News from Supervisor Paul Cook | August 21, 2024

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NEW COOK MASTHEAAD
quake

Are You Prepared for the Big One?

Living in California, the threat of earthquakes is a reality we all face.

Here in the First District, that threat carries extra weight as the infamous San Andreas Fault cuts right through the Cajon Pass and into Wrightwood. The 2019 Trona earthquakes were a stark reminder of the power of seismic activity, serving as a wake-up call to ensure our communities are ready for anything nature throws our way.

While we can't predict when an earthquake might strike, we can be prepared to face it head-on.

Here are some key steps you can take to be earthquake prepared in the First District:

Become a CERT Volunteer

The Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program teaches valuable disaster response skills, including fire safety, light search and rescue, team organization, and disaster medical operations. This comprehensive 3-day course equips you with the skills to help yourself and your community during an emergency. 

  • A free 20-hour CERT training course is happening September 13-15 in Wrightwood. Sign up by emailing certwrightwood@gmail.com.
  • In Adelanto, the CERT Basic Training program is scheduled for September 27-29 at the Adelanto Stadium & Event Center. Get in touch with pphcert@gmail.com or call 760-887-1847 to register.

Stay Informed with Reverse 911 (TENS)

  • Sign up for TENS notifications at SBCFire.com. This system allows the Fire and Sheriff's Departments to send critical updates directly to your phone during emergencies.

Download the Ready SBCounty App

  • Available on App Store and Google Play, the Ready SBCounty app provides a wealth of resources on emergency preparedness. Get local news, access contact details for resources, find local maps, and create a personalized disaster plan for your family and home.

Visit Prepare.SBCounty.gov for More Safety Tips

  • Our website is packed with information on how to prepare for a variety of emergencies, including earthquakes. By taking these simple steps, you can significantly increase your preparedness for an earthquake and ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones.

Remember, a little planning today can make a world of difference tomorrow. Let's work together to build a resilient First District!

COMMUNITYchamber

Patricio & Sandra’s Bracero Haven Celebrates Grand Opening

Congratulations to Patricio & Sandra’s Bracero Haven (PSBH) on their grand opening and ribbon cutting with the Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce! Constituent Services director Samuel Shoup was pleased to join the celebration.

The business offers seniors support with essential daily activities such as bathing, grooming, dressing and toileting. Caregivers also can assist with medication reminders, meal preparation, incontinence care, mobility assistance, and much more.

PSBH is located at 19015 Town Center Dr, Ste 103, Apple Valley. Call (760) 217-6863 or go to their website to learn more.


PUBLIC SAFETYstats

Sheriff's Department Highlights Gang & Narcotics Statistics

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has released its July statistics, highlighting the work of the Gangs and Narcotics Division.

Detectives successfully seized a significant amount of illegal substances and firearms during the month. This includes the confiscation of over 294 pounds of methamphetamine, 35 pounds of fentanyl, 25 handguns, 7 ghost guns, and 13 rifles. Additionally, the division eradicated over 28,000 marijuana plants.

The department’s commitment to community safety is evident in these results. By removing dangerous weapons and drugs from the streets, the Sheriff’s Department is working tirelessly to create a safer environment for residents.


VETERANSBarstow vet

Learn More About the Barstow Veterans Home, Support Services

The California Department of Veterans Affairs (CalVet) is reaching out to connect with veterans and their families. They aim to raise awareness of the many support services available, ensuring veterans receive the support they deserve.

Here's how CalVet can help:

  • Barstow Veterans Home: Interested veterans or their loved ones can tour the Barstow Veterans Home or speak with the Admissions Team by calling 760-252-6628.
  • Veterans Home Careers: The Barstow Veterans Home is also hiring! Explore career opportunities and learn more about joining their team by visiting https://www.calvet.ca.gov/jobs.
  • Veteran Benefits: Local Interagency Network Coordinators (LINC) are available to answer questions about benefits for veterans and their families. Veterans or community partner organizations can contact their regional LINC for assistance.
  • CalVet Home Loan Services: Veterans seeking homeownership assistance can reach Brad Pedersen at CalVet Home Loan Services by calling 916-642-4137 or email Brad.Pedersen@calvet.ca.gov
  • Veteran Employment: The State of California Employment Development Department offers specialized services for veterans. Veterans seeking employment assistance can contact Rick Rocha, Veterans Employment Representative at 951-955-3406 or visit link to EDD Veteran Services.

