CA FWD NEWS

Yesterday, the Public Policy Institute of California hosted three members of the Think Long Committee for Calfornia at their 2012 Speaker Series on Rebooting California’s Government where general policy, tax measures, and Think Long’s partnership with the California Forward Action Fund were all discussed.

California’s version of direct democracy recently turned 100, and many say the initiative process – born out of frustration with a do-nothing legislature in 1911 – needs a shot in the arm to ensure it remains a tool for the people.

Described as “a nonpartisan simulation of the tough choices lawmakers are faced with,” Next10’s annual Budget Challenge is back with a new facelift and a $9.2 billion shortfall that any Californian can attempt to resolve.

If someone needs to fix a computer or find the best deal on a plane ticket, it only takes a quick Google search. But where can cities go to find the best deal on fixing their traffic problems?

Anaheim White House chef and owner Bruno Serato has made it a priority to help kids living in nearby hotels. In 2005, thanks to a push from his mom, he started a nonprofit, to support the Boys and Girls Club of Anaheim, feeding pasta dishes to those less fortunate.

Did you know that California Forward has eight other Facebook pages besides our main one and that we also maintain a robust Twitter account? Well now you do.

The plan was simple: come up with a model for a coordinated, combined effort between nonprofits, agencies, businesses and schools to combat drop-out and low matriculation rates, both areas Tulare consistently ranks near the bottom statistically among California counties.

Rodriguez says government needs to find more effective ways to serve and engage people. At El Concilio, he and his team see and help folks from all walks of life – people dealing with different and difficult challenges and issues.