Chancellor Wolde-Ab Isaac, Chancellor of Riverside Community College District talks to the attendees at last year’s conference.
“Educational and economic transformation in the Inland Empire is fundamentally impossible without cross-sector, region-wide collaboration, cooperation and alignment. When we all work together, everyone wins,” said Ann Marie Sakrekoff, Growing Inland Achievement’s Interim CEO.
INLAND EMPIRE, CA – Growing Inland Achievement (GIA) will host its 7th annual Toward a Shared Vision summit on October 25–26 at the Riverside Convention Center. GIA is a nonprofit that networks education, government, nonprofit, and business partners in the Inland Empire.
The summit theme, “United in the Journey,” embodies the need for a collective impact approach that harnesses the combined efforts of the business community, the Inland Empire’s 56 K-12 school districts, 12 community colleges, two public universities, five private universities, many nonprofit organizations, economic development agencies, and government entities to address complex regional educational challenges and opportunities.
A video invitation fromAnn Marie Sakrekoff, Growing Inland Achievement’s Interim CEO
GIA expects 300 local leaders from the IE’s leading organizations to tackle longstanding regional educational and economic challenges.
“Educational and economic transformation in the Inland Empire is fundamentally impossible without cross-sector, region-wide collaboration, cooperation and alignment. When we all work together, everyone wins,” said Ann Marie Sakrekoff, Growing Inland Achievement’s Interim CEO.
GIA believes fostering an efficient, high-quality education system that creates access for all residents is critical to regional growth and prosperity. This commitment extends to building equitable structures to eradicate systemic racism, ensuring that every student, regardless of their background, has an opportunity to succeed.
Sakrekoff underscores the significance of uniting together, stating, “We understand that it takes all stakeholders’ collective efforts and collaboration to drive transformative change.”
Participants will engage in collaborative discussions, workshops, and team breakouts, focusing on strategies and solutions to expedite equitable educational opportunities and pathways to student success.
Keynote speaker: Dr. Anton Treuer is a renowned author and Professor of Ojibwe at Bemidji State University, recognized for his work in race relations and indigenous languages.
Dr. Treuer is a renowned author and Professor of Ojibwe at Bemidji State University, recognized for his work in race relations and indigenous languages.
Dr. Victor Rios, the MacArthur Foundation Chair and Professor of Sociology at the University of California, Santa Barbara, specializes in equity, anti-racism, cultural responsiveness, resilience, closing the opportunity gap, teacher well-being, and restorative justice.
To secure a seat, attendees are encouraged to register early, as availability is limited. Early bird registration is $109 until September 30, 2023, and $129 after. Conference registration includes access to all keynote and breakout sessions and event parking, as well as breakfast and lunch on both days. All proceeds from the event will support GIA’s student scholarship fund.
For more information and to register, please visit the GIA website at InlandEmpireGIA.org.
Dr. Sorrel Stielstra, Director of Research for GIA, addresses participants in a breakout room
Dr. Kristi Woods, Dean of Instruction, Languages, Humanities and Social Sciences, Riverside City College & Dr. FeRita Carter, Vice President, Student Services, Riverside City College
Chancellor of Riverside Community College District; Chancellor Kim Wilcox welcomed the group.
Event Main Room attendees
Left to Right: Chancellor Wolde-Ab Isaac, Chancellor of Riverside Community College District; Chancellor Kim Wilcox, University of California Riverside; Brian Haynes, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs, University of California Riverside.
Kristopher Acevedo, Educational Advisor and Associate Faculty, Riverside City College, talks with Emma Diaz, Director of, the California Adult Education Program at Inland Adult Education Consortium
A participant writes notes on the board in a breakout room
About Growing Inland Achievement
Growing Inland Achievement, which serves both San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, is a regional cross-sector network of education, government, nonprofit, and business partners in the Inland Empire, collectively working towards a shared vision of educational and economic success.
GIA staff support this work by researching issues and opportunities, developing financial resources for the region, and connecting diverse stakeholders across the two-county region of the Inland Empire.
GIA’s shared vision is that by 2035, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties will be widely recognized for their educated workforce, thriving communities, and vibrant economy that creates prosperity for all.
