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    Volunteer to Keep the Silver Bells Ringing This Holiday Season

    Earl Perkins Rings the bells to raise funds for The Salvation Army to help the Hungry, Homeless and Hopeless this holiday season.

    Earl Perkins Rings the bells to raise funds for The Salvation Army to help the Hungry, Homeless and Hopeless this holiday season.

     

    “This is a wonderful way to help disadvantaged people in our community, simply by volunteering as bell ringers,” said Major Isaias Braga, commander of The Salvation Army of San Bernardino.

     

    SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.— The “miracle” of Christmas is repeated through the joy of caring and sharing. The San Bernardino Salvation Army (www.salvationarmyusa.org) seeks volunteers to Keep the Bells Ringing in 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 nationally recognized shiny red kettles are an integral part of the Christmas scene, with lots 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 Major Isaias Braga, 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 our area.”

    The Salvation Army begins ringing its bells this year on   Monday November 13th, from 10 am through 6 pm and continues Monday through Saturday until Christmas Eve.

    Many volunteers ring two hours at a time, but groups are asked to provide ringers who can work in shifts for an entire day. Anyone who would like to donate a few hours of their time can volunteer. Individuals under the age of 16 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

    Where does the money raised by the ringing bells in San Bernardino go? The Salvation Army provides emergency services including food, housing for homeless or displaced families, clothing and showers, as well as assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available.

    “Last Christmas, The Salvation Army provided 650 holiday food baskets to families and 1,400 children received 5,500 toys,” said Braga. On Christmas Eve, The Salvation Army hosts a Christmas Dinner that provides a delicious meal to approximately 300 people. Donations raised by volunteers who Keep the Bells Ringing help make this possible.

    To volunteer to Keep the Bells Ringing, call The Salvation Army at (909) 888-1336.

    To donate to The Salvation Army online, go to: www.salvationarmyusa.org. To donate by phone call 1-800-SAL-ARMY (800-725-2769).

    Photo Caption: Majors Isaias and Adelma Braga welcome donors to The Annual 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. Click here for tickets.

    Photo Caption: Majors Isaias and Adelma Braga welcome donors to The Annual 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. Click here for tickets.

    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

    Buy your tickets today at $250 per person.  A table of 8 is just $1,000.  https://give-sc.salvationarmy.org/event/the-salvation-army-or-san-bernardino-red-kettle-kick-off/e429128/register/new/select-tickets

    About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps

    The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church and offers holistic programs for individuals in need without discrimination. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino and the Inland Empire since 1887. The San Bernardino Corps of The Salvation Army serves Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, and San Bernardino.

    Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY. Our local service number is (909) 888-1336.

     

    Helping Homeless Families Get Back in Control of Their Lives

    “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 there own apartment

    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

    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.

    To talk with a Hospitality House representative, call (909) 888-4880 or visit the website at SanBernardino.SalvationArmy.org/ 

    Learn More About the Salvation Army’s Mission

    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 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

    @ (909) 534-9500

    Duane E. Whittington Leaves Beaver Medical Group and Joins LaSalle Medical Associates as New CEO

    Dr. Albert Arteaga, MD, Chairman of LaSalle and Duane E. Whittington new Chief Executive Officer of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc.

    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.

    —30—

    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.

    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 over 350,000 patients in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino and Tulare counties.

    LaSalle-PR-343.5 New CEO at LaSalle Medical

    For More Information call

    Dr. Greg Zerovnik @ (909) 730-8428

    or email Greg.Z@DameronCommunications.com

     

    Southern California Gas Company Donates $100,000 to The Salvation Army to Give Free Food Boxes to Hungry Families

    Photo caption: Contents of an average food box, meat, vegetables, bread, beans, oil breakfast food, and more

    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.

    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. 

    Mona: https://on.soundcloud.com/emvQr  

    Eric: https://on.soundcloud.com/HQ2Zh 

    Margie https://on.soundcloud.com/cLiyJ

    Watch videos of people who are served at the Hospitality House.

