The Scuba Mar Maids dive community brings together women from diverse ages, races, and backgrounds through their common interest in scuba diving. Genia Dulot of VOA reports on the group's activities in Panama.

The Scuba Mar Maids diving community brings together women of various ages, races, and social backgrounds, united by their passion for the underwater world. Reporter Genia Dulot joined some of these women in Panama, showcasing their efforts to resist prejudices and promote inclusivity in the diving community.

The Los Angeles Police Department has appointed its first Asian American interim chief, a son of Korean immigrants. Genia Dulot reported on this historic event.

An exhibit in Los Angeles showcases black artists sharing their experiences growing up in America, coinciding with Black History Month in the United States.

Two brothers who own a shop in California will receive a $1 million bonus in 2024 from the state lottery for selling a Powerball ticket that won the second-largest jackpot in the game's history.

The Hollywood Christmas Parade, in its 91st year, featured performers from across the country, including a group of Korean American dancers. Genia Dulot participated in the parade, marching with the dancers who showcased their Korean culture.

The union representing Hollywood actors has reached a tentative deal with film and television studios, ending a strike that began in July. The agreement includes pay raises, streaming bonuses, and the first-ever industry protections against the use of artificial intelligence.

The Panama Canal, a crucial trade route connecting the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans, is experiencing reduced ship traffic due to drought conditions exacerbated by the El Nino climate pattern. The number of daily transits has decreased significantly, impacting local businesses and potentially costing Panama up to $200 million annually. The U.S. is collaborating with Panamanian authorities to address these challenges, including infrastructure projects and attracting American investments. Efforts are underway to create a new reservoir and appoint a sustainability director to adapt to climate change and improve environmental practices.

The Day of the Dead is celebrated by Mexican American communities in the U.S. to honor deceased loved ones. Genia Dulot reported on the Dia de los Muertos event at Hollywood Forever Cemetery in Los Angeles, which is one of the largest of its kind.

A joint prayer event at UCLA aimed to create an inclusive space for Jewish and Palestinian communities to mourn together and promote peace. Key speakers emphasized the need to end the cycle of violence and foster mutual understanding. The event highlighted increased threats against Jewish, Muslim, and Arab Americans, with specific incidents at Cornell University. Organizers and participants expressed hopes for unity and a peaceful resolution to the Middle East conflict.

Jewish, Muslim, and Christian communities convened at the University of California, Los Angeles for a peace vigil, mourning the lives lost in the recent Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The event highlighted the collective grief and desire for peace among diverse religious groups.

California high school students are aiding Afghan girls in continuing their education under Taliban rule through virtual lessons and fundraising efforts.

International pressure is mounting on Bangladesh to end its violent crackdown on protesting students demanding an end to job quotas. The United Nations, European Union, and Amnesty International have called for restraint, while Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina blames the opposition for the unrest. The Supreme Court has scrapped most quotas, but protests continue with demands for ministerial resignations and accountability for police actions. Over 10,000 people, mostly students, have been arrested, with reports of torture and enforced disappearances. The situation has drawn significant international concern and criticism.

Educators in the United States are working to overcome setbacks in student learning caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, with progress being slow and uneven across different regions and economic statuses. Federal pandemic relief funds have been instrumental in aiding recovery efforts, but with these funds running out, states are urged to take action to continue supporting students. Virginia and Chicago are highlighted for their specific strategies, including online tutoring and hiring interventionists, which have shown positive results. However, disparities in educational outcomes persist, particularly among marginalized groups, and the long-term consequences of the pandemic on education remain a concern.

Following the attack by Hamas on Israel and Israel’s subsequent bombardment of the Gaza Strip, global protests have emerged in support of both Israelis and Palestinians. In Los Angeles, members of the Palestinian and Jewish communities demonstrated in response to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.

Jewish, Muslim, and Christian communities in Los Angeles held a vigil to promote peace. The event aimed to foster unity and understanding among different religious groups.

In Southern California, a gun club for Jewish Americans is seeing a surge in membership following the October 7 attack in Israel and a rise in antisemitism in the United States.