Photo caption: Pete Van Helden – Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, will deliver the keynote address at the kickoff event for The Salvation Army’s Annual Red Kettle campaign. It all happens on Wednesday, November 15th at 5:30 PM at the Bear Springs Events Center, 27923 Highland Avenue, Highland, CA 92346
“We are delighted to have Pete Van Helden, Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, serve as the keynote speaker for the 2023 Red Kettle Kickoff,” said Major Isaias Braga, Commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
REDLANDS, CALIF.— Pete Van Helden, Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman of the Board, will deliver the keynote address at the kickoff event for The Salvation Army’s Annual Red Kettle campaign.
“Like the Salvation Army, Stater Bros. Charities has a long history of supporting those in need in Southern California,” said Van Helden. “To many people, the Salvation Army’s red kettles represent hope during the holidays, and that’s why I’m honored to serve as the keynote speaker for this year’s Red Kettle Kick-Off.”
“We are delighted to have Pete Van Helden – Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, serve as the keynote speaker for the 2023 Red Kettle Kickoff,” said Major Isaias Braga, Commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
“Stater Bros. Markets has supported the mission of The Salvation Army for decades. We are honored to serve the same community,” he added.
Van Helden began his career at Stater Bros. Markets in April 2013 when he was appointed President and Chief Operating Officer of the company. He was promoted to CEO in January 2016. In 2019, Van Helden was appointed to the Board of Directors of Stater Bros. Holdings, Inc., and in October 2022, Pete was elevated to its Chairman of the Board.
In 2022-2023 The Salvation Army served 26,013 People, 24,012 households that included 110,768 meals and 12,822 households receiving groceries. The Hospitality House provided 34,761 nights of shelter to families and children experiencing homelessness; 2,146 at-risk children participated in educational and recreational programs.
Donations from the Red Kettles help make possible Christmas, holiday food baskets for around 500 local families. On Christmas, a Christmas Dinner that historically provides a delicious meal to about 200 people.
The Salvation Army of San Bernardino serves the cities of San Bernardino, Redlands, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy and Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs.
Donations may always be made online at www.SalvationArmyUSA.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. For local information call (909) 792-6868. Donors may drop off turkeys, hams, other food, cash or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands California, 92373.
About The Salvation Army
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 County since 1887. The Salvation Army supports people in need without discrimination. To donate go to: www.salvationarmyusa.org or call 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. For local information call (909) 792-6868.
The Salvation Army of San Bernardino serves the cities of San Bernardino, Redlands, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy and Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs.
Brief 287 Words
Stater Bros. Markets CEO Pete Van Helden Delivers Keynote Address at The Salvation Army 2023 Red Kettle Campaign
REDLANDS, CALIF.— Pete Van Helden, Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman of the Board, will deliver the keynote address at the kickoff event for The Salvation Army’s Annual Red Kettle campaign.
The “miracle” of Christmas is repeated through the joy of caring, sharing and donations to The Salvation Army’s Red Kettles. The ringing of the Silver Bells begins with The Red Kettle Kickoff. This year’s event is Wednesday, November 15th at 5:30 PM at the Bear Springs Events Center, 27923 Highland Avenue, Highland, CA 92346.
“Like the Salvation Army, Stater Bros. Charities has a long history of supporting those in need in Southern California,” said Van Helden. “To many people, the Salvation Army’s red kettles represent hope during the holidays, and that’s why I’m honored to serve as the keynote speaker for this year’s Red Kettle Kickoff.”
“We are delighted to have Pete Van Helden – Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, serve as the keynote speaker for the 2023 Red Kettle Kickoff,” said Major Isaias Braga, Commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.
“Stater Bros. Markets has supported the mission of The Salvation Army for decades. We are honored to serve the same community,” he added.
In 2022-2023 The Salvation Army served 26,013 People, 24,012 households that included 110,768 meals and 12,822 households receiving groceries. The Hospitality House provided 34,761 nights of shelter to families and children experiencing homelessness; 2,146 at-risk children participated in educational and recreational programs.
Donations may always be made online at www.SalvationArmyUSA.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. For local information call (909) 792-6868. Donors may drop off turkeys, hams, other food, cash or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands California, 92373.
