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By Eric Johnson
Published Nov 04, 2024

Barricades being installed outside the U.S. Naval Observatory in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 3, 2024, Barricades being installed outside the U.S. Naval Observatory in Washington, D.C., on Nov. 3, 2024, Image credit: CALocal photo

A Cure for Election Anxiety

First: If, like me, you are one of those procrastinators who still celebrates Election Day the traditional way, a reminder that a few scrolls below, you will find a quick-and-easy list of stories from newsrooms in your county that might help you with your decisions.

And: Here is a handy, comprehensive set of Voting FAQs from our friends at Local News Matters.

The subject line for this edition of The Newsletter was going to be “a love letter to democracy”—a nickname Chris Neklason has given to a series of blog posts that we take turns writing. As you may have noticed, I chose a different angle.

I began to change my mind after I saw a couple of texts from family members in Washington D.C.. “The Observatory is being boarded up,” the first text read, referring to the historic U.S. Naval Observatory, which since 1977 has served as the residence of the vice president of the United States. A reply came shortly thereafter: “That means they’re expecting violence.”

A few minutes later I saw Steve Bannon’s face on the front page of the New York Times alongside a disturbing article, and that sealed the deal. A headline reported that Bannon and his allies are spreading disinformation “inviting chaos if Harris wins the race.” 

If you have been protecting your mental health by avoiding frightening news like this, forgive me; I believe the photograph above says all we need to say about our perilous situation right now, so let’s jump immediately to the love-letter portion of this note. 

Let’s get to the good news—the running theme here at the Newsletter: how democracy works.


A Love Letter to Democracy

It was Chris N. himself who suggested the headline just above as a subject for this week’s Newsletter. He did so because he spent much of last week reading scores of news stories in the 10 counties we serve, and came away from that exercise feeling hopeful.

All over Northern California, and all across the nation for that matter, people are in the process of making decisions about the cities and counties they call home. Chris, who is in the unique position of surveying and accumulating information about civic life from Big Sur to Lake Tahoe, reports that local news outlets statewide are doing a good job of getting their readers the information they need to vote.                                                                                                               

A few years back, when building the database that underlies California Local, Chris made a similar discovery— and wrote about it in our first love letter to democracy. Then-managing editor, Sharan Street made her own discovery several months later—her love note also has Evergreen value. Taken together, I hope they help with your sanity.


The Genius of Democracy

A graph of a social network.
In which we ponder human self organization.

I’ve Got a Hunch


And I know you have one as well. Let’s compare notes.

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.


Pumpkin spice season deserves a hearty breakfast

These pumpkin pancakes are a great choice for an autumn breakfast.
New! Spiced pumpkin pancakes make use of favorite fall flavors


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Get to Know a Group

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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Upcoming Community Ally Events

Truckee Tahoe Community Chorus logo We Toast the Days! Holiday Concert
Saturday December 14 2024   7:00 PM
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From Our Media Allies

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Sierra Sun logo Placer County Marks Veterans Day With Operation Greenlight; New Website for Local Military Discounts

Just in time for Veterans Day, Placer County has launched a new military appreciation website summarizing local business discounts available to veterans and active military personnel. Additionally, the county is joining Operation Greenlight, a national initiative encouraging residents to shine …

Tahoe Daily Tribune logo Philanthropy and Collaboration Are Driving Environmental Improvements at Lake Tahoe

We recently released our Tahoe Fund Annual Report, and it is clear that last year was full of transformational change for Lake Tahoe. Our partners throughout the region rallied around projects that are speeding up forest health treatments, undertaking large-scale …

Folsom Times logo El Dorado Hills Resident, County Supervisor John Hidahl Passes

El Dorado County is grieving the loss of longtime District 1 Supervisor John Hidahl, who passed away suddenly on Saturday afternoon at his home. Hidahl, a dedicated public servant and respected leader, was a longtime resident of El Dorado Hills, …

Local News Matters Stockton logo State Water Officials Alarmed at Discovery of Invasive Mussel Species in Port of Stockton

A “significant threat” to the Delta has been discovered in the Port of Stockton. The golden mussel (Limnoperna fortunei), an invasive, non-native freshwater bivalve, was recently discovered in the port by California Department of Water Resources staff while conducting routine …

Auburn Journal logo Auburn City Council Approves Transit Analysis

In their October 29 meeting, the Auburn City Council accepted the operational analysis for transit service and discussed different options for the future.

Tahoe Daily Tribune logo Lessons Learned From the Caldor Fire

The sound of Caldor Fire embers falling from the sky and landing on windshields made a familiar noise. "It was almost like it was sprinkling, but it was sprinkling embers,"

The Roseville Press Tribune logo Rocklin Pipeline Replacement Project Kicks Off

The Placer County Water Agency project to replace the main water pipeline to Rocklin has begun on Midas Avenue.

