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 In Remembrance of September 11
The events of September 11, 2001, forever changed our nation and remain etched in our collective memory.
Twenty-four years later, we remember the nearly 3,000 lives taken far too soon. We honor the first responders who ran toward danger with unwavering bravery. We hold close the families who carry the weight of absence every day, and we recognize the resilience of a nation that came together in grief, strength, and hope.
As we pause today, let us remember what was lost and what endures: the spirit of unity, compassion, and determination that rose from the ashes. May we continue to live in a way that honors the memory of those lost with kindness, courage, and a steadfast commitment to one another.
We will never forget.
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 Job Fair and Resource Event Coming to Joshua Tree
Job seekers and community members looking for valuable county resources will have a great opportunity at the upcoming Job Fair and Resource Event on Thursday, September 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Copper Mountain College campus in Joshua Tree. The event will connect job seekers with employers across various industries, such as healthcare, retail, hospitality, and utilities.
In addition, several San Bernardino County departments, including Workforce Development, Human Resources, the Public Defender’s Office, and the Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk’s Office, will be on-site. The Public Defender’s Office will assist with record clearing, while the Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk’s mobile unit will provide birth, death, and marriage certificate copies; notary public filings; fictitious business name statements; and assessor property information.
Registration is free and available at the official Eventbrite page. For more information, call 1-800-451-5627 or visit Workforce.SBCounty.gov.
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 Around the Third District
Top left: Last week, Supervisor Rowe presented a certificate of recognition to Shaney Jo Darden, Co-Founder of the Keep A Breast Foundation. Morongo Basin Field Representative Glen Harris also participated in the ceremony, honoring the organization for 25 years of encouraging people to take charge of their health and their ongoing work to inspire hope worldwide. Learn more at keep-a-breast.org.
Top right: Supervisor Rowe joined Dr. Lorann Parker at the Mountain Skies Astronomical Society (MSAS) in Lake Arrowhead to present a donation to support the organization’s student programs. MSAS hosts university groups to study astronomy and astrophysics while mentoring local high school interns at the observatory. Their work inspires young minds and prepares the next generation to reach for the stars. Visit mountain-skies.org for more information.
Bottom: San Bernardino County recently hosted the San Bernardino County–Japan Roundtable, welcoming Consul General Kosei Murota (pictured), Japan External Trade Organization Chief Executive Director Akira Kajita, and other industry leaders. The discussion centered on drones and artificial intelligence and highlighted the value of global partnerships in advancing innovation and economic growth.
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 Coming Together for Our Communities
Across San Bernardino County, neighbors are rolling up their sleeves to make their communities shine. From neighborhood cleanups to lending a hand at local museums, these events are a chance to show pride and build connections. Whether you can give an hour or a whole morning, every effort makes a difference.
Yermo Community Cleanup Day – September 13
The Yermo Community Services District is hosting a Community Cleanup Day this Saturday, September 13, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Titas Burger Den, 38484 W. Yermo Road in Yermo. Residents are encouraged to clear away unwanted items and spruce up their properties, and a County Code Enforcement crew will assist with waste tire collection. Come out, pitch in, and enjoy a morning of community pride.
Barstow National Cleanup Day – September 20
The City of Barstow will participate in National Cleanup Day on Saturday, September 20, from 8:00 to 10:00 a.m. at the historic Harvey House, 681 North First Avenue. Volunteers will beautify the city, and cleanup supplies will be provided. Sponsored by Burrtec, this event is a simple way to give back to the community while joining a nationwide effort to keep public spaces clean and inviting.
Lucerne Valley Museum Volunteer Day – September 27
The Outdoor Museum in Lucerne Valley is seeking volunteers on Saturday, September 27, to help clean and move museum items in preparation for upgrades and new displays. Morning and afternoon work sessions are available, and participants are welcome at either or both. The museum is at 33187 B CA-247 in Lucerne Valley, between the Library and Community Center. For details, call Chelsea at 760-646-2660 or Barbara at 760-248-6777.
