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By Eric Johnson
Published Sep 09, 2024

The council chambers in Santa Cruz City Hall has been the scene of countless heated political battles, and at least one melee. The council chambers in Santa Cruz City Hall has been the scene of countless heated political battles, and at least one melee. Image credit: Crystal Birns, Contributed

It Takes a Village to Run a Village: Leadership vs. Partisanship

In November, 2021, more than 2,000 people gathered in the bucolic Silicon Valley suburb of Los Gatos for what was called the United Against Hate March. They did so in part because the town's mayor and elected council had been subjected to a slew of attacks in the wake of vaccination mandates and policies promoting diversity, equality and inclusion (DEI). Similar incidents had already happened during public meetings throughout the state and nation, and they have continued ever since. And last Jauary, my friend Fred Keeley, mayor of Santa Cruz, received a death threat following a contentions city council meeting during which protesters stormed the council dais and broke windows in the chambers.

Last month, the Los Gatos town council voted unanimously to cancel its November election because nobody filed to run against the incumbents for two seats that would have been in contention. We've noticed that the same thing has happened in multiple towns and cities throughout Northern California. In this week's edition of The Newsletter, Chris Neklason examines the trend and posits some reasons people might find running for a public office or advisory board—an admitedly serious conmmitment to civic duty—increasingly daunting.

But first, Chris talks with Ryan Coonerty, a former veteran Santa Cruz elected official and, not incidentally, co-host of the podcast "An Honorable Profession," which is about (you guessed it) elected public service. 


The Business Community Steps Up

When we talk about how California works here at CALocal, we frequently point out that the civic infrastructure in most cities and towns is made up of a multitude of individuals beyond elected officials and public employees. They include, for instance, the employees and volunteers at nonprofit community groups. In every instance I know of, the local business community is also involved in the work of civic betterment.

One of the best examples of business leaders stepping up to nurture community involvement are local programs such as Leadership Santa Cruz—there are similar organzations in many counties throughout California and beyond, and they are generally founded by local Chambers of Commerce. 


Building a Civic Engagement Pipeline

Democracy works better when more people actively participate.
We look at one of many local efforts to cultivate the local civic engagement talent pool.

The Simmering California Public Service Crisis

Democracy is all about having a seat at the table.
What happens if you have a democracy and nobody shows up?

Recipe of the Week

Our friends at Sacramento Digs Gardening publish a recipe from their gardens every Sunday, which we feature here so you can start your week with some yum.

See more recipes in their Taste Fall! cookbook.


This fruity syrup makes most of late-season harvest

A mix of berries, plus a few other random summer fruits, go into the fruit syrup.
New! Very Berry Syrup mixes strawberries, blueberries, blackberries -- or whatever you have


Impact Report Image for decorative use


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Rocklin Area Chamber of Commerce logo Rocklin Area Chamber of Commerce

Rocklin Area Chamber of Commerce is a business organization that fosters local economic growth.

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From Our Media Allies

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Auburn Journal logo ARD Board Approves AT&T Cell Equipment at Recreation Park

The Auburn Recreation and Parks District (ARD) Board of Directors voted Aug. 29 to move forward with an agreement with AT&T for an equipment tower at Recreation Park in Auburn.

Folsom Times logo Folsom Food Bank Hopes Community Service Day Can Fill Empty Shelves

On Sept. 21, Folsom’s largest day of volunteerism returns, bringing together residents of all ages to complete projects throughout the city aimed at making a lasting, positive impact.

Tahoe Daily Tribune logo Water Bottle Ban: Auditors Pleased With Business Compliance Rate

A recent audit shows that 82% of audited businesses in the City of South Lake Tahoe are abiding by the single-use water bottle ban that just went into effect on Earth Day this year.

Sierra Sun logo Olympic Valley Board Tackles Wildfire Prevention, Development, New Website

The Olympic Valley Public Service District (OVPSD) Board of Directors met on Aug. 27 to discuss wildfire prevention, development projects, and a new website.

Auburn Journal logo Delmar Farms Subdivision Proposed for Loomis Town

Plans were submitted last month to Loomis Town for the proposed 98-acre, 24-lot Delmar Farms custom home subdivision.

Lincoln News Messenger logo Biggest High School Farm in America: Lincoln FFA Offers Several Industry Pathways

The Lincoln Future Farmers of America Chapter was founded in 1955. The Lincoln High School farm began in 1974. The original property was 280 acres and was acquired from McClellan Air Force Base.

