Union-Tribune 2007 file photo The Mingei International Museum is among the four California museums suspected of accepting looted artifacts from Thailand. Mingei director Rob Sidner has denied any wrongdoing.

What's Inside Forecasters are all wet after miss on Valentine's The week: Stories and photos from February 10-16 City building inspector was 'versatile man typical of his era' This day in our region's history Washington's birthday: Monday, Feb. 18 Navy trims its plan to build new warship First home is rebuilt since wildfire Study uncovers way to fight leukemia More Local News

The federal raid last month on four California museums, including the Mingei International Museum in Balboa Park, has drawn new attention to an unwelcome fact of the art trade: An increasing amount of pillaged property is finding its way into museums and private collections.

WASHINGTON – It has happened every February for years: President Bush tries to cut the money Washington spends on community-oriented policing, and Democrats toil the rest of the year putting the money back in the federal budget.

LA JOLLA – For more than a decade, local scientists and researchers from around the world have occasionally gathered in San Diego to discuss and debate the singular question of how humans became human.

Here's a hypothetical scene to contemplate this chilly February morning: It's a summer day at the beach. The scent of suntan lotion wafts in the ocean breeze. An over-the-line tournament is being played before a rowdy, somewhat inebriated, mostly male crowd. Two women are walking through it.

CAMP PENDLETON – The 63rd anniversary of the Battle of Iwo Jima, where America gained one of its bloodiest victories in World War II, was commemorated yesterday at a sunset ceremony that drew about 200 veterans and their families.