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July 19.2025
2 Minutes Read

Public Outrage at Grossmont School Board: A Call for Transparency

Grossmont school board transparency protest sign in meeting room.

Public Outrage Rises at Grossmont School Board Meeting

The atmosphere was electrifying at the Grossmont Union High School District board meeting on July 17, 2025, where trustee actions led to public uproar and fierce community engagement. As tensions simmered, officials attempted to assuage concerns fueled by allegations of private board communications and potential violations of the Brown Act.

Trustees Pledge Transparency Amid Renewed Accusations

Under the scrutiny of attendees who voiced their frustrations, the board president, Gary Woods, pledged that the trustees would adhere to open-meetings laws. Despite resistance from the crowd—who jeered and called for resignations—he firmly asserted there was no conclusive evidence of any wrongdoing. This statement was met with dismissive boos, illustrating the depth of public distrust.

A New Leader’s Vision for Collaboration

Superintendent Kirsten Vital Brulte's introduction marked a turning point in the meeting. Drawing from her vast experience, she emphasized the importance of community collaboration in overcoming challenges. Brulte expressed optimism, stating that the “people of Grossmont” are the district's greatest asset—a sentiment that resonated with many in attendance. She highlighted the urgent need for healing and a unified front amid a backdrop of division.

The Consequences of Private Messaging

The public's anger was not just about the allegations; it stemmed from larger questions regarding governance and transparency. The board majority had engaged in private discussions regarding district business, which has sparked allegations of illegal conduct. Post-meeting, they voted 4-1 to cease such communications, marking a step towards accountability. Woods confirmed that moving forward, all discussions would be transparent, addressing the immediate concerns voiced by the audience.

Community Reactions: Voices for Change

Within the enraged crowd stood former teacher-librarian Jason Balistreri, a strong opponent of the board majority. Balistreri welcomed Brulte's leadership while reiterating demands for ethical governance and accountability. His words echoed the sentiments of many who felt the previous communications tarnished the board's integrity.

The Way Forward: Unity and Transparency

The meeting underscored a pivotal moment for the Grossmont Union High School District. Community members made it clear that they seek a board that represents their values and remains open to public input. Moving forward, it may take consistent action and transparent communication from the trustees to restore trust and reassure concerned citizens.

Engaging with the Community

As the Grossmont Union High School District enters this new chapter with Superintendent Brulte, it will be essential for the trustees to maintain open lines of communication with the public. Whether through community forums, engaging social media strategies, or transparent board meetings, these efforts could pave the way for healing and trust.

For the Grossmont community, this meeting symbolized more than just discussions of policy; it represented hope for a united and transparent approach to school governance. Collaborating to solve complex challenges must be at the forefront of their mission, as the community deserves a voice in the decisions that affect their children's education.