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 Residential Assessment Program Helps Residents Prepare for Wildfire
September is National Preparedness Month, a time to encourage Americans to prepare for disasters and emergencies in their homes, businesses, and communities. In support of this effort, the San Bernardino County Fire Department offers a free Residential Assessment Program (RAP) as one of its many proactive steps to help residents in high-risk wildfire areas be safer and better prepared.
Through RAP, fire personnel provide property and structural assessments for homeowners living in the wildland urban interface, giving them practical guidance on the most effective ways to protect their homes and property from destructive wildfires. The program goal is not enforcement but education—no citations, charges, or fees are issued. Instead, residents receive guidance on creating a more fire-safe and defensible home, including reducing combustible vegetation, clearing defensible space around structures, and preparing their families with disaster planning.
Inspection appointments are easy to schedule by calling 909-386-8400, emailing countyfirerap@sbcfire.org, or visiting their local fire station. Residents who prefer not to have an in-person visit can review the assessment guidelines with fire personnel over the phone. Visit sbcfire.org to learn more about the program.
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 Help Shape the Future of Transit in
San Bernardino County
The San Bernardino County Transportation Authority (SBCTA) is developing a Coordinated Public Transit–Human Services Transportation Plan to improve mobility for residents who need it most. Seniors, people with disabilities, low-income individuals, tribal members, and veterans are encouraged to participate to ensure the plan reflects real experiences and challenges.
SBCTA invites residents and organizations to share their input throughout the process. The feedback will shape future transit services, guide funding decisions, and help SBCTA and local partners coordinate resources more effectively. By participating, residents can ensure their voices are heard in shaping solutions that promote accessible, affordable, and reliable transportation for San Bernardino County’s most vulnerable populations.
Provide your input by completing the survey at goSBCTA.com.
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 Third District Community Colleges Earn National Recognition
Two of San Bernardino County’s Third District community colleges have earned national attention for their affordability, quality programs, and student success. Copper Mountain College (CMC) in Joshua Tree ranked #9 in California and #23 in the nation in Niche’s 2026 Best Colleges rankings (available here), which evaluate factors such as academics, affordability, student outcomes, and alumni success. Superintendent/President Daren Otten said the recognition reflects CMC’s mission to provide accessible, high-quality programs tailored to community needs.
Barstow Community College topped WalletHub’s Best Community Colleges (click here) list for San Bernardino County, placing #27 statewide and #3 nationwide for lowest in-state tuition and fees. WalletHub analysts highlighted Barstow’s ability to combine low costs with strong student retention, graduation rates, and career preparation, making it a cornerstone for higher education in the High Desert.
These achievements spotlight the essential role of Third District community colleges in expanding opportunity and building brighter futures. By delivering affordable education close to home, both Copper Mountain and Barstow Community College continue to prepare students for success in their academic and professional lives.
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 Sheriff’s Rodeo Rides Back Into Town
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s PRCA Rodeo is back Friday, September 26 through Sunday, September 28 at the Sheriff’s Rodeo Grounds in Devore, promising three days of action, tradition, and community spirit. This annual event brings together top-tier Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association competitors, live music, family entertainment, and residents for one of the largest rodeos in California. Beyond the arena thrills, the rodeo stands as a powerful force for good, generating more than one million dollars in charitable donations over the past two decades.
Each day of the rodeo carries a special message: Friday is dedicated to raising awareness about domestic violence, Saturday focuses on cancer awareness, and Sunday’s matinee performance honors military and public safety personnel. Proceeds from the event support more than a dozen nonprofit organizations, including the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of America, Children’s Fund, Golden Circle of Champions, Loma Linda University Children’s Health, the Man Up Crusade (domestic violence awareness), Wrangler’s “Tough Enough to Wear Pink” (breast cancer awareness), and Southern California C.O.P.S. (Concerns of Police Survivors), among others.
Since its beginnings in 1957, the Sheriff’s Rodeo has celebrated Western heritage while evolving into a family-friendly event featuring pony rides, a petting zoo, rock climbing, and even a mechanical bull. For a full schedule and ticket information, visit the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Rodeo website.
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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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SR-18 Closure
On Friday, September 12, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Caltrans mountain crews will conduct a variety of maintenance operations on State Route 18 (SR-18) from Green Valley Lake Road to Big Bear Dam, requiring a full closure of SR-18.
