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.
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 Medical Associates CEO Dr. Albert Arteaga, M.D.
“We did a very thorough review and evaluation of several management services organizations, and we believe that Altura will be a great help in freeing us up to spend more time with our patients,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates.
SAN BERNARDINO, CAIF. On September 1, 2023, LaSalle Medical Associates transitions to a new Management Services Organization (MSO)—Altura Management Services Organization, LLC. MSOs are organizations that provide a variety of administrative functions for Independent Practice Associations on a contract basis.
Services include such routine but time-consuming tasks as utilization management, claims processing, and provider credentialing.
“We did a very thorough review and evaluation of several management services organizations, and we believe that Altura will be a great help,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates.
Altura’s goal is to continuously enhance the quality of the Independent Practice Association (IPA) services that they provide. LaSalle’s alliance with Altura is expected to improve the timeliness, accuracy, and quality of claims payments, credentialing, utilization management, reporting, and other services. This will also advance LaSalle’s relationships with health plans and its performance of health plan requirements.
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 (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 approximately 365,000 patients in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Tulare counties.
Growing Inland Achievement President and CEO, Dr. Carlos Ayala, Dr. Carlos Ayala speaks at GIA’s annual Toward a Shared Vision Summit. Photo by Robert A. Whitehead
Ayala is credited with working with the Network to establish Growing Inland Achievement (GIA), as a 501(c)(3), IRS tax-exempt organization; more than doubling the size of the organization; and bringing more than $20 Million to the region for education.
INLAND EMPIRE, CA – President and CEO of Growing Inland Achievement (GIA), Dr. Carlos Ayala, will retire in June 2023.
GIA serves both San Bernardino and Riverside Counties as a regional, cross-sector network of education, government, nonprofit and business partners in the Inland Empire; collectively, they work towards a shared vision of educational and economic success.
“It has been an honor to serve the students of the Inland Empire, says Dr. Ayala. “I have learned a great deal about the affordances and constraints our students, families, institutions and community-based organizations face when it comes to student success.”
Dr. Ayala, age 62, has more than 25 years of service in public education. During his tenure as CEO, Ayala is credited with working with the network’s partners to establish GIA as a 501(c) (3), tax-exempt organization, more than doubling the size of the organization and raising millions of dollars for Inland Empire education.
Under his guidance and working with the network members, GIA was accepted as one of only six organizations in the U.S. chosen by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to participate in its Intermediaries for Scale program, also known as Higher Endeavor, bringing $10 million of support to the region for postsecondary transformation reforms.
“I want to thank the GIA Board of Directors and employees for their commitment to the people and students of the Inland Empire,” Ayala said. “I also wish to thank the vast array of people who are committed to changing the economy of the Inland Empire through education. Their work is notable and I remain convinced that the path forward is at your doorstep—engage collectively.”
The Board of Directors for GIA will oversee the process of choosing Dr. Ayala’s successor.
“As its first CEO, Carlos established the organization, including a set of processes to help us move forward,” said Dr. Kim Wilcox, GIA Board Chair and Chancellor of UC Riverside. “I’m personally grateful for his efforts.”
“Dr. Ayala brought a deep knowledge of the education landscape, strong leadership, and a passion for positively impacting student lives to our organization,” said Ann Marie Sakrekoff, COO of Growing Inland Achievement. “He is leaving GIA in a great position to succeed in our next chapter. Under Dr. Ayala’s leadership, GIA has become nationally recognized.”
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.
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.
The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino since 1887. They support those in need without discrimination. The Salvation Army serves the cities of Big Bear, Blue Jay, Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, other mountain communities, Bloomington, Colton, Grand Terrace, Highland, Rialto, Loma Linda, Yucaipa, Mentone, Redlands, and San Bernardino.
Dameron Communications of San Bernardino, CA has been honored with recognition by UpCity.com in its selection of “Top PR Agencies 2022.”
San Bernardino, Calif. – Dameron Communications of San Bernardino, CA has been honored with recognition by UpCity.com in its selection of “Top PR Agencies 2022.”
Carl Dameron, founder of Dameron Communications said: “This is quite an honor for us. The fact that UpCity.com included Dameron Communications in its selection of “Top PR Agencies 2022,” signals that our constant efforts toward business excellence are paying off. We are proud to be included in this recognition.”
Dameron Communications’ is an Advertising and public relations agency based in Southern California receiving award-winning client accolades, and delivering effective Advertising and public relations for more than 30 years.
