(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) LaSalle employees mourned the loss of one of their long-term patients in January. But, with the help of two of their own, this patient died with a peace of mind she hadn’t seen much of in the last few months of her life.
“For the rest of her life, Cheryl Garcia and Renae Marquez were a great source of support for this patient,” said LaSalle Medical Associates CEO Dr. Albert Arteaga. “When she died in mid-January, her husband called the Mt. Vernon clinic that same day, to thank them for making his wife so happy in her final days.”
Before she died, the two women got to know this patient because of her frequent need of health care from LaSalle Medical Associates. Around the holidays, they noticed this patient was especially struggling.
“She was very ill, she was not doing well emotionally, and she had some serious financial challenges,” said Dr. Arteaga.
Cheryl, who works in the Medical Records department at the Mt. Vernon clinic, and Renae, who handles patient referrals, wanted to help. So, just before Christmas they bought the patient several gifts, including new sheets for her bed. They not only bought the gifts with their own funds, they took it upon themselves to deliver the gifts to her home while they were off duty.
“I am very proud of Cheryl and Renea for the help they provided this patient at the end of her life,” said Dr. Arteaga. “Both of these women have their own financial struggles, so I know they sacrificed to help a patient, and what they did came from their hearts. I know they made a difference in this patient’s life.”
The LaSalle medical clinics are at 17577 Arrow Blvd. in Fontana, (909) 823-4454; 1505 West 17th St, (909) 887-6494, and 565 N. Mt. Vernon Ave., (909) 884-9091 in San Bernardino, and 16455 Main St. in Hesperia, (760) 947-2161.
For additional information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (909) 890-0407.
Seniors and people with disabilities on Medi-Cal in the Inland Empire are moving into managed care choosing from plans offered by Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) and Molina Health Services. Managed care will help doctors keep better track of their patients' health care needs while, at the same time, lowering the overall cost of their care.
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) Seniors and people with a disability wth Medi-Cal may soon face a change in their health care plan because of new federal legislation.
This legislation allows 12 California counties, including San Bernardino and Riverside to require most Medi-Cal patients who are seniors (age 65 and over) or who have a disability to enroll in Medi-Cal Managed Care. These 12 counties began moving their Medi-Cal patients into managed care plans on Wednesday, June 1. Via affordable-movers.co.
In managed care plans, patients must select a primary care physician, such as one of the doctors at LaSalle Medical Associates. The primary care physician must approve all treatments and refer patients to specialists or hospitals when necessary.
“Managed care plans make it easier for you to get the best care possible,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates. “Within both of the managed care plans available to our patients, there are programs to help you stay healthy no matter your age or disability.”
In the Inland Empire, the managed care plans are Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) and Molina Healthcare of California Partner Plan, Inc. Affected Inland Empire patients have a choice between these two managed care programs to participate in, but if they do not pick one of the plans, Medi-Cal will make the choice for them.
There are some exceptions also. Those who receive Medicare, have already been diagnosed with a long-term illness or have other health insurance won’t be able to join a managed care plan, nor will foster children with disabilities.
Most young, Medi-Cal recipients without a disability have been required to choose a managed care plan since 1997, according to Consumers’ Union. Elderly and disabled Medi-Cal recipients have until now had a choice.
The option no longer available is “fee-for-service” or “Straight Medi-Cal”.
“Fee-for-service has several disadvantages,” said Dr. Arteaga. “Most importantly, if a patient sees many different health care providers, none of them have a complete idea of the patients’ medical history. Knowing this history is very important in preventing small problems from robbing you of your independence.”
“Going to the emergency room for colds and sniffles is like turning on a fire hose to water your house plant,” Dr. Arteaga said. “Using a watering can works better for most house plants. Seeing a regular doctor works best for people, unless they have broken bones or some other serious health condition requiring immediate attention. Even in some of those cases, managed care can help them become aware of a potential problem before it becomes a life-threatening condition.”
The LaSalle Medical Associates clinics are at 17577 Arrow Blvd. in Fontana, 1505 West 17th St. and 565 N. Mt. Vernon Ave. in San Bernardino, and 16455 Main St. in Hesperia.
For additional information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (909) 890-0407 or go on line to lasallemedicalassociates.com.
