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 San Bernardino County Honors Veterans with Green Lights, Free Park Admission, and Year-Round Support
To celebrate Veterans Day and Veterans Month, San Bernardino County is joining communities nationwide in honoring the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces.
Operation Green Light returns this year, with government buildings across San Bernardino County shining green in a nationwide show of appreciation for veterans and their families. All five members of the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors are participating by illuminating their respective district offices, including Supervisor Rowe's office at the Bob Burke Government Center, 63665 Twentynine Palms Highway in Joshua Tree. Residents, businesses, and community organizations are also encouraged to participate by changing one light to green as a visible symbol of gratitude and support.
In recognition of Veterans Day on Wednesday, November 11, San Bernardino County Regional Parks will offer free admission to veterans and active-duty military personnel, including members of the Reserve and National Guard. Participating locations have previously included Cucamonga-Guasti, Glen Helen, Mojave Narrows, Prado and Yucaipa Regional Parks, where complimentary vehicle admission allows military families to enjoy the day together. Calico Ghost Town has also offered one free adult admission to eligible service members. Visitors should check parks.sbcounty.gov to learn more about admission requirements and park hours.
Beyond Veterans Day, San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs provides year-round assistance to the more than 90,000 veterans who call the county home. The department helps veterans and their families navigate federal benefits, including disability compensation, health care, education, home loans, life insurance, survivor benefits, and burial assistance. Veterans Service Representatives can assist with claims and applications, and many services are available by phone, eliminating the need for an in-person visit. For more information about available services, visit va.sbcounty.gov or call 1-866-472-8387.
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 Veterans Month Highlights County Outreach Services
The County Department of Veterans Affairs provides monthly outreach services in Barstow and Joshua Tree, offering personalized assistance to veterans throughout the High Desert and Morongo Basin.
In Joshua Tree, Veterans Service Officers visit the San Bernardino County facility at 6527 White Feather Road on the second Wednesday of each month. In Barstow, services are available on the third Thursday of each month at the Department of Aging and Adult Services-Public Guardian office, located at 536 E. Virginia Way. Service hours are 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at both locations.
Veterans should be aware that appointments are now required for both outreach locations. Veterans and their families can schedule an appointment or obtain additional information by calling 1-866-472-8387.
If you can't attend an in-person appointment, County Veterans Affairs also provides same-day telephone assistance Monday through Friday at 909-382-3290. Additional information is available at va.sbcounty.gov.
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 Ceremonies Set to Honor Veterans in the Third District
Click on the underlined community name for more information.
▪ Barstow - Wednesday, November 11 at 8:00 a.m.
Cora M. Harper Community Center, 841 Barstow Road
Starts with a community breakfast and includes an honor ride to veterans home.
▪ Big Bear Lake - Wednesday, November 11 at 11:00 a.m.
Veterans Park, 40870 Big Bear Boulevard
Mayor Randall Putz and 1st Lt. Baila Edwards from Ft. Irwin will speak.
▪ Grand Terrace - Wednesday, November 11 at 11:00 a.m.
Veterans Wall of Freedom, 21950 Pico Street
The Wall of Freedom will honor the military and new inductees on the Wall.
▪ Loma Linda - Wednesday, November 11 at 12:00 p.m.
Bryn Mawr Veterans Memorial Park, corner of Juanita and Mayberry Streets
Honoring service, remembering the sacrifice, and celebrating the community.
▪ Redlands - Wednesday, November 11 at 9:00 a.m.
Downtown Redlands to Jennie Davis Park, 923 West Redlands Boulevard
Veterans Day Parade starts at 9:00 a.m., followed by a ceremony at the park.
▪ Yucaipa - Wednesday, November 11 at 11:00 a.m.
Yucaipa Community Park, 34900 Oak Glen Road
Calimesa Councilman Eric Cundieff and Senator Rosilicie Ochoa Bogh will speak.
▪ Yucca Valley - Wednesday, November 11 at 10:00 a.m.
