L.A. Times - Most E-mailed Stories

Runaway Toyota cases ignored

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Safety investigators dismissed numerous reports of sudden acceleration, then said data were lacking.

More than 1,000 Toyota and Lexus owners have reported since 2001 that their vehicles suddenly accelerated on their own, in many cases slamming into trees, parked cars and brick walls, among other obstacles, a Times review of federal records has found.

It's time fruit juice loses its wholesome image, some experts say

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Compared with soda, juice carries more calories and as much sugar. There's also evidence that high consumption increases the risk of obesity, especially among kids.

To many people, it's a health food. To others, it's simply soda in disguise.

New study may deal final blow to acne drug Accutane

Sat, 7 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

The study bolstered evidence of a link between the drug, pulled from the market in June, and inflammatory bowel disease. No medication is as effective in treating severe cases of acne.

Teenagers and young adults suffering from severe, scarring acne may ultimately lose the most effective treatment for the condition.

Texas is the new retirement mecca

Sat, 7 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

The Lone Star State's attractions include its low cost of living and no income tax.

After trying out Pasadena, Atlanta and Miami, Lilian Junco decided this was the place to retire. Being near her son was the first attraction, but soon she was drawn in by the same combination of features that has lured tens of thousands of others from out of state: Gulf Coast living and super-low costs.

California's best years have passed, voters say

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

In a survey of 1,500 registered voters, 80% say the state is on the wrong track. Respondents express little confidence in state politicians and candidates, even as support for Obama remains high.

Frustrated at California's woes, voters are sharply pessimistic about whether the next governor will be able to move the state in the right direction, and most believe California is in the midst of a long-term decline, a new Los Angeles Times/USC poll shows.

'Save the Deli: In Search of Perfect Pastrami, Crusty Rye, and the Heart of Jewish Delicatessen' by David Sax

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

The history found of a people found in a sandwich.

Save the Deli

Buzzing of Santa Monica Pier leads to questions about aviation safety

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

The pilot who flew his Soviet-made jet close to the pier has lost his license, but the use of military jets by civilian pilots is a broader issue.

Racing at speeds of up to 350 mph, the Soviet-made military jet made several low-altitude passes at the Santa Monica Pier, seemingly keying on the popular Ferris wheel as frightened onlookers scattered, some screaming.

Babies are found to cry in their mother tongue

Sat, 7 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

Just days after birth, German and French infants' wails mimicked the patterns of their native languages. Researchers believe they started to pick up on the melodies in the third trimester.

They may not be old enough to talk, but babies less than a week old know how to cry in their native language.

You may qualify for a home-buyer tax credit

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

This time, income limits have been raised, so millions more people are eligible. You don't have to be a first-timer either.

Millions of additional people may be able to take advantage of the new and improved first-time home-buyer tax credit now, and it's not just for first-time home buyers anymore. You may qualify.

Bill Clinton, George W. Bush cancel appearances in L.A., N.Y.

Sun, 8 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0800

The 42nd and 43rd presidents back out because promoters of the February panel discussion 'insisted on billing it as something it wasn't,' Clinton spokesman says

Former Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush on Saturday abruptly pulled out of a joint appearance scheduled for this winter in Los Angeles after growing unhappy with the way the event was being promoted.