Dr. Albert Arteaga of LaSalle Medical Associates and Kimberly Carey, president of MedPoint Management have aligned to streamline operations and enhance LaSalle Medical Associates' ability to provide patients quality health care.
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. recently selected a new health care management company, MedPoint Management.
“Together with MedPoint Management we will streamline our operations and enhance LaSalle Medical Associates’ ability to provide patients quality health care,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates.
“MedPoint Management meets health care providers’ needs with a personalized approach to health care management,” said Kimberly Carey, president of MedPoint Management. “We combine the use of advanced technology with the vast health care experience of our employees to help providers meet the challenges of serving a diverse population in the rapidly changing health care environment.”
MedPoint Management assists Independent Practice Associations, more often known in the health care field as IPAs, with management services. These services include processing of insurance claims, resolving grievances, verifying credentials of health care practitioners, advising health care providers about new policies of the health maintenance organizations (HMOs) they work with, evaluating the quality and outcomes of patient care (and, when necessary, making recommendations for improvement), and tracking services provided to those with certain health conditions.
MedPoint Management will work not just with LaSalle Medical Associates’ four clinics in San Bernardino County, but with other practices in the Inland Empire, Los Angeles and San Joaquin Valley that are members of the LaSalle Medical Associates Independent Practice Association.
The LaSalle Medical Associates clinics are at 17577 Arrow Blvd. in Fontana, 1505 West 17th St. and 565 N. Mt. Vernon Ave. in San Bernardino, and 16455 Main St. in Hesperia.
For additional information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (909) 890-0407 or go on line to LaSalleMedicalassociates.com.
Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network host free seminar highlighting effectiveness of amateur radio use during disasters relief efforts
Trace Willete, Inland Empire SATERN section coordinator and Salvation Army Division Public Information Officer Suzi Woodruff Lacey discussing the role of media relations during emergency response efforts. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Salvation Army Corps San Bernardino Commander Major Stephen Ball greets crowd of enthusiastic amateur radio operators during Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network’s Annual Introduction and Seminar. Photo by Chris Sloan
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) – Are you interested in amateur radio? Want to learn how you can help one of the world’s oldest disaster relief organizations in its communications efforts?
The Inland Empire’s Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN), also known as SATERN, will host its 16th Annual Introduction and Seminar on Saturday, Jan. 28. This free event takes place from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps, 746 W. Fifth St., San Bernardino. It’s open to the public and includes free refreshments and lunch.
Amateur shortwave radio technology has been around since World War II. SATERN relies on this two-way communication, which can reach across areas of about 200 miles, to communicate among its own members who are participating in a Salvation Army disaster relief effort, and with the emergency workers they’re helping.
The Salvation Army has helped in practically every disaster that has occurred over the last century, including fires, earthquakes, floods and the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
“Amateur radio is a great hobby and participating in SATERN is a great way to turn that hobby into something that helps our Inland Empire tremendously,” said Tony Stephen, Inland Empire SATERN Committee member. “If more people join us, we will be able to deliver communications more effectively during the next fire or other disaster that hits our area.”
The seminar gets underway at 9 a.m. with a welcome and introduction from Trace Willete, an Inland Empire SATERN section coordinator and Maj. Stephen Ball, commander of the San Bernardino Corps.
Topics of discussion features:
“The Resilient Responder”
As an officer with the Salvation Army Escondido Corps, Maj. Ebel has spent time in Haiti after the recent earthquake. He will discuss the emotional well being of emergency disaster responders.
“The Earthquake Lady, Dr. Kate”
Kate Hutton is a seismologist at Cal-Tech in Pasadena. Referred to as “The Earthquake Lady or Dr. Kate” she is an expert on earthquake and emergency preparedness communication through the use of shortwave amateur radio.
“Maritime Communications & Connections to Emergency Communications”
Bill Scholz, an Auxiliary Unit Coordinator for CAMSPAC and FCC 2nd Class Radiotelegraph Operator, will discuss this role of ship to shore communications during disaster relief efforts.
So it will have an accurate lunch count, SATERN asks those attending to RSVP, either by email to Trace Wilette at ki6dpn@arrl.net or by calling (909) 800-1681.
For more information go to the website www.satern.net. About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to 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 Team Radio Network assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and also 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 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY or (909) 888-1336.
Celebrate the life, liberty and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King.