Yucca Valley Community Center, 57090 Twentynine Palms Highway
The event includes veterans' recognition, live music, barbecue, and more.
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 Supervisor Rowe Featured in Latest Episode of County’s News Now
San Bernardino County's latest episode of News Now spotlights Supervisor Rowe in this month's "District Minute." Her segment reflects on the 2026 State of the County event, which celebrated the county's rich history and promising economic future through the theme of Route 66's centennial. She also highlights recent developments in the Third District, including a new behavioral health facility at Loma Linda University Health designed to improve care for individuals experiencing mental health crises, along with major improvements to a community gathering place in Wonder Valley.
Click here to watch the latest episode of News Now to catch up on what's happening throughout San Bernardino County. The video is also available on San Bernardino County's Facebook, Instagram, and X channels.
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 Girls Empowerment Camp Offers Teens Firefighting Experience in Yucaipa
Teenagers interested in exploring a career in firefighting can learn from experienced professionals at the Inland Empire Girls Empowerment Camp, November 14-15, at the Crafton Hills College Fire Technology Center in Yucaipa. The free, two-day program is open to youth ages 14-18.
From 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day, participants will get an inside look at the fire service through hands-on activities and guidance from firefighters who have served throughout the Inland Empire. Beyond introducing teens to the challenges and rewards of firefighting, the camp emphasizes leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience while helping participants develop confidence and practical skills.
Participation is free, but registration is required. Interested teens and their families can learn more and register through the online portal or visit the San Bernardino County event announcement for additional information.
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 San Bernardino County Encourages Residents to Prepare for
El Niño Storms
With a strong El Niño developing in the Pacific Ocean, San Bernardino County officials are urging residents to prepare for a wetter-than-normal winter. Forecasters say warmer ocean temperatures are increasing the likelihood of above-average rainfall across Southern California, raising concerns about flooding, mudslides, and hazardous road conditions. Throughout the year, County Public Works crews have been preparing for the storm season by clearing and maintaining drainage systems and flood control channels, particularly in areas affected by recent wildfires..
Residents can take several steps now to protect their families and properties. Emergency officials recommend assembling a three-day supply of food, water, medications, and other essentials; clearing rain gutters and drainage pathways; securing loose outdoor objects; and reviewing evacuation routes. Those living in mountain communities, flood-prone neighborhoods, and areas near wildfire burn scars should be especially alert to potential flooding and debris flows.
San Bernardino County Fire offers free sandbags and sand at designated locations to help residents protect their properties. Supplies vary by location and are available on a first-come, first-served basis, so residents are encouraged to prepare before storms arrive. Visit County Fire's Sandbag Availability webpage for distribution locations, availability information and instructions for proper use.
For additional preparedness resources, the San Bernardino County Office of Emergency Services has launched a dedicated El Niño and Storm Preparedness webpage featuring information on flooding, debris flows, evacuation planning and emergency alerts. Residents can also learn how to register for the County's Telephone Emergency Notification System (TENS) and access the Ready SB County app. Taking a few simple precautions now can make a significant difference when severe weather arrives.
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 Secretary of State Bringing Pop-Up Shop to San Bernardino
On Tuesday, November 10, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., residents can take advantage of a convenient local opportunity to have official documents authenticated for international use when the California Secretary of State's Office brings its Pop-Up Shop to San Bernardino. The event will be held in partnership with the San Bernardino County Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk at the Hall of Records, 222 W. Hospitality Lane, First Floor, in San Bernardino. Parking is free.
The Pop-Up Shop will provide in-person Apostille services to authenticate the signatures of California public officials on documents for use in other countries. Apostilles are commonly needed for international legal, business, educational, and personal matters, including birth certificates, marriage records, and notarized documents. Bringing these services to San Bernardino County helps residents avoid the need to travel to one of its permanent offices.