BIO
Pete Van Helden – Stater Bros. Markets Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board
Pete began his career at Stater Bros. Markets in April 2013 when he was appointed President and Chief Operating Officer of the company. He was promoted to CEO in January 2016. In 2019, Pete was appointed to the Board of Directors of Stater Bros. Holdings, Inc., and in October 2022, Pete was elevated to its Chairman of the Board.
Pete began his supermarket industry career in 1976, working as a courtesy clerk for Rosauers Supermarket in his home state of Montana. In 1978, he relocated to Bozeman, Montana where he joined Albertsons as a clerk. During his tenure at Albertsons, Pete held a variety of leadership positions in operations, merger integration and dual branding, was President of Jewel/Osco stores in Chicago, and served as President and CEO of all California stores.
In 2006, Pete joined Supervalu through the company’s partial acquisition of Albertsons. While at Supervalu, he was promoted to the position of Executive Vice President of Retail Operations and was responsible for overseeing the operations of 1,100 stores in 36 states.
Pete holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration. He has also completed the Executive Business Program at Stanford University in addition to the Food Industry Executive Program at the University of Southern California (USC). The USC Marshall School of Business named Pete the 2018 Executive of the Year for the Food Industry Management Program.
Pete is Director Emeritus of the Western Association of Food Chains (WAFC), having served as its president in 2010. He also previously served as chairman of the TOPCO board of directors. Currently, he is a member of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Council and the San Bernardino International Airport Authority Technical Advisory Committee.
Pete is currently the CEO of Stater Bros. Charities, the philanthropic arm of Stater Bros. Markets.
“All of us who are part of the Hospitality House team love being able to help families, get back in control of their lives.”
(San Bernardino, Calif.) The San Bernardino Salvation Army Hospitality House stands ready to house homeless families and single women who need temporary, stable shelter. Their target population also includes multi-generational families, and single men with children as well.
“The Salvation Army Hospitality House serves as a safe refuge that provides residents with a supportive, caring environment and all the resources they need to deal with a wide variety of personal and/or family problems. It all starts with an emergency shelter that can keep participants safely housed for 30, 60, or 90 days, depending on their circumstances,” says Program Manager Naomi Goforth.
At intake, each new arrival is assessed by trained Salvation Army intake staff. Once the scope of a client’s needs has been determined, each family is given a detailed individualized case plan and assigned to a case manager who will maintain close contact during their entire stay.
Each family’s case plan includes comprehensive goals and objectives that cover their intake, transition to permanent housing, help finding a steady job, legal advocacy, child welfare aid, and education. Every resident is treated as an individual with individual needs and every case is different and gets a customized case plan.
Amanda and her six children are graduates of the Salvation Army Hospitality House. They now live in their apartment
“People who come to Hospitality House may have been sleeping in their cars or were recently released from a hospital. At intake, each new resident gets clothing, bed linens, hygiene products, and a chance to take a breath after whatever ordeal they have just gone through,” says Goforth.
“I didn’t know what I was going to do,” says one recent Hospitality House graduate.
“I’m a single mom and I lost my job during the pandemic. Thank goodness, at least my 15-year-old car was paid off and when we were no longer able to pay rent, that’s where we slept. I heard about Hospitality House from a friend and the people there have helped me find a new job, secure a place to live, and even got me enrolled in a course that’s going to add to my skill set so I can advance in my new-found career.”
Goforth says, “Our residents don’t just sit around and spin their wheels. They actively work on their case plan. Our case managers are good at finding each individual’s motivation to resolve their homelessness and get back on their feet.”
The Salvation Army Hospitality House Program Manager Naomi Goforth
“Sometimes, that may include a referral to one of our partner agencies for things like mental health services, substance use, and legal aid. Whatever they need, we can either provide help in-house or get them connected to the right providers,” says Goforth.
As current resident K.L. notes, “I had a pretty bad rent history and I knew not many landlords would want to take a chance on me, even though I now have a decent job. But the Salvation Army has helped me reestablish a better tenant history and now I have a place lined up to move to when my stay here ends next week.”
In 2023 The Salvation Army served 26,013 people and 24,012 households, serving 110,768 meals, and donating groceries to 12,822 households.
