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    Prevent Covid, Measles and Other Disease Outbreaks—Get Your Children Immunized Now!

    Patient Jasmine Cruz of Fontana age 8 with Nurse Megan. Whether your child is starting kindergarten or is a senior in high school, visiting the pediatrician for immunizations should be an important part of back-to-school preparations. Many schools start in August, so it’s not too soon to make that appointment.

    Patient Jasmine Cruz of Fontana age 8 with Nurse Megan. Whether your child is starting kindergarten or is a senior in high school, visiting the pediatrician for immunizations should be an important part of back-to-school preparations. Many schools start in August, so it’s not too soon to make that appointment.

    “It is important not to wait until the last minute,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, president of LaSalle Medical Associates. “As we get closer to August, more schools will be opening for a new year, and we will become even busier.”

    SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. – Schools start their fall terms soon and that means it’s time to get your children’s annual checkup and vaccinations. From Covid to measles, it takes a concerted effort to prevent outbreaks and parents who care for their children and other people’s children need to make sure their kids’ vaccinations are up to date.

    Some social media posts have claimed that vaccines can cause autism spectrum disorder. This is false. Studies either done by or funded by the Centers for Disease Control have found “…no link between the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine and ASD [Autism Spectrum Disorder] in children.”

    The CDC goes on to say, “The COVID-19 vaccines for children have the same active ingredients as the vaccines given to adults. However, children receive a smaller and more age-appropriate dose that is right for them. The smaller doses were rigorously tested and found to create the needed immune response for each age group. Making it important for your child to get the vaccine made for their age group.”

    Whether your child is starting kindergarten or is a senior in high school, visiting the pediatrician for immunizations should be an important part of back-to-school preparations. Many schools start in August, so it’s not too soon to make that appointment.

    “It is important not to wait until the last minute,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga., president of LaSalle Medical Associates. “As we get closer to August, more schools will be opening for a new year, and we will become even busier.”

    There are four vaccinations all kindergarteners must have before entering school for the first time, said Dr. Cheryl Emoto, medical director for LaSalle Medical Associates. And, as they grow older, children need additional immunizations.

    “Children entering kindergarten should receive boosters for Tdap (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis), polio, MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) and Varicella (chicken pox),” she said.

    If parents have kept up with their child’s immunizations from birth, only booster immunizations for the above diseases are needed. However, they should have also received vaccinations for these and several other diseases prior to age 2, and as kindergarteners may need several doses of immunizations if not “caught up.”

    When children turn 11, they can and should receive the meningitis vaccine for the first time, Dr. Emoto said. The Centers for Disease Control also recommends children this age receive another Tdap (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) booster, she noted.

    Parents can schedule these vaccines shortly after the child’s 11th birthday, but they can also be part of a back-to-school immunization routine for any student, even those over 18.

    “Children older than 11 who have not received these vaccines should also come in to get them,” Dr. Emoto said. “And if you have a teenager who is enrolling in college, planning to live in a dormitory, and hasn’t been vaccinated for meningitis, Covid and other communicable diseases, they should be vaccinated now.”

    Girls aged 9 and older, and young women up to age 26 who have not had a sexual encounter, can receive the vaccine against the human papilloma (HPV) virus. While giving this vaccine to girls in elementary school is not without controversy, many doctors, including those at LaSalle Medical Associates, are highly in favor.

    “The HPV virus is the main cause of cervical cancer,” Emoto explained. “It is important that a girl receive three doses, which are given over a six-month period, before her first sexual encounter in order for the vaccine to be fully effective.”

    One vaccination not available during the back-to-school season is the flu shot. Flu shots are given in the fall when the vaccine becomes available from manufacturers. The CDC also points out, “Hundreds of millions of Americans have safely received flu vaccines over the past 50 years, and there has been extensive research supporting the safety of flu vaccines.”

    “We depend on when the vaccine is shipped,” Emoto said. “We may have flu vaccines in September this year, but in past years it wasn’t until October that we received the vaccine. Once we receive it, we encourage all children six months to 18 years to receive an annual flu vaccine.”

    Children younger than 8 who are being immunized against flu for the first time receive a two-part vaccine, she said. The second dose is given four to six weeks after the first.

    “Healthy children 2 years of age and older have the option of receiving the vaccination as a nasal spray instead of as an injection, Emoto said. The nasal spray is just as effective.”

    LaSalle serves people covered by Medi-Cal, Medicare and Covered California. LaSalle staff have been trained to help people who come into a clinic without any insurance to get signed up for whatever coverage they qualify for.

    LaSalle also accepts patients covered by Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net and Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP). LaSalle cares and it shows.

    For clinic locations and more information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (909) 890-0407 or go online to LaSalleMedical.com.

    For additional information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (909) 890-0407 or go online to lasallemedicalassociates.com.

    B R I E F: 252 Words

    Prevent Covid, Measles and Other Disease Outbreaks—Get Your Children Immunized Now!

    SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. – School starts soon and that means it’s time to get your children vaccinated. From Covid to measles, it takes a concerted effort to prevent outbreaks. Parents who care for their own and other peoples’ children need to make sure their kids’ vaccinations are up to date.

    Visiting the pediatrician for immunizations should be an important part of back-to-school preparations. “It is important not to wait until the last minute,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga., president of LaSalle Medical Associates. “As we get closer to August, more schools will be opening for a new year, and we will become even busier.”

    Four vaccinations all kindergarteners must have include boosters for Tdap (diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis), polio, MMR (measles, mumps and rubella) and Varicella (chicken pox).

    When children turn 11, they should receive the meningitis vaccine. The Centers for Disease Control also recommends children this age receive another Tdap (diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis) booster, she noted.

    Girls aged 9 and older, and young women up to age 26 who have not had a sexual encounter, can receive the human papilloma (HPV) vaccine. HPV is the main cause of cervical cancer. Flu shots are given in the fall when the vaccine becomes available from manufacturers.

    LaSalle has clinics in San Bernardino, Victorville, Hesperia, Rialto, and Fontana. For more information call (909) 890-0407 or go online to LaSalleMedical.com.

    For additional information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (909) 890-0407 or go online to lasallemedicalassociates.com.

     

    About LaSalle Medical Associates

    LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. is one of the largest independent and Latino-owned healthcare companies in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. The corporate office is in Redlands.

    LaSalle is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals, and clinics, delivering high-quality patient care to approximately 365,000 patients in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino and Tulare counties.

    Lao Family Community Development CEO, Kathy Chao Rothberg, to speak at Meet the Innovators on reuse of motels and vacant sites to achieve homeless self-sufficiency

    Photo Caption: Lao Family Community Development (LFCD) opened a residential campus, called the Care Community Center, CEO Kathy Chao Rothberg. The Campus supports the homeless and other vulnerable populations including justice-involved individuals; victims of domestic violence; elder abused survivors; secure safe interim and permanent housing for refugees; among other populations in need

    Oakland, Ca. — CEO Kathy Chao Rothberg of Lao Family Community Development (LFCD) has been chosen to share the spotlight with three other community leaders in an event entitled, Meet the Innovators, Richmond.  The other three honorees are: Kimberly Aceves-Iñiguez, Co-founder and Executive Director, RYSE Center; Wesley Alexander, CEO, CoBiz Richmond; and Fred Lucero, Program Manager, RichmondBUILD.  The discussion will be moderated by Ken Maxey, Director of Government Affairs, Comcast/NBCUniversal.  The event is being organized by the East Bay Economic Development Alliance. It will take place at the headquarters of CoBiz Richmond, Inc. (a 501c3), on Wednesday, July 19, 2023, from 5-7 p.m.

    Chao Rothberg’s presentation will focus on LFCD’s innovative and comprehensive approach to supporting the homeless and other vulnerable populations including justice-involved individuals; victims of domestic violence; elder abused survivors; secure safe interim and permanent housing for refugees; among other populations in need.

    The services provided through LFCD to those in need include securing gainful employment, education, and public benefits through a proven model comprised of a host of “green practices”, which has earned LFCD numerous awards in recent years.  These green practices include, for example, repurposing such motels as a vacant 285 room Motel 6 in Oakland and 107 room Vagabond Executive Inn in Downtown Sacramento into a co-located facility that provides housing, growth sector vocational training, earning a High School diploma for adults, job placement (including a earn and learn to career placement component), health-related services, among many other services for individuals who are facing a wide range of challenges.

    LFCD was formed as a non-profit 501(c)(3) in 1980.  Today the organization serves individuals from 40 nationalities, delivers specialized services to unique populations in 35 languages, and impacts the lives of over 31,000 diverse local residents annually in three northern California counties (Alameda, Contra Costa, and Sacramento).  Its mission is to advance the wellbeing of diverse communities through culturally-informed employment, housing, and education has served over 400,000 Californians.  LFCD concentrates on five core service areas: 1) adult education and vocational training, 2) youth education, leadership, and career exploration, 3) financial coaching/asset development, 4) work supports and health access, and 5) affordable housing, home ownership and economic development activities.

    For more information, contact: Kathy Chao Rothberg, CEO | KRothberg@lfcd.org | (510) 334-4826

     

    The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Donates 20 Tons of Food to The Salvation Army

    Left to right: Salvation Army officer, Sam Valdez, President Matthew Johnson of San Bernardino The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints. , Salvation Army Major Adelma Braga, Major Isais Braga,  Lonnie Gallaher, Stake Communication Director for the Church in San Bernardino, Salvation Army officer Mike Delgado.  In front of old donated by the church to serve the hungry in the san bernardino area.

