Local Politics · El Dorado County
Rep. Ami Bera (D) and Robb Tucker (R) are competing for California’s remapped 3rd Congressional District seat in the general election on Tuesday, Nov. 3. The district was redrawn following Proposition 50, replacing incumbent Rep. Kevin Kiley. Bera won the June primary with 34.3% of the vote, while Tucker secured second place with 29.9%. Both candidates emphasize wildfire prevention and local economic issues, with Bera focusing on federal funding and healthcare, and Tucker advocating for rural community control.
Public Safety · Nevada County
Starting November 1, Nevada County residents can access free self-serve sand at five designated locations to prepare properties for potential flooding. The sites include the Nevada County Warehouse in Nevada City, Penn Valley Fire Protection District, North San Juan Community Hall, Higgins Fire Department in Auburn, and Old Corporation Yard in Truckee. Residents are urged to bring their own shovels and sandbags, as supplies may be limited by holiday closures.
Public Safety · Nevada County
Nevada County officials report a significant increase in black bear sightings, particularly in lower-elevation residential areas. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife attributes the rise to population growth, climate change affecting food sources, and legal restrictions on hunting methods. Officials advise residents to secure garbage cans, remove bird feeders, and bring pet food indoors to prevent attracting bears. While attacks are rare, experts recommend using noise to deter bears and reporting sightings to state authorities.
Public Safety
The National Weather Service in Sacramento issued a winter weather advisory Saturday at 11:45 a.m., in effect until Sunday at 7 a.m., covering the Sierra Nevada above 5,000 feet across Sierra-Nevada-Placer, El Dorado-Amador-Northern Alpine, and Calaveras-Tuolumne-Southern Alpine counties. Snow accumulations of up to 10 inches are expected above 7,000 feet, with up to 18 inches at the highest peaks, and minor accumulations possible down to 6,000 feet. Heaviest snowfall is expected overnight into Sunday morning as snow levels lower from 7,000–8,000 feet to 5,500–6,500 feet. Officials warn of slippery travel conditions, minor delays, and possible chain controls on Interstate 80 and Highway 50.
Community brief · Grass Valley, CA
Nevada Union High School will present its annual "Fall for Dance" production on November 19, 20, and 21, 2026, at the Don Baggett Theater in Grass Valley. Performances begin at 7 p.m. each evening, featuring over 150 dancers and original works by student choreographers. Tickets cost $15 with reserved seating and are available online or via cash/check at the box office from 5 to 7 p.m. before shows.
Community brief · North San Juan, CA
The North San Juan Fire Department is hosting its annual spaghetti dinner and Dutch Auction fundraiser on November 7 at Fire House 1 in North San Juan, California. The event runs from 4 to 8 p.m., with the auction beginning at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for children aged 6-12, while kids under 5 eat free. Proceeds support the local fire department.