Marvel Comics' first Muslim superhero is making her big-screen debut in 'The Marvels' movie. Genia Dulot reports from Los Angeles on the story of the teenage Ms. Marvel.

The agreement ending the writers' strike includes protections against studios using AI to write or rewrite scripts, which is seen as a significant victory by writers like Angela Jorgensen and Al Septien. Studios must inform writers if AI-assisted material is provided, and writers can use AI tools like ChatGPT voluntarily. The strike also sees support from actors concerned about AI's impact on their profession, with Ron Song highlighting the need for proper regulation to prevent AI from replacing actors.

The article discusses the development and impact of the Mark 4 bionic hand by PSYONIC, a company founded by Aadeel Akhtar. The bionic hand uses muscle sensing technology and incorporates touch feedback, allowing users to feel what they are manipulating. The technology aims to improve the lives of individuals with limb loss, such as Kate Ketelhohn and Annika Berlin, by providing them with more natural and intuitive control over their prosthetic limbs. PSYONIC's innovations have also attracted the attention of NASA, which is exploring the use of the bionic hand for its humanoid astronaut robot, Valkyrie.

Hollywood actors are on strike, seeking to restrict the use of Artificial Intelligence in filmmaking, inspired by the recent success of Hollywood writers who concluded their five-month strike after reaching an agreement with major studios.

Muslim comic creators are actively working to change Islamic stereotypes in American pop culture, highlighting their efforts to reshape perceptions and narratives.

California's desert is attracting artists from Bangladesh and Mexico to the Coachella Valley for an exhibition called Desert X, as reported by Genia Dulot for VOA.

Researchers at the University of Southern California are developing 'smart bandages' equipped with sensors to monitor and treat diabetic wounds, aiming to reduce the high rate of amputations. These bandages can track various indicators of wound health and apply low electrical fields to stimulate healing. Human trials are set to be conducted through the university's Kek School of Medicine, with significant potential to prevent amputations and improve patient outcomes.

Researchers at the University of Southern California are leveraging machine learning to analyze brain scans for better prediction of diseases associated with aging, including Alzheimer's Disease. The initiative aims to enhance early detection and intervention strategies. The report is factual and focuses on the scientific and medical aspects of the research.

Artificial intelligence and 3D printing are poised to revolutionize automobile design and manufacturing. The episode of LogOn, hosted by Genia Dulot, explores a next-generation garage in Los Angeles, highlighting the transformative potential of these technologies in the automotive industry.

Farmers evicted from a south-central Los Angeles community garden in 2006 are now aiding underserved communities in California’s Central Valley by teaching native farming techniques. This program focuses on providing fresh and affordable produce, thereby supporting local food security and community development.

A California company is converting jet-fuel aircraft to run on hydrogen to reduce emissions that harm the environment. Experimental planes using this technology are already operational.

The Scuba Mar Maids dive community brings together women of various ages, races, and backgrounds, united by their passion for scuba diving. Reporting from Panama, Genia Dulot joins these women on a dive, showcasing how the community challenges traditional assumptions about sex, race, and age in the sport.

The use of artificial intelligence has become a central issue in the Hollywood strikes, with studios claiming to offer fair protections and compensation for the new technology, while actors and writers express reservations.

New generations of Asian Americans are increasingly identifying with American comic books over traditional Japanese manga, reflecting a shift in cultural identity. The report by Genia Dulot highlights this trend and its implications for Asian American identity.

Muslim migrants on the U.S.-Mexico border find refuge in a Tijuana shelter that provides halal food, separate areas for men and women, and daily prayers. The shelter offers a safe and accommodating environment for these migrants.

The article explores the mid-century modern lifestyle in Palm Springs, California, through the experiences of homeowners Roger Stoker and Michael Ostrow, and Jackie Thomas and DeeAnn McCoy. It highlights the architectural features and design elements of their homes, emphasizing the integration of indoor and outdoor spaces, the use of bright colors, and the influence of American optimism. The article also touches on the cultural significance of mid-century modern homes and the lifestyle associated with them, reflecting a blend of historical and contemporary influences.