Spread the Word!

Please share this information with other veterans to ensure everyone has access to these valuable resources. For more information about the Barstow Veterans Home, contact Laura Moraco, Public Information Officer, at 760-252-6222.


COUNTYboard

Board Meeting Videoconferencing Available for High-Demand Topics

The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors recently announced changes to the use of videoconferencing sites at the Jerry Lewis High Desert Government Center in Hesperia and Bob Burke Joshua Tree Government Center.

Previously, these sites were staffed and available for every Board meeting. However, due to low public usage (only five people visited the Joshua Tree site and one person visited the Hesperia site in 2024 so far), the County is making adjustments to optimize resource allocation.

The videoconferencing sites will now be used specifically when Board agendas include topics likely to generate significant public participation from the High Desert communities.

Residents can still participate in Board meetings by submitting written comments electronically at BoardMeetingComments@cob.sbcounty.gov or via mail.


RESOURCESbaby

Community Baby Shower Planned at Desert Mountain Apple Valley

The Desert Mountain Educational Service Center in Apple Valley, in partnership with San Bernardino County Department of Public Health, is hosting a Community Baby Shower for expecting parents on Aug. 24. The event will run from 1-4 p.m., complete with giveaways, resources, panel discussions, experts and more.

The center is located at 17800 CA-18, Apple Valley, in Desert Mountain Plaza. For additional information, please call (760) 242-6322.


car

FTC Warning: Beware of Sneaky Add-Ons at Car Dealerships!

Thinking about buying a car? Here's a heads up: some dealerships might try to sneak unwanted add-ons into your sales contract.

The FTC recently caught a dealership group adding thousands of dollars in illegal fees for things like service contracts or paint coatings. 

Here's how to avoid getting ripped off:

  • Read everything. Ask for a printed copy of your sales contract and financing agreement. Don't sign anything on a screen that hides the details.
  • Know your total cost. Get it in writing, including any fees or add-ons. This way you can spot any dealership trickery!
  • Shop around for financing. Don't get stuck with the dealership's high interest rates. Check banks, credit unions, and other lenders for better deals.
  • Suspect something fishy? Report it to the FTC

ROADSsignal

Traffic Signal Upgrades Coming to 7th Street in Victorville 

Get ready for some traffic changes, Victorville! The City is upgrading traffic signals along 7th Street through Friday, August 23.

To keep you safe during the upgrades, intersections will be temporarily converted to four-way stops between 7 a.m.-4 p.m. each day.

Here’s the schedule:

  • Wednesday, Aug 21: 7th St. at Mojave Dr.
  • Thursday, Aug 22: 7th St. at Forrest Ave.
  • Friday, Aug 23: 7th St. at B St.

Please drive carefully and obey all traffic signs!


Brightline West Continuing Work This Week Near Baker

Brightline West is continuing field investigation work along Interstate 15 this week. This work will include activities like soil testing and surveying and may cause temporary lane closures.

When: Today through Friday, August 23, 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: I-15 south of Baker Road to north of Afton Road

Please drive with extra caution through work zones, obey posted signs, and expect delays. Thank you for your patience as we work to bring high-speed rail to the region!


Southbound Main Street On-Ramp Closed Through August 30

Caltrans is undertaking a major rehabilitation project on Interstate 15 in San Bernardino County. This 59-mile project, spanning from Hesperia to Victorville, will improve lanes, ramps, and drainage systems.

Drivers should anticipate lane and ramp closures, including a 10-day closure of the southbound Main Street on-ramp through August 30.

Nightly alternating lane closures will occur to facilitate concrete and asphalt placement. Southbound lane closures will be in effect from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m., while northbound closures will be from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m.

Due to construction, commercial vehicles should be aware of height and oversize load restrictions. To avoid delays, consider using alternate routes like SR-138 to SR-18. Slow down and be cautious when driving through construction zones.


educationfamily

County Schools Planning Annual Family Engagement Summit

The backpacks are packed, the pencils are sharpened, and it's officially back to school time! While your child embarks on a new year of learning, remember — your support is crucial to their success!

The San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools is hosting a free event designed to equip parents with the tools and strategies to actively participate in their child's academic and life journey. The event will take place from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, September 14, at Cal State San Bernardino.

