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 GUILTY!
A San Bernardino County jury has convicted 35-year-old Justin Wayne Halstenberg of Norco for starting the 2024 Line Fire in Highland, which burned 44,000 acres, injured firefighters, damaged structures, and forced evacuations across mountain communities. The fire, which began on September 5, 2024, was the third of three blazes allegedly set by Halstenberg that day. Investigators linked him to the arson through DNA evidence found on coins used in homemade ignition devices, as well as surveillance from automated license plate readers. He now faces a potential life sentence following the jury’s guilty verdict on seven counts related to the Line Fire and two counts tied to a separate blaze.
In response to the conviction, Board of Supervisors Chair Dawn Rowe issued the following statement:
“Today’s guilty verdict on seven counts related to the Line Fire case is a powerful affirmation of justice and a testament to the unwavering dedication of the San Bernardino County District Attorney and our public safety agencies. The DA’s tireless investigation and ethical prosecution ensured the truth prevailed, and the person responsible for devastating our communities is being held accountable. I commend the integrity and diligence of the District Attorney, County Sheriff, County Fire, and Cal Fire, who never lost sight of the gravity of the damage caused. Today, they delivered justice for the victims, our residents, and the land we all cherish.”
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 Honoring Our Heroes Across
the Third District
Memorial Day is a time to honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation. It’s a day of reflection and gratitude—an opportunity for communities to come together, pay tribute, and ensure that the legacy of our fallen heroes endures. On Monday, May 26, residents can attend local ceremonies to recognize the sacrifices made to protect our freedoms. Below are some of the Memorial Day events throughout the Third District.
BARSTOW
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2143 will host a Memorial Day service at 11:00 a.m. on Monday at Mountain View Cemetery, 37067 Irwin Road in Barstow. For more information, call (760) 590-0431.
Barstow Memorial Day Service
BIG BEAR LAKE
The City of Big Bear Lake, Marine Corps League Detachment 1038, and American Legion Post 584 will hold a ceremony at Veterans Park, 40870 Big Bear Boulevard in Big Bear Lake, starting at 11:00 a.m. on Monday.
City of Big Bear Lake Memorial Day Ceremony
CRESTLINE
On Monday, honor those who gave all for our freedom and our country at San Moritz Lodge, 24640 San Moritz Drive in Crestline. The event starts at 11:00 a.m.
Crestline Memorial Day Service
GRAND TERRACE
The Veterans Wall of Freedom Memorial Day observance will be held Monday at 11:00 a.m. at Veterans Freedom Park, 21950 Pico Street, Grand Terrace.
Veterans Wall of Freedom Ceremony
HIGHLAND
American Legion Post 421 will hold a Memorial Day ceremony at 10:00 a.m. Monday at Daniel D. Yarnell Memorial Park, corner of Base Line and Central.
Highland Annual Memorial Day Ceremony
LUCERNE VALLEY
The Lucerne Valley Chamber of Commerce will honor the fallen and military families at 10:00 a.m. Monday at Lucerne Valley Memorial Park, 32533 Highway 18.
Lucerne Valley Memorial Day Ceremony
NEEDLES
All residents of the Tri-State Area are invited to a Memorial Day service at 11:00 a.m. on Monday at Needles Riverview Cemetery, 1101 E. Broadway Street.
Needles Memorial Day Ceremony
REDLANDS
A Memorial Day observance will occur at Hillside Memorial Park on Monday at 10:45 a.m. Hillside Memorial Park is located at 1540 Alessandro Road in Redlands. Redlands Memorial Day Ceremony
SAN BERNARDINO
The City of San Bernardino will remember its fallen heroes Monday at 9:00 a.m. during a ceremony in front of Feldheym Library, 555 W. 6th Street.
San Bernardino Memorial Day Ceremony
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 Around the Third District
Top: County Fire Station 226 at 1920 Del Rosa Avenue in San Bernardino was officially opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony last Saturday. Supervisor Rowe was among the dignitaries who spoke, praising those who worked behind the scenes to make this state-of-the-art facility a reality. The reconstructed and expanded Fire Station 226 stands ready to serve the community for years to come!
Lower left: Supervisor Rowe delivered opening remarks at the 2025 City County Conference in Lake Arrowhead. San Bernardino County Transportation Authority organizes the annual event to encourage collaboration between agencies on the county's biggest challenges and opportunities.
Lower right: Supervisor Rowe joined River’s Edge Ranch CEO Doug Whiteman at the 32nd Inland Empire Prayer Breakfast for a powerful morning of worship, unity, and prayers for our region’s future. The event brought together faith-based, civic, and business leaders to ask for guidance and blessings for the Inland Empire.
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 Introducing Biz-HUUB: A New Online Resource for Small Businesses
San Bernardino County is proud to introduce a powerful new tool to support small businesses and entrepreneurs. The San Bernardino County Biz-HUUB is an all-in-one digital platform created to help companies thrive by providing essential services and support in one convenient location and free of charge.
