 
Team Cook was pleased to join the community for the “State of Hesperia” luncheon last week. The City of Hesperia outlined many of its accomplishments during the past year in areas including public safety, infrastructure, economic development and much more.
A highlight of the event is the “Shining Star” awards, where Hesperia Council Members select individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the community. Congratulations to Martial Haprov of Mojave Desert AQMD, Daniel Walden of Victor Valley College, Carlos Sarmiento of C.A.R.S. Body Shop, Hesperia Days Rodeo organizer James Blocker, and Kim McBride and Julie Bird, who were this year’s award recipients.
Mayor Bird’s "Mayor’s Award" went to his father, Larry Bird Jr., who was recognized for his longtime service to the community.
Thanks to all of the awardees for making a positive impact in the First District!
Policy Director Christopher Porter was pleased to join Sol Radiology in celebration of their Greater High Desert Chamber of Commerce grand opening and ribbon cutting.
The Victorville business specializes in a variety of services, including X-ray, mammograms, ultrasounds, MRIs, CT scans and more.
Congratulations!!!
 
The American Red Cross Southern California Region and Wrightwood Fire Department are teaming up to Sound the Alarm with a FREE smoke alarm installation event!
Join them from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 16 to help educate residents about fire safety and install lifesaving smoke alarms in local homes.
Adult volunteers (over 18) are needed to make this event a success. Click the link to register for area code 92397 and become a volunteer!
 
The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors recently announced that Nov. 4-11 is Operation Green Light for Veterans! This nationwide effort is all about shining a light on the challenges our veterans face and the help that's available to them and their families.
What does it mean?
It's simple: we're turning on green lights! Here in the First District, we'll be lighting up the Veterans Affairs office at the High Desert Government Center and our First District Office in Apple Valley.
We're encouraging everyone – residents, businesses, and organizations – to join in by changing one light bulb to green at home or work.
Why green light?
A green light symbolizes hope, renewal and well being. By lighting up our communities, we're showing our veterans they are seen, appreciated, and supported. We open conversations about the needs of veterans and the services that support veteran communities.
Want to learn more?
Click here to find out how you can get involved in Operation Green Light.
Disabled American Veterans Chapter 92 is holding its annual “Forget-Me-Not Drive” Nov. 1-10, with donation and information booths placed at Apple Valley Stater Bros. locations.
“National Forget-Me-Not Day reminds us about the sacrifices Veterans have made, and our duty to care for them,” said DAV Chapter 92 president Bill Kinnard.
For more information, contact Gregory Seidel at (760) 508-1056 or email BillKinnardChapter@DAV92HighDesert.com
Join American Legion Post 855 and Dempsey’s Pub for the Veteran's Chili Food Festival on Saturday, Nov. 2 in Helendale. Doors open at noon and a $10 entry fee gets you access to a day filled with fun, food, and camaraderie.
Enjoy delicious chili tastings from noon-2 p.m., followed by a flag ceremony at 2:30 p.m. The excitement continues with a huge raffle at 4 p.m. and chili awards at 3 p.m. Live music by DJ KIPP and Better Than Bad will keep the atmosphere lively throughout the day.
All proceeds from the event will benefit our veterans at the Barstow Veterans Home. You can also show your support by sponsoring a veteran on our Christmas Angel Tree.
For more information, please call 760-241-6990 or 202-861-2700.
 
The Victor Valley Community Services Council will be hosting "Healthy for the Holidays" nutrition classes in November. These informative sessions are designed to help individuals make healthier choices during the festive season.
The classes will be held from 10:30 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. on Mondays, Nov. 4, 11 and 18 at 16692 Mojave Drive, Victorville.
Topics covered will include eating the MyPlate Way, label reading, and sodium and sugar awareness. As an incentive, participants who complete all three classes will receive a Stater Brothers grocery gift card. To reserve a spot, please call 760-243-9646.
 
Did you know? The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors recently approved a $1.1 million construction contract with KNC Construction to revamp the equestrian facilities at Mojave Narrows Regional Park.
The project will introduce a prefabricated barn, complete with four horse stalls and a storage room. Additionally, two outdated horse corrals will be replaced with modern structures. To enhance the equestrian experience, the park will also see improvements in water and electrical systems, as well as the addition of more water troughs, hitching posts, and seating areas.
 
Attention Wrightwood residents and businesses affected by the Bridge Fire!
Following the Bridge Fire that began on Sept. 8, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is offering low-interest federal disaster loans to help you recover.
What's Available?
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Financial Assistance: Businesses of all sizes, homeowners, renters, and most private non-profit organizations can apply for loans to repair or replace damaged property, equipment, or lost inventory.
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Economic Injury Assistance: Even businesses that didn't suffer property damage can get help if the fire impacted their income.
Loan Details:
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Businesses: Up to $2 million for property damage, with interest rates as low as 4%.
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Homeowners: Up to $500,000 for property damage, with interest rates as low as 2.813%.
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Renters and Homeowners (personal property): Up to $100,000, with interest rates as low as 2.813%.
- Loan terms are up to 30 years, with interest not accruing for the first 12 months.
How to Apply:
Visit SBA.gov/disaster or call (800) 659-2955. You can also get help in person at the Disaster Loan Outreach Center:
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Wrightwood Library – Community Room
6011 Pine St., Wrightwood, CA 92397
Mondays-Wednesdays: 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Thursdays-Fridays: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Closed: Veteran's Day (Nov. 11)
Closes: Tuesday, Nov. 19 at 7 p.m.
Important Deadlines:
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Property Damage Applications: Due Dec. 23, 2024
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Economic Injury Applications: Due July 23, 2025
 