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02.24.2026

How Makeda Dread Cheatom Transformed San Diego's Reggae and Culture Landscape

Update Merging Cultures Through Music: The Legacy of Makeda “Dread” CheatomIn the diverse soundscape of San Diego's music scene, few figures have made as profound an impact as Makeda “Dread” Cheatom. As a DJ, cultural entrepreneur, and founder of the WorldBeat Cultural Center, Cheatom has not only shaped the local reggae scene but has also become a pivotal bridge between cultures in the city. Amid a backdrop of racial tension and cultural segregation, Cheatom's work reflects the ethos of unity and understanding through art, making her a unique voice in the community.The Rise of Reggae in San DiegoGrowing up in Linda Vista—a neighborhood notable for its amalgamation of many cultures—Cheatom's interest in reggae music was ignited by her environment. In a moment that would shape her future, she personally met Bob Marley and later produced a concert featuring his music, which was virtually unheard on local radio at the time. "I remember going to radio stations and being told they didn’t know who Marley was," she recalls. This was a catalyst for her to educate the community about reggae, paving the way for a genre that would become a staple in the city’s nightlife.Establishing a Cultural CenterWhile Cheatom initially began her career as a DJ, her vision reached far beyond music. She identified a critical lack of representation for Black and African culture in San Diego and took it upon herself to establish a venue that would promote multiculturalism. In 1989, Cheatom founded the WorldBeat Cultural Center in Balboa Park, a multi-cultural hub where diverse traditions come together through art, food, and performance. Her tenacity earned her the dilapidated water tower at Balboa Park, transforming it into a vibrant community space.Trailblazing AchievementsNot limited to music, Cheatom's accomplishments span a variety of community-based initiatives. She opened the first vegetarian restaurant in San Diego, collaborated with health advocates, and even produced the annual Bob Marley Day events at the San Diego Sports Arena for over 25 years. Her contributions have not gone unnoticed, earning her awards such as the Channel 10 Leadership Award and accolades from various organizations celebrating her work in cultural exchange and environmental stewardship.Inspiring Future GenerationsCheatom's latest endeavor, the WorldBeat Center’s Children’s Ethnobotany Peace Garden, serves as an outdoor classroom, connecting children to the origins of their food while instilling a sense of environmental stewardship. One of her recent projects focuses on the impact of noise pollution in underserved communities, demonstrating her commitment to flattening socioeconomic barriers in education and community health.Conclusion: A Cultural ForceMakeda “Dread” Cheatom is more than a cultural leader; she is a trailblazer whose work transcends genres and unites communities. Her legacy is a celebration of diversity and an acknowledgment of music's profound ability to bring people together. In a world increasingly divided by cultural divides, Cheatom’s vision of a united humanity serves as a powerful reminder of art’s potential to foster peace and understanding among all people.

02.23.2026

Chaos and Violence Erupt in Tijuana After El Mencho’s Death: What It Means for Citizens

Update The Death of a Notorious Drug LordNemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes, infamously known as ‘El Mencho’, was a figure that loomed large in the world of organized crime. His leadership of the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) made him one of the most wanted criminals not only in Mexico but also in the United States. This past Sunday, El Mencho’s reign came to a shocking end when the Mexican military executed a successful operation in Tapalpa, Jalisco, resulting in his death. This move marks a significant milestone in Mexico’s ongoing war against drug cartels.Violence Erupts in ResponseThe response to El Mencho’s death was immediate and chaotic. Authorities reported at least 22 incidents of violence across Baja California and other states, including Tijuana, where vehicles were set ablaze, and businesses shuttered in fear of reprisals. The impact of his assassination led to a tense atmosphere typified by roadblocks and widespread vandalism. As gunmen took to the streets, residents had no choice but to remain indoors while schools shut down and public transport was temporarily suspended.Heightened Security MeasuresIn the face of such violent outbursts, Baja California’s security forces mobilized aggressively. The governor announced enhanced security operations across the state. In addition, the United States Embassy issued a warning to American citizens, urging them to stay within their homes due to the escalating unrest and governmental operations.Expectations for the FutureWith El Mencho’s death, questions arise regarding the future of the CJNG and the potential power vacuum left in its wake. Experts predict an increase in violence as rival factions vie for control and seek to fill the leadership void left by the drug lord. Former high-ranking officials within the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration indicated that a surge in narcoterrorism reminiscent of Colombia in the 1990s could unfold as factions engage in retaliatory actions, further destabilizing the state. Long-standing concerns about the CJNG’s extensive operations in both Mexico and the U.S. hint that this situation could escalate rather than diminish without immediate intervention from law enforcement.The Cooperation Between NationsThe operation that led to El Mencho’s demise was not a unilateral action; it was underscored by cooperation between Mexican and U.S. authorities. Enhanced intelligence-sharing played a critical role in the federal operation that ultimately took down one of the drug trafficking industry's most notorious players. Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau referred to this event as a “great development” for harmony and law enforcement in both nations.ConclusionThe killing of ‘El Mencho’ is a critical chapter in the larger narrative of drug violence and governance in Mexico. As the country wrestles with ongoing cartel violence and fear, the world watches closely for what this development portends for both Mexican and American societies. History has shown that while the fall of a kingpin can be seen as a victory in the fight against organized crime, it often leads to yet another cycle of violence. In this case, vigilance and effective strategies will be vital in ensuring that the law prevails and that citizens feel safe within their neighborhoods.

02.23.2026

After El Mencho's Death: Tijuana Faces Unprecedented Violence and Turmoil

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