King of the Hammers:
San Bernardino County's
Biggest Sports Event

Since its founding in 2007, King of the Hammers (KOH) has grown into one of the world’s premier off-road racing competitions. Each February, Means Dry Lake Bed in Johnson Valley transforms into “Hammertown,” drawing international competitors and tens of thousands of spectators who come to watch a grueling, week-long festival of speed, endurance, and mechanical grit. Widely considered one of the toughest races in the world, KOH uniquely combines high-speed desert racing with extreme, technical rock crawling, as custom-built Ultra4 vehicles, UTVs, motorcycles, and even electric vehicles battle across a punishing 200-mile course with a 14-hour time limit.

For those who have never attended, it’s difficult to grasp the scale of the event. In 2025, more than 80,000 fans gathered over the multi-day competition, watching over 500 teams compete for a coveted spot on the podium. What began as a niche race has evolved into a global off-road spectacle and a can’t-miss motorsports experience.

This year’s action opened with King of the Motos, an intense off-road motorcycle race featuring a dramatic land-rush start, high-speed desert terrain, and brutal rock-crawling sections that push rider endurance and skill. Qualifying for the 2026 King of the Hammers begins Friday, January 30, followed by daily racing through Saturday, February 7, including the UTV Hammers Championship Race, the Every Man Challenge Race, and the legendary Race of Kings. Fans can watch live race coverage and find ticket information at kingofthehammers.com.

Operation Consequences Brings Arrests, Firearm Seizures Across
Third District Communities

Operation Consequences, a coordinated, multi-agency crime suppression effort, continued in January, with significant enforcement activities in Twentynine Palms, Redlands, and other Third District communities. Investigators from the Sheriff’s Gangs/Narcotics Division, patrol stations, and specialized units partnered with local, state, and federal agencies to serve 21 search warrants tied to gang members and convicted felons across the county.

One of those warrants was served in Twentynine Palms, where an arrest was made. Search warrants were also served at locations in Colton, San Bernardino, and Redlands, resulting in 17 additional felony arrests and the seizure of 24 firearms, along with drugs and cash. During just one week of Operation Consequences, deputies made 63 felony arrests and 48 misdemeanor arrests, seized more than one pound of suspected methamphetamine, and recovered 76 firearms, including two unserialized “ghost guns.” 

These efforts are supported by county-authorized funding to expand crime suppression and address quality-of-life concerns in local communities. Operation Consequences will continue in the coming months, focusing on targeted enforcement, parole and probation checks, and coordinated investigations designed to reduce violent crime, disrupt criminal street gangs, and remove illegally possessed firearms from neighborhoods throughout the Third District and beyond.

Around the Third District

Left: Morongo Basin Field Representative Glen Harris presented an official Certificate of Recognition to Jean-Paul L. Garnier, owner of Space Cowboy Books, honoring the independent bookstore's decade of service to Joshua Tree and the Morongo Basin. Learn more about what they do at spacecowboybooks.com.

Center: Supervisor Rowe was the featured speaker at this week's Highland Chamber of Commerce Networking Lunch. In addition to shedding light on the role of county government, Supervisor Rowe discussed how county departments support residents and local businesses, and how to prepare for disasters and emergency situations. Community leaders can find out how to join the organization at highlandchamber.org.

Right: Team Rowe Communications Director Scott Ward presented an official Certificate of Recognition to Abigail Nelson, manager of Nothing Bundt Cakes in Yucaipa. The newest location of this popular nationwide specialty cake company is now open at the Yucaipa Pointe Center, 31485 Yucaipa Boulevard.

Mobile Defense Program Event
Coming to Joshua Tree

Residents of Joshua Tree and surrounding communities can receive free legal assistance during an upcoming Mobile Defense Program Event hosted by the San Bernardino County Public Defender’s Office. The event will take place on Wednesday, February 11, from 12:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Joshua Tree Community Center, 6171 Sunburst Avenue. The program is designed to help residents address legal matters and connect with helpful county resources close to home.

Services available include record-clearing assistance, mobile court services, assistance with requesting the clearance of bench warrants, resolution of outstanding fines, modification of misdemeanor summary probation, and referrals to additional county resources. The event focuses on making legal support more accessible for residents who face barriers to traveling to court or navigating the system on their own.

This event is for San Bernardino County cases only, and pre-registration is required for mobile court services. In addition, the San Bernardino Superior Court will provide self-help assistance for other legal matters. Email media@pd.sbcounty.gov for more information or click here to register.

Johnson Valley Shared Use Area Temporary Closure 

After King of the Hammers wraps up and the lake bed clears out, visitors planning to stay and ride in Johnson Valley should be aware of an upcoming temporary change. The Johnson Valley Shared Use Area (JVSUA) will be closed to the public from Thursday, February 12 through Thursday, February 26, to allow for essential Marine Corps training exercises. These scheduled trainings are critical to ensuring Marines remain prepared for major combat operations, and the Marine Corps continues to appreciate the public’s cooperation and support during these periods.

The good news for off-highway vehicle enthusiasts is that the adjacent Johnson Valley Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Recreation Area will remain open throughout the closure. Riders can continue enjoying the area, but should be mindful of posted boundaries and signage while military training is underway. Training occurs year-round at the Combat Center, so it’s important to stay aware of the Shared Use Area status and respect all restricted zones for everyone’s safety.

Visitors are encouraged to check official maps and alerts before heading out, as closure dates are published well in advance to help the public plan recreation trips. While the JVSUA is closed, additional nearby riding opportunities include the Stoddard Valley OHV Area and Ocotillo Wells State Vehicular Recreation Area. Email SMBPLMSJOHNSONVALLEY@usmc.mil for questions or to register for updates.