The Biz-HUUB platform is a centralized hub where businesses can find information, training, and connections tailored to their unique needs. Whether you're launching a new venture, looking to scale, or navigating challenges, Biz-HUUB offers valuable tools to help you succeed, including:
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Learning Library: A comprehensive collection of educational resources covering various business topics—from financial planning and cash flow management to marketing, public relations, and more. The library is designed for learners at all stages, with content accessible at your own pace.
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Funding Opportunities: A continuously updated database of available loan and grant programs at the state and federal levels. Entrepreneurs can easily browse financial assistance options that match their needs and eligibility.
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Community Events Calendar: An aggregated calendar showcasing business-related events hosted by various organizations, including local chambers of commerce, the U.S. Small Business Administration, neighborhood associations, and economic development partners throughout the region.
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One-on-One Technical Assistance: Businesses can sign up for free personalized support on key topics, such as business planning, marketing strategies, access to capital, permitting, and more. These technical services provide actionable advice and hands-on help.
Signing up is quick and easy. Businesses only need to provide minimal information, including their address, to confirm eligibility. Once verified, users gain full access to the site's robust tools and services. Start exploring today and unlock your business's potential by visiting https://myhuub.com/selectsbcounty/.
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 Major Investments in Historic
Route 66 Bridges
San Bernardino County is making significant strides in preserving and modernizing one of its most iconic roadways, Historic Route 66. Also known as the National Trails Highway, this historic corridor is set to benefit from two major infrastructure projects aimed at replacing aging bridges while maintaining the road's cultural legacy.
The County Board of Supervisors recently awarded Southstar Engineering & Consulting, Inc., a $2.94 million contract for construction management services on a bridge replacement project in the unincorporated areas of Amboy and Essex. This effort will replace ten deteriorating bridges between Crucero Road and Mountain Springs Road. Funded primarily by Federal Highway Bridge Planning funds, with supplemental discretionary General Funds, the five-year project will enhance roadway safety and reliability along this remote desert stretch of the National Trails Highway.
In a separate but complementary project, the County has secured a grant through the California Transportation Commission's Local Transportation Climate Adaptation Program to replace nine aging timber bridges in the Daggett area. These 1930s-era structures—located at sites like Signal Ditch, Ant Ditch, and Bloom Ditch—will be rebuilt to preserve their historic charm while improving climate resiliency.
Together, these projects reinforce the County's commitment to honoring its past while investing in a safer, more sustainable future for travelers along Route 66.
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 Make a Splash This Summer at
County Regional Parks
Swim season returns to San Bernardino County Regional Parks at Glen Helen and Yucaipa beginning this Saturday, May 24. The popular swim complexes will remain open through Labor Day weekend, offering a refreshing escape for families looking to beat the summer heat.
Swim hours are from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, but early arrival is strongly encouraged. Park gates open at 7:30 a.m., and pool entrance wristbands—available on a first-come, first-served basis—can sell out quickly. Once capacity is reached, no additional guests will be admitted to the pool area.
Glen Helen Swim Complex (2555 Glen Helen Parkway, San Bernardino) features a half-acre swim lagoon, rodeo-themed waterslides, and a splash pad.
Yucaipa Swim Complex (33900 Oak Glen Road, Yucaipa) includes a sandy beach-style swimming lagoon and double-flume waterslides.
Plan your visit and learn more about park hours, pricing, and swim guidelines at parks.sbcounty.gov/events/swim-schedules
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 Take Action to Protect Your Home From Mosquitoes This Summer
San Bernardino County’s Mosquito and Vector Control Program (MVCP) is reminding residents to take action now to reduce mosquito breeding and protect their health. Besides being a nuisance, mosquitoes can spread dangerous diseases like West Nile virus, Zika virus, dengue fever, and even malaria.
To help protect yourself, your family, and your neighborhood from mosquitoes, start by dumping and draining any standing water around your home, including in plant saucers, buckets, tires, and even bottle caps. Wear long sleeves and pants for protection and use insect repellent outdoors. Check that window and door screens are in good condition to keep mosquitoes from sneaking inside.
For questions or to report a green pool, call or text MVCP at 1-800-442-2283, email ehs.customerservice@dph.sbcounty.gov, or visit the Mosquito and Vector Control Program website.
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 Needles Softball Claims
Fourth Consecutive State Title
Needles High School’s softball team has won the Nevada 2A State Championship for the fourth year in a row! The Lady Mustangs capped off another incredible season with a 10-0 victory over White Pine on Saturday, May 17, securing their place in Nevada high school sports history.
Also, the Needles High School baseball team advanced to the state championship game last weekend. After a strong showing in the tournament, the Mustangs came up short in the final game against Lake Mead Christian Academy, taking home the title of state runner-up in their division.
