Rialto Residents enjoy custom artwork and the publication “The ABC’s of A Black Man’s Principles” by Juneteenth Jam Art Exhibit Curator, Mark Anothony Howard, “The Gritz” 2024
Rialto, CA – Rialto’s Juneteenth Jam is back for 2025. The event celebrates the national holiday of Juneteenth. Last year, more than 5,000 community members attended, and 100+ local organizations participated. The free public celebration honoring freedom, unity, and Black culture will occur on Thursday, June 19, 2025, from 4 PM to 9 PM at Ferguson Park in Rialto, California.
According to the United States Capitol Historical Society, recognizing Juneteenth as a federal holiday also allows Americans to contemplate the complicated processes of emancipation after President Abraham Lincoln announced the Emancipation Proclamation on September 22, 1862.
Specifically, Juneteenth marks the day (June 19, 1865) when a Union Army general, Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston, Texas, and demanded that the state’s more than 250,000 enslaved people be set free.
On June 17, 2021, President Joe Biden signed, with Members of Congress, the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act at the White House.
“The Juneteenth Jamis supported by local community organizations including Tomorrow’s World, the National Council of Negro Women, the Mayor Deborah Robertson Foundation, KICKit World, Inland Empire Pastors, local Divine nine chapters, Say Go EJ, Dameron Communications, and others,” said Juneteenth Jam Founder Vickie Davis. “Together, these organizations are bringing the community together for a day of joy, empowerment, and connection.”
Live Entertainment & Activities: Basketball, skating, flag football, wellness circles, pickleball, and more.
Vendor Marketplace: Local food, clothing, jewelry, and artisan vendors.
Classic Car Display: Showcasing vintage and custom vehicles.
Family-Friendly Fun: Games, music, and community bonding.
Rialto’s former Mayor Deborah Robertson honored by the Rialto Fire Department Juneteenth Jam 2023
Juneteenth Jam strengthens the village mentality within our community by creating a space where residents, business owners, nonprofit organizations, and leaders from all sectors, at every level, come together. We unite to foster a deeper understanding of humanity and reaffirm our unwavering commitment to our community,” said Davis.
Davis invites businesses and organizations to sponsor the event. “Contributions will help ensure the Juneteenth Jam remains free and accessible. Join us for a day of celebration, unity, and community pride!”
Max Ramirez, Senior Director of Content Marketing at Skyline Studio
Riverside, CA. — The American Advertising Federation—Inland Empire Chapter invites you to a brand storytelling class.This class is for anyone looking to elevate their brand’s connection with customers through the art of storytelling.
The virtual event, “Unlocking the Power of Storytelling at Scale,” will occur on April 30th from noon to 1 pm. Learn More and Register Now!
In today’s crowded marketplace, authentic storytelling isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential for building lasting customer relationships and brand loyalty. Join us to learn how to craft compelling narratives that resonate with your audience and leverage trusted media platforms to amplify your message.
Featured Speaker: Max Ramirez
Max leads the studio division for Southern California News Group and The San Diego Union-Tribune, managing a team of strategists, content creators, event producers, and designers. With extensive experience at Warner Bros. Discovery, NBCUniversal, iHeartMedia, and various digital media startups, Max brings valuable insights into developing innovative, integrated media campaigns that truly engage audiences.
What You’ll Learn:
How to Build Trust and Credibility with Your Customers
Storytelling Best Practices and Pitfalls to Avoid
Strategies to Elevate Your Story for Broader Impact
The webinar is free for AAF members and just $10 for non-members, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes to learn about the power of storytelling to promote your brand.
To learn more or register for the webinar, visit InlandEmpireAAF.com. If you have questions about the event, contact John McCarthy at (909) 263-0454.
About the Inland Empire AAF:
The Inland Empire AAF is a community of advertising and graphic design professionals representing local, regional, and national companies, government agencies, and non-profit organizations. The organization provides educational opportunities through guest speakers and hosts the local American Advertising Awards, the industry’s largest and most representative competition in the United States. Founded in the late 1980s, the Inland Empire AAF is dedicated to promoting excellence in advertising and fostering connections within the industry. Learn more at InlandEmpireAAF.com.
The evening’s highest honor was awarded to Grand Terrace High School senior Jaden Overstreet. Beautillion Chairperson, Tina Darling, 2025 Sir Knight, Jaden Overstreet, and Elsie Paulino, Social Lites, Inc., Vice President.
“Since its inception, the Beautillion program has prepared nearly 1,000 young men for success in higher education, awarding over $2.5 million in scholarships and awards dedicated to supporting their first year of college,” said Lewis.
