Every so often a book aligns so closely with national headlines it almost seems that its publication was timed. Such is the case with Who Is Government?, from author and editor Michael Lewis, which comes to the defense of a federal workforce currently under attack.
One of the eight heroic government workers profiled in this book is Ron Walters, head of the VA’s National Cemetery Administration. I knew before I read the chapter about Walters that I wanted to write about this book, but my resolve to do so deepened after I read about him and his profoundly important work.
As it happens, my beloved sister-in-law works for VA (the Department of Veterans Affairs), and has worked for the federal government for many years. Over much of that time, I have witnessed her dedication to the missions of the departments she has served, and heard stories about her colleagues who were equally committed. In recent weeks, on the family text thread, I learned about sad and scary stuff that later showed up in the headlines.
In this week’s edition of The Newsletter, we bring you the second of a two-part series about books that confront topics we hold dear. As always, below, a News Digest that delivers information of relevance to you and the place you call home. Also, as always, a local community group doing good work in your county, and a recipe to nourish your body and soul.
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By Eric Johnson
Published Mar 31, 2025
Who Is Government?
What Good is Government?
Michael Lewis is a journalist closely associated with Brad Pitt—who starred in two movies made from Lewis’s previous books Moneyball and The Big Short. Will this new book about government workers spawn a Hollywood blockbuster? Will it spawn an uprising to defend much-maligned federal employees? We shall see.
Unlikely Tales of Bureaucratic Heroism
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 Spring! cookbook.
Winter meets spring in strawberry-orange compote
Get to Know a Group
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Big Brothers Big Sisters |
Big Brother Big Sisters provides children facing adversity with strong, enduring, professionally supported mentorship. The chapter serves Sacramento and Yolo counties, as well as southern Placer County.
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From Our Media Allies |
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Placer County Water Agency Introduces Digital Annual Report |
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On the week of March 31, Placer County Water Agency debuted its first all-digital annual report online. This new microsite is housed on the agency’s PCWA.net website and offers a transparent look at the agency’s operations, finances, and community impact. … |
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Child Abuse Prevention Month Activities Will Support and Educate Placer Families Throughout April |
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Earlier this month, the Board of Supervisors approved a proclamation declaring April as Child Abuse Prevention Month in Placer County, kicking off a month-long series of activities and events that will culminate with the county’s annual Child and Family Resource … |
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Medication Take-Back Event Approaching |
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As Placer County prepares to host another free medication take-back event on April 26, local agencies continue to encourage residents to take advantage of permanent drop boxes and mail-in options that offer a safe, free way to dispose of medication … |
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Placer County Water Agency Continues to Address Water Delivery Challenges |
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At its March 20 meeting, the Placer County Water Agency (PCWA) Board of Directors received an update on the ongoing efforts to address water supply challenges caused by damage to Pacific Gas and Electric Company’s (PG&E) Lake Spaulding Powerhouses and … |
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Tahoe Awaits Details Following California State of Emergency Proclamation to Expedite Fuels Reduction Projects |
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The Tahoe Fire and Fuels Team is awaiting details from California Gov. Gavin Newsom's office and the California Natural Resources Agency (CNRA) after the governor issued a Proclamation of a State of Emergency at the start of March in response … |
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Gatekeeper’s Museum Reopens for 2025 Season With New Exhibits |
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The Gatekeeper’s Museum has announced its 2025 featured exhibitions, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into Lake Tahoe’s rich history and culture. From the elegance of the Gilded Age to the heartwarming tales of Tahoe’s canine companions, this season’s lineup promises … |
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Be Fire Ready: Learn How to Protect Your Home, Community at South Shore’s Fire Forum |
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The Tahoe Chamber and South Tahoe Chamber of Commerce invite the community to an essential Fire Forum on April 17 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the TADA Building at South Tahoe High School. |
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Placer County Anticipates More Than 1K Affordable Units in Coming Years |
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The Placer County Board of Supervisors received an overview of progress made to date in the 2021-29 housing element during its March 18 meeting. |
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Placer County Water Agency Still Addressing Delivery Challenges Following PG&E; Powerhouse Damage |
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The Placer County Water Agency Board of Directors received an update during its March 20 meeting on the ongoing efforts to address water supply challenges caused by damage to PG&E's Lake Spaulding Powerhouses and its impact on water deliveries. |
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Housing Challenges and Solutions Around the Lake: An Overview |
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With limited land, varying policies between counties, and environmental regulations to consider, it's no wonder that housing development has been a challenge in the Basin. And after the COVID-19 pandemic increased remote workers who flocked to tourist destinations, housing issues … |
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Odd Fellows Building: Interesting History, Uncertain Future |
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The Independent Order of Odd Fellows building on 5th Street, across from Beermann’s Plaza, has stood since 1864. The original section was dedicated on Dec. 8, 1864, making it one of the oldest structures still standing in Lincoln. |
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Rocklin Planning Commission Approves New Baseball/Softball Training Facility |
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The Rocklin Planning Commission approved a permit March 18 for the Swing Hard Baseball Training Facility at 3845 Atherton Road. Swing Hard is in Stanford Business Park, also known as Atherton Tech Center, constructed 1988. |
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90-Year-Old Roseville Park to Get Pickleball Makeover |
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Pickleball wasn't a thing yet when Roseville built Woodbridge Park in 1934. However, young Humphrey Bogart was asking "Tennis, anyone?" on Broadway, according to Hollywood lore. |
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Art League of Lincoln Seeks Operations Manager |