    Left to right: Salvation Army officer, Sam Valdez, President Matthew Johnson of San Bernardino The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints. , Salvation Army Major Adelma Braga, Major Isais Braga, Lonnie Gallaher, Stake Communication Director for the Church in San Bernardino, Salvation Army officer Mike Delgado. In front of food donated by the church to serve the hungry in the san bernardino area.

    Major Isaias Braga, Corps Officer of The Salvation Army San Bernardino/Redlands Corp, said, “The Salvation Army is privileged to receive a substantial food donation from the Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints San Bernardino Stake. This partnership is essential for fulfilling the Salvation Army mission in our region.”

    REDLANDS CALIF. The San Bernardino Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints has donated a semi-truck full of nonperishable food to The Salvation Army San Bernardino Citadel summer food program. Nearly 40,000 pounds of canned and packaged foods will arrive at The Salvation Army warehouse Thursday morning, July 6.

    Lonnie Gallaher, Stake Communication Director for the Church in San Bernardino, said, “We are grateful to be able to support the good work the Salvation Army has been doing in the community for years.

    Many members of our Church serve as Salvation Army volunteers at the Food Distribution site. When we found out from one of them, that the food program needed a boost, we were ready to help,” said Gallaher.

    The partnership between the two churches strengthened noticeably two years ago when The Church of Jesus Christ members helped out with The Salvation Army’s annual toy drive.

    “The Bishops’ Central Storehouse in Salt Lake City over-produces nonperishable food as part of our ongoing effort to be prepared for any emergency. Canned fruits and vegetables, canned meats, packaged cereals, pasta, and grains…everything is centrally processed and ready to meet any need that may arise,” said Gallaher.

    The Salvation Army’s Business Administrator, Steve Pinckney, said “Our partnership with the The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints has been a blessing. Like our own, the Church of Jesus Christ is dedicated to humanitarian needs, including feeding the hungry.”

    The Salvation Army food distribution program can provide a healthy meal for a hungry neighbor for just $1.28. “We can serve meals to 140 families a week,” says Pinckney, “and with an average of four people per family, the total is over 2,200 meals a month.”

    The San Bernardino Stake of the Church includes most of the City of San Bernardino, Crestline, Running Springs, Lake Arrowhead, and a sizable portion of the City of Highland. This dovetails with The Salvation Army’s San Bernardino Corps, making the partnership a natural fit.

    Matthew Johnson, President of the San Bernardino Stake, said, “We, as a church, strive to follow the admonition of the Savior Jesus Christ, to feed the hungry, offer a drink to the thirsty, take in a stranger, to clothe the naked and to visit those who are sick and afflicted. Through the donations of Church members, we can offer assistance to those in need.

    Photo caption: Salvation Army Major Adelma Braga, Major Isais Braga, The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints, Communications Director Lonnie Gallaher, Salvation Army officer Sam Valdez. In the truck Mike Delgado. In front of food donated by the church to serve the hungry in the San Bernardino area.

    Photo caption: Salvation Army Major Adelma Braga, Major Isais Braga, The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints, Communications Director Lonnie Gallaher, Salvation Army officer Sam Valdez. In the truck Mike Delgado. In front of food donated by the church to serve the hungry in the San Bernardino area.

    “We believe in assisting with no regard to race, religious affiliation, or nationality. We strive to work with other organizations, faith, and community based, to offer relief and support in helping God’s children to meet basic needs as they strive to become self-reliant.”

    Major Isaias Braga, Corps Officer of The Salvation Army San Bernardino/Redlands Corp, said, “The Salvation Army is privileged to receive a substantial food donation from The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints San Bernardino Stake. This partnership is essential for fulfilling the Salvation Army mission in our region.

    This initiative reveals the deep concern The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints has for the less privileged of our community, for which we are very grateful. Also, the volunteer support received from the church members is crucial and enables us to alleviate hundreds of families that come to us weekly experiencing food insecurity.”

    Salvation Army's Sam Valdez unloads food from the load.

    Salvation Army’s Sam Valdez unloads food from the load.

    For more information call (909) 792-6868. Donations can be made online at SanBernardino.SalvationArmy.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY, specifying that you want your donation applied to the San Bernardino Corps in California.

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    The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Donates 20 Tons of Food to The Salvation Army

    REDLANDS CALIF. The San Bernardino Stake of The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints has donated a semi-truck full of nonperishable food to The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps summer food program. Nearly 40,000 pounds of canned and packaged foods will arrive at The Salvation Army warehouse Thursday morning, July 6.

    Lonnie Gallaher, Stake Communications Director for the Church in San Bernardino, said, “We have been working with The Salvation Army here for years. Many of our members serve as Salvation Army volunteers and we found out from one of them, that the food program needed a boost.”

    The Salvation Army’s Business Administrator, Steve Pinckney, said “Our partnership with The Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints has been a blessing. The Church of Jesus Christ, like our own, is dedicated to humanitarian needs, including feeding the hungry.”