Mojave National Preserve has announced the reopening of Cima Road following significant safety improvements. The newly paved and improved road features wider turns, clearly defined shoulders, and vehicle turnouts, enhancing the visitor experience and reducing the risk of accidents.
Since 2012, the Preserve has seen 10 fatalities and 121 injuries on its roads. To address this, the National Park Service, in partnership with the Federal Highway Administration, invested $24 million in a comprehensive road improvement project.
Over the past year, 18 miles of Cima Road underwent major rehabilitation, including road realignment, culvert installation, and tortoise fencing.
The installation of five miles of tortoise fencing along Cima Road will help protect the endangered desert tortoise. Visitors are encouraged to plan ahead, drive safely, and respect wildlife while exploring the Preserve's stunning landscapes.
Join them for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 6 near the park entrance sign on Cima Road. A ranger-led hike up Teutonia Peak will follow the ceremony.
 
Calling all job seekers! Don't miss the 1st Annual Manufacturing Showcase and Hiring Event hosted by the High Desert America's Job Center of California from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Nov. 21.
The event will be held at Victor Valley College High Desert Training Center, located at 13313 Sabre Boulevard, Suite 2, Victorville.
Here's what you can expect:
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Connect with employers: Meet representatives from leading companies in manufacturing, logistics, and related industries.
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Showcase your skills: Bring your resume and come prepared to impress!
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Gain valuable insights: Get advice from industry professionals and learn about training and apprenticeship opportunities.
This event is your chance to land your dream job in a growing field, right here in the First District. Register now!
 
Victor Valley residents, it's time to shred! The annual Shred Fest, Compost Giveaway, and Recycling Event is happening from 8 a.m. until noon on Saturday, Nov. 2. Head down to the Victor Valley Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) located at 17000 Abbey Ln., Victorville, to participate.
Residents can take advantage of free services like document shredding (up to four 20-pound bags or boxes), electronics and appliance drop-off (including TVs, computers, and scrap metal), and even free mattress and box spring recycling (excluding sleeper beds, crib mattresses, and commercial waste). Don't forget to bring your own hard-sided container to receive free compost made from local food scraps and yard trimmings! The event also features a Buy Back Center where you can redeem CRV bottles and cans for cash.
For more information on acceptable items and recycling guidelines, visit the City of Victorville's website or call the Environmental Programs Division at 760-955-8615. All activities are free and open to Victor Valley residents.
 
Apple Valley residents: VVTA is launching Micro-Link in your zone and to celebrate, they're offering free rides through Nov. 1. Try out this convenient on-demand service for errands, entertainment, school, and more!
Micro-Link operates Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. within the Apple Valley zone. Download the new "VVTA AccessLink" app or call 760-244-4000 to schedule your free ride and experience the ease of Micro-Link! This free offer is exclusive to the Apple Valley zone and doesn't apply to other VVTA services or zones.
 
Does your non-profit organization serve low-income, disabled, or senior residents who lack transportation options? The Victor Valley Transit Authority (VVTA) wants to help! Their Fare Media Program offers scholarships to cover bus pass costs for these individuals.
This program not only helps people afford public transit, but also provides them with the resources to learn and utilize the VVTA system. Applications are open to non-profit organizations through Nov. 15, 2024. For more information or to apply, visit vvta.org/flex/faremedia/ or call 760-995-3559.
 
Join the Apple Valley Senior Citizens Club on Saturday, Nov. 9 for their Pancake Breakfast & "Junk in the Trunk" Yard Sale & Vendor Fair.
From 8-11 a.m., indulge in a hearty all-you-can-eat pancake breakfast featuring sausage, orange juice, and coffee for $10 per person ($5 for children under 12). All proceeds from the breakfast will go toward the Apple Valley Fire Public Safety Fund.
This fund supports the next generation of firefighters by providing equipment and training for the Fire Explorer Program, allowing young community members to gain valuable hands-on experience. It also helps train local youth interested in a future career with the Apple Valley Fire Protection District.
The "Junk in the Trunk" Yard Sale & Vendor Fair runs from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., with a $5 seller charge. For more information on the Apple Valley Fire Public Safety Fund, click here.
Join Today's Woman Foundation on Saturday, Nov. 9 for a transformative event focused on grief and loss.
The expert panel will delve into a variety of topics, including common myths about grief, building resilience, and understanding the impact of loss on individuals with special needs. This event will provide a supportive space to explore the complexities of grief and learn valuable coping strategies.
The workshop will take place from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Sunset Hills Memorial Park Chapel. Don't miss this opportunity to connect with others, gain knowledge, and embark on a healing journey.
 
The Family Assistance Program is hosting a Dia de los Muertos Gala Fundraiser on Nov. 2 at the Hilton Garden Inn in Victorville. This festive event celebrates the lives of loved ones both present and departed, fostering community bonds through shared culture.
Enjoy a cocktail hour at 5 p.m., followed by dinner, awards, entertainment, and dancing. Dress to impress in semi-formal, cocktail, or traditional attire. Tickets available here.
As the days grow shorter and the nights longer, it's time to prepare for the end of Daylight Saving Time. At 2 a.m. in Sunday, Nov. 3 we'll "fall back" an hour. This means we'll gain an extra hour of sleep, but also say goodbye to the longer daylight hours we've enjoyed.
Don't Forget to Check Your Smoke Alarms: As you adjust to the time change, it's also a good time to ensure your home's safety. Test your smoke alarms monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year. Consider replacing older smoke alarms with newer models that have longer battery life and advanced features.
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