Welcome to The California Weekly, your Saturday morning recap of top stories and announcements you might have missed.

News you might have missed

1. KEEPING CALIFORNIANS SAFE

In just the first two weeks of the California Highway Patrol’s operation to address crime and enhance public safety in partnership with San Bernardino, the CHP has made 64 arrests, recovered 11 stolen cars, and seized 5 illegal guns. The San Bernardino operation builds on the CHP’s ongoing work with local law enforcement units through surges statewide, including in Oakland, San Francisco, and Bakersfield.

2. CALIFORNIA RESTORATION UNDERWAY

Thanks to the Lookout Slough Tidal Habitat Restoration and Flood Improvement Project, for the first time in 100 years, tidal waters are flowing to 3,400 acres of restored habitat that will support fish and wildlife species and provide new flood capacity in Solano County. This continues Governor Newsom’s statewide efforts to safeguard California’s water resources and communities, along with the state’s fish and wildlife species ahead of a hotter, drier future.

3. SAFEGUARDING CALIFORNIA COMMUNITIES

Governor Newsom announced that 311 California nonprofit and faith-based organizations will receive more than $43.7 million in federal funding to help bolster safety and security against hate-based crime. This builds on the Newsom Administration’s prior efforts to bolster security at these more vulnerable community sites in the wake of increased attacks and harassment, and the broader work to combat hate crimes.

4. MORE AFFORDABLE, GREENER UTILITIES

Qualified California homeowners can save money on energy bills and make their homes more energy efficient through new heat pump rebates. Rebates for multifamily building owners for a wider array of electric appliances became available on October 8, and rebates for single family homeowners became available on November 12, 2024.

Here’s what we’re reading

California’s coastal town of Santa Barbara took the top spot in the country for places to visit this winter if you’re looking for some sun. “Stroll the State St Promenade for unique shops, artisan food and wine stores, plus plenty of outdoor dining options.” California’s Palm Springs also made the top 10, coming in at number 6.

By the numbers

- 1,000+ -CHP cadets graduated through the CHP academy, since Governor Newsom launched a campaign to recruit 1,000 new CHP officers. 

- 357 -acres of ancestral land were returned to the Wiyot Tribe.

- $70 million -available to support wildfire prevention, reforestation, & reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

LAST WEEK'S EDITION