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Would you like to be a part of a great team at a growing art organization? The Art League of Lincoln is looking for a dynamic individual to become its new operations manager. |
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Calling Local Artists: Artsy Entrepreneurship Academy Launching in Roseville |
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The Creative Economy Entrepreneurship Initiative is launching the Artsy Entrepreneurship Academy from "Makers to Market," a comprehensive four-week program designed to equip aspiring artists, crafters and creatives with the skills to turn their passions into successful businesses. |
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El Dorado High School Sophomore Wins Statewide Poetry-Writing Competition |
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Erin Levinson, the 2025 El Dorado County Poetry Out Loud champion, won first place in California’s statewide poetry-writing competition, Poetry Ourselves. |
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Community Welcomes Anindell to Folsom With Official Ribbon Cutting |
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Community members, local leaders, and representatives from both the Choose Folsom and the El Dorado Hills Chamber gathered Thursday afternoon to celebrate the grand opening of Anindell, Folsom’s newest luxury living facility for adults aged 55 and over. |
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SWEP Honored by TTUSD for 30 Years of Environmental Education and Action |
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For three decades, Sierra Watershed Education Partnerships has been at the forefront of environmental education in the Tahoe-Truckee region, fostering stewardship and hands-on learning for students. This year, their dedication was recognized with a Certificate of Recognition from the Tahoe … |
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Azul Latin Kitchen Raises $13,000 for Bread and Broth |
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Azul Latin Kitchen, located in the Heavenly Village, recently awarded a check for $13,000 to Bread and Broth. The donation was largely in part from a $1 donation by Azul for every Queso Fundido appetizer sold (fundido appetizer contributions put … |
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Tahoe’s Largest Networking Event Returns April 3: The Ultimate Community Showcase |
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On Thursday, April 3, 2025, the Tahoe Blue Event Center will transform into a bustling hub of connection, discovery, and community pride during the 2025 Go Local Business Expo. Known as the Tahoe region's premier networking event, this highly anticipated … |
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10-4! Biggest Turnout Yet for Loomis Hamfest |
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In this day and age where most people prefer to use social media to connect with family, friends and others, there is still a group of people who enjoy communicating through a device other than their cell phone. |
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Placer County Veterans Monument Designer Receives Recognition |
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Rick McCarter recently was honored with five certificates of recognition presented by Bryan Ludwig, vice president of the Placer County Veterans Monument, at a Sienna Restaurant luncheon. |
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Lime Industry Is Focus of Placer County Historical Society Dinner |
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Jim Wood is the speaker on the History of the Lime Industry in Placer County at the next Historical Society Dinner at 6 p.m. April 3 at the Auburn Veterans Hall, 100 East St. |
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Loomis Soroptimist to Host Fiesta Bingo April 30 |
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Soroptimist International of Loomis Basin will host the Fiesta Bingo fundraiser on Wednesday, April 30. This family-friendly event will be held at the Blue Goose Event Center, 3550 Taylor Rd, Loomis CA 95650. |
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April 2 Vendor Workshop to Conduct Business With Placer County |
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Join Placer County's Procurement Services Division to learn how the county contracts with vendors to provide services and goods that are critical to serving our residents. |
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Chapa-De Indian Health Breaks Ground on South Placer Health Center |
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Chapa-De Indian Health is proud to announce that construction is officially underway for its new South Placer Health Center located at 1451 West Stanford Ranch Road in Rocklin. |
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Tahoe City Downtown Association Welcomes New Staff, Board Members |
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The Tahoe City Downtown Association has announced its new staff and board members. Katherine Hill has been named the Executive Director and Pam Pokorny is the new Event Manager. Both started their positions in March. |
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CHP Celebrates Largest Academy Graduation |
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The California Highway Patrol (CHP) promoted 125 cadets to the rank of officer. The graduation ceremony on March 21 marked the successful completion of a 26-week intensive training schedule at the California Highway Patrol Academy in West Sacramento. |
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Gatekeeper’s Museum Announces 2025 Featured Exhibitions |
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The Gatekeeper's Museum in Tahoe City is kicking off their annual programing and regular hours starting April 2. |
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Kevin Kiley Slammed by Rallies and Town Hall Attendees in South Lake Tahoe |
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After multiple unanswered invitations from South Lake Tahoe residents to a town hall and a virtual town hall of his own, representative Kevin Kiley visited the city, only to tour the high school and meet with the Chamber of Commerce … |
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Using Someone Else’s Ski Pass Could Fetch You a Felony Charge |
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The Placer County Sheriff's Office is cracking down on ski pass fraud by partnering with area ski resorts. |
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Recent Local News |
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Recent Statewide News |
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Government Announcements |
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Undeclared Allergen in Trader Joe's Hot Honey Mustard Dressing with Use By Date of 05/27/2025 Issued by Fresh Creative Foods |
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Fresh Creative Foods is voluntarily recalling a single item with a specific use by date, produced at a regional facility and distributed to limited Trader Joe's locations. The product is Trader Joe's Hot Honey Mustard Dressing, with a Use By Date of 05/27/2025 due to labeling error. The incorrect
United States (03/30/2025)
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Cromer Food Services, Inc. Recalls Chicken Salad on White Sandwich Due to Undeclared Milk Allergen |
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Cromer Food Services, Inc. is recalling all lots of our CFS Cromer Food Service brand Chicken Salad on White Sandwich with UPC 31166 & UPC 13172 because it contains undeclared milk.
