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From the LA Times:

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LAX Guards Against Portable Missile Attacks
Although authorities know of no immediate threat, they have increased police patrols and built new fencing around the airport.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-missiles14dec14,1,3644805.story?coll=la-headlines-california

County Pensions Examined for Abuse
Supervisor orders study after reports that many retiring safety officers claim job disabilities.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-pension14dec14,1,4980778.story?coll=la-headlines-california

Judge Blocks Crackdown on Redondo Beach's Day Laborers
The ruling will stay in effect as an advocacy suit goes through the courts. The city has cited or arrested 63 workers and seven employers.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-laborer14dec14,1,3679239.story?coll=la-headlines-california

Your Way for the Highways?
Caltrans' first Internet survey allows motorists to offer opinions about potholes, congestion or whatever else drives them to distraction.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-wheel14dec14,1,561020.story?coll=la-headlines-california

Merging LAPD, Airport Police Not Easy, Officials Say
The move, requiring a charter amendment, could take years and cost $50 million, panel told.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-lax14dec14,1,3331841.story?coll=la-headlines-california

Busway Gets $7.9 Million More
MTA approves funds to speed work on Valley project, and delays vote on subway expansion.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-mta14dec14,1,3135230.story?coll=la-headlines-california

Death Sentences on Decline as Public's Skepticism Grows
The number of death sentences imposed in the United States - and the number of executions carried out - have declined sharply over the last five years, according to a report to be released today by the Death Penalty Information Center, a group that opposes capital punishment.
http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-penalty14dec14,1,2687019.story?coll=la-headlines-california

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From the Daily News:

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State helps cure kids' health woes
Fewer children going without insurance, UCLA study finds
http://www.dailynews.com/Stories/0,1413,200~20954~2595953,00.html

Rocky road for street repairs
Carmella DeNicolo's street in Arleta bears the signs of nearly 50 years of neglect.
http://www.dailynews.com/Stories/0,1413,200%257E20954%257E2595956,00.html

State oversight sought for preschool program
A lawmaker is scheduled to introduce legislation today to provide state oversight for Hollywood director Rob Reiner's much-heralded, but yet-to-be-implemented universal preschool program.
http://www.dailynews.com/Stories/0,1413,200%257E20954%257E2595802,00.html

Steps taken toward LAX police force merger idea
City officials took steps Monday toward merging the LAPD with the embattled LAX police force, despite warnings from the airport officers union that the city might be acting hastily.
http://www.dailynews.com/Stories/0,1413,200%257E20954%257E2595798,00.html

More meetings planned on possible terminal expansion
BURBANK -- City officials hope to sit down with residents to discuss a controversial proposal that would allow Bob Hope Airport to retain land that could be used for a new terminal.
http://www.dailynews.com/Stories/0,1413,200%257E20954%257E2595800,00.html

Racism is alleged in subway planning
City Councilman Tom LaBonge's proposal to consider overturning two bans on building subways in Los Angeles County opened a divisive debate Monday at the Metropolitan Transportation Authority.
http://www.dailynews.com/Stories/0,1413,200%257E20954%257E2595876,00.html

Mayoral challenger goes for the big bucks
One of the minor candidates seeking to oust Mayor James Hahn in the election next March 8 announced Monday that he has loaned his campaign $100,000 to try to boost his credibility.
http://www.dailynews.com/Stories/0,1413,200%257E20954%257E2595870,00.html

Murders drop nationwide, rise 5.1% in L.A.
The number of murders dropped by nearly 6 percent nationwide in the first half of 2004, an indication that a four-year climb may be ending, the FBI reported Monday.
http://www.dailynews.com/Stories/0,1413,200%257E20954%257E2595722,00.html

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From other sources:

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From Attorney General Lockyer
Attorney General Lockyer Offers Consumers Holiday Shopping Tips to Help Keep Season Bright
Launches Series Of Helpful Hints To Be Posted On Web Site
http://caag.state.ca.us/newsalerts/2004/04-139.htm