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 A Fourth of July Wish From County Fire
As families across the Third District gather for barbecues, parades, community celebrations, and fireworks displays, San Bernardino County firefighters have a simple wish: that everyone enjoys a safe and memorable Independence Day without an emergency.
That goal becomes especially important during the summer months, when dry vegetation and hot weather increase the risk of wildfire. Even a single illegal firework can ignite a brush fire, threaten homes and businesses, and place first responders in harm's way. While "Safe and Sane" fireworks are permitted in Colton, Grand Terrace, and Needles, local restrictions may apply. In most Third District communities and all unincorporated areas, fireworks are prohibited. Fireworks that explode, launch into the air, or move along the ground are illegal throughout California.
To help protect residents and neighborhoods, San Bernardino County Fire and local law enforcement agencies will conduct enforcement operations throughout the holiday period. Individuals found possessing or using illegal fireworks may face fines and other penalties, and property owners can be held responsible for fireworks used on their premises. Residents are encouraged to attend one of the many professional fireworks displays being held throughout the region and to report illegal fireworks activity by calling 1-800-47-ARSON (27766) or using the County's Illegal Fireworks Reporter. Learn more at sbcfire.org/fireworkssafety.
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 Around the Third District
Top: Supervisor Rowe joined firefighters, local leaders, and community members to celebrate the groundbreaking of San Bernardino County Fire Station 227. Built adjacent to Arrowhead Elementary School, this modern facility will enhance emergency response, improve public safety, and better serve local families and businesses. The project is the result of a partnership between San Bernardino County Fire, San Bernardino City Unified School District, the Yuhaaviatam of San Manuel Nation, and San Bernardino County. The new station will sit at 180 West 38th Street in the City of San Bernardino.
Bottom: The Mountain Sunrise Rotary Club in Lake Arrowhead featured Supervisor Rowe as its guest speaker at a recent meeting. In addition to sharing some insight into her role as a San Bernardino County Supervisor, she discussed county services available to mountain residents. We thank the Rotary Club for their warm welcome!
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 Finding Help Just Got Easier for San Bernardino County Seniors
Finding information about services for older adults and individuals with disabilities is now easier than ever, thanks to the newly redesigned website from the San Bernardino County Department of Aging and Adult Services – Public Guardian (DAAS-PG). The updated site features a clean, user-friendly layout and simple navigation, helping residents quickly connect with the programs and resources they need. Visitors can easily browse services, locate nearby resources, download publications, find important phone numbers, and access emergency preparedness information, all from one convenient location. Take a look at daas.sbcounty.gov.
DAAS-PG is dedicated to helping older adults, individuals with disabilities, their families, and caregivers maintain independence, choice, and quality of life. Whether someone needs In-Home Supportive Services to remain safely in their own home, nutritious meals through the Senior Nutrition Program, or assistance from Adult Protective Services for an at-risk loved one, the department offers a wide range of programs designed to meet residents where they are. The website also highlights valuable resources, including caregiver support, Medicare counseling, employment opportunities for older adults, behavioral health services through Age Wise, and Senior Information and Assistance.
Another helpful feature is information about DAAS-PG's communication device program, which provides qualifying San Bernardino County residents ages 60 and older—and disabled adults ages 18 to 59—with devices designed to reduce isolation and strengthen connections with family, friends, and support networks. To learn more or register for the program, call 1-888-743-1485. Visit daas.sbcounty.gov to discover the services available and find the support that's right for you or someone you love.
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 Sheriff's Marine Sergeant Earns National Boating Safety Honor
San Bernardino County Sheriff's Marine Enforcement Unit Sgt. Travis Vessells has been recognized by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) as the 2026 Western Region Boating Officer of the Year. The award recognizes his leadership in impaired boating enforcement, marine patrol operations, officer training, search and rescue, and efforts to improve recreational boating safety throughout the western United States.
As president of the California Boating Safety Officers Association, Sgt. Vessells has helped lead one of the region's most effective marine law enforcement programs on the Colorado River and Lake Havasu. During the 2025 boating season, the Marine Enforcement Unit conducted more than 1,000 enforcement stops, made 48 boating under the influence arrests, and continued its public outreach and education efforts. Sgt. Vessells also oversees search-and-rescue operations along nearly 90 miles of the Colorado River system and serves as a lead instructor, helping to train the next generation of marine law enforcement officers across California.
