January 2025

President Biden also laid out proposed future reforms, including a Constistutional amendment to limit presidential immunity, tax reforms, and term limits for Supreme Court justices

By Miriam Raftery

Hear audio of President Biden’s farewell address; view video, read transcript

January 19, 2025 (Washington D.C.) – In his farewell address to the nation delivered in the White House oval office on January 15, President Joe Biden issued a warning reminiscent of the farewell speech delivered by President Dwight Eisenhower in 1961.

“Today, an oligarchy is taking shape in America of extreme wealth, power and influence that literally threatens our entire democracy, our basic rights and freedoms, and a fair shot for everyone to get ahead,” President Biden said. Specifically, he cited “the concentration of technology, power and wealth” and warned of  “dangerous consequences if their abuse of power is left unchecked.”

President-elect Donald Trump, who will be inaugurated tomorrow, has surrounded himself with wealthy tech company executives,  drawing controversy. There are parallels to the Russian oligarchs who wield undue influence over Russia’s president Vladimir Putin and have profited from his reign, while supporting his policies. 

Novel by Mark O’Bannon

Reviewed by Pennell Paugh

January 19, 2025 (San Diego)—San Diego resident Mark O’Bannon has released a new science fiction romance, Touching Infinity  (Imperium Prequels).

In a society where arranged marriages are considered more sensible and enduring, Alastronia DeTroyes, a young planetary scientist, is excited to find herself traveling into a system that she has predicted will explode soon into a supernova.

Over the course of the novel, Alastriona corresponds with her sister, Julia.

Below is an excerpt from the novel:

By Michael Howard

Photo:  La Mesa City Councilmember Laura Lothian speaks during a January 14, 2025 City Council meeting. Screenshot from City of La Mesa meeting video.

January 19, 2025 (La Mesa, CA) - La Mesa City Councilmember Laura Lothian is calling for a “15-Strikes And You’re Out” policy to address the rising cost and associated risks of managing the homelessness crisis in the city.

Source:  Grossmont Union High School District

January 17, 2025 (El Cajon) -- Superintendent Mike Fowler has announced plans to step aside from his duties until March 1, 2025, as he receives treatment for a malignant brain tumor. After his diagnosis, Fowler underwent a successful surgery in December. He has now begun a rigorous treatment schedule which will require him to remain on leave through February. As a result, the Grossmont Union High School District (GUHSD) Governing Board took official action during a January 16 Special Governing Board meeting to appoint Sandra C. Huezo as Acting Superintendent.

East County News Service

 January 17, 2025 (San Diego) - Does your home need a design refresh or a whole makeover? Are you curious about working with a professional interior designer but don’t know where to start? The American Society of Interior Designers (ASID) San Diego Chapter offers affordable in-home design advice during Winter Spruce Up. The program runs from February through March and provides in-home design consultations that give consumers an easy, affordable, no-stress introduction to working with a designer.

Council asks  staff to revise resolution, which will be on the agenda January 28

By Miriam Raftery

East County News Service

January 17, 2025 (La Mesa) — Bougie’s Cheese Shop,  newly opened in December, invites you to a Garden Party on Saturday, January 18 and 25 from 1-4 p.m.   This patio event will feature non-alcoholic specialty drinks in honor of dry January paired with cheeses, along with curated snack boxes available for purchase.

Bougie’s Cheese Shop is located in the historic Levy house at 4679 Date Ave. in La Mesa.