SAN BERNARDINO, CA — The Social Lites, Inc. marked a significant milestone as they hosted the 58th Annual Beautillion Scholarship Program at California State University, San Bernardino. The “Mastering Your Destiny Defines Your Success” event celebrated academic achievement, leadership, and community service among high school senior young men.
“The evening’s highest honor was awarded to Jaden Overstreet, a Grand Terrace High School senior who was crowned the 2025 Beautillion Sir Knight. In addition to receiving over $11,000 in scholarships and awards, Overstreet was also recognized by his peers with the title of Mr. Congeniality. He plans to pursue a degree in Graphic Design at a local university this fall,” said The Social Lites, Inc.’s President Sheri Lewis.
Raafi Bell—Principal of Hardy Brown College Prep and a 2004 Beautillion Sir Knight served as Master of Ceremonies. He traced the history of the Beautillion, connecting past themes to this year’s focus on self-mastery and success.
Dr. Akalana Osonduagwuike, a distinguished educator, administrator, and mentor whose career spans the Rialto Unified and Moreno Valley Unified School Districts, delivered the keynote address. Dr. Osonduagwuike, recognized for his unwavering commitment to empowering underrepresented youth, emphasized perseverance, leadership, and compassion in his remarks.
The program also featured a special performance choreographed by Beautillion alumnus Russell Ward (Alumni 1984), whose dynamic routine inspired the audience to celebrate with standing ovations and joyful participation.
59th Annual Beautillion Scholarship Program participants were: Brandon McIntosh,Jr., Joseph Goree, Jr., and Jaden Overstreet
Other distinguished award recipients included:
Joseph Goree, Jr., who earned more than $7,000 in scholarships and awards.
Brandon McIntosh, Jr. received over $6,000 in support for his higher education endeavors.
Lewis explained that, “Each young man was further honored with Resolutions and Proclamations from local and state dignitaries, including California State Assembly Member Joe Baca, U.S. Representative Pete Aguilar, Rialto Mayor Joe Baca, Sr., San Bernardino Mayor Helen Tran, San Jacinto Mayor Alonso Ledezma, and Grand Terrace Mayor Bill Hussey, and Gold Sponsorship from Assembly Member, James Ramos.”
Additionally, the Social Lites, Inc. presented the distinguished Trail Blazer Award to:
Mr. Danny Tillman, Trustee, San Bernardino City Unified School District Board.
Dr. Gwendolyn Dowdy Rodgers, Trustee, San Bernardino County Board of Education.
As the organization concludes its 58th season, preparations are underway for the 59th Annual Beautillion Scholarship Program, set to commence on October 19, 2025, and conclude at California State University, San Bernardino on March 28, 2026.
“Since its inception, the Beautillion program has prepared nearly 1,000 young men for success in higher education, awarding over $2.5 million in scholarships and awards dedicated to supporting their first year of college,” said Lewis.
High school senior young men interested in participating in the upcoming Beautillion season should contact the Social Lites, Inc. for more information:
Sheri Lewis, President – (909) 320-0799
Elsie Paulino, Vice President – (951) 205-8823
Marlene Davis, Community Outreach – (909) 709-5502
Brandon McIntosh,Jr., Joseph Goree, Jr., and Jaden Overstreet
About Social Lites, Inc.
Social Lites, Inc., based in the Inland Empire, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the educational and professional aspirations of young men through scholarship programs, leadership training, and community engagement.
“Jewel Diamond Taylor will share her transformative message from stages around the world, offering strategies for overcoming self-doubt and building confidence,” said Sharron Lewis, the Coalition for Black Health and Wellness Committee chair.
Moreno Valley, CA—The Coalition for Black Health and Wellness announces an African American Tea for the Soul. In this supportive environment, Black women can explore essential practices of self-care, mental health, wellness, and healing. The Tea is Sunday, May 4, 2025, from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at CrossWord Church, 21401 Box Springs Road, Moreno Valley, CA. Doors will open at 2:30 PM, and dinner will be served at 3:15 PM.
Sharron Lewis, the Behavioral Health Committee chair, said, “The highlight of the afternoon will be renowned guest speaker Jewel Diamond Taylor, affectionately known as ‘The Self-Esteem Dr.’ Jewel has been a leading motivational speaker since 1984, empowering millions with her holistic approach to faith, culture, psychology, emotional well-being, and personal success.”
As the author of bestselling titles such as Success Gems and ShiFt Happens, Jewel utilizes humor and storytelling to encourage resilience and inner peace among her audience. In addition to receiving an honorary doctorate in divinity in 2019, she also garnered an Emmy Award in 2021 for her work on a documentary about race relations in Norway.
