Supervisor Cook Presents $3.7 Million For New Police Station

As many of you know, public safety is one of my top priorities in the First District. During last week’s Board of Supervisors meeting, I was pleased to present a $3.7 million check to the City of Victorville, which will go toward the land acquisition and design of a new police station across from City Hall.

The proposed station, set on 2 1/2 acres, will be triple the size of the current facility — complete with a beautiful civic plaza, public event space, and expanded parking/offices.

The funding for this project was requested by Victorville Mayor Pro-Tem Bob Harriman when I met with him earlier this year. When asked about the funding being approved, Mayor Pro-Tem Harriman said, "Public safety is a top priority for me and my colleagues on the city council. I’m proud to have led the charge to secure this funding for Victorville residents, and I’m grateful to Col. Cook for awarding funds for this project."

Mayor Liz Becerra added, "I’m supportive of anything we can do to support our sheriff’s deputies as they protect our citizens and community, and I know this funding will be an important step forward in the construction of our new police station."

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department provides contracted law enforcement services to fourteen cities and towns in San Bernardino County, including Victorville. The City’s contract with the County is the second largest, with an annual value of $38,000,369.

I am honored to contribute to this worthy project, which is sure to benefit the entire High Desert community.

Top Cat LLC Celebrates Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening

Constituent Services Director Samuel Shoup joined the community in celebration of Top Cat LLC ’s ribbon cutting and grand opening in Apple Valley. The company specializes in Christian-based youth and family events, including K.L.I.C (Kids Living In Christ) Nights on the last Friday of each month.

Congratulations on joining the Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce, and thank you for making a difference in the lives of so many families!

First District Deputies Honored with Sheriff's Medal of Valor

Congratulations to First District Deputies Larry Torres, Jacob Delano, Kevin Konior, and Ernesto Madrigal on being awarded the prestigious San Bernardino County Sheriff's Medal of Valor!

Their lifesaving actions on separate occasions exemplify the very best in law enforcement service. From entering burning buildings to rescuing residents in distress, these deputies displayed incredible bravery and a selfless disregard for their own safety.

Thanks to their heroism, lives were saved and families remained whole. We are truly grateful for their dedication to protecting our community.

County Fire Named a 2024 Fire Risk Reduction Community

Great news! The San Bernardino County Fire Protection District has been designated as a 2024 Fire Risk Reduction Community (FRRC). This means they are eligible for more grant funding for wildfire prevention efforts and residents may even see a benefit when it comes to homeowners insurance rates.

The FRRC designation is given to areas that meet strict fire safety standards and take proactive steps to reduce fire risk. San Bernardino County's Fire Protection District achieved this designation through collaboration with the County, community and fire safe councils.

"This designation helps us secure vital state funding that supports wildfire mitigation efforts, as well as support our residents in obtaining necessary insurance coverage at more affordable rates,” said Fire Chief Dan Munsey.

Free Workshops Planned to Assist Street Vendors with Regulations

San Bernardino County Environmental Health Services, in collaboration with San Bernardino County Code Enforcement, is hosting two workshops from 5-6:30 p.m. July 23 and 24 to assist prospective street vendors in navigating the licensing process and understanding important regulations.

The workshops (which will be viewable online or in person) will provide essential information about street vending laws, guidance on the types of food vending permits, and options beyond street vending. In-person and virtual workshops will be offered in both English and Spanish.

For more details, RSVP here.

Baker Valley Community Resource Fair Planned on July 30

The Baker Valley Community Resource Fair is planned from 4-7 p.m. July 30 at the Baker Unified School District gym.

Residents can meet with representatives for health and wellness resources, child support resources, Medi-Cal and Medicare resources, food distribution and more.

Baker Unified School District is located at 72100 School House Lane, Baker. For more information, call 760-733-4567.

Backpack Giveaways Planned Throughout the High Desert

The CAHELP Outreach Team in Apple Valley recently shared several back-to-school giveaway events happening throughout the High Desert. Here's a guide to a few:

• The Victor Valley Rescue Mission will host its Backpack Giveaway from 9 a.m to noon on July 18 at the San Bernardino County Fairgrounds, 14800 Seventh Street in Victorville. Registration is required!! To register, visit facebook.com/VVRescueMission.
• DannyBoy Records and Breakout Show will host its annual High Desert Backpacks Mics from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on July 20 at Adelanto City Hall, 11600 Air Expressway.
• Community Health Action Network will host its Back-to-School Backpack Giveaway from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on July 22 at High Desert Second Chance, 16666 Smoke Tree in Hesperia. To register, visit Chanhd.com or call 442-267-4444.
• The 8th Annual Barstow Community Back-to-School event is scheduled from 4 to 6 p.m. on Aug. 2 at Barstow High School, 430 S. First Avenue. For more information, visit facebook.com/barstowbackpacks.
• Boast in the Youth and 111 Hope Foundation will host its annual Back-to-School Bash from 3 to 7 p.m. on Aug. 2 at Adelanto Plaza and Event Center, 12000 Stadium Way. To register, visit facebook.com/111hopefoundation.
• Helping Hands For Young Women will host its 2nd Annual Backpack Drive from noon to 3 p.m. on Aug. 3 at Richardson Park, 11600 Air Expressway in Adelanto.
• San Bernardino County's Children and Family Services will host a Backpack Giveaway from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. August 3. There will be free backpacks and school supplies for the first 300 kids, in addition to activities such as face painting, arts and crafts, resources, board games and free food. The department is located at 15020 Palmdale Road, Victorville

Brightline West Continuing Road Work near Valley Wells Rest Area

Brightline West is continuing field investigation work on I-15 this week between the Valley Wells Rest Area and Lenwood Road.