New for 2026, the Pop-Up Shop will also offer in-person Domestic Partnership registration services. Under California law, registered domestic partnerships provide couples with many of the same state-level legal rights, protections, benefits, and responsibilities as marriage. For more information, residents can view the event flyer or email PopUpShop@sos.ca.gov.
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 Disaster Resilience Fund Offers
Funding for Emergency
Preparedness and Recovery
Residents of San Bernardino County may qualify for up to $500 in financial assistance to help prepare for emergencies or recover from disasters through the newly opened Disaster Resilience Fund.
Offered by Inland Southern California United Way and Verizon through the United We Prepare initiative, the program provides eligible households with direct financial assistance for disaster-related expenses. Funding can cover a variety of preparedness and recovery needs, including emergency food and water supplies, first-aid kits, flashlights, batteries, portable generators, backup power stations, and emergency communication devices. Eligible expenses also include home safety improvements such as flood barriers, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers.
For households already affected by a disaster, assistance may help cover urgent expenses such as temporary lodging, evacuation-related transportation, meals, pet boarding, cleanup supplies, and replacement of essential household items.
To qualify, applicants must be at least 18 years old, reside in San Bernardino or Riverside County, provide proof of identity and address, and use the funds for eligible disaster-related purposes. Priority consideration may be given to households in high-risk disaster areas, those with limited access to preparedness resources, households relying on electricity-powered medical equipment, and families experiencing hardship from a recent disaster.
Applications are being processed on a first-complete, first-approved basis, and funding is not guaranteed. Residents are encouraged to apply promptly by visiting bit.ly/ISCDisasterFund. For additional information or assistance, call 909-980-2719 or email disasterprep@iscuw.org.
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 Click here to have The Rowe Report sent directly to your email.
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SR-18 Pavement Improvement Project
Caltrans continues pavement improvement work along State Route 18 (SR-18) in San Bernardino, from 29th Street to just south of Old Waterman Canyon Road. Construction is scheduled Monday through Friday, from 7:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with lane closures primarily affecting the area between SR-18 and north of Old Waterman Canyon Road. Expect ramp closures from eastbound SR-210 to eastbound SR-18/Waterman Avenue on Monday, November 9, and Tuesday, November 10.
SR-18 Pavement Improvement Project
I-40 Lane Closure
Travelers heading eastbound on Interstate 40 (I-40) can expect a #2 lane closure near Hidden Springs Road, along with a closure of the Hidden Springs Road off-ramp on Saturday, November 7, from 6:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Crews will be performing guardrail repairs, so please use caution when driving through the work zone.
I-40 Lane Closure
I-10 Bridge Maintenance Project
Caltrans crews will continue performing bridge repairs and preventive maintenance 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 night work on weekends.
Work locations include:
Westbound (WB) I-10 on-ramp and off-ramp closures
- Live Oak Canyon Road on-ramp
Eastbound (EB) I-10 on-ramp and off-ramp closures
- Live Oak Canyon Road off-ramp
I-10 Bridge Maintenance Project
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Pistachio Festival - Newberry Springs
Saturday, November 7 - Sunday, November 8
Get ready to go nuts! The annual Newberry Springs Pistachio Festival returns Saturday, November 7, and Sunday, November 8, bringing family-friendly fun back to Newberry Springs Park, at 30884 Newberry Road. Billed as America’s only pistachio festival, this unique celebration features live music, food trucks, local vendors, games, an art show, a kickball tournament, and, of course, plenty of pistachios! For more information, visit newberryspringschamber.com.
Yucca Valley Film Festival - Yucca Valley
Friday, November 6 - Sunday, November 8
The eighth annual Yucca Valley Film Festival is a three-day celebration of independent filmmaking and creative talent from around the world. This year's festival will showcase 52 films, including work from numerous local filmmakers from Yucca Valley, Joshua Tree, Palm Springs, and throughout the Inland Empire. Highlights include a red-carpet experience with a 20-foot backdrop and a special Kids Program on Saturday. Click on yuccavalleyfilmfestival.com for event details.