    Matthew Johnson, President of the San Bernardino Stake, said, “We, as a church, strive to follow the admonition of the Savior Jesus Christ, to feed the hungry, offer a drink to the thirsty, take in a stranger, to clothe the naked and to visit those who are sick and afflicted. Through the donations of Church members, we can offer assistance to those in need.”

    For more information call (909) 792-6868. Donations can be made online at SBCSVA.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY, specifying that you want your donation applied to the San Bernardino Corps in California.

    —30— 

    About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps

    The Salvation Army may provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available.

    The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers evangelical programs for boys, girls, and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 792-6868.

     

    SVA-PR-1235.4 Church of Jesus Christ of the Latter-day Saints Food Donation

    For More Information Call

    Carl M. Dameron @ (909) 534-9500

    Or email Carl@DameronCommunications.com

     

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: 647 words

    Summer Is Here—Time to Keep Kids Safe Around Pools

    “Small children can drown in only a few inches of water, so parents, grandparents and babysitters need to pay attention to children around any size swimming pool,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, president and CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates Inc. on pool safety.

    “Small children can drown in only a few inches of water, so parents, grandparents, and babysitters need to pay attention to children around any size swimming pool,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, president and CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates Inc. on pool safety.

     

    “The average 2-year-old is two-and-a-half to three feet tall, so while a wading pool seems safe to an adult, it is a danger to a small child,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, president and CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates

    SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. Summer is here, and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reminds us that more children ages 1–4 die from drowning than any other cause of death, and for children ages 5–14, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury death after motor vehicle crashes.

    Hotter days are coming, motivating many youngsters to head for the pool to swim and play in the water. LaSalle Medical Associates is urging local residents to remain cautious and vigilant around swimming pools regardless of size, even small inflatable pools less than a foot deep.

    “The average 2-year-old is two-and-a-half to three feet tall, so while a wading pool seems safe to an adult, it is a danger to a small child,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, president, and CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates Inc. on pool safety. “Small children can drown in only a few inches of water, so parents, grandparents, and babysitters need to pay attention to children around any size swimming pool.”

    The CDC goes on to note that every year sees some 4,000 fatal unintentional drownings, an average of 11 deaths a day. Other nonfatal drownings add 4,000 more incidents and while the drowning victim survives, they may suffer long-term health problems and incur expensive hospital stays.

    “Swimming can be deceptive,” says Barbara Graber, the education and audit coordinator for LaSalle. “We, as adults, become complacent because children are having fun or we feel comfortable in our environment at the time. But swimming pools are potentially dangerous for children, and we have to keep this in mind all the time.”

    To prevent drowning, the recommendations are to:

    • Learn survival swimming skills.
    • Avoid using alcohol while swimming or supervising children near water.
    • Designate a responsible adult to watch young children while swimming or playing in or around water.
    • Never let older children be in charge of younger children in pool areas.
    • Place a fence around pools or spas with a gate that locks. Keep the gate closed and locked at all times.
    • Never swim alone.
    • Keep a cordless, water-resistant phone near the pool in the event of an emergency.

    Parents looking into buying small, portable pools such as a wading pool should consider those with sides rigid enough for children to grab. Also, the pool’s surface should be sturdy and not slick so as to avoid slipping.

    In each of its six clinics, LaSalle’s Clinic Safety Committee has posters on display with pool safety tips. These posters are available at no charge to the public, LaSalle officials say.

    “The idea is to keep parents aware of these safety tips in order to convey the message,” Arteaga says. “Drowning can become a tragedy, but it is one that is most avoidable.”

    In addition to pool safety, LaSalle also encourages local residents to protect their skin while enjoying time outside in the sun.

    “More time in the pool means more time in the sun and the sun can cause serious sunburns even possibly leading to various levels of skin cancer later in life,” Graber says.

    Graber suggests using sunblock with an SPF of at least 15, which will stop 93 percent of the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays.

    Remember to reapply after swimming, she says.

    To download a free pool safety poster listing important safety tips for children and seniors, go to Free Pool Safety Poster.

    For more information or to make an appointment, call 1-855-349-6019.

    About LaSalle Medical Associates

    LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. is one of the largest independent and Latino-owned healthcare companies in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. The corporate office is in Redlands.

    LaSalle is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals, and clinics, delivering high-quality patient care to approximately 365,000 patients in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Tulare counties.

    “Small children can drown in only a few inches of water, so parents, grandparents and babysitters need to pay attention to children around any size swimming pool,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, president and CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates Inc. on pool safety.

    “Small children can drown in only a few inches of water, so parents, grandparents and babysitters need to pay attention to children around any size swimming pool,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, president and CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates Inc. on pool safety.

