Arts & Culture

– Manuscript – A traditional ceremony for children in Japan is growing popular for animals there as well. Natsuki Aoki recently flew with her two Chihuahua dogs from the western city of Hiroshima to Tokyo, the nation’s capital. She took the trip so the little dogs could receive a special blessing at the Zama Shrine, a Shinto holy place. Aoki noted that few religious … [Read more...] about Animals Receive Blessings in Place of Children in Aging Japan

– Manuscript – U.S. first lady Jill Biden wants everyone who visits the White House around Christmas to feel like a kid again. On Monday, Biden held a gathering to show the White House Christmas decorations. “Magic, Wonder and Joy” is the theme this year. It will be the Bidens’ third Christmas holiday in the White House. “Each room on display is designed to capture … [Read more...] about What the White House Looks Like for Christmas

– Manuscript – Serena Williams and Ruby Bridges will be inducted into the National Women's Hall of Fame in March of next year. The American organization in Seneca Falls, New York made the announcement Thursday. The tennis great and the civil rights leader were added to a list to be honored during Women's History Month in March. “The 2024 inductee class has broken … [Read more...] about Serena Williams, Ruby Bridges to Be Honored at Women’s Hall of Fame

– Manuscript – Panda lovers in the United States are hopeful for the return of the bears following a comment from Chinese President Xi Jinping last week. Speaking at a dinner with American business leaders on Wednesday night, President Xi said, "We are ready to continue our cooperation with the United States on panda conservation and do our best to meet the wishes of the … [Read more...] about Will Pandas Return to US?

– Manuscript – More and more of Judy Branfman’s friends and neighbors found themselves unable to afford housing in Venice Beach, a neighborhood in Los Angeles. So, Branfman began photographing the houses and apartments being sold, renovated, and then resold at two or three times the cost. Branfman thought she should be recording the growing problem of evictions and … [Read more...] about Lack of Housing in Los Angeles Brings Activism, Art