Folsom Telegraph logo Prima Drive 'Strife' Ends Between Folsom, El Dorado

Folsom and El Dorado Hills officials agreed last week the controversial, proposed Prima Drive emergency vehicle extension between Sacramento and El Dorado counties is no longer necessary.

Lincoln News Messenger logo Community Members Question Lincoln City Council After the Gathering Inn's Purchase of City Building

Lincoln community members attended last week’s city council meeting to discuss The Gathering Inn's purchase of the building at 1660 3rd Street.

Folsom Times logo County Supervisors Approve $340M Increase to 2024-25 Budget

SACRAMENTO COUNTY – In a vote this week, the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors approved a significant $340 million increase to the county’s 2024-25 fiscal year budget. The revisions bring the total budget to $9.2 billion, marking a substantial rise …

Folsom Times logo County Supes to Vote on $8M Hotel Purchase for Affordable Housing Project

Project on Howe Avenue in Sacramento would convert 176-unit into multi-family supportive and workforce apartment community.

Folsom Times logo SMUD, UC Davis Expand Access to Sacramento’s Largest Science Museum

SMUD has partnered with the UC Davis Center for Neuroscience to offer students from Sacramento the opportunity to explore the region's largest science museum, the SMUD Museum of Science and Curiosity (MOSAC), through a special field trip program.

Tahoe Daily Tribune logo City Seeking Applications to Fill Vacant Council Seat

The City of South Lake Tahoe has opened the application process to fill the City Council seat vacated by former Mayor Pro Tem John Friedrich. Mr. Friedrich submitted his resignation to the City Clerk on September 3, effective immediately.

Folsom Times logo A New Room for Eva: Folsom Charity, Rotarians Bring Joy to Ill Child

At just 10 years old, local resident Eva has long suffered from juvenile dermatomyositis, a rare autoimmune disease that attacks the muscles, causes inflammation in the blood vessels, and results in a great deal of pain.

Tahoe Daily Tribune logo STPUD Expands Customer Assistance Program

Low-income South Lake Tahoe residents may be eligible to receive a discount on their monthly water and sewer bill through South Tahoe Public Utility District's expanded Customer Assistance Program.

Tahoe Daily Tribune logo City Council: Affordable Housing Waitlist, Fire Station Renovations, Electrifying Lake Link

A summary of the City of South Lake Tahoe's City Council August 13 meeting, following their break in July.

Auburn Journal logo Colfax Approves Short-Term Rental Ordinance Introduction for Second Time

In the continued effort to have regulation for short-term rentals within city limits, the Colfax City Council approved the second introduction of an ordinance to allow for a permitting process during its Aug. 28 meeting.

Auburn Journal logo Placer FFA Member Champions Community Service Project to Feed the Hungry of Auburn

Placer FFA announced a remarkable project spearheaded by one of its first-year members, Joseph Stefani.

Folsom Times logo Folsom Assemblyman Urges Governor to Sign Bill for Homeless Spending Accountability

On August 31, Assemblyman Josh Hoover of Folsom announced the passage of Assembly Bill 2903 out of the Legislature, which would require state-run homelessness programs to annually report cost and outcome data to the California Interagency Council on Homelessness.

Tahoe Daily Tribune logo Bread & Broth 4 Kids Resumes School Year Weekend Food Program

On Friday, September 6th, Bread & Broth resumes their B&B 4 Kids School Year Weekend Food Bag program. Weekend food bags are distributed every Friday at all five pre-K through 8th grade schools in the Lake Tahoe Unified School District …

Folsom Times logo Folsom Fire, Police Knock Out Knopfler Circle Vegetation Fire

Folsom Fire Department along with assistance from the Folsom Police Department responded to a small in size but very active vegetation fire on the 1200 block of Knopfler Circle area on the evening of September 1.

Folsom Times logo El Dorado Hills Firefighters, Neighbors Keep Fire From Spreading at Serrano Home

The El Dorado Hills Fire Department  responded to a house fire reported on the 6100 block of Western Sierra Way, located in the Serrano Community on the afternoon of August 31.

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Recent Local News

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• Measure N Town Hall Meeting Scheduled

An public town hall is scheduled for September 23 to provide information and answer questions about Measure N on the November ballot.

(09/09/2024) → South Tahoe Now

• Bankrupt KRLT/KTHO Sold

The bankruptcy court approved the sale of radio stations KRLT and KTHO to Rothschild Broadcasting for $275,000.

(09/06/2024) → South Tahoe Now

• American Legion Post 119 Celebrates WWII Vet's 100th Birthday

On August 31, the American Legion Post 119 hosted a 100th birthday party for World War II veteran Ray Groves.