    Fixing Healthcare Disparities to Improve the Lives of Latinos and Blacks

    April Reya a medical assistant, gives the COVID-19 vaccination shot to Vicki Creighton, of Riverside, at the LaSalle Medical Associates medical office located in Rialto, Calif.  (Photo by Valda Wilson)

    April Reya a medical assistant, gives the COVID-19 vaccination shot to Vicki Creighton, of Riverside, at the LaSalle Medical Associates medical office located in Rialto, Calif.  (Photo by Valda Wilson)

     

    “Looking for the telltale signs of illness or chronic conditions during a routine checkup requires a high level of doctor-patient communication, along with comprehensive tests that can detect problems before they worsen and become harder to treat,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, pediatrician and CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc.

                                                                                                                         

    SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. Preventive medicine works to reduce poor healthcare outcomes for Latinos and Blacks and the underserved when healthcare providers go the distance to make sure their patients get it. “As a Latino-owned healthcare provider, we use CDC-approved treatment schedules to make sure our patients get the healthcare they need,” says Dr. Albert Arteaga, President and CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc.

    A 2019 research paper in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that “Racial/ethnic mortality disparities persist and are widening for some age groups.” The age groups where disparities trended worse included the youngest and oldest. This trend reversed what had been a lessening in disparities from 2009 to 2012.

    Latino-owned LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. works to reverse this downward trend and get Latino and Black patients back on track toward parity in improved health and well-being for the very young and seniors and this starts with its annual checkup outreach program.

    “We believe that improved healthcare for all of our patients begins with a robust outreach program that contacts people to remind them when it’s time to come in for their checkup, annual for adults and more often for children 1 to 4,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, pediatrician and CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc.

    Maria and Dr. Albert Arteaga. The California Medical Association awarded Dr. Albert Arteaga the “Ethnic Physician’s Leadership Award,” recognizing his contributions to medical care in the Latino community.

    Maria and Dr. Albert Arteaga. The California Medical Association awarded Dr. Albert Arteaga the “Ethnic Physician’s Leadership Award,” recognizing his contributions to medical care in the Latino community.

    Looking for the telltale signs of illness or chronic conditions during a routine checkup requires a high level of doctor-patient communication, along with comprehensive tests that can detect problems before they worsen and become harder to treat.

    “Many of our adult clients, especially Latinos, seem to think that if they feel okay, they don’t need to see a doctor. Conditions like type 2 diabetes, hepatitis C, and some cancers can be ‘hiding out,’ so to speak, and by the time the patient starts to notice symptoms, it can be too late,” says Dr. Arteaga.

    Dr. Arteaga adds that this is especially a problem with infants and young children who are not yet able to communicate clearly. Parents might think their child is just being fussy or going through the “terrible twos” and put off taking their little one to the doctor until severe symptoms start showing.

    Infants need to get examined even more regularly. Heatlh.gov says children from ages 1 to 4 should see a doctor or nurse at 12, 15, 18, 24, and 30 months, and at 3 and 4 years. Early child development needs to be tracked carefully so that any warning signs of developmental problems can be addressed promptly and effectively.

    Children all grow and develop at different rates. Some start talking sooner, some later. What’s required is a good overall assessment to determine if the child is on the right track. Health.gov concludes, “If you’re worried about your child’s health, don’t wait until the next scheduled visit—call the doctor or nurse right away.”

    For more information or to make an appointment, call 1-855-349-6019.

    Photo Caption: Nurse Elisabeth with gives patient Eduaido Torres age 13 a vaccine.

    Photo Caption: Nurse Elisabeth with gives patient Eduaido Torres age 13 a vaccine.

    About LaSalle Medical Associates

    LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. is one of the largest independent and Latino-owned healthcare companies in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. The corporate office is in Redlands.

    LaSalle is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals, and clinics, delivering high-quality patient care to approximately 365,000 patients in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Tulare counties.

    Salvation Army Path to Prosperity Program Prepares Men for Good Jobs

    The court mandated that parolee Tyler enroll in a substance abuse program. He chose The Salvation Army and now says, “It’s okay to be sober. The program completely changed how I make decisions. And doors have been opening. I want to see how far I can go.”

    The court mandated that parolee Tyler enroll in a substance abuse program. He chose The Salvation Army and now says, “It’s okay to be sober. The program completely changed how I make decisions. And doors have been opening. I want to see how far I can go. ”

    “The Salvation Army in San Bernardino is proud of the valuable impact the Path to Prosperity brings into the lives of its participants as they are encouraged and supported to work their way back to lifetime stability. We especially appreciate the generosity of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians for supporting this program.”

    REDLANDS, CA. Serving the cities of San Bernardino, Redlands, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs, The Salvation Army’s Path to Prosperity Program is a transitional residential living program that lasts six to 24 months for men who have completed a drug or alcohol rehabilitation program and now need further assistance to start or resume a productive, substance-free life.

    During this program, men have the opportunity to adapt to a stable, secure living environment away from any former contacts or relationships that were part of their prior substance abuse lifestyle. They enjoy the benefits of regular case management along with educational opportunities that range from completing a GED to enrolling in a community college vocational certificate program and even a four-year college degree major, along with assistance in finding and holding good employment.

