🌱 Firecracker Run Is Virtual + Schwarzenegger SUV Rolls On Prius

Good morning, Los Angeles, and happy National Pie Day! Let's get you started this Sunday with everything you need to know going on around Los Angeles today.

The popular Chinatown Firecracker Run is going virtual. Also, former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger was in a car accident on Sunset. Finally, will artist Robert Vargas get a square named after him?

First, today's weather:

Nice with plenty of sunshine. High: 74 Low: 50.

Here are the top five stories in Los Angeles today:

1. The L.A. Chinatown Firecracker Run Committee (LACFRC) announced Thursday that the 44th Annual L.A. Chinatown Firecracker 5/10K Run/Walk, 14th Annual 20/40Mi Bike Ride, Kiddie Run and PAW’er Dog Walk are going virtual. Organizers made this decision “after careful consideration amidst the recent surge of the Omicron variant and a serious spike in hospitalization.” You can participate via the RaceJoy App, which tracks your progress and results. (Los Angeles Chinatown Firecracker Run)
2. Former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger was in a car accident Friday. It took place at the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and Allenford Avenue. “A Prius was making a U-turn as it continued through a 'red arrow' signal to turn left when the collision occurred, causing the SUV to roll on top of the Prius and hit two other vehicles.” (Patch)
3. When you drive through L.A., you cannot help but notice the artwork of Robert Vargas. On Tuesday, the L.A. City Council will discuss a motion introduced by Council Member Kevin de León, and seconded by Gil Cedillo, “to name the intersection of Pennsylvania and Boyle avenues ‘Robert Vargas Square Artist – Angeleno.’” At this time, you can see Vargas working on a 14-story mural “near Pershing Square that will become the largest mural in the world painted by a single artist.” (therobertvargas, My News LA)
4. Ana de Armas was supposed to star in “Yesterday.” Although she is seen in the film’s trailer, her role was cut. On Friday, two movie watchers filed a class action suit against Universal Pictures in federal court, alleging “they were tricked into renting the 2019 film,” paying $3.99 each, and noticing only after the transaction that the actress wasn’t in the final cut. “The suit seeks to recoup at least $5 million on behalf of fans.” (My News LA)
5. Super Bowl organizers want you to know the signs of human trafficking. "When it comes to the prevalence of commercial sex industries, California is particularly vulnerable because of its proximity to international borders, number of ports and airports, significant immigrant population and large economy that includes industries that attract forced labor." Signs include brandings on a person’s body, living arrangements with extreme security, no control over their finances, and not being allowed to speak for themselves. (Spectrum News 1)

Today in Los Angeles:

• Historic Downtown Farmer's Market (9 AM to 3 PM)
• Manifest & Flow, an all-levels Vinyasa class, with Free People Movement at the Shops at Sportsmen’s Lodge (10 AM)
• Makers Mess presents Fabric Painting with Irene (10 AM)
• YAMATO — The Drummers Of Japan perform at the Center For The Performing Arts (3 PM)
• Roe@49: Courageous Conversations on Abortion (online) (5 PM)

From my notebook:

• The Los Angeles City College announces that scholarships are available at SME Education Foundation. (Facebook)
• At the Los Angeles Public Library, they're reading 'The Adventure of the Peculiar Protocols' by Nicholas Meyer. (Facebook)
• Our USC-Expo Park neighbor lost their brown boxer. If you see her, please contact them at jlucas8931@gmail.com or 213 222 7228; they're offering a reward! (Nextdoor)
• Our Melrose Village neighbor is missing their cat. It was last seen at Waring & Poinsettia. Did you see him? (Nextdoor)
• A Monterey Hills neighbor is wondering if there's any indoor basketball on Saturdays in the Northeast LA area? (Nextdoor)

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That's it for today! I'll catch up with you bright and early tomorrow with your next update.

— Sylvia Cochran

About me: Sylvia Cochran works out of sunny Southern California and has been freelance writing full-time since 2005. She loves dogs, cats, books, plays Best Fiends (don't judge), embraces social justice, and tries to live out Micah 6:8.