Folsom Telegraph logo Teamwork, Serendipity Help Rotary Club Aid Flying Samaritans

A combination of teamwork, determination and serendipity were all at play when the Rotary Club of Folsom donated a van to a beloved cause - the Flying Samaritans.

Folsom Telegraph logo City of Folsom Seeks Applicants for Commissions, Committees

The city invites citizens to take an active role to shape the future of Folsom by serving on a commission or committee.

“The city of Folsom thrives on the active participation of its residents in civic activities,” the city announced …

Folsom Times logo Historic Folsom Ice Rink Gearing Up to Officially Open Nov. 8

There’s been a hustle and bustle of activity in Historic Folsom this week and that can only mean one thing, the holiday season is fast approaching. With that most wonderful time of the year comes the return of one of …

Tahoe Daily Tribune logo Fall Means Feeding Frenzy for Black Bears

Autumn is here, and black bears are entering a temporary physiological state known as "hyperphagia." During hyperphagia, also known as the fall feeding frenzy, bears consume as much as they can to bring their fat stores to a level where …

Tahoe Daily Tribune logo Biannual Conservation Conference Returns to Tahoe, Focuses on Partnership

The Sierra Nevada Alliance is hosting its biannual conservation conference Nov. 7-8 at Lake Tahoe Community College in South Lake Tahoe. They've titled this year's theme as Strengthening Conservation Impact Through Partnership.

Folsom Times logo SacRT, Community Leaders Welcome $77M Grant for Zero-Emission Future

Leadership and key staff from the Sacramento Regional Transit District (SacRT) officially celebrated the acceptance of nearly $77 million in federal grant funding Wednesday morning during a special event attended by state officials, and dignitaries from Sacramento County. The gathering, …

Tahoe Daily Tribune logo Field Notes: Life in the Eldorado National Forest After Wildfire Strikes

Charred trees punctuated the Eldorado National Forest like blackened skeletons of their former selves, victims of the Mosquito Fire. Two years earlier, in 2022, the Mosquito Fire started in Tahoe National Forest, moved north to the Eldorado, and torched a …

Sierra Sun logo Candidate Profiles: Truckee Donner Utility District Board Election

Voters in Nevada County will elect or re-elect three board members to the Truckee Donner Public Utilities District board this November. 

Auburn Journal logo Placer County Elections Office Reminds Voters of Voting Options, Important Deadlines

The Placer County Elections Office is sharing details to ensure voters confidently and successfully cast their ballots in the Nov. 5 General Election.

Auburn Journal logo 2 Face Off for Assembly District 5 Seat

Voters will decide between two candidates for one open seat for California’s 5th District of the Assembly on Election Day, Nov. 5.

Loomis News logo Non-Perishables Now Available at Loomis Food Pantry

Pantry users are now able to choose non-perishable food they know their families will be able to use.

Sierra Sun logo Overview: Tahoe Forest Health District Board Election Candidates

Voters in Placer and Nevada county will elect or re-elect two board members to the Tahoe Forest Health District board this November. 

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Recent Local News

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Bucks Bar Bridge Replacement Project Advances

The El Dorado Board of Supervisors have approved certification of the environmental impact report necessary to begin work on replacing the Bucks Bar Bridge.

(11/01/2024) → Mountain Democrat

Apply for City of South Lake Tahoe Commissions and Boards

You are invited to apply for a seat on City of South Lake Tahoe commissions and boards and participate as a citizen advisor to government.

(10/31/2024) → South Tahoe Now

Voter Intimidation Reported

Reports of threats by several homeowners in South Lake Tahoe are being investigated as potentially criminal voter intimidation.

(10/29/2024) → South Tahoe Now

Donate to Bread & Broth

Local nonprofit Bread & Broth is asking the community for donations to support their annual Thanksgiving dinner.

(10/29/2024) → South Tahoe Now

Missed the Voter Registration Deadline? You Can Still Vote!

Learn more about how you can cast your ballot if you missed the October 21 voter registration deadline.

(10/29/2024) → Mountain Democrat
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Recent Statewide News

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• GivingTuesday Explained

Learn more about the annual fundraising day on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, this year falling on December 3.

(11/04/2024) → Monterey Herald

• Santa Clara County Ramps Up Response as Invasive Mosquito Detected in More Areas

The invasive Aedes aegypti mosquitos have been detected in more areas of Santa Clara County, prompting officials to hold meetings to discuss their response to the threat posed by the species. 

(11/01/2024) → Local News Matters

• A Century Later, Salmon Again Spawning in Klamath River After Dams Removed

Sixty years ago, I was a reporter for the Klamath Falls (Oregon) Herald and News and with my family lived in a small house on the Link River, which flows out of Upper Klamath Lake, draining a large portion of the Cascade mountain range.