(San Bernardino, Calif.) The Inland Empire Concerned African American Churches host their 32nd Martin Luther King, Jr. Prayer Breakfast on Monday January 16th, 2012 at the Hilton San Bernardino located at 285 East Hospitality Lane at 7:30 am.
Celebrating the life, liberty and legacy of Dr. King, this year’s event features guest speaker Donzaleigh Abernathy. An actress and author, Donzaleigh is the daughter of the Rev. Ralph Abernathy, the co-founder of the African American Civil Rights Movement with Dr. King. Following Dr. King’s assassination, Rev. Abernathy became the president of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, as he continued to fight for the civil rights of all Americans.
Donzaleigh authored the history book, “Partners To History, Martin Luther King, Ralph David Abernathy and the Civil Rights Movement.” The book received a nomination as one of the best books of 2004 for young adults by the American Library Association.
For tickets or more information please call 909-474-7036. This event sells out each your, so don’t wait.
The faculty and staff at the Loma Linda School of Allied Health Professions were happy to be able to help with the Giving Tree program. Together they donated more than 100 toys filling the wishes of children in Rialto, Highland, Grand Terrace, Colton, and San Bernardino. To the left of the presents is Debbie Becker and me Kathy Poss. To the right is Shirley Sing (kneeling) and Dana McCree. (photo by Loma Linda School of Allied Health)
Wells Fargo’s Lien Release department adopted a family buying presents for the children and needed household items including needed pots, pans and cooking utensils for the family.
(San Bernardino, Calif.) Thanks to the Salvation Army Corps of San Bernardino (www.salvationarmyusa.org), more than 2,500 children will have a gift to open this Christmas morning.
The faculty and staff at the Loma Linda School of Allied Health Professions were happy to be able to help with the Giving Tree program. Together they donated more than 100 toys filling the wishes of children in Rialto, Highland, Grand Terrace, Colton, and San Bernardino.
From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., mothers, families, children and businesses from throughout the community recently volunteered to make a difference, by spreading the holiday cheer with their donations and time, which will help 600 families celebrate the season.
Wells Fargo’s Lien Release department adopted a family, buying presents for the children and needed household items including needed pots, pans and cooking utensils for the family.
“We have been at First Christian Church Disciples of Christ for five years now, using the this location as a distribution center and storage facility for the distribution of food and gifts for families in need,” said Maj. Stephen Ball, commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino Corps. “The location has been very convenient in reaching those who need our help the most. They really have embraced what we are doing in the community and are a wonderful partner. They even provide parishioners as volunteers. They have really been a blessing.”
Bringing 100 families in at a time, each family receives a basket of food for a holiday dinner, a gift card from Stater Bros. and a bag of toys for their children, donated through the Salvation Army Giving Tree program.
“We try to make it fun for the families as they come to receive their donation. We have a small worship service and music with holiday songs. Our goal is really to keep things entertaining and uplifting for each family,” said Maj. Ball.
The San Bernardino Corps serves the cities of San Bernardino, Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland and Rialto. While busy coordinating volunteers, along with managing more than 600 baskets loaded with food, toys scheduled for distribution to needy families, Maj. Ball points out this undertaking could not be possible without public contributions and red kettle donations which help fund the basket distribution program.
To make a donation or sign up for local assistance call the San Bernardino Salvation Army Corps at (909) 888-1336. About the Salvations Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to 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 Team Radio Network assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The San Bernardino Corps serves: Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto and San Bernardino.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian church and also 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 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY.
Proving that you are not too young to make a difference, Rae Ann Ortiz volunteers to serve holiday meals at the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corp. Photo by Ricardo Tomboc
Community volunteers assist the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corp prepare food for their annual Christmas dinner. Photo by Ricardo Tomboc
(San Bernardino, Calif.) The San Bernardino Salvation Army Corp (www.salvationarmyusa.org) will host its annual Christmas Eve Dinner for hundreds of needy families at their Center for Worship and Service, located at 746 W. Fifth Street in San Bernardino. The Christmas meal will be served between 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The Salvation Army annually provides holiday meals to families and individuals in need. In 2010, more than 300 individuals were served. They are anticipating serving food for another 300 individuals again this year, guests will enjoy a turkey dinner with all the trimmings, consisting of potatoes, gravy, stuffing, vegetables, pie and other food received through donations.