A California school district is grappling with how to teach the Israeli-Palestinian crisis, a challenge that has intensified with the ongoing war in Gaza. The debate highlights the complexities and sensitivities involved in educating young people about this contentious issue.

New technologies are enhancing bionic hands with complex features similar to human hands. A California company is pioneering the use of touch feedback to provide users with a sense of the objects they are holding or interacting with.

California has legalized most lowrider cruising, a practice deeply rooted in Mexican American culture since the 1940s. This legislative change marks a significant cultural recognition and shift in the state's approach to these customized vehicles.

Two Syrian immigrant brothers in California will share a one million dollar bonus in 2024 from the state lottery for selling a ticket that won $1.765 billion, the second-largest Powerball jackpot ever.

Armenian Americans in Southern California celebrated their culture with a flowered float in the annual Rose Parade, moving on from a turbulent year that included Armenians' exodus from their former enclave of Nagorno-Karabakh inside Azerbaijan's borders.

Farmers displaced from a community garden in South Los Angeles in 2006 continue to assist people in growing their own produce in California's Central Valley. The non-profit organization 'Shëndeti dhe Arsimi i Fermerëve të Jugut,' formed by these displaced farmers, received a land donation and funds for irrigation and electrical systems. They teach traditional Mesoamerican agricultural practices, emphasizing minimal use of machinery and chemicals. The initiative provides fresh, affordable produce to communities with limited access, fostering a sense of community and agricultural education among participants.

A university professor from Cameroon, threatened by separatist violence, has found refuge in Southern California. She is now educating her students about the impact of armed conflict on the environment and women.

Marvel Comics' first Muslim superhero, Ms. Marvel, is making her big-screen debut in the movie 'The Marvels.' The story, reported by Genia Dulot from Los Angeles, highlights the significance of this teenage character's introduction to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, emphasizing diversity and representation in entertainment.

California high school students are assisting Afghan girls in learning computer coding to counteract Taliban restrictions on girls' education. This initiative highlights efforts to support education and human rights in regions where such opportunities are limited.

Desert X is an art project in the Coachella Valley that invites artists to create works inspired by the desert landscape, encompassing ecological, political, and historical themes. Artistic Director Neville Wakefield emphasizes the unique connection between the art and its environment. Artists Matt Johnson, Rana Begum, and Mario García Torres discuss their individual pieces, which explore themes such as global dependence, barriers, and the cultural history of the desert. The project highlights the dynamic interaction between art and the desert, offering a public and evolving exhibition.

Researchers in California are developing a smart bandage aimed at reducing diabetes-related amputations. The bandage, equipped with sensors to monitor various health indicators, has shown promising results in animal tests. Human trials will be conducted by the Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California. The technology is praised for its potential to prevent and manage chronic wounds, with future improvements expected to make it even more practical.

University researchers in California are developing a 'smart' bandage aimed at reducing the high rate of limb amputations due to diabetic wounds. The bandage is designed to monitor and heal wounds, potentially transforming the current medical approach to treating such injuries.

The Morrison Hotel Gallery in Los Angeles celebrates 50 years of hip-hop music with a photo exhibition featuring works by American photographer Bob Gruen, including photos of hip-hop pioneer Malcolm McLaren. Photographer Timothy White reflects on capturing a young Jay-Z in 1988, while Cheryl Fox discusses documenting hip-hop stars for decades and the genre's inspiration for confident women. The celebration marks the 50th anniversary of hip-hop's birth at a party in the Bronx, New York, in 1973.

In the mid-1960s, Walter and Leonore Annenberg built Sunnylands, a private retreat near Palm Springs, California. The location evolved from a residential estate into a venue that attracted presidents and influential figures, hosting diplomatic discussions under its roof.

Hip-hop celebrates its 50th anniversary with events across the United States, including a Los Angeles art gallery exhibition showcasing photographs of hip-hop legends. The report is filed by Genia Dulot.