    “I ended up coming to Pathways. That was the biggest blessing I was able to receive in my life,” Path to Prosperity graduate Jose recalls. Lost, and wanting to make a change, Jose decided to put his trust in God and enter the program. After a couple of months, he began working and going to school. He has gained the skills and confidence to become a productive member of society.

    When men come out of rehabilitation for their drug or alcohol abuse problem, many lack the skills to secure and hold a job. Path to Prosperity serves to prepare these rehabilitated men to gain the education and skills that they need to get and hold onto a good job.

    Many of the men find that once they have been in the program for a while, their goals change; they find dreams and talents they didn’t know they had. For men enrolled in college programs, each semester finds Path to Prosperity students on the Dean’s List.

    Recent program graduate Jose went on to say, “I was looking for guidance, which I didn’t know, and the staff here helped me with that.”

    The Salvation Army Hospitality House Program Manager Naomi Goforth

    The Salvation Army Hospitality House Program Manager Naomi Goforth

    Program Director Naomi Goforth says, “Path to Prosperity takes men coming out of rehab and works with them so that they can return to their families and homes with the skills they need to maintain lifetime stability.”

    She goes on to note that the Path to Prosperity program’s structure makes the initial transition fairly easy for participants. The real challenge is getting the men back into the real world, which is unstructured and full of random events that can knock a person off their newly established routine.

    Often, the men will still have legal requirements to fulfill, and the Salvation Army stays in touch with graduates to check on how they are doing. In some cases, program graduates move into positions with The Salvation Army. Recent grad Gabriel now repairs donated items and attends regular Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings to stay clean and sober.

    Recent grad Gabriel now repairs donated items and attends regular Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings to stay clean and sober.

    Recent grad Gabriel now repairs donated items and attends regular Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous meetings to stay clean and sober.

    Last year, Sean was homeless. Now he has his family back again. “I’m a glassblower now and I only wish that I had known about The Salvation Army sooner,” he says. “The Path to Prosperity program is like one big family.”

    The court mandated that parolee Tyler enroll in a substance abuse program. He chose The Salvation Army and now says, “It’s okay to be sober. The program completely changed how I make decisions. And doors have been opening. I want to see how far I can go.”

    Path to Prosperity works with probation and parole officers. A designated case manager manages each individual participant according to his case requirements. No one gets lost in the shuffle.

    Goforth says, “The Salvation Army in San Bernardino is proud of the valuable impact the Path to Prosperity brings into the lives of its participants as they are encouraged and supported to work their way back to lifetime stability. We especially appreciate the generosity of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians for supporting this program.”

    For more information call (909) 792-6868. Donations can be made online at SanBernardino.SalvationArmy.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY, specifying that you want your donation applied to San Bernardino Corps in California.

    About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps

    The Salvation Army may provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available.

    The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers evangelical programs for boys, girls, and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY, specifying that you want your donation applied to San Bernardino Corps in California.

     Our local number is (909) 792-6868.

    Type 2 Diabetes Affects Latinos and Blacks More than Whites

    Carl Dameron has a diabetice check up with his PA at Lasalle Medical Clinic's Mt. Vernon Office.

    Carl Dameron has a diabetic check-up with his PA at Lasalle Medical Clinic’s Mt. Vernon Office. Carl and his family of four have been LaSalle patient since 2004.

    We see a lot of Latino and Black people and sad to say, type 2 diabetes and its harmful effects are far too common with us,” said LaSalle Medical Associates CEO Dr. Albert Arteaga.”

    SAN BERNARDINO, CAIF. There is an old saying that “You are what you eat.” And when it comes to what you eat and your chances of contracting type 2 diabetes, this is especially true.

    According to the Food and Drug Administration, “You can inherit a predisposition for diabetes, a disease that disproportionately affects racial and ethnic minorities.” The FDA goes on to note that the death rate for Hispanics from diabetes is “50 percent higher than for non-Hispanic whites.”

    The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Minority Health research studies spanning the years 2018 and 2019 found that non-Hispanic Blacks were “twice as likely as non-Hispanic whites to die from diabetes” and “2.5 times more likely to be hospitalized with diabetes and associated long-term complications than non-Hispanic whites.”

    San Bernardino County’s population is 55.8 percent Hispanic or Latino and 9.4 percent Black or African American, per the United States Census Bureau’s July 2022 estimates. In Riverside County, the percentages are 51.6 for Hispanics or Latinos and 7.5 for Blacks or African Americans.

    “We see a lot of Latino and Black people,” said LaSalle Medical Associates CEO Dr. Albert Arteaga, “and sad to say, type 2 diabetes and its harmful effects are far too common with us.” Type 2 diabetes is a major health concern for the Inland Empire and LaSalle Medical Associates works hard to address the problem.

    Dr. Arteaga says, “Our physicians make it a point to discuss proper nutrition with patients they see who may be pre-diabetic or who have already been diagnosed with the disease.”