“Every year, the community and volunteers come together to provide the food preparation and service of holiday meals to dinner guests,” said Maj. Stephen Ball commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino Corp. “Our volunteers really do an outstanding job, helping to make such a difference for those who are less fortunate during the holiday season, as well as throughout the year.”
This year, the holiday dinner will be held on Saturday, December 24, which is Christmas Eve.
“We traditionally provide meals on Christmas Day. However, since Christmas is on a Sunday this year, we will adjust things slightly and offer our dinner to the community on Christmas Eve,” said Maj. Ball.
Many of the services provided by the Salvation Army, such as this annual Community Christmas Dinner, are made possible through in-kind donations and money raised through the Red Kettle Bell Ringer campaign. Each Thanksgiving, Christmas and in some cases Easter, Inland Empire Salvation Army Corps combine to serve more than 1,000 people holiday meals.
The Salvation Army provides hundreds of families with free community dinners Sunday through Friday at 4:45 p.m. and provides shelter for the homeless individuals and families for up to 90 days. For more information call (909) 888-1336. About the Salvations Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to 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 Team Radio Network assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The San Bernardino Corps serves: Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto and San Bernardino.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian church and also 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 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY.
For local help, please call (909) 888-1336.
Volunteer as a bell ringer with the Salvation Army
Roslyn Billings (Salvation Army Advisory Board member) and family volunteer as a Salvation Army bellringer! If your family, organization or business can supply enough people to ring bells at one of the San Bernardino Corps Red Kettle locations for an entire day, please volunteer by calling (909) 888-1336.
Ricardo Tomboc (Salvation Army Advisory Board member) with son Ben Tomboc, playing guitar, enjoy entertaining while raising donations for the Salvation Army as bellinringers.
Amy Ball greets everyone with a smile, as she volunteers to raise money for services provided by the San Bernardino Salvation Army Corps as a bellringer.
(San Bernardino, CA) –The “miracle” of Christmas is repeated over and over again through the joy of caring and sharing. The San Bernardino Salvation Army (www.salvationarmyusa.org) is seeking volunteers to ring bells in San Bernardino, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto and Bloomington starting the day after Thanksgiving and going through Christmas Eve.
The traditional shiny red kettle is an integral part of the Christmas scene, with millions of dollars donated each year to aid needy families, seniors, and the homeless, in keeping with the spirit of the season.
“This is a wonderful way to help disadvantaged people in our community, simply by volunteering as bell ringers,” said Maj. Stephen Ball, commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino. “We’re looking for individuals, families and groups to spend a day at one of our more than 30 locations in the San Bernardino area.”
The Salvation Army began ringing its bells this year on Friday, Nov. 18 and continues from 10 a.m. through 6 p.m., Monday through Saturday until Christmas Eve.
Anyone who would like to donate a few hours of his or her time can volunteer. However, a parent or guardian must accompany individuals under the age of 16. Most volunteers ring two hours at a time, but groups are asked to provide ringers who can work in shifts for an entire day.
“The more people who volunteer, the fewer people the agency must hire,” said Maj. Ball “For each volunteer bellringer we have, it means more money raised in direct support of our services to those families in need.”
Each Thanksgiving, Christmas and in some cases Easter, Inland Empire Salvation Army Corps combine to serve more than 1,000 people holiday meals. But, these local corps serve almost as many meals on a daily basis to those who are homeless and hungry. Some Corps also maintain a food pantry for those who most need help with the cost of groceries.
Feeding the hungry is just one of the ways money donated to The Salvation Army helps. Salvation Army Corps also help with lodging for homeless or evicted families; clothing and furniture for burnout victims, evicted and the homeless; prescriptions, assistance with rent/mortgage, utilities and transportation when funds are available.
The Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network assists rescue workers and evacuees in disasters such as fires, while the San Bernardino Hospitality House also provides temporary emergency shelter and support in rebuilding their lives to thousands of homeless families.
To volunteer as a bellringer in San Bernardino, Colton, Rialto, Grand Terrace or Highland, call (909) 888-1336. The San Bernardino office is setting up a volunteer schedule to which Maj. Ball and his staff are eager to assist local residents in adding their names
To volunteer as a bellringer in Redlands and other East San Bernardino Valley communities call (909) 792-6868. Volunteer Services Coordinator Capt. Patrick Lyons will provide an application and on approval, will assign volunteers to bell-ringing duties.