United States (03/27/2025)
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Frito-Lay Issues Limited Recall for Tostitos Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips for Undeclared Milk |
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Frito-Lay today issued a recall of a limited number of 13 oz. bags of Tostitos Cantina Traditional Yellow Corn Tortilla Chips that could include nacho cheese tortilla chips, and therefore may contain undeclared milk.
United States (03/26/2025)
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The Bakery Group Issues Allergen Alert on Undeclared Milk, Soy and Yellow FD&C #5 In Specific Bread and Hamburger Buns |
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The Bakery Group of Dallas, Tx is recalling 629 cases of Dense Brioche Pullman loaves, #654203 and 104 cases of 4.5in Brioche HB Buns, #54500 because they may contain undeclared Milk, Soy and Yellow FD&C#5. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to Soy, Wheat Milk or Yellow FD&C#5 run the
United States (03/25/2025)
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Dessert Holdings Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Tree Nut Allergen in Favorite Day(TM) Gourmet New York Style Cheesecake 6oz/2ct |
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Dessert Holdings LLC is recalling Target brand Favorite Day(TM) Gourmet New York Style Cheesecake 6oz/2ct, Lot code 25028A1 000039133 UPC 0 85239 09690 1 due to product mislabeling resulting in undeclared pecans. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to pecans run the risk of serious or life
United States (03/19/2025)
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Nestlé USA Announces Voluntary Recall of a Limited Quantity of Lean Cuisine® and STOUFFER'S® Frozen Meals Due to Potential Presence of Foreign Material |
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ARLINGTON, VA., March 17, 2025 - Nestle USA is initiating a voluntary recall of a limited quantity of Lean Cuisine and STOUFFER'S frozen meals due to the potential presence of wood-like material.
United States (03/17/2025)
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Seabear Company Recalls Smoked Salmon Chowder and Alehouse Clam Chowder Because of Possible Health Risk |
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SeaBear Company of Anacortes, Washington is recalling two variations of seafood chowder (Smoked Salmon Chowder & Alehouse Clam Chowder), because it has the potential to be contaminated with Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium which can cause life-threatening illness or death.
United States (03/15/2025)
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C.H. Guenther & Son LLC Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Egg in "365 Whole Foods Market Small Bites Macaroni & Cheese" |
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C.H. Guenther & Son LLC of San Antonio, TX, is recalling its 365 Whole Foods Market Small Bites Macaroni & Cheese because it may contain undeclared eggs and meat ingredients.
United States (03/14/2025)
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Har Maspeth Corp Issues Allergy Alert on Undeclared Eggs in "Jinga Glass Noodles w/ Vegetables (Japche)" |
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HAR Maspeth Corp, Maspeth NY, is recalling its 8 ounce and 12 ounce packages of "JINGA GLASS NOODLES W/ VEGETABLES (Japche)" because they contain undeclared eggs.
United States (03/14/2025)
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Liaoning Cheng Da USA Inc. of San Gabriel, California is Recalling Hot Pot Sauce Because it May Contain Undeclared Peanut, Soy, Sesame, and Wheat |
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On March 11, 2025, Liaoning Cheng Da USA Inc. of San Gabriel, California is recalling Hot Pot Sauce Because it may contain undeclared peanut, soy, sesame, and wheat. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to peanut, soy, sesame, and wheat run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergi
United States (03/11/2025)
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