Although located in California, Needles High School competes in the Nevada Interscholastic Activities Association (NIAA) due to its unique location. As one of just five California schools in the NIAA, Needles proudly represents its community—and these state tournament finishes are a testament to the school’s thriving athletic programs. Congratulations to both teams for your achievements this season!
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 Click here to have The Rowe Report sent directly to your email.
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These ongoing construction and improvement projects may impact your travel time.
Plan ahead and drive safely!
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Reche Canyon Roadwork
Road work is underway on Reche Canyon Road, starting north of Placid Lane and continuing south of Banas Drive. Road work is also taking place on Prado Lane, beginning at the intersection at Reche Canyon Road. Work is anticipated to be completed next week. Expect delays through Reche Canyon during these projects.
Reche Canyon Roadwork
I-40 Rest Area Closure
Memorial Day weekend travelers should note: The John Wilkie Rest Area, located on Interstate 40 between Barstow and Needles in San Bernardino County, remains closed on both the eastbound and westbound sides due to construction.
I-40 Rest Area Closure
SR-138 Seal and Pavement Project
Starting Wednesday, May 28, Caltrans crews resume work along State Route 138 (SR-138) from Highway 18 Junction to Summit Valley Road towards Hesperia. The project will include a slurry seal, traffic striping, and pavement markers. One of two lanes will remain open, with alternating lane closures from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. every weekday through Friday, June 6.
SR-138 Seal and Pavement Project
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  Green Valley Lake
Green Valley Lake, Southern California's highest-elevation resort town, offers breathtaking views and peaceful mountain ambiance. Fishing is available daily on the 9-acre lake, stocked with trout, bass, catfish, and crappie from May to October. The lake's record rainbow trout weighed 13 pounds, 3 ounces! Learn more about dropping a hook in the lake at gvlfishing.com/.
Visitors can explore the lake by renting a kayak, paddleboard, or pedal boat. If you're in the mood for swimming, the lake's sandy beach offers a great spot to cool off, with lifeguards on duty during peak times. The area also features a volleyball court, playground, and picnic spots, perfect for families to enjoy the day.
Don't miss the Green Valley Lake Lantern Festival this Memorial Day weekend. The festival is a time for remembrance, unity, and gratitude. Attendees decorate paper lanterns and release them on the lake as they share messages, hopes, and dreams. Tickets can be obtained by visiting the Lantern Festival website.
Green Valley Lake is a great place to escape for your summer adventure, whether fishing, boating, swimming or just relaxing in the sun. Plan your visit and experience the magic of this "Lake Above the Clouds."
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Grubstake Days - Yucca Valley
Friday, May 23 - Sunday, May 25
Celebrate Grubstake Days in Yucca Valley all weekend with a carnival, live music, a kids' talent contest, a classic car show, and more. The main celebration occurs Saturday, May 24, at Brehm Park with a kids' day, beard contest, food trucks, and performances from various local acts. Additional highlights include the Grubstake Days Run, the return of the Pony Express ride, and the cookie bakeoff in Pioneertown. For schedules and tickets, visit grubstakedays.com.
Firefighters Car Show - Redlands
Sunday, May 25
Rev up your engines and head to Ed Hales Park on Sunday, May 25, for the annual Redlands Firefighters Car Show. This community favorite features an impressive lineup of classic cars, trucks, motorcycles, live music, great food, cold drinks, a beer garden, and prize giveaways. Proceeds support the Redlands Firefighters Benevolent Fund. Find more information on the Redlands Firefighters' Facebook page.
Chili Cook-Off - Forest Falls
Sunday, May 25
Spice up your Sunday with the Forest Falls Chili Cook-Off in downtown Forest Falls on Sunday, May 25. Enjoy chili tasting, live music, a beer and wine garden, face painting, an old-time photo booth, and more—including a fun-filled parade featuring kids, pets, and floats. Event details are available at www.mtncare.net.
ARMC 15th Annual 5K Walk/Run - Colton
Saturday, May 31
Lace-up your sneakers and join the 15th Annual ARMC 5K Walk/Run! This free event is a great way to connect with your community and learn more about the vital health services San Bernardino County and ARMC offer. All ages are welcome to participate in this fun, family-friendly walk/run that promotes better health and wellness. Visit ARMC on Facebook to learn more and get the registration link.
Corks & Hops - Crestline
Saturday, June 7
Raise a glass to Corks & Hops, Crestline’s mountain-style beer and wine festival, happening Saturday, June 7 from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m. Enjoy tastings from SoCal craft breweries and wineries, live music on multiple stages, food trucks, pop-up vendors, and local shops. Hop on the free shuttle to travel between pour stations and attractions throughout town. The Corks & Hops Facebook page has more information.
To see more events taking place in the Third District, click here to visit our website.
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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 |
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