This event is sponsored by the Coalition for Black Health and Wellness, Behavioral Health Committee, Riverside Community Health Foundation, and Dameron Communications in collaboration with CrossWord Church.
Empower You Edutainment provides entertainment for the event. Upon arrival, participants will be welcomed by African drumming. The entertainment also includes spoken word performances, a live band, storytelling, participatory dancing, a theatrical presentation, and dancers.
“Join us for an inspiring afternoon of growth, connection, and empowerment as we support the mental and emotional well-being of Black women in our community. You don’t want to miss Jewel Diamond Taylor, who brings her transformative message from stages across the globe, sharing strategies for overcoming self-doubt and building confidence,” said Lewis.
The Coalition for Black Health and Wellness Behavioral Health Committee members are Sharron Lewis, Chair; Phyllis Clark, Dr. Carolyn Murray, and Shor Denny.
For more information or to become a vendor, text Sharron Lewis at 213-359-8639.
The Coalition for Black Health and Wellness is a voluntary multi-sector group providing leadership, ensuring continued information flow, and galvanizing action. The Coalition addresses health disparities improvement actions for Riverside and Jurupa Valley. To be effective agents of change to eliminate health disparities affecting the Black community and achieve the highest possible level of health through the education and mobilization of leaders, partners, policymakers, and community stakeholders. We strive for a community free of health and healthcare disparities.
Erik Harty and Jon Hwang from LONG/DIVISION earned the coveted Best of Show award in the professional category for their Internet Commercial “Endless Pastabilities” created for Barilla at the 2025 AAF-IE ADDY Awards Gala.
Gold ADDY recipients included Associated Students Inc. at Cal Poly Pomona, California Baptist University, City of Riverside, Compelle, ESRI, Firm Media, Inland Empire Health Plan, LONG/DIVISION, and Temecula Creek Inn.
RIVERSIDE, CA— The Inland Empire Chapter of the American Advertising Federation (AAF) celebrated excellence in advertising at its annual ADDY Awards Gala, which was recently held at the Life Arts Center in Riverside. The prestigious event recognized outstanding creative work from professionals and students throughout the Inland Empire region.
LONG/DIVISION earned the coveted Best of Show award in the professional category for their Internet Commercial “Endless Pastabilities” created for Barilla. Growing Inland Achievement received the Mosaic ADDY Award for their Public Service Online/Interactive Campaign “Higher Endeavor.”
In the student competition, California Baptist University’s Mackenzie Head took home Best of Show honors for the “Doc Martins Campaign” in the Magazine Advertising Campaign category. Noah Witt, also from California Baptist University, was recognized with the Special Judges Award for “Grammy Branding” in the Art Direction category.
“This year’s competition has seen a remarkable resurgence in professional entries, reaching pre-pandemic levels and the highest numbers since 2019. The student competition is also thriving, tying a six-year record for the most participating schools,” said Mark Landon, Inland Empire American Advertising Awards Chair.
The evening featured a reception, plated dinner, and awards presentation celebrating the region’s most creative minds. Professional Gold ADDY recipients included Associated Students Inc. at Cal Poly Pomona, California Baptist University, City of Riverside, Compelle, ESRI, Firm Media, Inland Empire Health Plan, LONG/DIVISION, and Temecula Creek Inn.
Student Gold ADDY awards went to talented individuals from California Baptist University, Platt College, and La Sierra University, highlighting the exceptional creative education programs within the Inland Empire.
Visit the website for a complete list of all professional and student winners, including Silver and Bronze recipients.
About the American Advertising Federation – Inland Empire
The American Advertising Federation – Inland Empire Chapter represents advertising professionals throughout eastern Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County, and western Riverside County. The chapter is dedicated to protecting and promoting the well-being of advertising. Once a year, it hosts the Inland Empire Advertising Awards Competition, inviting professionals and students to its creative competition. Learn more about the chapter and upcoming programs, including membership, at https://www.inlandempireaaf.com/.
For more information, contact John McCarthy, President of AAF-Inland Empire club@inlandempireaaf.com, at (909) 263-0454.
“Joining Dameron Communications allows me to merge my expertise with my commitment to uplifting our community,” said Vickie Davis.
San Bernardino, CA—Dameron Communications announced the addition of Vickie Davis, L.M.F.T., M.A., M.A.C., to its team as a Social Media Expert.
“Joining Dameron Communications allows me to merge my expertise with my commitment to uplifting our community. Being part of a team that values community engagement and strategic advocacy is a privilege. I am grateful for this incredible opportunity to amplify meaningful causes and create lasting impact.”