To volunteer as a bellringer in San Bernardino County’s High Desert, call (760) 245-5745 and ask for Margot Barhas.
To volunteer as a bellringer in Ontario and other West San Bernardino Valley communities, call Envoy Abel Tamez at (909) 509-2503 or Envoy Naomi Tamez at (909) 509-2741.
To learn more about volunteering as a bellringer in Riverside, Moreno Valley, Corona, Norco and other West Riverside County communities call the Riverside Corps Office at (951) 784-4490 ext. 102.
To learn more about volunteering as a bellringer in Hemet, Beaumont, San Jacinto, Perris, Murietta, Menifee, Temecula and other central and southern Riverside County communities, call the Hemet Corps Office at (951) 791-9497.
To learn more about volunteering as a bellringer in Palm Desert, Palm Springs, Indio, Indian Wells, Rancho Mirage, Cathedral City, Banning and other desert communities, call the Palm Desert Corps Office at (760) 324-2275.
In addition, one may donate to The Salvation Army online, through the website www.salvationarmyusa.org. Donors may specify to which branch of The Salvation Army the money should be sent. How the Bell Ringer campaign began:
Capt. Joseph McFee, serving with the San Francisco Salvation Army Corps back in 1891, wanted to serve Christmas dinner to the poor in his neighborhood. But he didn’t have money to do so.
Mc Fee remembered as a sailor in Liverpool, England, seeing people on the docks throw money into a large kettle called “Simpson’s Pot” to help the poor. He decided this might work in California too.
He set up a kettle at the Oakland Ferry Landing, which operated a ferry that was, in those days, the only way across San Francisco Bay. He put a sign on the kettle saying “Keep the Pot Boiling” and raised enough money to serve the Christmas dinner.
His idea spread quickly, and by 1897 Salvation Army Corps nationwide were collecting money in kettles to serve the needy in their communities. Among the Salvation Army Corps collecting money this way before the turn of the 20th Century was The Salvation Army of San Bernardino, which formed in 1887. About the Salvations Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to 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 Team Radio Network assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The San Bernardino Corps serves: Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto and San Bernardino.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian church and also 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 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY.
For local help, please call (909) 888-1336.
“For us, this isn’t a theater deal, for us this is an economic development deal,” said Marzullo. “Without Regal, you can’t get the restaurants. Without the restaurants, you can’t get downtown to begin to expand.”
Artist concept drawings show the beautiful new entrance to the Regal Stadium 14 Theater in Theater Square in Downtown San Bernardino. Regal Entertainment Group operates 6,605 screens in 528 locations in 37 states and the District of Columbia. The theater is set to open in Spring of 2012.
Artist concept of Theater Square. “Together the Regal Stadium 14 theaters, the areas three live theaters along with new restaurants and retail expand our current downtown entertainment district and will draw more nightlife while creating the synergy to bring more restaurants, night clubs and other businesses to downtown San Bernardino”, said Marzullo.
“E” Street view of the Regal Stadium 14 theater artist concept. “Together the Regal Stadium 14 theaters, the areas three live theaters along with new restaurants and retail expand our current downtown entertainment district and will draw more nightlife while creating the synergy to bring more restaurants, night clubs and other businesses to downtown San Bernardino”, said Marzullo.
Regal Stadium 14 Theater concept shots patrons exit new restaurants in front of the theater as cars drive through the new driveway.
Artist concept drawings show the new “E” Street entrance to the Regal Stadium 14 Theater in Theater Square in Downtown San Bernardino. Regal Entertainment Group operates 6,605 screens in 528 locations in 37 states and the District of Columbia. The theater is set to open in Spring of 2012.
Artist concept drawings show the beautiful new entrance to the Regal Stadium 14 Theater in Theater Square in Downtown San Bernardino. Regal Entertainment Group operates 6,605 screens in 528 locations in 37 states and the District of Columbia. The theater is set to open in Spring of 2012.
Concept drawings show the new driveway allowing families to drop off theatergoers at the new Regal Stadium 14 Theater in Theater Square in San Bernardino. There will also be parking in front of four new restaurants including a Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf.
