San Bernardino County Fire Protection District to host blood drive on Aug. 25
The San Bernardino County Fire Protection District, in partnership with LifeStream Blood Bank, will host a community blood drive on Tuesday, Aug. 25, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
The event will be held at the district’s headquarters, located at 598 S. Tippecanoe Ave. in San Bernardino. Donations will be collected in the first-floor Assembly Room.
The blood drive is part of an ongoing effort to strengthen the region’s blood supply for hospitals throughout San Bernardino, Riverside, Inyo, Mono and Kern counties. Donations also help sustain the district’s Pre-Hospital Blood Transfusion Program based in Hesperia, which equips paramedics with blood products to provide lifesaving transfusions before patients reach a hospital. A single blood donation can help save up to three lives.
“We’re proud to open our doors and give back to the community we serve every day,” EMS Supervisor Miranda Mulhall said. “Donating blood is one of the simplest ways residents can make a real difference for their neighbors.”
All donors will receive a limited-edition San Bernardino County Fire Protection District T-shirt and a $25 Target gift card while supplies last.
Appointments are encouraged and may be scheduled by calling LifeStream at 800-879-4484 or by scheduling an appointment online. Walk-ins will be accepted as space allows.
Those who are unable to attend the Aug. 25 event can find additional donation opportunities and learn more at lstream.org/sanbernardino.
Care and Connect Expo to link autism, IDD families with first responders
Autism Society Inland Empire and the San Bernardino County Fire Protection District will host a free community safety expo aimed at connecting families in the autism and intellectual/developmental disability (IDD) community with local first responders.
The “Care and Connect: Fun Safety Expo” is set for Aug. 15 from 10 a.m. to noon at Miller Park Amphitheater located at 17004 Arrow Boulevard in Fontana. Attendees will have an opportunity to meet firefighters, police officers and paramedics from American Medical Response, ask questions and explore tools designed for neurodiverse individuals.
The event will also include a session on emergency communication strategies for high-stress situations; a “Fun Zone” with bubbles, sensory play and inflatables for children; free dessert for the first 300 guests; and American Sign Language and Spanish interpretation throughout the event.
The expo is made possible with support from the Inland Regional Center and the California Department of Developmental Services. The event aims to give families in the autism and IDD community an opportunity to build familiarity and trust with first responders in a low-pressure setting before an emergency occurs.
Due to limited space, attendees are encouraged to RSVP in advance through the online registration form or by contacting Autism Society Inland Empire directly.
Community cleanup event in Arrowhead Farms
San Bernardino County Land Use Services’ Code Enforcement Division and Public Works’ Solid Waste Division will host a free community cleanup and bulky item disposal event on Saturday, Aug. 22, from 8 a.m. to noon for residents of Arrowhead Farms. The event offers an opportunity to help keep the community clean and beautiful. Business or commercial waste cannot be accepted.
Event details are as follows:
Date: Saturday, Aug. 22
Time: 8 a.m. to noon
Location: Our Lady of the Assumption Catholic Church, 796 W. 48th St., San Bernardino.
Accepted items:
- Household trash
- Bulky items
- Green waste
- Up to nine tires per load, including rims
- Documents for on-site shredding
- Electronics such as TVs, monitors, VCRs, stereos and cellphones (collected by the Urban Conservation Corps)
Not accepted:
- Concrete
- Hazardous waste such as batteries, motor oil, antifreeze, gasoline, pesticides, fertilizers, fluorescent lights, pool chemicals, paint products and medication
For hazardous waste disposal information, call 800-645-9228 or 909-382-5401.
Participants should secure and cover loads before traveling, unload their own items and note that oversized or difficult loads may be turned away. For questions, contact Deleon Luna with the Code Enforcement Division at 909-383-2133.
County Library launches “The Great Outdoors” basket giveaway
There’s no need to blaze a trail far from home this August—your next adventure starts at your local county library.
The San Bernardino County Library is inviting residents to venture into reading with its The Great Outdoors basket giveaway, a month-long circulation incentive designed to encourage patrons to explore the library’s vast collection while earning opportunities to win exciting outdoor-themed prize baskets.
Throughout the month of August, patrons who check out 30 items from any County Library branch and present their checkout receipt to library staff will receive one entry into the giveaway. The more items checked out, the more chances participants have to win.
From bestselling novels and children’s books to movies, audiobooks, educational kits and more, every checkout is another step on the trail toward a chance to win.