The Hospitality House provided 34,761 nights of shelter to families and children experiencing homelessness; 2,146 children participated in educational and recreational programs.
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.
The Salvation Army of San Bernardino serves the cities of San Bernardino, Redlands, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy and Big Bear, Lake Arrowhead and Running Springs.
Media Contact
Salvation Army-PR-1214.2 Hospitality House #1
For interviews or more information call Carl Dameron
Time for your annual Flu vaccine. Nurse Elisabeth gives Mia-Alexia Martinez 14 her annual Flu vaccine.
“The Centers for Disease Control tells us that September and October are good times to get vaccinated against the flu,” says Dr. Albert Arteaga.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. – Winter is flu season, but fall is the time to be prepared. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says, “For most people … September and October are generally good times to get vaccinated…[but] it’s important to know that vaccination after October can still provide protection during the peak of the flu season.”
For the 2023-2024 flu season, the CDC continues to recommend annual influenza vaccination for allpersons 6 months of age and older. Of particular concern are persons who are either very young, the elderly, or those who have chronic health conditions that put them at greater risk for complications from the flu—these people should not delay in getting their flu vaccines.
LaSalle Medical Direct Dr. Cheryl Emoto says, “Parents should take note of the fact that babies, those 6 months of age and older, need to get vaccinated as soon as they are old enough and children younger than 8 years old (including those babies) who are receiving their flu vaccine for the first time, will need a second dose four weeks after the first dose.”
LaSalle Medical Director Dr. Cheryl Emoto
Younger babies can be protected by parents and caregivers getting their flu vaccine, by so-called “herd immunity.” If parents do not get sick with the flu, the babies are also unlikely to get the flu.
For those over 65 years of age, there are higher-dose vaccines available that provide additional protection for the elderly. And for healthy individuals ages 2-49 years, there is a nasal spray available as a painless option. The nasal spray is just as effective as the injection.
The CDC notes a common misconception some people have is that a flu vaccine can give you flu, but that is not the case. Flu shots are made with “inactivated” (killed) viruses, or with only a single protein from the flu virus. The nasal spray vaccine contains live viruses that are attenuated (weakened) so that they will not cause illness,” says the CDC.
We should have flu vaccine available in the clinic by early September and we encourage everyone to get their flu vaccine.
LaSalle Medical Associates serves people covered by Medi-Cal, Medicare, and Covered California, as well as those covered by Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net, Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP), and Brand New Day. 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.
For clinic locations and more information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (909) 890-0407 or go online to lasallemedicalassociates.com.
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B R I E F: 230 Words
It’s Time for Your Flu Shot
“The Centers for Disease Control tells us that September and October are good times to get vaccinated against the flu,” says Dr. Albert Arteaga.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. – Winter is flu season, but fall is the time to be prepared. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) says, “For most people … September and October are generally good times to get vaccinated…[but] it’s important to know that vaccination after October can still provide protection during the peak of the flu season.”
LaSalle Medical Direct Dr. Cheryl Emoto says, “Parents should take note of the fact that babies, those 6 months of age and older, need to get vaccinated as soon as they are old enough and children younger than 8 years old (including those babies) who are receiving their flu vaccine for the first time, will need a second dose four weeks after the first dose.”
LaSalle Medical Associates serves people covered by Medi-Cal, Medicare, and Covered California, as well as those covered by Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net, Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP), and Brand New Day. 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.
For clinic locations and more information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (909) 890-0407 or go online to lasallemedicalassociates.com.
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.
Dr. Albert Arteaga, MD, Chairman of LaSalle and Duane E. Whittington new Chief Executive Officer of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc.
“LaSalle has grown from one patient to more than 350,000,” says Albert Arteaga, MD, Chairman of LaSalle Medical Associates, “and we want to grow more, so we’ve hired a seasoned CEO to help us get to the next level.”
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. – LaSalle Medical Associates has hired Duane E. Whittington as their new Chief Executive Officer. “We conducted a very thorough search,” says Albert Arteaga, MD, Chairman of LaSalle, “and we were pleased to find a highly qualified local candidate with extensive medical practice management experience.”