Palm Springs is celebrated for its mid-century modern architecture, which developed significantly between 1955 and 1965. Modernism Week, an annual event, brings enthusiasts together to celebrate and learn about this style. The architecture is characterized by the use of affordable materials like concrete, steel, and glass, and incorporates the surrounding desert landscape. The mid-century modern style has evolved from being simple and industrial to trendy and collectible, influenced by Hollywood glam and pop culture, with elements like colorful doors becoming iconic.

The music genre hip-hop is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year with events across the United States. A Los Angeles art gallery is showcasing photographs of hip-hop legends, with Genia Dulot reporting on the exhibition.

The article explores the historical and cultural significance of two prominent locations in Palm Springs: the mid-century modern estate Sunnylands and Temple Isaiah. Sunnylands, built by American diplomats and philanthropists Walter and Leonore Annenberg, has hosted numerous dignitaries and facilitated important diplomatic conversations, including a summit between President Obama and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Temple Isaiah, a progressive Jewish congregation, is noted for its mid-century architecture and inclusive community. The article highlights the architectural and social impact of these sites, emphasizing their roles in fostering important relationships and community values.

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) has become a significant issue in Hollywood actors' and screenwriters' strikes, with studios offering protections and fair compensation for AI usage while performers fear unauthorized copying of their image and voice. AI's increasing use in the entertainment industry raises concerns about digital rights. Trade association AMPTP and actors' union SAG-AFTRA are in disagreement over digital copying rights, with SAG-AFTRA claiming studios offer background actors one-day pay in exchange for permanent digital copy rights. Voice actors, represented by NAVA, are particularly affected, with instances of unauthorized voice use in advertisements. SAG-AFTRA's Duncan Crabtree-Ireland and actor Zeke Alton call for laws ensuring consent and compensation for performers. The writers' strike has been joined by the actors' union, disrupting many film and TV productions.

U.S. comic book editor Scott Dunbier initiated the creation of 'Comics for Ukraine: Sunflower Seeds' to raise funds for emergency supplies and services for Ukrainians affected by Russia's invasion. The project involves contributions from various comic book professionals, aiming to provide much-needed relief to the war-torn country.

The use of artificial intelligence has become a central issue in Hollywood strikes. Studios claim to have offered fair protection and compensation where new technology is used, but actors and writers remain skeptical.

A large number of people attended the International Comic-Con 2023 in San Diego, despite the absence of major film studios and celebrities due to the writers' and actors' strike. Oscar-winning actress Jamie Lee Curtis promoted her new climate change novel 'Mother Nature.' Comic creators like Joe Phillips and Weshoyot Alvitre used the platform to address social issues and challenge stereotypes. Michi Kaioh highlighted the positive impact of cosplay on perceptions of disability.

Comic-Con 2023 is taking place in San Diego without the presence of large movie studios and high-profile stars due to Hollywood actors and writers strikes. The strikes have led some participants to feel that the event is returning to its comic book origins.

Chinese artists critical of the Beijing government often work abroad, with sculptor Weiming Chen creating a sculpture park in the California desert. The article highlights Chen's efforts and the challenges faced by dissident artists under the Chinese Communist Party's rule.

Comic-Con 2023 in San Diego, California, highlighted the diverse voices in the comic book industry, from creators to cosplayers. Comic books' focus on social issues and protecting the underdog continues to attract a wide variety of unique voices.

Scientists at the University of California, Los Angeles have developed a device that could potentially serve as an alternative to chemotherapy in cancer treatment.

Actors and screenwriters in Hollywood have joined a strike, bringing film and television productions to a halt. Not only are they participating in the strike decision, but they are also going to the locations of demonstrations, expressing their demands with banners in hand.

Hollywood actors initiated a strike on Friday, demanding higher pay, better residuals, and protections against artificial intelligence. This action follows the ongoing strike by Hollywood writers that began in May. The report highlights the actors' key demands and the broader context of labor actions in the entertainment industry.