Artist concept of Theater Square. “Together the Regal Stadium 14 theaters, the areas three live theaters along with new restaurants and retail expand our current downtown entertainment district and will draw more nightlife while creating the synergy to bring more restaurants, night clubs and other businesses to downtown San Bernardino”, said Marzullo.
Construction continues at Theater Square in downtown San Bernardino. Construction workers have removed the old paving stones, and are replacing and expand all sewer lines and underground utilities, creating a new drive way for easy theater drop off, adding 20 – short term (20 min) parking spaces in theater square close to restaurants and creating pads for additional restaurants and retail opportunities. The Regal Stadium 14 Theater is set to open in Spring of 2012.
(San Bernardino, Calif.) The San Bernardino Economic Development Corporation (EDC) board approved the lease of 14 theaters to The Regal Entertainment Group in a unanimous vote on Tuesday night. The new theater will be called Regal Stadium 14.
The San Bernardino City Council acting as the San Bernardino Economic Development Agency approved the lease last week in a 4-3 vote.
“The lease won’t go into effect until the city Planning Commission and City Council approve a development agreement for the project,” said Emil Marzullo, the interim director of the Economic Development Agency, and chief executive officer of the EDC.
The development agreement is scheduled to go before the Planning Commission on December 15, and then to the council on January 9.
About 40 people, including 12 college and high school students, applauded the unanimous vote to lease the 14 theaters to The Regal Entertainment Group.
Several students who spoke at the meeting told the EDC board of directors that they are ready to see movies at a downtown San Bernardino theater. Many also said the theater will create jobs and bring money into the city.
Marzullo refuted several issues, which were brought up by City Attorney staff.
One issue was whether Regal has to show first-run movies. Marzullo said, “ There is no intention of the theater to be a discounted, second-run-only theater, and the economics of the deal would not support a second-run theater model.
As to the risk of the EDC subsidizing Regal, Marzullo said, “The lease actually reduces the risk, because the monthly cost of the closed CinemaStar Theater is $70,000 a month, with no income.”
Another concern is that Regal’s lease requires the City not impose a living wage ordinance. “That’s not an issue in San Bernardino as we are currently one of the most affordable city’s in Southern California. That provision is for cities like Irvine where the cost of living is significantly higher,” said Marzullo.
Mayor Patrick Morris, Rikke Van Johnson, Tobin Brinker and Dennis Craig supported the theater lease as a catalyst to help downtown San Bernardino attract more restaurants and businesses.
“For us, this isn’t a theater deal, for us this is an economic development deal,” said Marzullo. “Without Regal, you can’t get the restaurants. Without the restaurants, you can’t get downtown to begin to expand.”
“Regal Theater Group proposes to open 14 renovated theaters in May of 2012. Five national restaurant chains are slated to open at the same time,” said Marzullo.
At the same meeting the EDC also approved an agreement for exclusive rights to negotiate with restaurant/retail tenants at Theater Square with the Yavitz Companies. Yavitz has successfully created major retail/entertainment developments in Southern California including the Grove in Anaheim.
Sandra Yavitz, company president said, “Five national restaurant chains are currently interested in Theater Square. The restaurants includes: The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, a Sports Bar, a Mexican restaurant, an upscale hamburger restaurant, and a sandwich/deli restaurant chain.“
The EDC will retain ownership of Theater Square, including the theater and the restaurant sites.
“Together the 14 Regal Theaters, the areas three live theaters along with new restaurants and retail expand our current downtown entertainment district and will draw more nightlife while creating the synergy to bring more restaurants, night clubs and other businesses to downtown San Bernardino”, said Marzullo.
He added, “This strategy has worked effectively for Old Town Pasadena, the Gas Lamp District in San Diego, the Promenade in Santa Monica, and other communities across the country.” Parking will not be a problem at Theater Square. “There are more than 1,500 free parking spaces available within two blocks including: parking in front of the theater and restaurants, onsite in the parking lot beside the theater, across Fourth Street at the Carousel Mall parking lot and across “E” street at the state building parking structure. The state building parking lot is used for evening and weekend performances only, “ said Marzullo.
The total cost for the theater square is projected at $7.7 million. Costs are as follows: 1. New parking lot on “F” Street: $260,000
(Now under construction) 2010 Recovery Act Bond Funds (T.I.)
Theater Financing EDC $1.41 million: New Market Tax Credit (Grant)
$3.29 million: 2010 Recovery Act Bond Funds (T.I.)
