Child custody cases affected by cigarette smoking

Cigarette smoking has become a large factor in child custody cases. Several states have started considering smoking statistics when determining custody of minor children.

The anti-tobacco advocacy group, Action on Smoking and Health, collected data regarding custody cases and tobacco use across the United States. They found that in 18 states, tobacco smoke was factored into the results of child custody cases.

There have also been instances where a smoking parent has lost custody of their child due to subjecting them to second-hand smoke. Judges have also considered the smoking habits of other relatives that may have contact with the child involved in the custody battle, and used that information in their decision.

Some people argue that this is an invasion of family privacy, but the data shows that numerous courts are weighing heavily on the issue.

Gas prices in San Diego at all-time high in February

A consumer group released a report on the gasoline prices in San Diego, and determined that on Thursday, February 16, the price for a gallon of gas was at an all-time high for the county.

The records indicate that one gallon of gasoline on Thursday cost $3.96, which is a 7.6 cent increase per gallon since Monday. It is estimated that it will reach the $4 gallon mark by President's Day.

The average price of gasoline in San Diego has risen every day for the past 22 days. In one year, the gas prices increased by 46.5 cents in San Diego County.

Katy Perry and Russell Brand settle divorce

Katy Perry and Russell Brand's divorce has now been settled and court documents show that the couple has agreed on a complicated "written settlement."

Not only is the divorce finalized, Katy Perry also petitioned to have her maiden name back, Katheryn Elizabeth Hudson. The couple did not have a prenuptial agreement in their divorce, but Brand is not asking for any money.

Perry also asked the court to block Brand from receiving any spousal support. Brand filed for divorce from Perry on Dec. 30. The couple was married in India in October 2010.

MiraCosta College celebrates the New Year

MiraCosta College offered free events to the community in order to celebrate the the Lunar New Year, the Year of the Dragon.

A few events include the Chinese Language Day Celebration, Chinese Paper Cutting Art and Book Fair, Chinese Knot Workshop, Alternative Healing and Energy Workshop, Lantern Festival and the showing of a Chinese Film.

The events took place over the weekend and were free to the community members. Some of the events will take place through out the first week of February. The year of the dragon is considered to be the luckiest of the 12 year cycle.