Community Fall Festival - Needles
Saturday, November 7
The City of Needles presents the third annual Community Fall Festival and Route 66 Centennial Celebration on Saturday, November 7, at Santa Fe Park. Celebrate a century of the historic highway with live entertainment, food trucks, vendors, a beer garden, and activities for the whole family. Highlights include an off-highway vehicle show, a kids' fun zone, historic El Garces tours, a Route 66 photo gallery, a musical performance by the Fort Mojave Indian Tribe Bird Singers, and a fireworks show at 7:15 p.m. Additional information is available at cityofneedles.com.
Desert Discovery Day - Twentynine Palms
Saturday, November 7
The Desert Institute at Joshua Tree National Park Association invites families to explore the desert's wonders during Desert Discovery Day on Saturday, November 7, at Freedom Plaza, 6547 Freedom Way in Twentynine Palms. This free event will feature games, ambassador animals, prizes, and hands-on activities designed to make learning about the desert fun. This year's event will help visitors discover ways to protect and preserve the desert environment. Learn more at joshuatree.org.
Open House and Push-In Ceremony - Yucaipa
Saturday, November 7
The Yucaipa Fire Department invites the community to a free Open House and Push-In Ceremony on Saturday, November 7, at Fire Station 3, 34259 Wildwood Canyon Road in Yucaipa. Visitors can tour the fire station, explore fire engine displays, learn about fire safety and prevention, and enjoy food and beverages. At 11:00 a.m., the department will hold a special push-in ceremony to welcome its new Medic Squad 553 into service. Yucaipa.gov has more event information.
Citrus and Clay - Loma Linda
Saturday, November 7
On Saturday, November 7, the historic Frink Adobe in Loma Linda will host Citrus & Clay: A Celebration of New Beginnings. This free community event will feature historical and garden tours, adobe workshops, and antique cars and motorcycles. Families can also enjoy pony rides, adobe brickmaking, leathercraft activities, and live performances by the Citrus Sisters folk singers and the Prickly Pears Singing Cowboys. The celebration takes place at 26248 Mission Road in Loma Linda. Event details are available on the City of Loma Linda's Facebook page.
Route 66 Centennial Celebration - Barstow
Saturday, November 14
The City of Barstow invites the community to celebrate the Route 66 Centennial on Saturday, November 14, at Main Street Heritage Park, on the corner of Main Street and First Avenue. This special celebration will feature a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the park, along with the unveiling of a commemorative time capsule and plaque honoring the historic highway's legacy. Visitors can enjoy classic cars, live music, food trucks, and activities throughout the day. Admission and parking are free! Visit the City of Barstow on Facebook and Instagram for more information.
Mentone International Film Festival - Mentone
Saturday, November 14
The Mentone International Film Festival invites film lovers to celebrate storytelling, creativity, and culture on Saturday, November 14, at the Portuguese American Club, 1133 Crafton Avenue in Mentone. Doors open at 11:00 a.m. for a day showcasing talented filmmakers, storytellers, and artists through a diverse selection of films and cinematic experiences. Additional information is available through the Mentone Chamber of Commerce at 909-362-7860 or chamberofcommercementoneca.org.
Tree of Lights - Big Bear Lake
Saturday, November 14
The Bear Valley Community Healthcare District Foundation invites residents to its annual Tree of Lights ceremony on Saturday, November 14, at 5:00 p.m. on the hospital campus in Big Bear Lake. Community members can dedicate a symbolic light in someone's honor or memory, with proceeds supporting the purchase of heart-related medical equipment for the hospital. Information about candle dedications and donations is available at bvchd.com/about-us/the-foundation.
48th Birthday Celebration - Grand Terrace
Sunday, November 15
The City of Grand Terrace invites residents to celebrate its 48th birthday on Sunday, November 15, at Richard Rollins Community Park, 22745 De Berry Street. This free event will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., honoring the city's history, celebrating its present, and looking ahead to its future. For information, call 909-954-5178 or email historicalculturalcommittee@grandterrace-ca.gov.
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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