County Welcomes Future Leaders on Take Your Child to Work Day

San Bernardino County celebrated Take Your Child to Work Day on Thursday, April 24, welcoming hundreds of energetic and curious young visitors to the County Government Center in San Bernardino. This annual event, part of a national tradition that began in 1993, gives children a behind-the-scenes look at where their parents work—and why their work matters. 

This year, dozens of county departments participated, offering interactive displays, demonstrations, and hands-on activities to introduce young minds to the county's many essential services. From public safety and health care to libraries and land use, each department brought something exciting to the table—sometimes literally!

Supervisor Rowe started the day with welcoming remarks and enjoyed meeting many of the county's youngest honorary employees. To all the kids who came ready to learn—and the parents who got them up early—thank you for being part of this special day. We hope you went home with new ideas, new friends, and maybe a few snacks!

H.O.P.E. Team Brings Help to
Yucaipa and the Morongo Basin

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Homeless Outreach Proactive Enforcement (H.O.P.E.) Team continues to reach out to those experiencing homelessness and mental health challenges. Recent operations in Yucaipa and the Morongo Basin, known as “Operation Shelter Me,” are a testament to the County’s commitment to connecting unhoused individuals with meaningful support.

The H.O.P.E. Team, joined by partners from the County Probation Department and the Department of Aging and Adult Services, focused not only on locating those in need but also on listening to their stories, building trust, and offering real solutions. In Yucaipa, 16 individuals were contacted, 13 received referrals for services, and one person was transported to a hospital for critical medical and mental health care. In the Morongo Basin, officials provided over a dozen service referrals, including four linked to follow-up professional support.

These efforts reflect San Bernardino County’s broader mental health strategy, including using Laura’s Law, which enables court-ordered outpatient treatment for those who qualify. With funding approved by the Board of Supervisors, these community-focused efforts will continue across the Third District and beyond. Every interaction brings us closer to long-term healing and housing for those in need.

If you know someone experiencing homelessness who could benefit from resources, the H.O.P.E. Team is ready to help. Call 909-387-0623 or email hope@sbcsd.org.

County Services Can Help With
REAL ID Documents

Starting Wednesday, May 7, you will need a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of identification to board domestic flights or enter certain federal facilities, including courthouses and military bases. After the deadline, those without a REAL ID must present a valid U.S. passport, passport card, permanent resident card, or trusted traveler card. The California Department of Motor Vehicles is responsible for issuing REAL IDs and offers more information here.

One key document often needed for the application is a certified copy of your birth certificate. The Assessor-Recorder-Clerk’s (ARC) office can help by providing certified copies of birth certificates for those born in San Bernardino County. To learn how to request County-issued birth certificates and other vital records, visit arc.sbcounty.gov.

Morongo Basin residents can request these records in person on the second and fourth Wednesday of each month. The ARC team will visit the Bob Burke Government Center at 63665 29 Palms Highway, Joshua Tree, again on Tuesday, May 14, offering assistance with vital records and more. Appointments are not required but are recommended and can be made by visiting the ARC website.

Apply for the San Bernardino County Civil Grand Jury

The San Bernardino County Superior Court is currently accepting applications for the 2026 Civil Grand Jury, vital in promoting transparent and effective local government. The Grand Jury investigates county departments, cities, and special districts and may also review information related to criminal investigations. Service begins January 1, 2026, and ends December 31, 2026.

To be eligible, applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, and have lived in San Bernardino County for at least one year. Candidates should possess good character, sound judgment, and a working knowledge of English. Applications are screened and reviewed by Superior Court judges, and selected nominees must be available to appear in person for the final selection ceremony. The Court is committed to forming a Grand Jury that reflects the county’s diverse population, with nominees chosen from each of the five supervisorial districts.

Those interested in improving their community through public service are encouraged to apply online before the July 31, 2025 deadline. For information, including eligibility and important recruitment dates, visit http://wp.sbcounty.gov/grandjury/ or contact the Grand Jury Coordinator at 909-382-3971.

Free Chipping Events Return to Mountain Communities

To help residents prepare for peak wildfire season, San Bernardino County Fire is teaming up with local Fire Safe Councils to offer free wood-chipping services throughout the mountain communities. These events provide residents an easy and effective way to reduce wildfire fuel and create defensible space around their homes.

