Comment on L.A. peace parades mark 25th anniversary of King riots

LOS ANGELES – Twenty-five years ago, a jury acquitted four white police officers in the beating of black motorist Rodney King, sparking looting and violence that would turn into one of the deadliest race riots in American history. On Saturday, hundreds of people marked the anniversary with marches advocating peace and hope. A “Future Fest” began at Florence and Normandie avenues – the South Los Angeles intersection where rioting erupted – and was followed by a community festival. Organizer Eric Ares, 34, is a lifelong resident of the area.