“Just like every great outdoor adventure begins with a single step, every great reading adventure begins with a single book,” said Program Coordinator Elizabeth Williams. “Our libraries are places where curiosity can roam free, imaginations can climb new heights and lifelong learning is always in season. We invite everyone to explore our collections, discover something new and enjoy a little extra fun along the way.”
Five themed prize baskets will help winners continue the adventure long after they leave the library, including:
- Camping Adventure – Everything needed for a fun-filled outdoor escape.
- Back-to-School Adventure – Supplies and goodies to kick off a successful school year.
- Road Trip Adventure – Essentials for the next journey down the open road.
- Hobbies Adventure – Inspiration to discover a new pastime or favorite activity.
- Sweet Scoops Adventure – Everything needed to enjoy delicious homemade ice cream treats.
Whether patrons are setting up camp with a new novel, taking a literary road trip through the pages of a favorite author, or exploring new hobbies and interests, the library offers endless opportunities to discover new trails through reading.
How to Enter
- Visit any County Library branch during the month of August.
- Check out 30 library items.
- Present your checkout receipt to library staff.
- Receive one giveaway entry for every 30 items checked out.
- Continue exploring all month long to earn additional entries.
The giveaway is open to all County Library patrons. Winners will be selected after the promotion concludes and notified by their participating branch.
Residents who do not yet have a County Library card are encouraged to visit their local branch or register online. A free library card unlocks access to millions of physical and digital resources, museum passes, online learning tools, streaming services, family programming and much more.
Grab your library card, pack your imagination and take the scenic route through the stacks this August. Your next great adventure—and perhaps your next prize basket—is waiting at your County Library branch.
For more information about the San Bernardino County Library system, visit library.sbcounty.gov, call 909-387-2220 or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
The San Bernardino County Library system is a dynamic network of 32 branch libraries serving a diverse population across a vast geographic area. The County Library is committed to providing equitable access to information, technology, programs and services for all San Bernardino County residents.
County Library invites builders to explore nature through creativity with LEGO® building contests
Adventure awaits this August as the San Bernardino County Library invites builders to unleash their creativity during “The Great Outdoors: Build Your Adventure!” LEGO® building contests.
Hosted at two County Library branches throughout August, the contests challenge participants to create original LEGO® masterpieces inspired by the beauty and excitement of the outdoors. Builders are encouraged to bring their imaginations to life by designing creations in one of four nature-inspired genres:
- Camping and hiking
- Mountains and national parks
- Oceans, lakes and rivers
- Wildlife and nature
Each event will feature fun for the entire family, including an interactive LEGO® play station hosted by Play-Well TEKnologies, giveaways and an opportunity to view the incredible creations submitted by community builders. Awards will be presented across multiple categories recognizing creativity, originality, engineering, storytelling and overall design.
“These contests celebrate creativity, imagination and problem-solving while encouraging families to explore the beauty of the great outdoors through LEGO building,” said County Library Events Coordinator Jenni McCormick. “Whether you’re an experienced builder or creating your very first LEGO masterpiece, we invite everyone to join us for this exciting community event.”
Contest schedule:
Chino Hills James S. Thalman Branch
Tuesday, Aug. 18 | 3–6 p.m.
14020 City Center Drive, Chino Hills
909-590-5380
Fontana Lewis Library and Technology Center
Tuesday, Aug. 25 | 4–7 p.m.
8437 Sierra Avenue, Fontana
909-574-4500
How to enter:
- Register online or complete a paper registration form at any San Bernardino County Library branch.
- Check out 10 library items and upload or present your checkout receipt as part of your registration.
- Build an original LEGO® creation at home inspired by one of the contest genres.
- Deliver your completed creation to the participating branch where you wish to compete during its designated drop-off period.
Entries are limited to 75 per branch, with one entry per family. Creations must not exceed 11 inches by 17 inches at the base and 2 feet in height.
Creation drop-off dates:
- Chino Hills James S. Thalman Branch: Aug. 15–18
- Fontana Lewis Library and Technology Center: Aug. 22–25
Free pet adoptions offered during Clear the Shelters campaign
Celebrate the 12th annual Clear the Shelters event through Aug. 31 at the Big Bear and Devore Animal Shelters! We’re off to a great start—184 pets have already been adopted since the campaign began, and the special kick-off events on Aug. 8 and Aug. 9 were a success, resulting in 36 adoptions.
The Aug. 8–9 kick-off events welcomed families, vendors and pet lovers for fun-filled days packed with opportunities to meet adoptable pets and learn how to support animals in our community.
The Animals aRe First Fund (ARFF) is sponsoring the pet adoption fees for dogs and cats adopted during this month-long campaign. Throughout the month, NBC and Telemundo stations across the U.S. and Puerto Rico will team up with local animal shelters and rescue services to find loving homes for these adorable, loving animals.