Sgt. Vessells' commitment to public safety extends well beyond enforcement. Through the Sheriff's Colorado River Station in Needles, he has helped strengthen regional partnerships, professional mentorship, and continued leadership in boating safety initiatives. Congratulations to Sgt. Travis Vessells on this well-deserved recognition, and thank you for your service to all who enjoy our waterways.
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 Connecting Barstow Veterans With the Benefits They've Earned
San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs is making it easier for High Desert veterans to access the benefits they have earned through their military service. Through a partnership with the Department of Aging and Adult Services-Public Guardian (DAAS-PG), Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) are available in Barstow on the third Thursday of each month to provide free claims assistance and benefits counseling.
Veterans can receive one-on-one assistance at the DAAS-PG office, located at 536 E. Virginia Way in Barstow, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. No appointment is required, and services are available on a first-come, first-served basis. VSOs can help veterans and their families apply for disability compensation, pension benefits, education assistance, VA healthcare enrollment, home loan programs, military records requests, and a variety of other state and federal veterans benefits.
The next Barstow visit is scheduled for Thursday, July 16. For veterans who are unable to attend, County Veterans Affairs also offers same-day phone assistance Monday through Friday by calling 909-382-3290. Information about available veterans resources and services can be found by visiting va.sbcounty.gov.
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 Board of Supervisors Honors Dr. Richard Hart's Legacy of Service
The San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors recently recognized Dr. Richard Hart for a lifetime of service to healthcare, education, and public health as he prepares to retire after more than five decades with Loma Linda University Health.
Dr. Hart has served as President of Loma Linda University Health since 2008, overseeing the organization's eight schools, six hospitals, and numerous collaborative partnerships worldwide. His career at Loma Linda University Health began in 1972 and has included leadership roles as Director of the Center for Health Promotion, Chair of the Department of Preventive Medicine, Dean of the School of Public Health, and Chair of the Department of Health Sciences, before he assumed the university's top leadership position.
Among his many accomplishments, Dr. Hart played a pivotal role in developing the Loma Linda University Health San Bernardino campus, which opened in 2016 and expanded access to healthcare and education through a Federally Qualified Health Center, San Manuel Gateway College, and training programs for future healthcare professionals. His impact has extended well beyond San Bernardino County through his leadership of Adventist Health International, his work as a consultant to the World Health Organization, and his contributions to the Marshall Islands' national health plan. Earlier in his career, his passion for service also helped inspire the creation of Students for International Mission Service and SAC Health, which continues to provide affordable healthcare to medically underserved residents today.
In recognition of his extraordinary career and lasting contributions to healthcare, education, and public service, the Board of Supervisors presented Dr. Hart with a resolution honoring his achievements and wishing him a long, happy retirement. His visionary leadership and dedication have left a lasting mark on San Bernardino County and communities around the world.
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 Affordable Auto Insurance Available Through CLCA
For many California residents, the cost of auto insurance can be a challenge. Fortunately, the California Low Cost Automobile (CLCA) Insurance Program provides an affordable option for income-eligible drivers who need liability coverage to meet the state’s mandatory auto insurance requirements. The state-sponsored program is designed to help responsible drivers maintain legal insurance coverage while keeping costs manageable.
The CLCA program is available to California residents who have a valid driver’s license, meet income eligibility guidelines, own a vehicle valued at $25,000 or less, are at least 16 years old, and have a good driving record or are new drivers. Immigration status is not a factor in determining eligibility. The program provides basic liability coverage, including up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per accident for bodily injury or death, along with up to $3,000 for property damage. Optional coverage for uninsured motorists and medical payments is also available.
While CLCA policies do not cover damage to your own vehicle caused by theft or collisions, they offer a practical and affordable way for eligible drivers to comply with California law and protect themselves financially. Individuals may purchase coverage for up to two vehicles, provided all household vehicles are insured through the program. To learn more about eligibility requirements, coverage options, or to apply, visit the official California Low Cost Auto Insurance Program website.
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 Click here to have The Rowe Report sent directly to your email.