“We infuse research and creativity into our advertising and public relations methods to deliver winning and measurable results,” said Dameron.
He added, “We serve clients who make the world a better place: businesses small or large; candidates; governments or nonprofits; and products, services, or causes. We reach our clients’ communications goals.”
Following the publication of Dameron Communications’ selection for UpCity.com’sTop PR Agencies 2022 list, American Registry seconded the honor and added Dameron Communications to the “Registry of Business Excellence™”. An exclusive recognition plaque, shown above, has been designed to commemorate this honor.
For more information on Dameron Communications, located in San Bernardino, CA please call 909-534-9500, or visit Dameron Communications.com.
The Redlands Airport Association is once again hosting a charity toy drive to benefit The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps.
“The Salvation Army has been helping families with holiday needs since 1891. The toys collected will go to kids in the local area.
“Redlands EAA Chapter 845 will be holding a Young Eagles event that day starting at 9:00 am. Kids 8-17 can experience an aircraft ride at no cost and learn about aviation.
“Kids must be accompanied by an adult. Registration is from 9-10am. For more information contact: Beverly 909-771-3279or Rick 909-223-0266
“Santa Claus will be flying in to say hi to the kids, as well.
“In the spirit of giving we will once again be hosting a LifeStream Blood Drive. Consider donating as their is a severe shortage of blood. You may save a life! The bloodmobile will be onsite between 10am -2:30 pm.
“The RAA will be cooking up a barbecue lunch starting at 11 am and going until 2.
“Pilots from local airports are welcome to fly-in, show off their plane and donate a toy.
“The event is open to families and members of the local community. Come on out and enjoy the fun! Please bring a new unwrapped toy and support this wonderful campaign.
“Be a Hero and Donate a New Unwrapped Toy for Kids in Need!
“Admission is free, but guests are asked to bring a new unwrapped toy to donate.
Reaching New Heights Foundation Hosts Stand Down Outreach Event for Veterans and Homeless in San Bernardino
Non-Profit Organization Takes Action to Combat Homeless Crisis in San Bernardino and Support Local Veterans
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. (August 24, 2022)—Reaching New Heights Foundation (RNHF), a nonprofit veteran organization, is hosting a Veterans Stand Down and Homeless Resource Event on Wednesday, October 12, 2021, at Perris Hill Park in San Bernardino. The one-day event is designed to support Inland Empire veterans and to provide much-needed resources to the area’s homeless population.
On average, there are 960 veterans a year who are homeless in San Bernardino. The 2020 San
Bernardino Homeless Count Survey shows the homeless count in 2020 increased 19.9% over 2019. RNHF is hoping the Veteran Stand Down event will be a way to take action against the extensive homeless issue that has been referred to as a “human services crisis.”
“We believe in making a difference so we’re bringing over sixty different service providers to one place. We are asking that the providers not just hand out information, but provide on-site services,” said RNHF Founder and CEO Sgt. Major (Ret.) Gregory Coker. “Normally it would takea veteran or a homeless individual several months to receive this kind of service we’re providing in one day.”
In the military, a stand down is an opportunity to pause and regroup to help those in need. With this Veterans Stand Down event, two underserved and at-risk populations—veterans and the homeless—will be able to regroup with access to an abundance of resources.
“Veterans will receive surplus clothing, access to medical and dental service, counseling and more. The homeless will receive free food, clothing, haircuts, medical checkups, and showers, said Coker. “We want to give our homeless and veterans a hand up, not a handout.”
RNHF is collaborating with local city, county, state, and federal organizations to host the event.
Key supporters include San Bernardino County Veterans Affairs, VA Loma Linda Veteran HealthCare System, The Salvation Army, United Way, Goodwill, IEHP, Molina Healthcare, San Manuel Casino and Volunteers for Veterans Foundation.
After the event, RNHF is committed to following up on the success of all individuals who register to receive help and will provide 6 -12 months of additional support.
EVENT DETAILS:
October 12, 2022
Perris Hill Park
1135 E. Highland Ave. San Bernardino, CA 92408 10:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Event Website: standdownvet.com
About Reaching New Heights Foundation
Founded in 2013, Reaching New Heights Foundation, Inc. is an award-winning non-profit organization created by a veteran for veterans. It proudly helps Inland Empire veterans successfully transition from active-duty military service, incarceration, or homelessness to life as civilians and productive members of society. Reaching New Heights assists nearly 300 veterans a month with a variety of services including housing, jobs, educational resources, mentorships and more. For more information visit www.rnhf.org
“Our entire approach can be summed up as ‘Friendship Is Good for One’s (Mental) Health,'” says Ceseña. “Friends need to learn how to help their friends—and family—when life starts getting them down. The skills learned are immediately useful and give men (and women) real solutions when life for their friends and loved ones becomes overwhelming.”