Last year, this heartwarming campaign helped 474 animals at San Bernardino County’s Devore and Big Bear Animal Shelters find their furever homes. We’re thrilled to see what this year holds!
Adopt a pet and gain a new family member! Give these precious pets a second chance at happiness and a loving home. Clear the Shelters is spreading love and joy, one adoption at a time. Be part of this incredible journey!
Visit ClearTheShelters.com for more information on how you can participate and open your heart to adoption.
Not quite ready to adopt? You can still make a lifesaving difference by becoming a foster parent. Fostering provides animals with a safe, loving home while they wait for adoption, and San Bernardino County Animal Care provides the supplies and support you need to get started. Whether you foster for a few days or a few weeks, you’ll help prepare pets for their forever homes—and you might even meet your own perfect companion along the way.
Learn more about becoming a foster parent and sign up today at animalcare.sbcounty.gov/become-a-pet-foster-parent.
For more information about pets available for adoption, please visit San Bernardino County Animal Care at animalcare.sbcounty.gov/pets or call 800-472-5609. To make a donation to assist animals at the shelters, visit ARFFund.org.
County Library invites the community to explore the wonders of the night at Galaxy Nights: Wildlife After Dark
The San Bernardino County Library invites residents of all ages to experience Galaxy Nights: Wildlife After Dark, an extraordinary event that combines the wonder of astronomy with unforgettable live animal encounters for a truly unique evening of learning and discovery.
The event will be held on Saturday, Aug. 15, at 6 p.m. at the Lucerne Valley Janice Horst Branch Library. Guests will have the rare opportunity to journey through the mysteries of the night sky while coming face-to-face with some of nature’s most fascinating creatures. Designed to inspire curiosity and spark imagination, Galaxy Nights: Wildlife After Dark is a one-night-only event that promises memorable experiences for families, nature enthusiasts and aspiring astronomers alike.
The evening will feature live animal presentations showcasing an incredible lineup of wildlife ambassadors, including a majestic Eurasian eagle-owl, a colorful blue-tongued skink, a captivating tarantula and a striking kingsnake. Guests will learn about each animal’s unique adaptations, behaviors and role in the natural world through engaging, interactive presentations.
One of the evening’s most unique features is the connection between the live animal encounters and the constellations visible overhead. Following the live animal presentations, attendees will have the opportunity to observe constellations including Ursa Major (the bear), Lacerta (the lizard) and Aquila (the eagle). This immersive experience bridges astronomy and wildlife education, allowing guests to discover how animals have inspired celestial legends and constellations for centuries.
Adding to the excitement, San Bernardino County Regional Parks will host interactive educational stations, offering hands-on activities that connect visitors to wildlife, conservation and the natural environment.
“This is not your typical evening program,” said Library Events Coordinator Jenni McCormick. “Galaxy Nights: Wildlife After Dark brings together two worlds that captivate people of all ages—the wonders of the cosmos and the incredible diversity of wildlife. It’s an experience designed to inspire exploration, learning and a sense of awe.”
Adding to the evening’s experience, local vendors Brew and Moo Coffee, Drinkzilla and Abby’s Cakes & Moore will be on-site offering a selection of specialty beverages, refreshing drinks, and sweet treats available for purchase throughout the event.
With live animals, constellation viewing, interactive exhibits and family-friendly activities all in one location, Galaxy Nights: Wildlife After Dark is a can’t-miss event that offers a rare blend of science, nature and adventure unlike anything else in the region.
For more information about the San Bernardino County Library system, visit library.sbcounty.gov, call 909-387-2220 or follow us on Facebook or Instagram.
The San Bernardino County Library system is a dynamic network of 32 branch libraries serving a diverse population across a vast geographic area. The County Library is committed to providing equitable access to information, technology, programs and services for all San Bernardino County residents.
Net a $1,000 cash prize for the heaviest catch at Cucamonga-Guasti’s Night Catfish Derby
Regional Parks is excited to host its Night Catfish Derby on Saturday, Aug. 22, from 5:30 to 10:30 p.m. at Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park. Check-in and on-site registration will begin at 4 p.m. To save time, participants are encouraged to prepay their derby fees online. Food will be available for purchase from an on-site food truck.
Participants will receive a wristband and packet with derby entry forms and rules. The derby is rain or shine, and no refunds will be given. Participants may fish in both the small and large lakes during the derby. A weigh-in station will be available, and participants are encouraged to allow plenty of time to weigh and enter their fish before the 10:30 p.m. cutoff time.
