Esparanza: A Daily Outsider Public Service Initiative

 For this week, our team decided to feature our state to showcase some of the on-going challenges;   Meth, death and abuse: Inside the private security forces patrolling California’s homeless By  Lauren Hepler Public agencies are funding private security guards in homeless shelters and on the street, opening a new front in the state’s housing crisis — one ripe for violence and civil rights issues, but thin on oversight.   Digital Democracy    CalMatters members make possible a new venture in making state government transparent: Digital Democracy.  Learn more →       Power is never having to say ‘no.’ How California Democrats kill bills without voting against them By  Ryan Sabalow  and  Julie Watts Democrats in California’s Assembly and Senate rarely vote against bills, yet few seem willing to discuss their voting records, as well as the controversial practice of declining to vote instead of saying “no.”   ‘Forever chemicals’: Water supplies throughout California will exceed new nationa

  The National Weather Service has forecasted cold overnight temperatures of 45° or below across parts of Orange County today through  Monday, April 8.   All are encouraged to monitor local weather forecasts regularly, check emergency food and water supplies, and keep doors, windows, and blinds closed as much as possible to retain heat indoors.   In cold temperatures, your body loses heat faster than it can be produced, leading to serious health problems. Please see below for warning signs of frostbite and hypothermia.   Learn more:  CDC Infographic: Avoid Spot Treat: Frostbite & Hypothermia   For more information on cold weather safety, visit the CDC’s website at  cdc.gov/disasters/winter/ index.html .   To stay up-to-date on extreme weather, follow:   •               OC Health Care Agency -  @OCHealth •               Orange County Fire Authority -  @OCFireAuthority •               Orange County Emergency Operations Center -  @OrangeCountyEOC   For current weather information, vis

  Photo credit: Water.org As we celebrate World Water Day today, we are proud to highlight the remarkable achievements of Gary White and Matt Damon, co-founders of Water.org and WaterEquity , and the 2024 Laureates of the prestigious Fulbright Prize for International Understanding. Through innovative financing models and community-centered approaches, they have made significant strides in ensuring access to clean water and sanitation for those most in need. The Fulbright Prize is a testament to their visionary leadership, innovative approach, and unwavering commitment to achieving global water security and equity. It is an honor that highlights their outstanding contributions to society and inspires us all to continue striving for a world where everyone has access to safe water and sanitation. Join us on May 16 in Washington, DC, or via livestream to celebrate Gary and Matt for their exceptional contributions to this critical cause. Let's continue to support and advocate for cle