    Marlene and Lou

    https://youtu.be/h33Q1uHjH9k

    Dorthy and Javier 

    https://youtu.be/KFAp2sP9kss

    Rios 

    https://youtu.be/NK8NgTuoKCc

    B-Roll: Cars in line long Salvation Army B-Roll, https://youtu.be/mh8p1ZsQzwQ

    B-Roll: Cars in line long Salvation Army B-Roll, https://youtu.be/mh8p1ZsQzwQ

    B-Roll:
    Loading food boxes for the hungry

    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.

    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.

    LaSalle Clinics Are Ahead of the Curve in Ending Race-Based Medicine

    Dr. Albert and Maria Arteaga

    Dr. Albert and Maria Arteaga, Founders of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. dedicated to ending health care disparities.

    “People of color are tired of being treated differently by doctors because of their skin color. At LaSalle, we pride ourselves on treating all patients with respect and giving them the care, they need, regardless of their ethnicity,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, MD, founder and CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc.

    (Redlands, Calif.)  The American Academy of Pediatrics has announced that it is revising its policies and guidelines to do away with wording that implies or suggests “that races have underlying biological differences that should be factored in medical treatments.”

    In a new policy statement, “Eliminating Race-Based Medicine,” pre-published online May 2, 2022, in Pediatrics, the AAP observes that race is a historically derived social construct that has no place as a biologic proxy. Over the years, the medical field has inaccurately applied race correction or race adjustment factors in its work, resulting in differential approaches to disease management and disparate clinical outcomes.

    “The American Academy of Pediatrics is taking an important step toward dismantling race-based medicine. This effort calls for acknowledging the impact that differential lived experiences have on individual and population health outcomes through a race-conscious health equity lens rather than through approaches that have inappropriately identified skin color as an independent risk-adjusting variable,” Dr. Wright said.

    “Social determinants of health need to be carefully considered in the development of care delivery strategies including factors embedded in broad categories such as access, the physical environmental and community supports. Evidence informed incorporation of these factors is vital in all areas of medicine.”

    Dr. Albert Arteaga, MD, CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc., says, “As a Latino-owned organization, we have always treated every patient—adult or child—with the most conscientious and rigorous care.

    Many of our doctors and support staff are themselves minorities and they know very well how important it is to make all patients feel comfortable and to deliver to all patients the highest standard, the gold standard, of care.”

    The gold standard of care is a method, procedure or measurement that is widely accepted as being the best available to test for or treat a disease.

    Race-based care has been pervasive for decades. One example is how some pediatricians deal with Black children who may be suffering from a urinary tract infection. According to Dr. Joseph L. Wright, M.D., M.P.H., FAAP, from American Academy of Pediatrics, rather than apply the gold standard test, they use a lesser procedure because they assume that Black children don’t get urinary tract infections as often as white children.

    But that is not the case at LaSalle. “When we interview prospective providers, we make sure that they are in sync with our values and standards,” says Dr. Arteaga. “The gold standard is the only standard we apply to the people under our care.”

    After two years of virtual doctor visits, all of LaSalle six clinics are open for person-to-person patient visits. Clinics are now open in San Bernardino, Rialto, Fontana, Hesperia and Victorville.

    “The evolution of modern medicine has produced incredible advancements and accomplishments in health care,” Dr. Wright said. “But we must acknowledge and address the stark inequities that persist in leaving vulnerable populations behind. We are better than this. Now is the time for change.”

    For more information or to make an appointment at a LaSalle Medical Associates Clinic call 1-855-349-6019. Fontana, San Bernardino 17th Street, San Bernardino Mt. Vernon Ave., Rialto and Hesperia.

    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.

    LaSalle-PR-316.2 Gold Standard Care

    For More Information call

    Dr. Greg Zerovnik @ (909) 730-8428‬

    or email Greg.Z@DameronCommunications.com

    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.

    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.