Chipping events begin Saturday, May 3, and will continue in key locations throughout the month. Residents can participate by bringing trimmed brush and branches to designated drop-off sites. Events are planned for communities such as Mountain Home Village, Angelus Oaks, Forest Falls, and Lake Arrowhead. Click here for the full chipping schedule on San Bernardino County Fire's website. 

In addition, Mountain Rim Fire Safe Council will provide free curbside chipping services in select locations. Visit FireSafeNow.org to register and to find additional fire prevention resources. Information is also available by calling 909-336-7086.

New Driving Simulator Program
Shifts Youth Into Gear

The San Bernardino County Probation Department offers an innovative driving simulator program to equip youth with the skills and knowledge needed to become safe, responsible drivers. The program provides a virtual, hands-on learning experience where participants can build essential driving skills at their own pace. Staff at the Youth Rehabilitation and Treatment Center and Central Valley Juvenile Detention and Assessment Center requested the driving simulator as a powerful educational tool to help prepare youth for success behind the wheel and beyond.

Through partnerships with Young Visionaries, the California Highway Patrol, and Mothers Against Drunk Driving, the program emphasizes fundamental skills such as vehicle control, parking, blind spot awareness, and risk management. Participants also learn about the dangers of impaired driving, the risks of riding with impaired drivers, and the lasting consequences of substance-related incidents. Realistic scenarios allow decision-making practice, building confidence and awareness.

More than just a driver's education tool, the driving simulator program fosters responsibility, sound judgment, and a deeper understanding of personal responsibility. As positive results emerge, it's clear that programs like this serve as critical stepping stones toward a brighter future, helping youth reintegrate into their communities with the tools they need for lifelong success.

Legal Assistance Event
Coming to Joshua Tree

Residents of Joshua Tree and surrounding communities will soon have access to valuable legal services designed to help individuals move beyond the limitations of a criminal record. On Wednesday, May 14, the San Bernardino County Law Offices of the Public Defender will host a Mobile Defense Program legal assistance event at the Joshua Tree Community Center as part of a broader Community Resource Fair.

Record clearing services—like expungement and sealing of records—can transform lives. A past conviction can be a barrier for those struggling to find steady employment, secure housing, or enroll in educational programs. It also helps alleviate the mental and emotional toll that can come with the weight of a criminal record, providing a sense of relief, hope, and the ability to reintegrate fully into society.

The upcoming event will offer free legal assistance, including help with clearing records, resolving outstanding fines, modifying misdemeanor probation, clearing bench warrants, and reenrolling in court-ordered programs. San Bernardino County Superior Court will also be on-site to provide self-help services for other legal matters. For more information, email media@pd.sbcounty.gov, or visit pd.sbcounty.gov.

Help Name Lake Arrowhead’s
Hardest-Working Boat

San Bernardino County Fire is inviting the community to help name its Lake Arrowhead fire boat. This impressive 26-foot rescue vessel protects thousands of visitors and residents each year. Whether battling blazes, performing water rescues, or standing by for emergencies, Boat 92 is always ready to roll (or rather, float). Now, it just needs a name worthy of its life-saving legacy.

To submit your idea, follow this link: https://form.typeform.com/to/G3nfn0Ln. Entries are open to all ages and must be submitted by May 15, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. After that, local firefighters will vote to select the top three finalists. Then, the public gets to vote on their favorites on San Bernardino County Fire’s social media channels. After those votes are tallied, Fire Boat 92 will be rechristened with the winning name!

Click here to have The Rowe Report sent directly to your email.

These ongoing construction and improvement projects may impact your travel time. Plan ahead and drive safely!

SR-210 Guardrail Safety Operation
San Bernardino

On Friday, May 2, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Caltrans will close the westbound SR-210 H Street on-ramp and the westbound SR-210 to northbound I-215 connector for a guardrail safety operation. Maintenance crews will replace damaged equipment. Motorists should follow posted signage and slow down near the work zone.

SR-210 Guardrail Safety Operation

Public Safety Fair - Barstow
Saturday, May 3

The Barstow Public Safety Fair returns Saturday, May 3, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. on Mountain View Street between Barstow Road and Second Street. This free, family-friendly event features live demonstrations, emergency vehicle displays, and public safety tips. Kids can meet officers, explore fire trucks, and enjoy hands-on activities. For more information, visit the City of Barstow website or call 760-255-5136.