(10/31/2024) → CalMatters

• It’s Hard to Vote in California When You’re Homeless. Why It Matters When Their Voices Are Silenced

Homeless Californians face many barriers to casting a ballot, even in elections that affect their lives. Some counties and nonprofits are trying to boost turnout.

(10/30/2024) → CalMatters

• A Third Straight Year With No California Salmon Fishing?  Early Fish Counts Suggest It Could Happen

Low counts of spawning salmon could mean another year without fishing. Experts say the outlook still has time to turn around.

(10/30/2024) → CalMatters

• Bird Flu Jumped From Cows to People. Now Advocates Want More Farmworkers Tested

A strain of bird flu that imperiled California poultry and cattle has jumped to people. In humans, the symptoms are mild and the virus has not been transmitted among people.

(10/29/2024) → CalMatters

• California’s Transition Off Carbon Fuels Could Upset Gasoline Supply, Prices

California motorists buy and consume a billion gallons of gasoline each month and are very sensitive about pump prices, which are markedly higher than those in other states. Naturally, they are a political football.

(10/29/2024) → CalMatters
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Government Announcements

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Image of United States seal. United States   (11/03/2024)

Savencia Cheese USA Announces an Expanded Voluntary Recall of Select Soft Ripened Cheeses

Savencia Cheese USA is recalling select soft ripened cheeses manufactured in our Lena manufacturing facility because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and
Image of United States seal. United States   (11/02/2024)

Savencia Cheese USA Announces Voluntary Recall of Select Soft Ripened Cheeses

Savencia Cheese USA is recalling select soft ripened cheeses manufactured in our Lena manufacturing facility because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and
Image of United States seal. United States   (10/31/2024)

HH Fresh Trading Corp Recalls Taiwan Enoki 200gx25pk Because of Possible Health Risk

Because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms suc
Image of United States seal. United States   (10/31/2024)

Elevation Foods Issues Recall Due to Undeclared Soy in Hannaford Seafood Salad

Danvers, Massachusetts. R. Walters LLC dba Elevation Foods is recalling 1,668 units of mislabeled Hannaford Seafood Salad 12oz because it contains an undeclared Soy allergen. Consumers with an allergy or severe sensitivity to soy run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they
Image of United States seal. United States   (10/29/2024)

A Tu Gusto, LLC Recalls Frozen Croquette Products Produced Without the Benefit of Inspection and Undeclared Allergens

WASHINGTON, Oct. 29, 2024 - A Tu Gusto, LLC, a Lehigh Acres, Fla. firm, is recalling approximately 7,630 pounds of frozen meat and poultry croquette products that were produced without...
Image of United States seal. United States   (10/28/2024)

Dynarex Corporation Expands Recall to Include Additional Products Due to Possible Health Risk

Dynarex Corporation is expanding the recall initiated on September 19, 2024, to include an additional 373 cases of item number 4875, Dynacare Baby Powder, 14 oz., as well as 647 cases of item number 4874, Dynacare Baby Powder, 4 oz., because they have the potential to be contaminated with asbestos.
Image of United States seal. United States   (10/28/2024)

Atwater's Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Tree Nuts in "Spider Web Tart"

Atwater's of Baltimore, MD, is recalling its clam shell packages of spider web tarts sold 10/19/24 and 10/20/24 because they contain undeclared almond flour. People who have allergies to tree nuts run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.
Image of United States seal. United States   (10/26/2024)

Fresh Express is Voluntarily Recalling a Limited Number of Gourmet Café Chicken Caesar Salad Bowls

Fresh Express is voluntarily recalling a limited number of Gourmet Cafe Chicken Caesar Salad Bowls due to the inclusion of recalled chicken items from BrucePac, an outside ingredient supplier. The BrucePac recall is due to possible Listeria monocytogenes contamination. The fresh vegetable components
Image of United States seal. United States   (10/25/2024)

Acme Smoked Fish Corporation Recalls Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon Due to Listeria Monocytogenes Contamination

Acme Smoked Fish Corporation is issuing a recall of 111 cases of Kirkland Signature Smoked Salmon in twin 12oz package, UPC 0 96619 25697 6, Lot# 8512801270, Best-by-Date 11/13/2024 due to laboratory testing confirming Listeria monocytogenes on October 21, 2024. Listeria monocytogenes, an organism w
Image of United States seal. United States   (10/25/2024)

Grand Central Bakery Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Egg in U-Bake Pie Crust, U-Bake Apple Pie, U-Bake Marionberry Pie, and U-Bake Chicken Pot Pie

October 25, 2024, Grand Central Bakery Portland, OR and Seattle, WA is recalling U- Bake frozen pie products and frozen pie dough because they may contain undeclared egg. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to eggs run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they co