Enjoy a continental breakfast and a delicious all-you-can-eat lunch while learning valuable tips and resources.

Transportation is available upon request by contacting Alejandra Munoz at alejandra.munoz@hesperiausd.org.

Limited space available! Register today at the link below.

Register Now 2

ANIMAL CAREshepherd

San Bernardino County Animal Care Offering Free Adoptions

Join San Bernardino County Animal Care for the "Clear the Shelters" adoption campaign now through Sept. 10 at the Big Bear and Devore Animal shelters. All adoptions are FREE for qualifying pets and include spaying/neutering, microchipping, and most vaccines.

For information about animals available for adoption in San Bernardino County’s Big Bear and Devore shelters, please visit San Bernardino County Animal Care.


museumornithology

Ornithology Exhibit Now Showing at Victor Valley Museum

The Victor Valley Museum is showcasing "Avis Marvelous: Ornithology on the Western Frontier," an exhibition that explores the work of notable avian artists who documented the birds of North America during the 18th and 19th centuries.

The artworks are a collection of 50 historic engravings featuring a variety of birds ranging from the Columbia Magpie Jay to the Black-chinned Hummingbird, and Mountain Bluebird.

As 19th century reproduction technology improved, avian art became widespread and some artists became household names. John James Audubon, a contributor of the paintings, said, “I know that I am no scholar, but I am aware that no man living knows better than I do the habits of our birds; no man living has studied them as much as I have done.”

The Victor Valley Museum is located at 11873 Apple Valley Rd., in Apple Valley. The museum is open Wednesday through Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. General admission is $10 (adult), $8 (military or senior), $7 (student), and $5 (child ages 6 to 12). Children five and under and museum members are admitted free. Parking is free and the museum is accessible to persons with disabilities.

The exhibit closes at Victor Valley Museum on Oct. 27, 2024. Learn more.


cleanupscleanups

Community Cleanups Planned Throughout the First District

A community cleanup event will be held in the Town of Apple Valley on Saturday, September 14 from 9 a.m. until noon. Volunteers are invited to join in cleaning streets, sidewalks, and vacant lots. Those interested in participating can register by Monday, September 9th to receive supplies, lunch, and an event T-shirt, while supplies last. To sign up for this event, contact the Recreation Department at (760) 240-7880 or visit avrecreation.org.

Calling all Hesperia residents! Mark your calendars for Neighborhood Beautification Day on September 19. This is your chance to declutter your home and dispose of bulky furniture and household items at no charge! The event runs from 8 a.m. to noon, or until the bins are full, and takes place across the street from Advance Disposal at 17105 Mesa Street. Breathe new life into your space and help keep Hesperia beautiful. For more information, visit cityofhesperia.us.

San Bernardino County Tri-Community residents have a chance to dispose of household hazardous waste safely and responsibly from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, September 28. The collection event will be held at the County Transportation/Flood Yard located at 1450 State Highway 2 in Wrightwood. Accepted items include antifreeze, batteries, electronics, cleaners, medications, paint, and more. However, hazardous materials like asbestos, explosives, and medical waste besides sharps cannot be dropped off. For a complete list of accepted and unacceptable items, or for any questions, residents can call the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District's Household Hazardous Waste Program at 800-645-9228.


librarylego

LEGO Building Contest Planned Saturday in Apple Valley

Unleash your inner LEGO architect! The San Bernardino County Library is hosting their first-ever LEGO Building Contest on August 24 at the Newton T. Bass Apple Valley Branch Library.

Grab a registration form from the branch or their website and get creative! They're looking for the most imaginative, biggest, most intricate, and colorful LEGO creations, with bonus points for designs inspired by books or the library itself. So dust off your bricks and get building! Learn more here.


1ST DISTRICT FUNhidas

Public Stargazing Event Planned Friday in Apple Valley

The High Desert Astronomical Society (HiDAS) is inviting the public to a stargazing event at 8:30 p.m. Friday evening. HiDAS members will set up telescopes on the observatory grounds, offering attendees the opportunity to explore the night sky through their equipment. Additionally, the observatory will be open, allowing visitors to view celestial objects through its powerful telescopes.

Those interested in attending are encouraged to RSVP. This free event will take place at 20702 Thunderbird Road, Apple Valley.


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