International Festival - Twentynine Palms
Saturday, May 3

Join the City of Twentynine Palms and Twentynine Palms High School for the 2nd Annual International Festival on Saturday, May 3, at Freedom Plaza. This free, family-friendly event celebrates cultural diversity through live music, dance, art, and hands-on activities for all ages. Enjoy authentic international cuisine, unique crafts, and performances by student groups and headliners Giselle Woo & the Night Owls. For details or to become a vendor, call 760-367-7562 or click here.

Woof Walk - Yucca Valley
Saturday, May 3

Join the fun at the 11th annual Woof Walk on Saturday, May 3, benefiting the Joshua Tree No-Kill Shelter. This dog-friendly fundraiser runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Essig Park in Yucca Valley, with the walk kicking off at 11 a.m. Enjoy live music, food, local vendors, a silent auction, raffles, kids’ activities, and a joyful parade of pups around the park. For details, visit joshuatreenokillshelter.org. 

Run for the Wall - Needles
Wednesday, May 14

The City of Needles will welcome patriotic motorcycle riders on Wednesday, May 14, as part of the 35th Annual Run For The Wall. Riders are expected to arrive at Santa Fe Park, 950 Front Street, at approximately 12:35 p.m. to stop for lunch before continuing the journey to Washington, D.C. Donations to fund meals for riders are now being accepted; for more information, visit Facebook or call 760-333-5255. 

Spring Strings Concert - Big Bear Lake
Friday, May 16

Enjoy a lively evening of music at the annual Spring Strings Concert on Friday, May 16, at 7:00 p.m. at the Big Bear Lake Performing Arts Center, 39707 Big Bear Boulevard. Featured performers include the Mountaintop Strings of California, Bear Valley School Strings, and Lighthouse Youth Orchestras, directed by Sharon Rizzo. Tickets are available at citybigbearlake.com or at the door. 

Yucaipa Rodeo - Yucaipa
Friday, May 16 - Saturday, May 17

Saddle up for the 7th Annual Yucaipa Rodeo on May 16 and 17 at 13273 California Street in Yucaipa. Friday’s gates open at 4 p.m. with the rodeo kicking off at 7 p.m., and Saturday’s gates open at 2 p.m. with the action starting at 6 p.m. Mutton Bustin’ will take place an hour before the rodeo each night. For tickets and full event info, visit YucaipaEquestrianCenter.com/rodeo-2025.

Blue Mountain Festival – Grand Terrace
Saturday, May 17

Celebrate community spirit at the City of Grand Terrace’s Blue Mountain Festival on Saturday, May 17, at Richard Rollins Park. Enjoy a full day of fun with games, food trucks, live music, vendors, a car show, and a beer garden. The festivities kick off with a parade at 1 p.m., starting at Barton Road and Canal Street. Businesses, schools, and clubs can register to participate by emailing events@grandterrace-ca.gov.

Bucky Ball Gala - Redlands
Saturday, May 17

The San Bernardino County Museum presents the Bucky Ball Gala on Saturday, May 17, an elegant evening celebrating the museum’s work to engage local students through interactive learning. Guests can experience the Exploration Station: A STEAM Lab for Kids, featuring hands-on exhibits like rain simulation, topography mapping, and more. Proceeds support the museum’s mission to preserve and share regional culture, history, and natural science. Learn more at museum.sbcounty.gov.

Evening Under the Stars - Highland
Saturday, May 17

Join the Highland Area Chamber of Commerce for its Annual Evening Under the Stars, a red, white, and blue-themed night of celebration on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. at the Sterling Natural Resource Center, 25318 5th Street in San Bernardino. Enjoy great food, drinks, live music, and a chance to bid on exciting live and silent auction items. Visit the Highland Chamber website for more information.

To see more events taking place in the Third District, click here to visit our website.

For more information visit: https://bosd3.sbcounty.gov

San Bernardino Office
385 N. Arrowhead Ave., Fifth Floor
San Bernardino, CA 92415
909-387-4855

Joshua Tree Office
63665 Twentynine Palms Highway
Joshua Tree, CA 92252
760-366-1488