This Independence Day was special for some US veterans as they could celebrate in America thanks to a Biden Administration program started in 2021. The program helps non-citizen veterans deported after legal issues return to the US. Laura Meza, who served in Iraq and was deported to Costa Rica due to drug issues, returned to the US for the first time in 14 years. Hector Barajas, honorably discharged but deported to Mexico after a shooting incident, received a pardon, became a US citizen, and now advocates for deported veterans. Jose Velasco, another deported veteran, awaits his return to reunite with his family in the US. The program addresses the plight of deported veterans, allowing them to claim military benefits and potentially social welfare if they become permanent residents or citizens.

The Biden administration has initiated a program to help repatriate non-citizen U.S. veterans who were deported after legal issues. This Independence Day marks a special occasion for some as they celebrate it on American soil, thanks to the 2021 initiative.

Sonia Garcia, who converted to Islam after marrying Al Abdul from Lebanon, volunteers to help Muslim refugees crossing the border in Tijuana. She and the Latina Muslim Foundation transformed an old bar into a shelter near the U.S. border, accommodating up to 120 people with separate areas for men and women, halal food, and daily prayers. Nematullah Habibi from Afghanistan and Nurmamat Mumunkulov from Kyrgyzstan share their positive experiences at the shelter, highlighting the sense of safety and community. The shelter has supported over 1,000 people since its inception two years ago, providing food banks and job training to underserved communities on both sides of the border.

A controversy has arisen in the United States as conservative consumers boycott companies supporting LGBTQ rights. The Los Angeles Dodgers faced backlash for honoring a drag queen group, leading to a temporary retraction of the award. Florida Senator Marco Rubio questioned the inclusivity of sports towards Christians. The boycott extended to Bud Light after a transgender influencer's promotion, resulting in a significant sales drop. Marketing professor Joanna Schwartz suggests the boycott's impact may be short-lived. Target also faced customer complaints, leading to the removal of some LGBTQ-themed products.

Pride Month in the United States features a major parade in Los Angeles, one of the world's largest LGBTQ+ events. This year's celebrations are marked by protests over school curricula and consumer boycotts of businesses marketing to LGBTQ+ customers.

Several US businesses, including the Los Angeles Dodgers, Target, and Bud Light, have faced consumer boycotts for their marketing efforts directed at LGBTQ+ customers during Pride Month.

In Balboa Park, San Diego, Korean American residents performed pungmul, a traditional Korean art involving drumming and dancing, to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month. Ocean Park, a first-generation Korean American, expressed gratitude for the cultural connection provided by the San Diego Korean Pungmul Institute. The celebration took place at the House of Pacific Relations, an area representing 31 countries.

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, a media crackdown within Russia has obscured the perspectives of Russian citizens regarding the war. Genia Dulot, a reporter, encountered Russian tourists in Egypt who shared insights on the changes in their lives post-invasion.

May is recognized in the United States as a month to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage, with various events and activities taking place to honor the contributions and culture of Asian and Pacific American communities. Genia Dulot reports on a celebration held in California.

Jamilah Granza, an Indonesian Muslim and member of the Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA), manages a shelter for Muslim immigrant women victims of domestic violence in San Diego. The shelter, part of the Masjidul Taqwa community, aims to provide a safe haven and raise awareness about domestic violence. One of the residents, Sabrina, a Bangladeshi immigrant, shares her harrowing experience of abuse and the support she received from the shelter.

During Ramadan, an Islamic community in California is raising awareness about domestic violence, focusing on a shelter for Muslim immigrants in San Diego. The initiative aims to support victims and bring attention to the issue within the community.

The article highlights the cultural and economic significance of Little Arabia in Anaheim, California, a thriving community for Arab-Americans over the past 30 years. Key figures like Aladdin Khouraki and Kareem Hawari discuss their businesses and the importance of cultural recognition. Rashad Al-Dabbah from the Arab American Council emphasizes the long struggle for the area's official designation and its benefits. Manal Saad shares her personal experience as a Lebanese American, underscoring the importance of cultural identity. The article underscores the community's growth, diversity, and the positive impact of the Little Arabia designation.