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 New Pickleball Courts Open
in Yucca Valley
Pickleball players have a new place to hit the courts in the Morongo Basin following the completion of the Yucca Valley Community Center Pickleball Courts Project. Supervisor Rowe joined Yucca Valley Mayor Merl Abel, members of the Town Council, and enthusiastic residents for a ribbon-cutting celebrating the new recreational facility.
A partnership between San Bernardino County and the Town of Yucca Valley made the project possible. The investment was intended to help meet growing demand for outdoor recreational opportunities in Yucca Valley and throughout the Morongo Basin.
Pickleball has ranked as the fastest-growing sport in the United States for five consecutive years. The sport’s popularity has also been evident throughout the Third District, where residents of all ages are looking for more opportunities to play. Check the Town of Yucca Valley Calendar for court availability and open play times.
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 Yucaipa Branch Library to Close Temporarily for Fall Improvements
The Yucaipa Branch Library will temporarily close beginning Monday, September 14, as San Bernardino County moves forward with improvements designed to make the existing facility more functional, flexible, and welcoming.
Improvements will include new flooring throughout the library, two dedicated study rooms, new furniture and shelving, and an updated layout to improve the branch's overall flow and use. The children's area will also receive mobile shelving, allowing staff to create a more flexible space for children's programs and activities.
The Yucaipa Branch Library is expected to reopen in early November. During the temporary closure, customers are encouraged to visit nearby San Bernardino County Library locations and utilize the library's online resources. To learn more about available resources and library locations, visit library.sbcounty.gov.
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 Saddle Up for September Rodeos Across the Third District
From the mountains of Big Bear to the High Desert and Glen Helen, residents can catch three distinctly different celebrations of rodeo tradition this September.
The action begins with the Big Bear Rodeo and Carnival, September 4-6, at the Big Bear Rodeo Grounds, 103 Sandalwood Drive in Big Bear Lake. The three-day event features bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, and other professional rodeo competition, along with carnival rides, live entertainment, food, and vendors. For schedules, event information, and tickets, visit BigBearRodeo.com.
Next up is the Barstow Western Roundup, presented by the Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard Association. The event is scheduled for Saturday, September 12, at the MCLB Base Stables Arena, 572 Agate Road in Daggett. The evening will feature professional rodeo action, live country music, and a special military appreciation night. The event supports the tradition of the U.S. Marine Corps Mounted Color Guard, the Marine Corps' only remaining mounted unit. For more information about the rodeo, visit MCGA Barstow on Instagram.
September's rodeo season wraps up with the San Bernardino County Sheriff's PRCA Pro Rodeo, September 25-27, at the Sheriff's Rodeo Grounds, 11755 Glen Helen Parkway in San Bernardino. One of California's largest PRCA-sanctioned rodeos, the event draws professional cowboys and cowgirls, including National Finals Rodeo qualifiers, and also features a Kids Zone and petting zoo. Festivities begin on Thursday, September 24, with a Rodeo Kickoff Concert featuring Niko Moon. For complete schedules, information, and tickets, visit SheriffsRodeo.com.
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 Appointments Now Required for Veterans Affairs Visits in
Barstow, Joshua Tree
San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs is changing the way veterans and their families access monthly outreach services in Barstow and Joshua Tree. Beginning in October, monthly visits at both locations will be available by appointment only. Scheduling begins in September, and veterans are encouraged to call 1-866-4SB-VETS (1-866-472-8387) for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Veterans Service Officers (VSOs) visit Joshua Tree on the second Wednesday of each month at the San Bernardino County Government Center, 6527 White Feather Road. In Barstow, VSOs are available on the third Thursday of each month at the Department of Aging and Adult Services-Public Guardian office, 536 E. Virginia Way. These visits provide veterans and their families with convenient, one-on-one assistance closer to home.