During his 15-plus-year tenure as CAO with Beaver Medical Group, he founded EPIC Health Plan and developed it from its birth to maturity. In June 2021 he was promoted to Chief Executive Officer, overseeing a $700 million enterprise serving 110,000 HMO members.
Whittington, 55, earned his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from York University in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and his MBA from Pepperdine. After graduating from Pepperdine, he was hired as Executive Director for Pacific Physician Services in Redlands.
He then served as Regional Vice President for First Physician Care in Atlanta, Georgia, followed by a move back to Southern California as a healthcare and technology consultant with Tustin-based The Capitalist Group, LLC.
Whittington next returned to Redlands as Chief Operations Officer for Inland Health Organization for six years before joining EPIC Management/Beaver Medical Group, as Senior Vice President, and Chief Administrative Officer, responsible for the Accountable Care Services Division.
“I was approached about a leadership position at LaSalle, an organization I knew had been providing services for over 30 years in the Inland Empire. Due to a recent change in ownership where I was working at the time, I decided to pursue the opportunity,” says Whittington.
“I met with Dr. Arteaga, the Founder and President of LaSalle. He shared his vision and goals for LaSalle, building on the rich tradition of providing quality healthcare to families with courtesy and respect. Frankly, I found the opportunity to join a physician-led, community-focused provider group to be compelling.
“I’m super excited to take this position with a truly unique organization. Dr. Arteaga is a remarkable physician-leader and I am looking forward to helping him grow his organization and take it to the next level,” said Whittington.
Dr. Arteaga says, “We feel very fortunate to add Duane Whittington to our senior executive team. His extensive experience in the healthcare industry as a chief operating officer and chief executive officer showed he was the right choice, right from day one. We are looking forward to benefitting from his management and leadership experience as we continue to grow.”
LaSalle Medical Associates serves more than 350,000 patients in their clinics and statewide Independent Physicians Association Group (IPA) who are covered by Medi-Cal, Medicare, and Covered California, as well as those covered by Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net and Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP).
LaSalle staff also help people who come into a clinic without any insurance to become enrolled for a variety of state and federal health coverage.
For clinic locations and more information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (909) 890-0407 or go online to LaSalleMedical.com.
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B R I E F: 307 Words
LaSalle Medical Associates Announces a New CEO
“LaSalle has grown from one patient to more than 350,000,” says Albert Arteaga, MD, Chairman of LaSalle Medical Associates, “and we want to grow more, so we’ve hired a seasoned CEO to help us get to the next level.”
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. – LaSalle Medical Associates has hired Duane E. Whittington as Chief Executive Officer. “We conducted a very thorough search,” says Albert Arteaga, MD, President of LaSalle, “and we found a highly qualified local candidate with extensive medical practice management experience.”
Whittington, 55, earned his MBA from Pepperdine. After graduating, he served as Executive Director for Pacific Physician Services in Redlands. He went on to serve as a C-suite executive for several healthcare organizations from Redlands to Atlanta, to Tustin, and back again to Redlands in 2000 as COO for Inland Health Organization.
In 2006 Whittington joined EPIC Management/Beaver Medical Group, as Senior Vice President, and Chief Administrative Officer, responsible for the Accountable Care Services Division. In June 2021 he was promoted to CEO, overseeing a $700 million enterprise serving 110,000 HMO members.
“With a recent ownership change where I was,” says Whittington, “I started to think about making a change. When I was approached about a leadership role at LaSalle, it turned out the timing was right. Dr. Arteaga shared his goals and intentions and I have to say that I’m super excited to take this position with a truly unique organization. I am looking forward to helping Dr. Arteaga grow his organization and take it to the next level,” said Whittington.
Dr. Arteaga says, “We feel fortunate to have Duane Whittington on our team. We look forward to benefitting from his management and leadership experience as we continue to grow.”
For clinic locations and more information about LaSalle Medical Associates, call (909) 890-0407 or go online to LaSalleMedical.com.
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 over 350,000 patients in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino and Tulare counties.
This is a series of articles intended to introduce to the community key members of the City’s Team of employees who serve Manteca residents through their respective position and areas of expertise.
Kevin Jorgensen II is the Director of Engineering for the City of Manteca. He’s been City Engineer for the past 8 years.
