect one in five Americans and typically occur in the genitals, anus, and mouth, medical experts warn that eyes can also become infected, leading to symptoms including itchiness, irritation, and discharge. “When gonorrhea infects the eyes, it can cause a form of pink eye with a large amount of pus discharged from the eyes,” the AAO recently shared. The organization notes that eyes contain mucous membranes, similar to the genitals and mouth, making them susceptible to STI infection. Medical

Are Your Eye Symptoms Actually Warning You About Something More Serious?
Local|Health

Gen Z yearns for safety and kindness, new UCLA study finds

A recent study by the University of California, Los Angeles revealed Gen Z’s top concern is feeling secure in an uncertain world. Young people overwhelmingly reported that safety was their number one priority. This also indicated how young people are still more inclined to prioritize empathy and compassion over gaining attention. When asked about their goals, most of the 1,644 young Americans surveyed put safety at the top of their list. Other high-ranking goals included “to be kind,” “to have a lot of fun,” “self-acceptance,” and “to be in good shape.” In this study, “being rich” and “being famous” were

Gen Z yearns for safety and kindness, new UCLA study finds
Health

Medi-Cal members set to benefit from new mental health initiative

SACRAMENTO, Calif. – Gov. Gavin Newsom announced today that California has obtained federal approval for an ambitious $5 billion behavioral health initiative aimed at transforming mental health care access and delivery across the state. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services approved California’s Behavioral Health Community-Based Organized Networks of Equitable Care and Treatment demonstration waiver, known as BH-CONNECT. The program represents a major overhaul of the state’s mental health system, targeting support for more than 14 million Medi-Cal members with significant behavioral health needs. “Californians will soon have more support and more people providing support thanks to the approval by

Medi-Cal members set to benefit from new mental health initiative
Fashion and Beauty

Why beef fat is trending as the latest facial moisturizer

A new beauty trend is gaining traction on social media platforms: using beef tallow, a rendered fat traditionally discarded by butchers, as a facial moisturizer. The movement has sparked debate between enthusiastic consumers and medical professionals who question its safety and efficacy. The trend has transformed from social media buzz into a profitable business venture, with companies and farmers capitalizing on the increasing demand for tallow-based skincare products. Five Marys Ranch in Siskiyou County, California, reported selling $42,000 worth of tallow products in a single night after launching their line, demonstrating the market’s enthusiasm for these unconventional cosmetics. Social media

Why beef fat is trending as the latest facial moisturizer
Health

X Becomes a Breeding Ground for Dangerous Eating Disorder Content, Experts Warn

Major social media platform X has become a haven for content promoting dangerous eating disorders, with minimal content moderation allowing such material to spread freely and even be algorithmically recommended to users, according to researchers and platform experts. X’s approach stands in stark contrast to other social media sites like Instagram and TikTok, which have implemented barriers to accessing eating disorder content. When users search for related terms on these platforms, they encounter warning screens directing them to mental health resources. On X, however, searching for eating disorder-related terms leads directly to accounts, posts, and community recommendations promoting dangerous behaviors.

X Becomes a Breeding Ground for Dangerous Eating Disorder Content, Experts Warn
Lifestyle

How the 'airport mentality' trend is shaping daily life

A growing number of Americans are embracing “airplane rules” in their daily lives, adopting the anything-goes mindset typically reserved for air travel to justify breaking from conventional routines and social norms. The trend, which gained significant traction on social media platforms, particularly TikTok, encourages people to apply airport terminal behavior to everyday situations. This includes eating meals at unconventional hours, making irregular purchasing decisions, and dismissing traditional daily schedules. “Money means nothing and time of day means nothing,” one TikTok user explained in a widely shared video. “If you want to have mimosas while eating an entire sheet cake by

How the 'airport mentality' trend is shaping daily life
Fashion and Beauty

Skincare spending surge among Gen Alpha raises concerns

A growing number of tweens and young teens are seeking expensive skincare products, driven by social media influence, even as medical experts warn about potential risks to young skin. Last year, Gen Alpha spent $4.7 billion on skincare and makeup, surpassing all other age groups, according to market research firm AYTM. The trend has caught the attention of both parents and healthcare professionals. In New Jersey, Will Rosebro discovered his 10-year-old daughter requesting a $17 Bubble Skincare Water Slide hydration-boosting serum for the holidays, not because she needed it, but because it “felt nice” when she tried it at a

Skincare spending surge among Gen Alpha raises concerns
Health

TikTok user reveals long-term skin damage from common household item

A viral social media post has brought attention to a lesser-known condition called “toasted skin syndrome,” which can cause permanent skin discoloration from prolonged exposure to heating devices like heating pads and hot water bottles.T TikTok user Faith Harrell (@faith_harrell) first raised awareness of the condition. In her video, which garnered 3.9 million views, Harrell showed dark, irregular patterns on her stomach. “Your friendly reminder to not excessively use your heating pad on your stomach at the highest setting,” she wrote. Many users responded to the video by sharing their own stories. “I had toasted skin syndrome on my legs

TikTok user reveals long-term skin damage from common household item

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