Forest Officials Crack Down on
Illegal Tire Dumping

Nearly 300 tires have already been illegally dumped in our National Forest, and the problem continues to grow. Illegal dumping creates environmental hazards, visual blight, and serious public health risks. “Tire dumping is a serious problem. It’s costly to clean up and can spark wildfires,” said Forest Protection Officer Steve Thomsen. “Dumped tires also leak toxic chemicals and attract rodents, insects, and disease, harming the environment and costing taxpayers.”

Dumping tires or trash on National Forest land is illegal and carries steep penalties, including fines up to $10,000 and up to six months in jail. Thomsen added, “This is serious. Stop dumping your tires and trash. You will be caught!” Officials emphasized that forest officers and county deputies are actively monitoring the area and will strictly enforce the law.

If you witness illegal dumping, note the location, time, and vehicle description and report it immediately by calling 909-382-2851 or 909-382-2600. Volunteers from the Southern California Mountains Foundation and Urban Conservation Corps, along with Front Country Ranger District staff, are helping clean up the damage, but protecting our forest is everyone’s responsibility. Report illegal dumping, spread the word, and help keep our public lands safe and clean.

Love Takes Center Stage at the Hall of Records This Valentine’s Day

For the first time in San Bernardino County history, the Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk’s Office will open the Hall of Records on Saturday, February 14, to perform Valentine’s Day marriage ceremonies. Recognizing that it's one of the most popular dates to tie the knot, Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk Josie Gonzales is making it easier for couples to say “I do” on a day that symbolizes love and new beginnings. 

Marriage services are offered year-round by the county, but this special Valentine’s Day event will take place on Saturday, February 14, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Hall of Records, 222 W. Hospitality Lane in San Bernardino. Ceremonies are by appointment only, and applicants must complete the marriage license application online at arc.sbcounty.gov/marriage before their wedding day. Valentine's Day ceremony appointments can be scheduled by calling 909-387-8306. Click here for additional details on ceremony options on the county’s marriage services webpage.

Students Invited to Design Bookmarks for Countywide Library Contest

The San Bernardino County Library is inviting students across the county to take part in its Bookmark Design Contest, a fun and creative opportunity to celebrate reading, libraries, and imagination. Open to students in grades K–12, the contest encourages young artists to design an original bookmark that reflects their creativity and love of books. There is no required theme, so feel free to get creative and make it your own.

Winning designs will be professionally printed and distributed at all 32 San Bernardino County Library branches, giving students the chance to see their artwork enjoyed throughout the community. Winners will be selected by the Board of Supervisors based on creativity, originality, and overall design quality. Entries are grouped and judged by grade levels: K–2, 3–5, 6–8, and 9–12.

Contest submissions will be accepted through Friday, February 27, 2026. Students may return entries to any San Bernardino County Library location or mail them to:

SBCL Administration
Attn: Bookmark Contest
268 W. Hospitality Ln., 3rd Floor
San Bernardino, CA 92415.

Artwork must be original (no copyrighted characters), and only one entry per student is allowed. Visit library.sbcounty.gov to get started.

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-247 Improvement Project 

Crews will continue culvert improvement work along State Route 247 (SR-247) between the SR-62 junction and Aviation Drive from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Temporary shoulder closures in both the northbound and southbound directions will be in place during operations. Occasional overnight work may also be required on Friday and Saturday nights between 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.

SR-247 Improvement Project

SR-38 Road Maintenance - Fawnskin

Caltrans crews will perform culvert repairs and routine maintenance on State Route 38 (SR-38) in Fawnskin on Tuesday, February 3, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., weather permitting. Work will take place between North Shore Drive and Pine Hill Drive and will require one-way traffic control with flagging in both directions. Motorists should plan for delays of up to 15 minutes at a time.

SR-38 Road Maintenance

SR-330 Guardrail Repairs

Caltrans will perform guardrail repairs on State Route 330 (SR-330) near Running Springs on Saturday, January 31, from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., weather permitting. One-way flagging control will be in place from 7:00 to 11:00 a.m. between postmiles 33.00 and 34.00 near the ranger station, and from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. between postmiles 41.20 and 41.90 near Live Oak Drive in Running Springs. Motorists should expect up to 15-minute delays due to flagging operations or possible closures. 

SR-330 Guardrail Repairs

PolaRotary Bear Plunge - Lake Arrowhead
Saturday, February 7

Make a splash for a great cause at the Rotary Club of Lake Arrowhead’s annual PolaRotary Bear Plunge on Saturday, February 7. The chilly fun begins at 10:00 a.m. on the beach next to the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa, where brave participants will dash into the icy lake in support of their favorite charities. Inspired by traditional walk-a-thon fundraisers, this high-energy event combines community spirit with a seriously cold challenge. Visit lakearrowheadrotary.net for rules, registration details, and other ways to support your favorite team.

BHS Football Championship Parade - Barstow
Saturday, February 7

Celebrate the Barstow High School Football team's State Championship at a parade and ceremony on Saturday, February 7. The parade begins at Main Street and Barstow Road, travels south to Mountain View and Belinda Avenue, and concludes at City Hall. Festivities will take place in front of Barstow City Hall on Mountain View Street from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Learn more on the city's Facebook page.

Chocolate Fantasy Gala - Redlands
Saturday, February 7

Join the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Redlands–Riverside on Saturday, February 7, for the 30th and final Chocolate & Champagne Fantasy Gala at the historic Mitten Building in Redlands. This elegant evening will celebrate three decades of community impact with a gourmet plated dinner, champagne, decadent desserts, live music, dancing, and live and silent auctions. Tickets are available at givelively.org.

Fill the Bus - Crestline
Friday, February 13

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

Have an event coming up that you would like us to publish? Please send details to Supervisor.Rowe@bos.sbcounty.gov

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