Subtotal $ 4.7 million
Regal $1.24-$3 million: Corporate Total $7.7 million
Project Income $8.5 million: Over 10 years plus 15% percentage rent
What is the exit Strategy for the EDC? “The plan is to establish a rental income base and after two years operating profit, we will sell the theater complex at market value with a tenant that is the industry leader. With the Regal lease in place and generating profits, the theaters future value will be significantly higher than the current estimated value of $11 million,” said Marzullo.
“I am excited that this Spring San Bernardino High School and college students will join the rest of us in watching Men in Black 3, Transformers 4 along with the rest of the summers blockbuster moves at newly renovated, first class theater just a short drive from our homes,” said Marzullo.
For more information on Theater Square call Kathy Robles at (909) 663-1044.
About the San Bernardino Economic Development Corporation
The City of San Bernardino Economic Development Corporation is a focused, diversified organization whose mission is to enhance the quality of life for the citizens of San Bernardino by creating jobs, eliminating physical and social blight, supporting culture and the arts, developing a balanced mix of quality housing, along with attracting and assisting businesses both independent and through public-private partnerships.
About Regal Entertainment Group:
Regal Entertainment Group (NYSE: RGC) is the largest motion picture exhibitor in the United States. The Company’s theatre circuit, comprising Regal Cinemas, United Artists Theatres and Edwards Theatres, operates 6,605 screens in 528 locations in 37 states and the District of Columbia. Regal operates theatres in 43 of the top 50 U.S. designated market areas. We believe that the size, reach and quality of the Company’s theatre circuit not only provide its patrons with a convenient and enjoyable movie-going experience, but is also an exceptional platform to realize economies of scale in theatre operations. Additional information is available on the Company’s Web site at www.REGmovies.com .
View of parking lot entrance to Salvation Army Family Store, located at 911 so. E. Street in San Bernardino. Photo by Carl Dameron
Store check out counter is the center of activity, providing shoppers with plenty of room to browse merchandise and clothing. Photo by Carl Dameron
Gleaming floors and well light organized areas provide customers with enjoyable shopping experiences. Photo by Carl Dameron
Victoria Bennett, Salvation Army Administrative Assistant HR/Personnel stands ready to spin the wheel to give lucky customers a chance to win discount prizes. Photo by Carl Dameron
(San Bernardino, Calif.) The Salvation Army Family Store’s one-year anniversary sale is this Friday, Dec. 2, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., with the first 50 customers receiving an opportunity to win one of five free shopping sprees awarded at random.
Located at 911 So. E. Street, the Salvation Army Family Store opened Dec. 2, 2010 with a modern department store design, similar to Target, allowing shoppers to walk easily from one section of the store to another, and giving them plenty of room to browse the merchandise and racks of clothing.
The public is encouraged to come out and enjoy the FREE coffee, cocoa, doughnuts and popcorn beginning at 8:30 a.m. and take advantage of the huge savings during the celebration. Many items have discounts of up to 50% off. In addition to special discounts, which will be announced at several times throughout the day, you can even take a chance and spin the lucky wheel for even more discounted prizes.
The E Street store, along with others in San Bernardino (on Highland Avenue), Redlands, Fontana, Pomona, Hesperia and Victorville, support the work of the San Bernardino Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center. This program provides drug and alcohol rehabilitation to more than 300 men each year. About the Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center
The Adult Rehabilitation Center is a six-month program, combining rehabilitation and work therapy for men who wish to overcome drug or alcohol addiction. These men attend Alcoholics Anonymous or Narcotics Anonymous meetings, receive one-on-one and group counseling, and learn about stress management, anger management, parenting and overcoming addiction. They also participate in spiritual and recreational activities they can continue after their treatment as part of a sober lifestyle.
Men in San Bernardino County or Pomona Valley who are seeking help to overcome drug or alcohol addiction should call the Adult Rehabilitation Center in San Bernardino at (909) 889-9605. The Salvation Army offers a similar program for men in Riverside County; for more information about that program, call (951) 940-5790.
Women can learn about Adult Rehabilitation Centers for them by calling the center in Anaheim at (714) 758-0414, San Diego at (619) 239-4037 or Pasadena at (626) 795-8075.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church. 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 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. To donate, call 1-800 SATRUCK.
