It’s a news-packed week in California, some are getting new funding, others are having their funding cut. And we have reason to be happy and an analysis on happiness. So settle in and let’s dive into what you need to know. But first…

BACK TO THE (ENERGY) FUTURE

Los Angeles owes much of its explosive growth to the L.A. Aqueduct, an engineering marvel that routed water from the distant Owens Valley. Built under the guidance of William Mulholland, the aqueduct didn’t just quench the city’s thirst — it powered its rise, thanks to hydroelectric plants that transformed L.A. into a sprawling metropolis. Though these plants now account for only a small portion of the city’s power, they remain crucial, offering L.A. its cleanest, most cost-effective source of both water and energy. More importantly, the aqueduct embodies a mindset that has largely fallen out of use: making the most of many small, opportunistic solutions. As L.A. aims for a carbon-free energy grid by 2035, the city may need to return to this philosophy, where smaller innovations can make a big impact. The aqueduct’s legacy might just shape L.A.’s clean energy future as much as its past. Check out the fascinating story — and stunning photography — from the Distillations Magazine, published by the Science History Institute.

READ THE STORY

🤫 Everything you should know

- Money, money, money is coming to California directly from the federal government to revitalize parks, enhance river systems, and support clean transportation initiatives. This investment includes expanding urban green spaces and improving water quality, which are key for both environmental sustainability and community well-being. The $360 million investment was possible thanks to Governor Gavin Newsom’s “build more, faster” legislative push last summer, which the NCC heavily backed. Now we’re seeing the dollars roll in! Gov. Newsom

- California's economy is buzzing, and the holiday hiring season is already heating up. Amazon just announced plans to hire over 12,000 new workers in Southern California, with positions available in fulfillment centers, delivery stations, and retail. Although it's common to see hiring sprees this time of year, what's notable is the focus on higher pay and more long-term roles. This trend points to solid seasonal job growth and better opportunities for those looking to enter or re-enter the workforce. KTLA

Featuring Partner Heidi Pickman with CAMEO

We had the pleasure of sitting down with Heidi Pickman, Vice President of Engagement and External Relations at CAMEO Network (CAMEO), an organization dedicated to supporting California’s small businesses and micro-enterprises. We discussed California’s entrepreneurial spirit, the unique challenges facing small business owners, and the innovative solutions CAMEO provides to ensure that even the smallest businesses can thrive in our state. Heidi shared valuable insights into the creative, diverse, and supportive ecosystem California offers and how it can be a game-changer for entrepreneurs struggling to find their footing.

Check out our full interview below for a deep dive into the power of local small businesses and the network of resources that CAMEO helps cultivate to empower entrepreneurs across the state.

What do you love most about California?
Besides the weather, it’s the creativity and diversity of thought and opportunity here. People in California tend to experiment with different ideas, working with unexpected partners to solve problems creatively. Whether it's the arts, tech, or solving social challenges, you see innovation happening from all corners of the state. It's an exciting place to be.

What would you say to small businesses that are struggling to succeed in California?
For folks having a challenging time, there are a few approaches. First, get creative and think of alternative arrangements that might help your situation. Maybe you can find others in a similar position and collaborate on a solution. California has a strong network of support. People are willing to help, and if you know where to look, someone can either assist or connect you to someone who can. This state has rich resources, especially for those willing to tap into them.

And most small businesses are actually micro-enterprises, meaning they have five or fewer employees. In California, we have about 4.1 million small businesses, and over 3 million of those have no employees and another 5-7% are micro-businesses. It's much easier to start a business now than 10-15 years ago and business owners are doing it with fewer employees. CAMEO’s network of more than 400 business support organizations offer free or low-cost business coaching, technical assistance, and access to loans to very small businesses. We work hard to ensure these small businesses are connected with the help they need to start, grow, and thrive.

Tell us about the multiplier effect local businesses have on their communities?
When you spend a dollar at a local business, like a neighborhood coffee shop, it circulates in the local economy two times more than a dollar spent at a chain store like Starbucks. Local businesses are more likely to create local jobs, buy from other local suppliers, sponsor community events, or even support local schools. The money stays in the community. That’s what we call the multiplier effect—local dollars create more local wealth and community investment.

CAMEO is all about strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem in California. We focus on what we call the "five C's": coaching, capital, connections, culture, and being a policy catalyst. We don’t work directly with small businesses; rather, we support the organizations that serve them. Whether they provide business planning training or access to capital for underserved entrepreneurs, we train their staff and engage in policy advocacy so that small and micro-businesses can grow and thrive. It’s all about building a network that creates opportunities for success across the state.

😃 The Happiest Counties in California

California's new "happiness" report, created by the Select Committee on Happiness and Public Policy Outcomes, highlights the counties where residents are the most and least satisfied with their lives. Alpine County tops the list as the happiest, followed closely by Marin and Santa Clara counties. At the other end, Lake County ranks as the least happy, with Del Norte and Tulare counties also struggling. Speaker Emeritus Anthony Rendon emphasized that the findings should guide lawmakers to consider happiness as a legislative goal, beyond just economic stability and infrastructure. Press Democrat

🌌 Californians Treated to a Rare Northern Lights Show

It looks like Northern California experienced a rare appearance of the Northern Lights on October 7 due to a geomagnetic storm. The aurora was visible as far south as the Bay Area, offering a spectacular natural light display that many Californians might have caught glimpses of. Conditions like clear skies and low light pollution would have enhanced visibility, making it a unique event for the region. KCRA

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