Day borings are scheduled from 4 a.m. until noon in the wash bridge areas through Friday, July 19.

Motorists should proceed with extra caution through work zones and adhere to posted detour signs, speed limits and other signage.

City of Victorville Hosting Free Dump Day and Recycling Event

Victorville residents can dispose of unwanted items and recycle at the City's Free Dump Day & Recycle Event on Saturday, July 20. The event runs from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. 

Bring your proof of residency (photo ID and utility bill) to the former Victor Valley Jr. High athletic field (enter from 8th Street). Accepted materials include furniture, appliances, yard waste, and cardboard. Electronics, hazardous materials, and tires are not allowed.

For more information, please call 760-955-8615 or visit VictorvilleCA.gov/DumpItRightVV.

San Bernardino County's Regional Parks Are Half Off on Friday

Our Board of Supervisors passed a proclamation declaring July as Park and Recreation Month. This aligns with the National Recreation and Park Association’s (NRPA) resolution celebrating parks around the country.

As part of the celebration, our Regional Parks department is offering visitors 50 percent off admission and fishing permit fees on Friday, July 19.

• Cucamonga-Guasti: 800 N. Archibald Ave, Ontario
• Glen Helen: 2555 Glen Helen Pkwy., San Bernardino
• Mojave Narrows: 18000 Yates Road, Victorville
• Prado: 16700 S. Euclid Ave., Chino
• Yucaipa: 33900 Oak Glen Road, Yucaipa

Park admission on July 19 will be $4 per vehicle and fishing permits will be $6 per person. The discounted admission does not include camping rates or swimming fees at Glen Helen and Yucaipa swim facilities. All parks will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. and the lakes will be stocked with catfish on Thursday, July 18.

Pets are Free Through July 31 at San Bernardino County Animal Care

Looking for a new pet? Now through July 31, animal lovers can take advantage of the "Paws of July" campaign to adopt a furry companion at no cost. During this month-long event, all adoption fees are waived, providing a unique chance to welcome a new pet into your home without any financial barriers.

All pets come spayed/neutered, microchipped, and receive most vaccines.

For more information about animals available for adoption, please visit San Bernardino County Animal Care or call (800) 472-5609.

To make a donation to assist animals at the shelter, visit arffund.org.

Museum Offering Free Admission to Historic Oro Grande Cemetery

The San Bernardino County Museum is now offering free admission to its historic sites including the Oro Grande Cemetery. The Oro Grande Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in San Bernardino County with the first recorded burial dated in 1852.

The site has since been designated as a California Point of Historical Interest and features a memorial honoring Lt. Manuel P. Rodriguez, whose Purple Heart is on display at the Victor Valley Museum.

The cemetery is located at 1313 Olive Street in Oro Grande and is open daily.

Wrightwood Mountain Classic Car Show Planned on August 17

The 30th annual Wrightwood Mountain Classic Car Show (pictured above) is planned from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 17. The show features over vehicles dating from the 1920's to 1975 including American-made rods, customs, classics, coupes, muscle cars, trucks and special interest cars.

Enjoy live music by the The Modd Rodds, a vendor, food and merch zone, opportunity drawings and trophies. Pre-registration at $40 per car will be accepted through July 28 through the Wrightwood Chamber of Commerce. Day of registration is $50 per car. Visit the wrightwoodchamber.org to learn more.

High Desert Marines Car Show Happening August 3

The High Desert Marines are hosting their annual car show on Saturday, August 3, at Victor Valley College's Lower Campus in Victorville. The event is open to the public and runs from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Pre-registration is recommended at $25, while registration at the show will be $30. Vendors are also welcome.

Don't miss this chance to see some amazing cars and support the High Desert Marines! For more information or to register your car, contact Larry Avalos at (760) 887-6384.

Music & Movie Night Planned At Apple Valley Legacy Museum

The Apple Valley Legacy Museum will host a special Music & Movie Night on Friday, July 19. The event will begin with live music from 7-8 p.m., followed by an 8:15 p.m. screening of “Grand Theft Auto” starring Ron Howard. The 1977 movie was filmed in Apple Valley and Victorville.

Your $3 donation includes refreshments and a raffle ticket. The museum is located at 20601 Highway 18, Suite 153, in Apple Valley. For more information, please call (760) 985-1918.

Live Summer Concerts Continue Throughout the First District

It's gonna be a rockin' week in the High Desert! Here's your concert lineup in Apple Valley, Victorville and Wrightwood.

• Southbound & Co. is bringing the good vibes to Hook Park on Friday, July 19 (6-8:30 p.m.). Pack your picnic basket, grab some friends, and get ready to sing along with the City of Victorville! For more information, please call (760) 245-5551.
• Pop Vision and Twist on Taylor take the stage at the Apple Valley Sunset Concert Series on Thursday, July 18 (6-9 p.m.). It's going be a night of chart toppers and nostalgic Taylor Swift vibes at Civic Center Park in Apple Valley. Call (760) 240-7000 for more information.
• Head to Mountain High Resort's North Lodge in Wrightwood for free live music every Saturday through October (4-8 p.m.). This weekend (July 20) catch Delta Shade! Call (888) 754-7878 for details.
• The Sun City Cruisers are hosting a concert series benefiting Gold Star Families. This Saturday (July 20) enjoy Sangus - A Tribute to British Rock at the Mariposa Lodge Amphitheatre in Apple Valley. Cost is $25 or $30 at the door. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Email suncitycruisersav@gmail.com for more information.