    Several risk factors contribute to this problem and one of those is eating the wrong foods. Latino and African American diets often include fatty pork, foods fried or cooked with lard or unhealthy shortenings and oils, and starchy vegetables like beans, corn, potatoes, chickpeas, and parsnips, not to mention lots of sugary soft drinks and juices.

    Some foods are loaded with refined sugars that few people think as high in sugar, including barbecue sauces, ketchup, baked beans, tomato soups and sauces, canned fruits and vegetables, salad dressings, and Asian-style sauces like Thai sweet chili and teriyaki. These, too, are often part of ethnic minority diets.

    Now that the Covid pandemic has receded, LaSalle’s clinics are reaching out to encourage people to come in for preventive health screenings that include talking about diet and diabetes. “We see a lot of Latino and Black clients and we make sure that they get the facts about how important good nutrition is to their overall health and especially diabetes prevention and treatment,” said Dr. Arteaga.

    “In addition to avoiding the bad foods, we recommend good ones: lean pork, chicken—especially with the skin off and roasted rather than fried, fish, and healthy veggies—spinach, kale, broccoli, beets, carrots, collard greens, cabbage, cucumbers, cauliflower, raw tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, alfalfa sprouts, and garlic,” added Dr. Arteaga.

    Another key factor is consistent management. Diabetes has no cure. Once a person has it, no magic pill or shot will make it go away. “You must stick with your treatment program,” said Dr. Arteaga. “Staying on one’s meds and sticking to a healthy diet is something we constantly remind our adult and pediatric patients to do.”

    LaSalle serves many people who are covered by Medi-Cal and Healthy Families. They also accept patients covered by Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net, and Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP). LaSalle knows how to help people who lack insurance enroll in coverage that fits their needs.

    For more information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (855) 349-6019 or go online to LaSalleMedical.com.

    About LaSalle Medical Associates

    LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. is one of the largest independent and Latino-owned healthcare companies in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties. The corporate office is in Redlands.

    LaSalle operates six clinics employing more than 100 dedicated healthcare professionals, treating children, adults, and seniors in San Bernardino and Riverside counties. LaSalle’s patients are primarily served by Medi-Cal and Healthy Families. LaSalle also accepts Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net, and Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) coverage.

    LaSalle is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals, and clinics, delivering high-quality patient care to approximately 365,000 patients in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Joaquin, and Tulare counties.

    John Bender, former editor at The Press-Enterprise, dies at 64

    John Bender – Director of Public Relations

    I regret to inform you that our friend John Bender, former editor at The Press-Enterprise, and PR Director at Dameron Communications has died at 64.
    Known for his wit and crazy antics, a retired journalist wrote poetry, played jazz bass, and rode motorcycles.

    National Salvation Army Week Spotlights Help for the Hungry, the Homeless and the Hopeless

     

    In 2022, the San Bernardino Corps served 23,218 people, 22,268 households, served 105,981 meals, and provided groceries to 10,318 households. The Hospitality House provided 31,534 nights of shelter to families and children experiencing homelessness; 1,612 children participated in educational and recreational programs.

    REDLANDS CALIF.  National Salvation Army Week delivers a series of special events that shines a light on how the corps helps the hungry, the homeless, and the hopeless in the greater San Bernardino area.  From Monday, May 15th, to Friday, May 19th, all five days will feature prayer vigils including San Bernardino, Colton, Redlands, Highland,  and Grand Terrace. Additional activities are on tap.

    From 12:15 to 12:45 pm on Monday the 15th, the San Bernardino County Government Center at 385 N. Arrowhead Ave. will host a prayer vigil. From 4:00 to 5:30 pm, The Salvation Army Hospitality House at 925 West 10th St. will serve a free community meal for the hungry, homeless, and hopeless.  There is also a tour of the homeless shelter to show how the program serves its residents and present a live stream with participant testimonials on Facebook.

    On Tuesday the 16th, Redlands City Hall at 125 West Vine St. will host a prayer vigil from 12:15 to 12:45 pm. The San Bernardino Corps Path to Prosperity program will conduct a tour of its Transitional Living Center at 838 Alta St. from 4:00 to 5:30 pm, along with a live stream and participant testimonials on Facebook.

    Wednesday the 17th events include a prayer vigil at Rialto City Hall, 150 S. Palm Ave. from 10:00 to 10:30 am along with a proclamation from the city. The City of San Bernardino will proclaim its City Council at 301 North D St., San Bernardino, from 6:00 to 7:30 pm.

    The Salvation Army is also having a Community Resource Fair on Wednesday at Meadowbrook Park, 250 N. Sierra Way runs from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. All are invited to get acquainted with the many community resources that are available to help people in need.

    Thursday features two prayer vigils, one at the City of Grand Terrace City Hall, 22795 Barton Rd., Grand Terrace, and the other at Colton City Hall, 650 N. La Cadena Dr., Colton.  The times for both vigils will be 12:15 to 12:45 pm. Also on Thursday, the San Bernardino Corps will provide a tour of its Food Distribution Warehouse at 363 South Doolittle Dr. and will include a live stream and participant testimonials on FaceBook.