Kevin Jorgensen II is the Director of Engineering for the City of Manteca. He’s been City Engineer for the past 8 years.
Kevin says he came to Manteca because, “I was very excited to work for a burgeoning, fast-paced City, with a vast array of challenging capital improvement and development projects. I also liked the idea of working for a government agency with a family-orientated focus.”
When asked what he likes about his job, Kevin answered, “We have a team atmosphere, collaborative spirit, and a great group of people to work with. Work moves at a very fast pace and we often have to work cohesively with other departments to accomplish our goals.”
Kevin describes a typical day on the job as revolving around meetings, emails, and providing staff direction, with his priorities being adjusted to meet the needs of development, capital improvement projects, and overarching City endeavors.
He was asked to identify the City’s most significant needs from the Engineering Department’s perspective. “Our most critical and encompassing need is additional funding to keep up with the demands of a flourishing City. Thisis something strongly felt by all City Departments. The vast majority of City employees make every effort possible to improve the City, but there’s only so much that can be accomplished with our funding shortfalls. As it specifically relates to the Engineering Department, our infrastructure facilities supporting transportation, sewer, water, and storm are in constant need of maintenance, upgrades, and expansion. We simply do not have the funding to complete all of the necessary projects that greatly impact the quality of life of our residents.”
Rhoda and Gochin – who have operated a small family-style board and care home in the San Fernando Valley (Los Angeles) for the last 22 years
“Our Governor and Legislature must take immediate action to prevent the seriously mentally ill and seniors from becoming homeless and to avoid the devastation of this critical housing resource for some of the most vulnerable residents in the State,” said Bennie Tinson, MPP, LARCA Executive Director.
LOS ANGELES, CALIF. The Licensed Adult Residential Care Association (LARCA) will travel to Sacramento August 22-23, in coordination with the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Greater Los Angeles County to advocate for fair treatment for Los Angeles County’s seriously mentally ill.
Low-income people living with serious mental illness in LA County and across the State are at risk of becoming homeless. The Department of Social Services recently reported the closing of 27 facilities in Los Angeles County in the first quarter of 2023, that provide care and housing for some of the States most vulnerable residents.
More facilities are expected to close before the end of the year. LARCA Members are urging Governor Newsom and State Legislators to move quickly to provide immediate emergency funding to prevent millions of low-income seniors and adults living with serious mental illness from becoming homeless. Residents diagnosed with a serious mental illness receive approximately $44 a day.
The are too many Homeless seniors on the streets. This person is sleeping on the handicapped ramp of the LA County Board of Supervisors Boardroom.
LARCA members are requesting an immediate infusion of $2,000 for each bed in a state-licensed facility with 70% of their residents receiving the Social Security Income (SSI) payment, living with serious mental illness, and receiving no other supplemental assistance.
Adult Residential Facilities (ARFs) and Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFEs), more commonly known as “Board and Cares,” provide housing, 24/7 care, staff assistance to help residents meet their basic daily needs, three meals a day snacks, medication management and more.
The Licensed Adult Residential Care Association (LARCA) represents over 400 Los Angeles County licensed ARF’s and RCFE’s, many of whom are struggling to keep their doors open and more than 15,000 low-income Los Angeles County residents living with serious mental illness.
Bennie Tinson, MPP, LARCA Executive Director.
About The Licensed Adult Residential Care Association (LARCA)
LARCA is a nonprofit community-based membership association with an emphasis on serving the population of owner/operators of Adult Residential Facilities (ARFs) and Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFEs) and their residents, who are reliant on public benefits and/or living with serious mental illness, formed with fiscal sponsorship from the National Alliance on Mental Illness Greater Los Angeles County (NAMI GLAC).
Dr. Albert Arteaga, president and founder of LaSalle Medical Associates, speaks with Baron Jordan, of San Bernardino, at the LaSalle Medical Associates medical office in Rialto, Calif. Jordan is talking to Dr. Arteaga about his healthcare.
“Seniors need to have an ongoing relationship with their healthcare provider,” says Dr. Albert Arteaga.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the three leading causes of death for people 65 and older are heart disease, cancer, and COVID-19. The CDC also notes that 23.3 percent of seniors are in only fair or poor health.