“Our classes teach people how to recognize and support those who are carrying heavy mental health or addiction burdens,” said Ceseña.
SAN BERNARDINO, CA— “Men in general and Black and Latino men, in particular, don’t like to talk about their emotions,” says Inland Empire Men’s Mental Health program director Gerzon Ceseña. “They don’t want to appear weak or vulnerable because they have been taught their whole lives that men don’t cry and must always be strong.”
The Making Hope Happen Foundation obtained grant funding to open a training program that teaches people how to accurately recognize when someone may be in need and then, using proven techniques, helps them to take the first step—to open up and talk.
“We don’t offer clinical training,” said Ceseña, “but we do offer an introductory QPR Gatekeeper (Question, Persuade, Refer) course and two Mental Health First Aid courses, one that focuses on adults and one on youth. They both include lessons about anxiety, depression, symptoms of psychosis, and how to recognize the cues that can help participants refer them to the appropriate professionals,” said Ceseña.
Inland Empire Men’s Mental Health program director Gerzon Ceseña
In addition, suicidal thoughts or feelings of desperation can also be contributing factors. The IE Men’s Mental Health initiative introductory course lasts only 90 minutes and trains participants on how to recognize suicidal ideation and gives students practical advice on how to get those suffering from this condition to open up about it.
“Our entire approach can be summed up as ‘Friendship Is Good for One’s (Mental) Health,'” says Ceseña. “Friends need to learn how to help their friends—and family—when life starts getting them down. The skills learned are immediately useful and give men (and women) real solutions when life for their friends and loved ones becomes overwhelming.”
The Making Hope Happen Foundation supports the educational mission of the San Bernardino City Unified School District which has embraced the power of hope as a primary driver of personal motivation and community change. Making Hope Happen Foundation engages people, builds partnerships, provides leadership, and delivers resources where they are needed to achieve a thriving and innovative community in which every student is a life-long learner and can be successful in meeting their hopes and aspirations. For more information, please visit www.MakingHope.org.
The Foundation’s Inland Empire Men’s Mental Health initiative offers free mental health training for non-professionals, equipping them to recognize, approach and support friends, family, and colleagues. With support from Dignity Health and the Unihealth Foundation, Making Hope Happen Foundation has trained thousands of local men and women in Youth and Adult Mental Health First Aid and/or QPR Gatekeeper.
For more information on The IE Men’s Mental Health Initiative please visit www.IEMensMentalHealth.org or call (909) 347-7234.
“I was surprised by the great turnout we had at last years Red Kettle Kick Off, and I am hopeful we can repeat that this November,” said Lemann.
“The Salvation Army serves as one of the most trusted and effective providers of services to the hungry, the homeless, the hopeless, the addicted and people in need. Their doors are always open,” said Wilfrid “Bill” Lemann.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.— Local attorney Wilfrid “Bill” Lemann, partner at Fullerton, Lemann, Schaefer & Dominick, LLP, is the Red Kettle Kick-Off master of ceremonies for 2022. The annual start of the Bell Ringing season for The Salvation Army is Thursday, November 17th at 5:30 PM, at the Bear Springs Hotel Events Center, 27923 Highland Ave, Highland, CA 92346.
“I was surprised by the great turnout we had last year, and I am hopeful we can repeat that this November,” said Lemann. The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians has always been a key sponsor of this event and Tribal Chairwoman Lynn Valbuena will be giving the keynote address this year. She’s an outstanding speaker and always has a message worth listening to.”
Bill Lemann has served as the master of ceremonies for the Red Kettle Kick Off for most of the last 25 years. “His humor, relationships with community leaders, elected officials and lifelong dedication to the San Bernardino community are legendary,” said Brian Cronin the Red Kettle Kick-off Chair. “It is an honor for Bill to be our Master of Ceremonies and help The Salvation Army serve those in need.”