    Wrapping up the week on Friday the 19th, the last of the prayer vigils will take place at Highland City Hall, 27215 Baseline Rd., Highland, from 12:15 to 12:45 pm. Also on Friday, from 2:00 to 3:30 pm, The Corps’ Hospitality House at 845 West Kingman St. will host a tour of the facility that will include a live stream and participant testimonials on Facebook.

    The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps started up in San Bernardino in 1887. Today it serves San Bernardino and Redlands, Bloomington, Calimesa, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highlands, Loma Linda, Mentone, Muscoy, Rialto, Yucaipa, Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead, and Running Springs.

    In 2022, the San Bernardino Corps served 23,218 people, 22,268 households, served 105,981 meals, and provided groceries to 10,318 households. The Hospitality House provided 31,534 nights of shelter to families and children experiencing homelessness; 1,612 children participated in educational and recreational programs.

    National Salvation Army Week serves to acquaint the greater San Bernardino community with the Army’s programs for the needy, providing an up-close look at how the Salvation Army serves the community by providing aid and comfort to so many needy people for so many years.

    Donations can be made online at SBCSVA.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY, specifying that you want your donation applied to San Bernardino Corps in California.

    For more information call (909) 792-6868.

    About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps

    The Salvation Army may provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available.

    The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers evangelical programs for boys, girls, and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 792-6868.

    Salvation Army Community Resource Fair is May 17 in San Bernadino

    “The Resource Fair brings together many of our partners who offer services like ours as well as services we are not able to provide and gives people who need help a convenient way to get the help they need,” said Major Braga.

    REDLANDS CALIF.  The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps’ “Fight for Good” features a Community Resource Fair at Meadowbrook Park, 250 N. Sierra Way on Wednesday, May 17th, from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. Local community service organizations will be on hand offering a wide variety of services to provide support for San Bernardino families in need of help.

    This is one of the local events celebrating National Salvation Army Week, running from May 15th to the 21st. The Salvation Army Corps of San Bernardino will join the National Salvation Army in a week-long series of events to pray for the hungry, homeless, and hopeless and demonstrate the good works it does. This event takes place all over the nation.

    “The Resource Fair brings together many of our partners who offer services like ours as well as services we are not able to provide and gives people who need help a convenient way to get the help they need,” said San Bernardino Corps chief executive Major Braga.

    These are the community service organizations confirmed as of this writing; more are still pending. Naomi Goforth, Director of Programs, said, “We will have between 20 and 30 organizations on hand from throughout the community.”

    1. Community Action Partnership
    2. Cal State San Bernardino Project Rebound
    3. Telecare CORE/FACT
    4. San Bernardino County Workforce Development
    5. SAC Health
    6. SAC Dental
    7. San Bernardino County Department of Public Health, COVID Vaccinations
    8. San Bernardino County Department of Public Health, HIV/Hep C Screenings
    9. SoCal United Way 211+
    10. Option House
    11. Inland Empire Health Plan
    12. Arrowhead Regional Medical Center Mobile Medical Clinicians
    13. Inland Behavioral and Health Services
    14. Assemblymember James Ramos
    15. Dignity Health, St Bernardine’s Medical Center
    16. Goodwill SoCal Homeless Veterans Reintegration Program
    17. Veterans Administration Loma Linda Homeless Outreach
    18. San Bernardino County Child Support Services Office
    19. Open Door/Family Assistance Program
    20. Borrego Health
    21. Inland County Legal Services

    In 1954, the first National Salvation Army Week was declared by the United States Congress and proclaimed by President Dwight D. Eisenhower as a reminder for Americans to give freely. This year’s San Bernardino Corps event showcases the services it offers to the hungry, homeless, and hopeless in the community, providing facility tours and live streaming of Salvation Army programs in action, with testimonials from people that have been helped.

    The Resource Fair is a special added attraction that highlights the array of service providers that are available to provide help above and beyond what The Salvation Army itself can provide. The greater San Bernardino area is fortunate to have such a robust network.

    By itself, the Salvation Army provides emergency services including daily meals, food baskets; lodging for homeless or displaced families; after-school programs for youth, summer camping programs, clothing, showers, and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation; and rehabilitation for homeless families when funds are available.

    “For Salvation Army Week we are asking our friends to help our neighbors in need and commit to a $5 per month or more if you-can giving program that adds up to a considerable level of tax-deductible support for Salvation Army programs that help the hungry, homeless and hopeless,” said Major Braga.

    Donations can be made online at SBCSVA.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY, specifying that you want your donation applied to San Bernardino Corps in California.

    For more information call (909) 792-6868.

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    About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps

    The Salvation Army may provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available.

    The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and offers evangelical programs for boys, girls, and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local number is (909) 792-6868.