(09/06/2024) → Mountain Democrat

• Pollock Pines Forebay Park Renovations Scheduled for 2025

Planning and construction for upgrades to the Pollock Pines Forebay Park have been given the green light by El Dorado County are expected to begin in early 2025 and be completed by the fall.

(09/06/2024) → Mountain Democrat

• Boys & Girls Club of Lake Tahoe Receive $6,000 Donation

A $6,000 donation for new playground equipment was presented to the Boys & Girls Club of Lake Tahoe by the The Optimist Club of South Lake Tahoe and the recently formed Junior Optimist Club of South Tahoe High School.

(09/05/2024) → South Tahoe Now

• California AB1981 Raises Juror Stipend to $100

Under a pilot program mandated by California AB1981, jurors in El Dorado County will receive a stipend for jury duty of $100.

(09/05/2024) → South Tahoe Now

• Meeks Bay Fire Protection District Annexation Finalized

The ten-year effort to annex the Meeks Bay Fire Protection District into the North Tahoe Fire Protection District concluded with the approval of the Placer County Local Agency Formation Commission in August.

(09/03/2024) → South Tahoe Now

• First Joint Back-to-School Supply Dive a Success

A partnership of the Marcella Foundation, MountainHouse and Soroptimist International of Tahoe Sierra worked together to and distribute almost 200 backpacks and school supplies to local students in need.

(09/03/2024) → South Tahoe Now

• Busy Labor Day Weekend for Firefighters

While the rest of us enjoyed the long weekend, El Dorado County firefighters were called to extinguish several local fires.

(09/03/2024) → Mountain Democrat

• Firewise Workshop on September 19

The Tahoe Resource Conservation District is hosting a workshop on September 19 with information about the Firewise program and application process.

(09/02/2024) → South Tahoe Now
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Recent Statewide News

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• California "30x30" Conservation Efforts Make Progress

The California state goal to conserve 30% of its land and coastal waters has advanced, with conserved lands reaching 25% and coastal waters 16%.

(09/08/2024) → Los Angeles Times

• Reparations Supporters Plot Comeback After Bitter Defeat in California Legislature

The controversial idea of cash reparations divided even Black advocates in the legislature this year. Here’s what’s next.

(09/06/2024) → CalMatters

• CA Rent Control Battle Goes to the Ballot

Amid a Southern California heat wave, about 300 advocates for rent control — with two 10-foot “greedy landlord” puppets — rallied Thursday in downtown Los Angeles, chanting: “The rent is too damn high!”

(09/06/2024) → CalMatters

• Should California Community Colleges Offer Bachelor’s Degrees in Nursing? Universities Say No

Lawmakers approved two bills to allow some community colleges to provide bachelor’s degrees in nursing. That’s setting up another conflict with the California State University, which already offers these bachelor’s degrees.

(09/05/2024) → CalMatters

• Are CA Gig Workers Getting Promised Pay and Benefits?

California voters passed Proposition 22 four years ago. The ballot initiative, backed by Uber, Lyft and other gig companies, promised the state’s more than 1 million gig workers new benefits, such as guaranteed minimum earnings, health care stipends, occupational accident insurance and accidental death insurance.

(09/04/2024) → CalMatters

• More Extreme Heat + More People = Danger in These California Cities. ‘Will It Get as Hot as Death Valley?’

Inland communities with big population booms will experience the most extreme heat days under climate change projections. The combination puts more people at risk — and many cities are unprepared.

(09/04/2024) → CalMatters

• California Schools Release a Blizzard of Data, and That’s Why Parents Can’t Make Sense of It

Information about how the state’s K-12 students are performing is located on several sites and is difficult to understand, a new report finds.

(09/04/2024) → CalMatters

• California School Dashboard Lacks Pandemic Focus, Earns a D Grade in Report

The California School Dashboard makes it hard for the public to see how schools and districts are performing over multiple years, concludes the report's lead author.

(09/04/2024) → EdSource

• California Has Spent Billions on Homelessness but Lacks Hard Data on Outcomes

California has allocated more than $20 billion to alleviate the state’s homelessness crisis since Gavin Newsom became governor in 2019, but there’s precious little data on how the money was spent and what effect it’s had, other than the number of unhoused people has continued to climb.

(09/04/2024) → CalMatters

• Health Care in California: How the State Made Almost Everyone Eligible for Coverage

Almost everyone in California has health insurance. That trend reflects about a decade and a half of policymaking designed to expand access to health care. The state’s average uninsured rate has dropped from nearly one in four Californians in 2009 to less than one in ten today.