Davis brings a wealth of experience in community engagement and social impact to her new role. As a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist, she has dedicated her career to uplifting historically disadvantaged communities through mental health advocacy, youth empowerment, and community-based initiatives.
Davis also serves as a Clinical Supervisor at Victor Community Support Services, where she oversees fiscal contracts, leads the Student Assistance Program, and implements mental health outreach in local communities and schools.
Beyond her clinical work, Davis is a passionate community organizer. She co-founded “Black on the Block,” now known as Rialto City Jam, and initiated the Juneteenth Jam in Rialto—both events celebrate heritage and support small businesses. She also spearheads an annual I.E. Tour of Toys, delivering joy to underserved families across the Inland Empire.
“Davis’s expertise in community engagement, combined with her deep understanding of social issues, will be invaluable to Dameron Communications as the agency continues to expand its social media offerings and help clients connect with their target audiences in meaningful ways,” said Carl M. Dameron, president of Dameron Communications.
Dameron Communications is a diverse team of communications professionals founded in 1988. The agency offers a wide range of public relations, advertising, media research, community relations, and government relations services. Dameron Communications has a proven track record of success, and its work has won numerous awards and client accolades.
Dameron Communications is a full-service communications agency that combines unsurpassed relationships with proven advertising and public relations methods. The agency’s experienced professionals are dedicated to delivering winning and measurable results for its clients.
“Great food and great people are waiting for you at the American Advertising Awards meeting on Wednesday, November 20, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Taco Station, 4088 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA, said AAF-IE ADDY Chair Mark Landon.
RIVERSIDE, CALIF.— John McCarthy calls all creatives, agencies, media companies, freelancers, and students in the Inland Empire. The American Advertising Federation—Inland Empire chapter (AAF-IE) is coming together to introduce the new president and board and enlighten you on how to gain national recognition for your advertising work.
The Taco Station sponsors an AAF-IE meeting with complimentary tacos and delicious Mexican food on Wednesday, November 20, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Taco Station, 4088 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA.
“Join us and connect with advertising professionals in your area for collaboration. Together, we will share insights, learn essential advertising tips, and discover shortcuts to success. Also, find out how to participate in the American Advertising Awards, the foremost competition in the U.S. advertising industry,” said American Advertising Awards Chair Mark Landon.
Landon is active in the American Advertising Federation and was elected to local, regional, and national positions. He has also served on the national American Advertising Awards committee for 20 years. He received the AAF Silver Medal and was the first recipient of the AAF Excellence in District Leadership Award.
Meet the new board of directors and learn how to submit a winning ADDY awards submission.
“Fuel your creativity with some delicious complimentary appetizers. And don’t hesitate to ask your burning questions about the advertising industry—expert advice will be right there for you,” said Inland Empire Chapter President John McCarthy.
It’s an opportunity to meet and cavort with local advertising agencies, marketing professionals, graphic designers, web developers, filmmakers, photographers, radio stations, TV stations, cable stations, newspapers, magazines, billboard companies, freelancers, college students, and advertising departments in business and government.
AAF-IE is a group of advertising and graphic design professionals who work for national and regional companies, government organizations, and non-profit agencies. The AAF-IE brings guest speakers to lecture on advertising and design topics. It also holds the local American Advertising Awards, the industry’s largest and most representative competition in the United States. The group was founded in the late 1980s
“The Black Culture Foundation is accepting applications for its 2025 Student College Scholarship Awards,” said President Carl M. Dameron.
SAN BERNARDINO, Calif. –The Black Culture Foundation is accepting applications for its 2025 Black Rose Festival student scholarships. The Black Culture Foundation Scholarship Program provides scholarships for financial assistance to graduating high school and current college students.
“This scholarship seeks to support civic-minded students who want to give back to the region and demonstrate motivation, perseverance, and a sincere desire to use their education to benefit the Inland Empire and underserved communities,” said Scholarship Chair Rev. Bronica Martindale.
“Winners will receive a one-time scholarship of $1,000 to $3,000 to an accredited public or private four-year, bachelor’s degree-granting institution or two-year community college associate degree-granting institution of higher learning,” said Black Culture Foundation President Carl M. Dameron.
Students who intend to work in the region will be given priority upon graduation. The scholarships are funded when students officially enroll. Awards may be used for tuition, books, fees, and living expenses. High school seniors and current undergraduate college students are encouraged to apply.