Hungry, homeless, hopeless? trouble paying monthly bills, drug, or alcohol addiction? The Salvation Army helps people in need with all these problems and more. Different programs have different funding sources and one of the most important sources is the annual Red Kettle Kick Off campaign each Christmas season.
The Salvation Army bell ringers in front of your favorite stores collect money that provides food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; food baskets available daily, hot meals, clothing, and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available.
During the Christmas season, The Salvation Army also delivers holiday food baskets to about 500 local families and provides toys to children whose parents cannot afford them.
On Christmas Eve, The Salvation Army of San Bernardino hosts a Christmas Dinner that historically provides a delicious meal to approximately 200 people. Donations from people who donate to the Red Kettles help make this possible.
“The Salvation Army serves as one of the most trusted and effective providers of services to the homeless, the hungry the hopeless, the addicted and people in need. Their doors are always open,” said Lemann.
Donors are asked to drop off turkeys, hams, canned food, cash, checks or gift cards at the Salvation Army’s Corps Office at 838 Alta Street, Redlands, 92373.
The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino since 1887, and Redlands since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination. They serve the cities of: San Bernardino, Redlands, Highlands, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, and the mountain communities.
For more information call (909) 792-6868.
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 of all. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world.
The Salvation Army has served San Bernardino since 1887, and Redlands since 1885, supporting those in need without discrimination. They serve the cities of: San Bernardino, Redlands, Highlands, Rialto, Loma Linda, Colton, Yucaipa, Calimesa, Bloomington, Mentone, Grand Terrace, Muscoy, and the mountain communities.
San Bernardino City Unified School District board candidate Mikki Cichocki
“Every student deserves a chance to succeed,” says San Bernardino City Unified School District board candidate Mikki Cichocki.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. When Mikki Cichocki was leaving Starbucks recently, one of her former sixth-grade students called out to say, “Hello.” Cichocki was happy to learn that her former youth court student is now studying to be an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) at Crafton Hills College.
“I have always been drawn to help students in need,” said Cichocki. “There is not much that can compare to seeing ayoungster turn their life around and get on the road to graduation and a rewarding career. “
And that sums up why she is now running for the open Board position with the San Bernardino City Unified School District. “We really need to invest in every child because all children have potential, for some that potential is untapped. I want to make sure all children can grow and succeed.
“It is essential that we increase the resources devoted to providing student support. We need additional counseling services to meet the increased post-pandemic demand. We need to invest in expanding curriculum offerings like vocational, visual, and performing arts. You never know which student might turn out to be the next Steve Jobs, Awkwafina or Banksy, the next Denzel Washington or Jennifer Lopez. We just cannot predict that, so we must nurture each child to unlock their possible futures.”
Cichocki started Cal Poly Pomona as a business major and never expected to teach. But she soon changed her major to liberal arts, although still envisioning a business-related career. After graduation, she went to work for Xerox but then took a position as an instructional aide and substitute teacher. She loved it.
“When the district opened up a full-time teaching position, I applied and was selected to teach first-graders at Arrowhead Elementary,” said Cichocki. “I was hooked, I knew I had found my calling.”
The long list of those who have endorsed Mikki Cichocki for school board includes such notables as former San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Herb Fischer, current Superintendent Theodore “Ted” Alejandre and former SBCUSD Board Member Lynda Savage, as well as the San Bernardino Teachers Association and the Inland Empire Labor Council.
Mikki Cichocki believes that all stakeholders need to have their voices heard. As a former active PTA member, she believes that certainly includes parents. Decisions about funding and setting priorities need to be aired and discussed openly with a view to reaching a consensus.
Mikki Cichocki’s campaign manager is Patty Taylor, her treasurer is Don Taylor, and Dameron Communications provides advertising and public relations services. For more information on Mikki Cichocki’s campaign, visit her campaign’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Mikki4SBCUSD
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About Mikki Cichocki
Mikki Cichocki traces her interest in education to her parents, both of whom were teachers in San Bernardino. Raised here, she attended public schools until the 10th grade and graduated from Aquinas High School. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies from Cal Poly Pomona. She has been teaching and working with various programs for the San Bernardino City Unified School District since 1988. Recently, she retired from the Positive Youth Development department in the district, where she led the effort to work with at-risk students, helping them to develop positive attitudes and keep them from becoming involved with and subsequently stigmatized by law enforcement. She also serves on the board of the California Association of Youth Courts and previously served as Secretary-Treasurer of the California Teachers Association, a position that allowed her to build coalitions with educational programs and resources.