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SR-210 Full Closure
Caltrans will fully close State Route 210 (SR-210) in both directions between Highland Avenue and Del Rosa Avenue from 9:00 p.m. Saturday, June 27, until 9:00 a.m. Sunday, June 28. Additional closures will affect Pumalo Street between Argyle Avenue and Sterling Avenue, as well as Sterling Avenue at the SR-210 undercrossing, beginning at 4:00 p.m. Saturday. Look for posted detour routes.
SR-210 Full Closure
SR-330 Emergency Project
Caltrans continues emergency repairs to damaged culverts, roadway, and drainage basins along State Route 330 (SR-330) near Running Springs. One-way traffic control will be in effect Monday, June 29, through Wednesday, July 1, from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. between East Fork City Creek and Live Oak Drive. Crews expect to complete all construction work by Thursday, July 2, with final cleanup by Monday, July 6.
SR-330 Emergency Project
I-10 Bridge Maintenance Project
Caltrans crews will continue performing bridge repairs, pavement improvements, and roadway striping along Interstate 10 (I-10) between Loma Linda and Yucaipa. Motorists should expect nighttime lane, shoulder, and occasional ramp closures from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., Monday through Friday, with possible weekend night work.
I-10 Bridge Maintenance Project
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Stars, Stripes, and Celebrations in the Third District
Looking for a place to celebrate America's 250th birthday? Communities across the Third District are hosting parades, concerts, family activities, and fireworks displays. Here's a quick guide to local celebrations.
June 27 LUCERNE VALLEY Take in an early fireworks show and Independence Day celebration this Saturday. Pioneer Park, 33187 Hwy 247 East, Lucerne Valley Lucerne Valley Fireworks Show
July 3 LAKE GREGORY It's free to watch the fireworks show from the lakeside at 9:00 p.m. Lake Gregory Regional Park, 24171 Lake Drive, Crestline Fireworks Over Lake Gregory
NEWBERRY SPRINGS Celebrate on the 3rd of July with live music, fireworks, and more. Community Park, 30884 Newberry Road, Newberry Springs 3rd of July Celebration
YUCCA VALLEY The Independence Day celebration includes a concert and fireworks at 9:00 p.m. Yucca Valley High School, 7600 Sage Avenue, Yucca Valley Independence Day Celebration
July 4 BARSTOW The day's events will start with a 5K run and conclude with fireworks at 9:00 p.m. Sessions Memorial Sports Park, 2800 Mayor Katy Parkway, Barstow Barstow 4th of July events
BIG BEAR LAKE Fireworks over the lake can be seen from the water, the shore, and around town. Fireworks start between 8:45 and 9:15 p.m. 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular
CRESTLINE Celebrate with a parade, family activities, and community festivities throughout town. Top Town, Crest Forest Drive, Crestline Jamboree Days Parade & Town Festival
GREEN VALLEY LAKE Events include a street parade, boat parade, and a scavenger hunt. Parade starts at the corner of Lakeside and Green Valley Lake Road. Green Valley Lake 4th of July events
HIGHLAND The 4th of July parade starts at 9:00 a.m.; fireworks start at 9:00 p.m. Parade route starts at Base Line & Church, ends at the Highland Family YMCA. Fireworks will be seen over Immanuel Baptist Church at 28355 Base Line.
LAKE ARROWHEAD The Arrowhead Lake Association presents this annual summer highlight! Special aircraft flyovers will take place before the fireworks show at 9:00 p.m. Fireworks Spectacular Over Lake Arrowhead
LUCERNE VALLEY Independence Day events include a parade and a barbecue in the park. Parade route will run along SR-18 from Trade Post Road to Pioneer Park. Independence Day Celebration
REDLANDS Activities include a parade, live music, and fireworks at Moore Middle School. 4th of July activities take place at Sylvan Park, 601 N University Street. The Fireworks Show will be held at Moore Middle School, 1550 E Highland Avenue.
TWENTYNINE PALMS Events include giveaways, family fun, fireworks, and Blane Howard performing live. Tortoise Rock Casino, 73829 Baseline Road, Twentynine Palms 4th of July Celebration
YUCAIPA This year's events include monster trucks, freestyle motocross, and fireworks. Yucaipa High School stadium, 33000 Yucaipa Boulevard Freedom Fest
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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