County VSOs can assist with disability compensation, pension benefits, VA healthcare enrollment, education benefits and college fee waivers, veterans ID cards, home loan programs, military records requests, burial benefits, and other state and federal veterans programs. Veterans who can't attend an outreach visit can also get phone assistance by calling 909-382-3290. For additional information about programs and services, visit VA.SBCounty.gov.
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 From Yucaipa to the U.S.
Space Force’s Top Post
Yucaipa native Lt. Gen. Douglas A. Schiess has been confirmed as the next Chief of Space Operations for the United States Space Force, making him the service’s highest-ranking officer and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. Schiess, who was born in Yucaipa and graduated from Yucaipa High School in 1988, will become the third Chief of Space Operations since the Space Force was established in 2019.
After graduating from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, Schiess entered the Air Force in 1992 through ROTC and built an extensive career in missile and space operations. His assignments have included work involving intercontinental ballistic missiles, space launches, and military satellite communications, along with command positions at the squadron, group, wing, joint component, and field command levels. He transferred to the Space Force in 2022 and most recently served as Deputy Chief of Space Operations for Operations.
Despite a career that has taken him to the highest levels of military leadership, Schiess has maintained ties to his hometown. In 2023, he returned to Valley Elementary School in Yucaipa, where he once attended, to speak with children about leadership and the Space Force. From a Yucaipa classroom to a seat on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Schiess’ remarkable career is a source of pride for the community and an inspiring example for the next generation of Third District students.
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 Joshua Tree Artist Residency Donates Artwork to County Museum
At this week's meeting, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors accepted a collection of art from the Joshua Tree Highlands Artist Residency (JTHAR) for the San Bernardino County Museum. The collection has a donor-assessed value of $271,450 and will be preserved for use in Museum exhibits and interpretive programming.
Founded in 2007, JTHAR is a nonprofit program that brings artists from around the world to the High Desert for seven-week residencies, providing living accommodations, studio space, and an opportunity to create work inspired by Joshua Tree National Park and the surrounding desert. Participating artists donate at least one piece of their work to the organization, creating a diverse collection that reflects numerous artistic interpretations of the region.
The donation comes as the County Museum continues to expand its art program and collection, while providing JTHAR with a long-term institutional partner that can preserve and share the artwork with the public. To learn more about JTHAR, its artists, and its residency program, visit jthar.org.
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 Coming Together to Keep Our Communities Clean
September offers several opportunities for Third District residents to roll up their sleeves and give back to their communities. These cleanups could use your help!
Yermo Community Cleanup Day – Saturday, September 5
The Yermo Community Services District is hosting a Cleanup Day on Saturday, September 5, from 8:00 a.m. to noon at 38434 West Yermo Road, next to Tita’s Burger Den. Residents can take advantage of the event to clear unwanted items from their properties and spruce up the community. Details are available on Facebook.
Highland Residential Cleanup – Saturday, September 12
The Highland Improvement Team is inviting volunteers to lend a hand during its Residential Cleanup on Saturday, September 12. Cleanup activities start at 8:00 a.m. with yard cleanups for senior residents and neighborhood beautification efforts scheduled. Sign up by calling 909-864-6861 or emailing dmoreno@highlandca.gov.
Redlands Trail Cleanup – Saturday, September 19
Redlands residents can celebrate California Coastal Cleanup Day by helping clean the Redlands Bluff Trail on Saturday, September 19. The local effort highlights an important connection between inland communities and the coast. Organizers will provide cleanup supplies; volunteers must be 18 or older or accompanied by a guardian. For information, email khaberlin@cityofredlands.org or call 909-798-7559.
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 Hiring Event Brings Jobs and County Resources to Joshua Tree
Job seekers looking for their next career opportunity are invited to attend a Hiring Event on Thursday, September 24, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Copper Mountain College’s Bell Center in Joshua Tree. Attendees can meet with employers, explore available positions, and make valuable career connections. All job seekers are welcome and are encouraged to bring copies of their résumé.