(09/03/2024) → CalMatters

• CalFire Deploys New Air Tanker

CalFire received the first of five planes promised by the federal government, a former Coast Guard C-130 Hercules air tanker.

(09/02/2024) → https://www.sacbee.com/news/california/fires/article291844345.html

• California’s Economy Lags Behind Other States, Here’s Why It’s So Sluggish

California’s unemployment rate, 5.2% of its labor force in July, is no longer the nation’s highest after months of having that dubious distinction.

(09/02/2024) → CalMatters
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Government Announcements

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Image of United States seal. United States   (08/30/2024)

Hickory Hollow Jerky Recalls Ready-To-Eat Jerky Products Produced Without Benefit of Inspection

WASHINGTON, Aug. 30, 2024 - Hickory Hollow Jerky, a Eufaula, Ala., establishment, is recalling approximately 6,229 pounds of ready-to-eat jerky products that were produced without the benefit of federal inspection...
Image of United States seal. United States   (08/16/2024)

FSIS Issues Public Health Alert For Ineligible Meat and Poultry Products Illegally Imported From the Republic of the Union of Myanmar

WASHINGTON, Aug. 16, 2024 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for various meat and poultry products that were...
Image of United States seal. United States   (08/16/2024)

Perdue Foods LLC, Recalls Frozen, Ready-To-Eat Chicken Breast Nugget and Tender Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

WASHINGTON, Aug. 16, 2024 - Perdue Foods LLC, a Perry, Ga. establishment, is recalling approximately 167,171 pounds of frozen, ready-to-eat chicken breast nugget and tender products that may be contaminated...
Image of United States seal. United States   (08/16/2024)

FSIS Issues Public Health Alert for Ineligible Meat and Poultry Products Illegally Imported from the Republic of the Union of Myanmar

WASHINGTON, Aug. 16, 2024 - The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is issuing a public health alert for various meat and poultry products that were...
Image of United States seal. United States   (08/16/2024)

Perdue Foods LLC, Recalls Frozen, Ready-To-Eat Chicken Breast Nugget and Tender Products Due to Possible Foreign Matter Contamination

WASHINGTON, Aug. 16, 2024 - Perdue Foods LLC, a Perry, Ga. establishment, is recalling approximately 167,171 pounds of frozen, ready-to-eat chicken breast nugget and tender products that may be contaminated...
Image of United States seal. United States   (08/01/2024)

Metro Produce Distributors Inc. Recalls Fresh Guacamole Because of Possible Health Risk

Metro Produce Distributors Inc. of Minneapolis, Minnesota, is voluntarily recalling all Lunds & Byerlys fresh guacamole products with a use-by date of August 2, 2024, because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fat
Image of United States seal. United States   (07/30/2024)

Colonna Brothers, Inc. Issues an Updated Voluntary Recall for "1.5oz Marcum Ground Cinnamon & 2.25oz Supreme Tradition Ground Cinnamon" Because of Possible Health Risk Due to Elevated Lead Levels

Colonna Brothers of North Bergen, NJ is voluntarily recalling its 1.5oz Marcum Ground Cinnamon & 2.25oz Supreme Tradition Ground Cinnamon because of a possible health risk due to elevated lead levels. Short term exposures to very low levels of lead may not elicit any symptoms. It is possible that in
Image of United States seal. United States   (07/30/2024)

Boar's Head Provisions Co. Expands Recall for Ready-To-Eat Meat and Poultry Products Due to Possible Listeria Contamination

WASHINGTON, July 30, 2024 - Boar's Head Provisions Co., Inc., a Jarratt, Va., establishment, is expanding its July 26, 2024, recall of deli meat products that may be adulterated with...
Image of United States seal. United States   (07/29/2024)

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Peanuts in Vegan Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Non-Dairy Frozen Dessert

Van Leeuwen Ice Cream of Brooklyn, NY is voluntarily recalling its Vegan Pumpkin Cinnamon Roll Lot 24V094 pints sold at the 81 Bergen Street Brooklyn, NY location. These pints contain an undeclared allergen, peanuts. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to peanuts run the risk of serious
Image of United States seal. United States   (07/29/2024)

Advance Food International Inc. Recalls Shahzada Brand Cinnamon Powder 7oz Because of Possible Health Risk

Advance Food International, Inc. of Maspeth, NY is recalling Shahzada brand Cinnamon Powder in 7oz packing, because it has the potential to be contaminated with elevated levels of lead. Short term exposures to very low levels of lead may not elicit any symptoms. It is possible that increased blood l