Leading negative indicators for poor healthcare outcomes are obesity and hypertension (high blood pressure). For men aged 65 to 74, 41.9 percent are obese, for men 75 or older, it’s 31.8 percent. For women aged 65 to 74, 45.9 percent are obese, for women 75 or older, it’s 36.1 percent.
Hypertension affects 66.7 percent of men aged 65 to 74 and 81.5 percent of those 75 and older. For women, it’s 74.3 percent of those 65 to 74 and 86.0 percent for those 75 and older.
These are sobering statistics, and they point out the necessity for seniors to have an ongoing relationship with their healthcare provider. “Conditions like obesity and hypertension can be managed with proper lifestyle changes and medication,” says Dr. Albert Arteaga, President of LaSalle Medical Associates.
“Seniors need to have an ongoing relationship with their healthcare provider. We deploy an active outreach program to our senior patients,” says Dr. Arteaga, “and make it a point to contact them when it’s time for a checkup or a follow-up visit to track their compliance with healthcare directives and medications. “Follow up, follow up, follow up is the magic formula. Continuity is King.”
For those who have reached the age of 65, the average life expectancy for women is an additional 19.7 years, and for men, 17.0 years. But life expectancy itself is not the goal. The aim is for one’s remaining years to be fruitful, free from debilitating diseases, and able to interact with friends and family free of dementia or Alzheimer’s.
LaSalle Medical Associates has clinics in Fontana, Rialto, Hesperia, Victorville, and two in San Bernardino. The LaSalle healthcare professionals know what senior care requires and they treat all their older patients with respect, regardless of their race or ethnicity.
Carl Dameron is 64 years old and stays in touch with his doctors. This is a diabetic check-up with his PA at Lasalle Medical Clinic’s Mt. Vernon Office.
“We have only one standard of care for all our patients,” says Arteaga, “and Black, Latino, Asian, Indigenous or white are all welcome and we stand ready to help those who are not covered by their employer, a pension fund or private insurance, enroll in one of the healthcare coverage alternatives.”
For more information or to make an appointment, call 1-855-349-6019.
BRIEF: 265 words
Seniors: Stay in Touch with Your Healthcare Provider
“Seniors need to have an ongoing relationship with their healthcare provider,” says Dr. Albert Arteaga.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the three leading causes of death for people 65 and older are heart disease, cancer, and COVID-19.
Obesity and hypertension (high blood pressure) contribute to those outcomes. For men 65 to 74, 41.9 percent are obese; for 75+, 31.8 percent. For women 65 to 74, 45.9 percent are obese; for 75+, 36.1 percent.
Hypertension affects 66.7 percent of men 65 to 74, 81.5 percent of those 75+. For women, it’s 74.3 percent of those 65 to 74, 86.0 percent 75+.
“Obesity and hypertension can be managed with proper lifestyle changes and medication,” says Dr. Albert Arteaga, President of LaSalle Medical Associates. “Seniors need to have an ongoing relationship with their healthcare provider.
“We make it a point to contact our senior patients when it’s time for a checkup or a follow-up visit to track their compliance with healthcare directives and medications,” says Dr. Arteaga. “Follow up, follow up, follow up is the magic formula. Continuity is King.”
For those now 65, the average life expectancy for women is 19.7 years, and for men, 17.0 years. And those extra years need to be fruitful, free from debilitating diseases while interacting normally with friends and family.
“LaSalle cares, and we stand ready to help those who are not covered by their employer, a pension fund, or private insurance, enroll in one of the healthcare coverage alternatives.”
For more information or to make an appointment, call 1-855-349-6019.
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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.
Carl Brown, Director of Public Works, City of Manteca.
MANTECA, CALIF. The City of Manteca created a Traffic Solutions Committee in 2022 to improve and create safety solutions on the City’s streets. This multi-departmental group is led by the City’s Director of Public Works, Carl Brown. Through various measures, the committee analyzes safety concerns and brings viable solutions to the City.
As Director of Public Works, Brown has a multitude of responsibilities including streetlights, traffic signal operation, signs and markings, curbs and sidewalks, and environmental compliance. “We constantly work on improving efficiencies and effectiveness of processes and programs and ensure that all services continue to be performed as our citizens expect, he explains.