The event will also bring several San Bernardino County resources directly to residents. The Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk Mobile Unit will offer birth, death, and marriage certificate copies, notary public filings, fictitious business name statements, and property information. Representatives from the San Bernardino County Public Defender’s Office will also be available to help eligible residents get started with the record-clearing process.
The event will be held at Copper Mountain College’s Bell Center, 6162 Rotary Way in Joshua Tree. Advance registration is available now on eventbrite.com.
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SR-18 Safety Repairs–Snow Valley/Arctic Circle
Motorists traveling on State Route 18 (SR-18) should expect delays on Friday, September 4, between Snow Valley, Arctic Circle, and Arrowbear Drive. Drainage and safety improvements will create alternating lane closures, with traffic control in place from 7:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Drivers should expect delays through the work zone.
SR-18 Safety Repairs
I-40 John Wilkie Rest Area Closed
Reminder for Labor Day weekend travelers: the John Wilkie Rest Area, located about 36 miles from Needles on Interstate 40 (I-40), remains closed. Crews are currently installing granite protection posts, and electrical work is ongoing.
I-40 John Wilkie Rest Area Closed
SR-38 Safety Upgrades–Redlands
A pavement rehabilitation and safety project continues along State Route 38 (Lugonia Avenue) in Redlands, with construction scheduled Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Current work includes curb ramp and drainage improvements at several locations between Pearl Avenue, Orange Street, Sixth Street, Colton Avenue, Alta Street, Sun Avenue, The Terrace, and the eastbound I-10 exit.
SR-38 Safety Upgrades
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Labor Day Fireworks Show - Landers
Saturday, September 5
Homestead Valley Park in Landers will celebrate Labor Day weekend with a fireworks show, “Party for the Park,” on Saturday, September 5. Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. at 1501 Belfield Boulevard in Landers. This year’s gathering marks the 40th anniversary of Homestead Valley Park with an evening of community fun beneath the desert sky. Visit Homestead Valley Park and Recreation on Facebook to learn more.
Lighted Boat Parade - Lake Arrowhead
Saturday, September 5
The Arrowhead Lake Association’s Lighted Boat Parade returns Saturday, September 5, at 8:00 p.m., starting at Lone Pine Island. Boat owners are invited to decorate their vessels with lights and join the parade; no registration is required, and participation is free. Those without a boat can enjoy the colorful procession from the shoreline, including viewing areas at Lake Arrowhead Resort and The Village. Click the Arrowhead Lake Association page on Facebook for more information.
9/11 Memorial Ceremony - Yucaipa
Friday, 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 Friday, September 11, at 4:00 p.m. at Yucaipa City Hall, 34272 Yucaipa Boulevard. The City's official website has more information.
High Desert Small Business Vendor Fair - Victorville
Thursday, September 17
Local small businesses are invited to connect with public agencies and explore contracting opportunities at the High Desert Small Business Vendor Fair on Thursday, September 17, at Victor Valley College, in Victorville. Attendees can discover valuable resources, make connections with community partners, and learn more about opportunities to grow their businesses. Event registration is available here.
Wild West Casino Night - Mentone
Thursday, September 17
The Mentone Chamber of Commerce is bringing back its popular Casino Night on Thursday, September 17, at Millcreek Cattle Company, 1874 Mentone Boulevard in Mentone. Gameplay is for fun and supports local programs. Players will also enjoy a delicious barbecue buffet. Call 909-389-0706 or visit the Chamber website for details.
Fall Festival and Oktoberfest - Grand Terrace
Saturday, September 19
The Greater Grand Terrace Chamber of Commerce and Grand Terrace Lions Club are teaming up for the Fall Festival and Oktoberfest on Saturday, September 19, at Professional Plaza, 22365 Barton Road in Grand Terrace. The community celebration will feature music, local vendors, and craft booths, along with plenty of fair foods and seasonal treats. The Chamber's Instagram page has more event 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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