Derby cash prizes will be awarded for:
- First place: $1,000
- Second place: $500
- Third place: $250
Winners do not need to be present to claim their prize(s). Prize recipients will be announced at approximately 10:45 p.m. at the Regional Parks weigh-in station near the snack bar by the large lake.
Derby fees
Fees are $20 per person and $15 per vehicle. A fishing license is required for anyone 16 years of age and older.
Cucamonga-Guasti Regional Park is located at 800 N. Archibald Ave. in Ontario (next to Topgolf). The park is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Aug. 21.
Derby stocking
For the derby, 1,231 lbs. of catfish will be stocked on Friday, Aug. 21. The lakes will be closed to public fishing from 7:30 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 21, through 7:30 a.m. on Sunday, Aug. 23, for stocking and the derby.
For more information, please visit parks.sbcounty.gov and follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and events.
Glen Helen and Yucaipa swim complexes now open weekends only
Spend the summer at the swim complexes at Glen Helen and Yucaipa Regional Parks. Glen Helen features a lagoon-style pool, a rodeo-themed splash pad and a snack bar serving hot dogs, hamburgers, frSpend the summer at the swim complexes at Glen Helen and Yucaipa Regional Parks. Glen Helen features a lagoon-style pool, a rodeo-themed splash pad and a snack bar serving hot dogs, hamburgers, fries, chips, ice cream and more (view the menu and prices). The Yucaipa beach-style pool features waterslides and nearby pedal boat rentals.
The swim complexes are open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the following dates:
- Aug. 15-16
- Aug. 22-23
- Aug. 29-30
- Sept. 5-7: Labor Day weekend
Park and swim facility admission fees are separate. Park admission is $10 per vehicle Monday through Friday, $15 per vehicle Saturday and Sunday, and $20 per vehicle on holidays and holiday weekends.
Swim ticket prices (now include waterslide access)
- Weekdays and weekends (non-holidays): $15 per person
- Holidays and holiday weekends: $20 per person
- Children under age three are free
- Family four-pack (not available for purchase on holidays and special events): $55
Waterslide height requirement
- Must be at least 48 inches tall to ride the slides.
Swim admission is first come, first served. Visitors are encouraged to arrive early in the day because the swim complexes may reach capacity. Once all the wristbands are sold for the day, no new visitors will be allowed inside. Swimmers who have wristbands may exit and re-enter the complex throughout the day until the pool closes at 4 p.m.
For a more complete pool schedule or FAQs, visit parks.sbcounty.gov/swim-schedules. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news and events.
Splash into summer fun at Lake Gregory through Labor Day weekend
Lake Gregory Regional Park is open daily through Labor Day weekend. Grab your friends and family and spend the day swimming, racing down waterslides, bouncing across our inflatable waterpark, cruising the lake and enjoying delicious food with mountain views.
Lake swimming hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Beach Access Passes
- General Access Beach Pass: $17 per day and includes park entry plus access to the beach and splash pad.
- All-Access Beach Pass: $32 per day and includes park entry plus access to the beach, splash pad, waterslides and inflatable waterpark.
Lake Gregory has 84 surface acres for swimming, water sports and other summer recreation. Tag your summer crew and we’ll see you at the lake!
Lake Gregory is managed by San Bernardino County Regional Parks and operated by The Lake Gregory Company, which offers year-round events and activities.
Lake Gregory is located at 24171 Lake Dr. in Crestline. For more information about Lake Gregory, visit www.lakegregory.com or follow them on Facebook.
Additional County Update News – August 6, 2026
- Targeted Crime Suppression – Operation Consequences: 5 arrests, 10 firearms seized
- Behind the Ready: The planning and support behind preparedness
- Arrowhead Regional Medical Center among nation’s top performing hospitals for treatment of heart attack patients
- San Bernardino County Assessor-Recorder-County Clerk completes supplemental roll #140
- Explore San Bernardino County Services: Discover more with a library card
- Aging and Adult Services – Public Guardian named recipient of prestigious Aging Innovations Award from USAging
- Children and Family Services helps families understand child safety reporting process
- Recovery, resilience and hope take center stage this September
- County Library cruises into High Desert community with inaugural Read, Write & Cruise Car Show
- Get ready for your next county career
- Children’s Network to host 40th annual conference
- SBC Through Your Eyes: Chino Hills State Park
- Submit your photos and videos of the county’s destinations, nature and cityscapes
- San Bernardino County history: U.S. Route 395
- Pet of the Week: Bunny