SR-18 Maintenance Project
SR-247 Roadway Improvement
Pavement rehabilitation and shoulder widening continue on State Route 247 (SR-247) near Yucca Valley. For the week of September 14, crews will install traffic signal control cameras at Buena Vista Dr/Skyline Ranch Rd, with lane closures and flagging scheduled Wednesday night (7:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.) and Friday (7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.). Daytime vegetation control with shoulder closures will also take place between Gin Road and Cole Road, Monday through Wednesday from 7:00 a.m. to 4:0 p.m.
SR-247 Roadway Improvement
I-10 Bridge Maintenance - Redlands
Bridge maintenance is scheduled on Interstate 10 (I-10) in Redlands for Monday, September 15. Caltrans crews will conduct bridge inspections and repairs between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., weather permitting. The work will require closure of the westbound I-10 Orange Street on-ramp and the #5 lane to the SR-210 connector. Motorists are advised to plan ahead and expect possible delays during the operation.
I-10 Bridge Maintenance
SR-138 and SR-189 Slurry Seal & Pavement
Caltrans crews continue daytime work along State Route 138 (SR-138) and State Route 189 (SR-189) from 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Work zones are located on SR-138 from the Route 18 junction to Summit Valley Road toward Hesperia, and on SR-189 between Route 18 and Route 173.
SR-138 and SR-189 Slurry Seal & Pavement
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9/11 Memorial Ceremony - Yucaipa
Thursday, September 11
Join the City of Yucaipa as they remember and honor those who were lost on September 11, 2001. The Yucaipa Fire Department and the City of Yucaipa will host a Memorial Ceremony on Thursday, September 11, at 4:00 p.m. at Yucaipa City Hall, 34272 Yucaipa Boulevard. The City's Facebook page has more information.
Hispanic Heritage Celebration - Twentynine Palms
Saturday, September 13
Celebrate the Hispanic community's rich culture, history, and contributions at the 1st Annual Hispanic Heritage Celebration in Twentynine Palms. This free, family-friendly evening will feature a DJ, live music, vibrant dance performances, art displays, delicious food, and community spirit. The celebration occurs Saturday, September 13, at Freedom Plaza in Downtown Twentynine Palms. Check visit29.org for details.
Oktoberfest - Big Bear Lake
Saturday, September 13 - Sunday, September 14
The 55th annual Big Bear Lake Oktoberfest is underway, continuing every weekend through November 8. This fall tradition blends Big Bear’s mountain charm with authentic German culture, including live bands direct from Germany. Guests can enjoy traditional German food, freshly brewed Oktoberfest beers, and festive entertainment. Read all about it at bigbearevents.com.
San Manuel Pow Wow - San Bernardino
Friday, September 19 - Sunday, September 21
The San Manuel Pow Wow offers a free, three-day celebration of Native American culture. Guests can enjoy traditional bird singers, dancers, and drum groups from North America and Canada, along with artisan vendors and Native foods like fry bread. More than $250,000 in cash prizes will be awarded during the dancing and singing competitions. Visit socalpowwow.com for more information.
Job Fair - Redlands
Friday, September 26
The Redlands Chamber of Commerce is hosting a Job Fair on Friday, September 26, at the Dorothy Inghram Learning Center, 670 E. Carnegie Drive in San Bernardino. Attendees can connect with 60 job vendors, explore on-the-spot hiring opportunities, access expungement services, and even experience the Army Adventure Semi with interactive simulators. Admission is free, but registration is encouraged. Get started at workforce.redlandschamber.org.
Movies in the Courtyard - Yucca Valley
Friday, September 26
Calico Days - Calico Ghost Town
Saturday, September 27 - Sunday, September 28
Step back in time at Calico Days, September 27 and 28 at Calico Ghost Town in Yermo. This family-friendly festival celebrates the Old West with costume contests, gunfight shows, live music, pie-eating contests, and competitions like the Miner’s Triathlon, Bucket Brigade, and Burro Run. Find the full schedule of events and other details at parks.sbcounty.gov/calico-days.
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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