“Improving traffic safety and reducing pedestrian injuries is the top priority of the Traffic Solutions Committee in Manteca,” Brown stresses. A few of the enhancements include the following.
City traffic improvements such as flashing stop signs that increase visibility so people are more likely to stop. This also reduces right-angle crashes by alerting drivers of upcoming roadway changes, so they do not unintentionally run the stop sign. “Right-angle crashes are the most common type of crash that results in a fatality or serious injury at stop sign-controlled intersections,” Brown adds.
Flashing Stop Sign
New high-visibility crosswalks ensure that pedestrians and drivers have safer access when crossing the street. These alert pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists to designated pedestrian crossing areas and help give drivers enough time to react to pedestrians on the road.
New high-visibility crosswalks
Speed lumps (yes, lumps, not bumps or humps), are on Hacienda Ave. and North Walnut Ave. These lumps slow down speeding cars in the neighborhoods. The speed lump is a variation on the speed hump, adding two-wheel cut-outs designed to allow large vehicles, such as emergency vehicles and buses, to pass with minimal slowing.
Speed Lumps
The Committee is updating and adding pavement markings, yield limit lines, warning signs, red curbs, and street parking markings to decrease traffic accidents. A yield line, also called shark’s teeth or give-way line, is a marking used to inform drivers of the point where they need to yield and give priority to the oncoming vehicle or pedestrian traffic at an intersection or roundabout controlled by a yield sign.
Manteca is a full-service City with police, fire, public works, water, trash, and sewer services. For more information call the City Manager’s office at (209) 456-8000, email Feedback@manteca.gov, or go online to https://www.manteca.gov.
Incorporated in 1918, Manteca has a diverse population of 86,928. Manteca continues to grow at 4.1 percent a year. The City has 25,670 households with a median home price of $432,100. The median annual household income is $82,538.
Photo caption: Contents of an average food box, meat, vegetables, bread, beans, oil breakfast food, and more
“In 2022, the San Bernardino Corps provided groceries to 10,318 households. The donation from The Gas Company will allow us to serve another 2,000 people a month,” said The Salvation Army’s Major Isaias Braga.
REDLANDS, CALIF. In 2022, the San Bernardino Corps provided groceries to 10,318 households. But food insecurity has dramatically increased in the San Bernadino Valley.
To help ease the burden The Southern California Gas Company has made a $100,000 donation to The Salvation Army of the San Bernadino area to help provide meals to hungry families.
“The donation allows us to expand our food disruption service from three Thursdays a month to four Thursdays a month beginning this June. Our extra distribution day will take place at the San Bernardino Airport on the fourth Thursday of each month,” said The Salvation Army’s Major Isaias Braga.
Photo caption: Hungry people receiving meals at the 4:45 pm free dinner at the Hospitality House at 925 W. 10th St., San Bernardino CA 92411
In The Salvation Army’s most recent food distribution, they were able to serve 144 families with 518 people.
“This was just one day and thanks to SoCalGas we can continue to offer these services four weeks a month and help fight food insecurity to more than 2,000 individuals,” said Major Braga.
“SoCalGas understands that many families and seniors are experiencing hardships. Food insecurity is a critical issue that is impacting many people in the communities we serve, said Kristine Scott, Senior Public Affairs Manager for SoCalGas.
The “Fueling Our Communities” grant is one opportunity to demonstrate SoCalGas’ commitment to investing in our service area communities. We are proud to partner with The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps to help those in need.”
The Salvation Army serves food for a family of five to last for a week, and if the family is larger than five the family receives two boxes. “We serve hungry families once a week, four weeks a month on the first week from The Redlands location and the other three Thursdays at our warehouse in San Bernardino,” said Major Braga.
For more information or to sign up for the FREE food program please 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 San Bernardino Corps in California.
PHOTO CAPTION: Majors Isaias (left) and Adelma Braga.
The Salvation Army serves Meals for the Hungry Sunday through Friday at 4:30 pm at 925 W. 10th St. in San Bernardino. Listen to the testimony of people who are served.
People need your help. Please give today at SBCSVA.org.
Listen to the testimony of people who are served by the food disruption service.
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.
San Bernardino Corps Serves: 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 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.