Applicants will be selected based on the following criteria:
Financial need
Letter of recommendation
GPA of 3.5 or above
Community service
High school senior or current bachelor’s degree holder
Attend a college within the Inland Empire
Full-time undergraduate or graduate student enrolling in the fall of 2025
Intent to work in the Inland Empire upon graduation from college/university
Eligible students must submit 1) the application form; 2) a letter of recommendation from a counselor and another person not related to the applicant who is familiar with the applicant’s academic capabilities, skills, community service, and volunteer activities; 3) a current report card/transcript (unofficial is acceptable).
Final award recipients must provide evidence of enrollment in the academic institution to which funds will be provided on behalf of the recipient.
Interested students can obtain an application online from the Black Culture Foundation.
On Saturday, February 1, 2025, at 5:30 p.m., the Black Culture Foundation will honor and celebrate the remarkable work of these individuals at the 33rd Annual Black Rose Awards in the Santos Manuel Student Union at Cal State San Bernardino. Tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and program advertising are available online at the foundation’s website.
About the Black Rose Awards
The Black Rose Awards serve as a tribute to Black History Month. The awards are sponsored by the Black Culture Foundation, a non-profit established in 1968 by a small group of individuals who felt that our school systems have failed to include Black history studies in regular curriculums nationwide. As a result, all students miss the chance to learn more about this crucial part of our country’s history.
The Black Culture Foundation’s noble purpose is to kindle an interest in and deeper appreciation of Black culture, raise community awareness about the achievements of Black individuals, past and present, and organize an annual Black History Month parade and associated cultural events. Furthermore, the foundation seeks to transcend cultural barriers by uniting the local community and celebrating this event with unity and brotherhood.
The Black Rose Awards are the Foundation’s showcase cultural event.
Outdoor activities, vacations, and beach trips are all staples of summertime fun. After all, who doesn’t love soaking up the sun and enjoying some warm weather?
However, the summer often also brings soaring temperatures and intense summer heat waves. Many people struggle to stay cool in these conditions and may even be at risk for heat-related illnesses such as heat stroke or heat exhaustion.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), extreme heat causes more than 600 deaths yearly in the United States alone. In addition, heat-related illnesses can also lead to hospitalization and other medical emergencies.
In this blog post, we will discuss some helpful tips and advice for staying cool during the hot summer months and avoiding heat-related illnesses.
Tip 1: Stay Hydrated
It’s easy to become dehydrated in high temperatures, especially when engaging in outdoor activities or exercising.
Make sure to drink plenty of water and avoid sugary drinks, which can cause dehydration. Keep a refillable water bottle with you whenever you go outside and sip on it frequently. Aim for at least 8 cups of water daily, even more, if you spend lots of time outdoors.
Tip 2: Wear Appropriate Clothing
Light-colored clothing is highly recommended during hot weather because light colors are more reflective than dark colors, which means they reflect more of the sun’s rays rather than absorbing them. In contrast, dark-colored clothing absorbs more sunlight, trapping more heat close to your body, increasing your discomfort and body temperature.
Wear loose-fitting clothes and pair them with a hat and sunglasses to protect your head and eyes from the sun’s rays. If you plan to spend time in the water, wear appropriate swimwear to keep you cool and comfortable. Also, apply sunscreen 30 minutes before heading out to protect your skin from sunburn.
Tip 3: Avoid Strenuous Activity during Peak Heat Hours
The hottest part of the day is typically between 10 AM and 4 PM, so it’s best to schedule your activities accordingly. If you must be outdoors, try to schedule your activities for early morning or evening when temperatures are cooler. Also, take frequent breaks in shaded areas and listen to your body’s signals. Feeling lightheaded, dizzy, or nauseous are all signs that you may be experiencing heat exhaustion and need to cool down and rest.
Additionally, pay attention to any heat advisories or warnings in your area and plan accordingly. It’s always a good idea to err on the side of caution and avoid overexerting yourself in extreme heat.
Tip 4: Use Cooling Techniques
You can use several simple tricks to help cool down your body in hot weather. Placing an ice pack or cold cloth on your neck, wrists, and ankles can quickly lower your core temperature. Taking a cool shower or bath, placing a damp towel on your forehead, and drinking chilled water can relieve the heat.
You can also use a portable fan or misting bottle to create a breeze and cool down your skin. And if you have access to a swimming pool, lake, or ocean, taking a dip in the water is an excellent way to cool off and avoid heat-related illnesses.
Tip 5: Avoid Alcohol and Caffeine
While it may be tempting to enjoy a cold beer or iced coffee in the heat, these beverages can contribute to dehydration. Alcohol and caffeine are diuretics, meaning they cause your body to lose water and can make you feel even more dehydrated in hot weather.
If you do choose to indulge in these beverages, make sure also to drink plenty of water throughout the day to counteract their effects.
Tip 6: Avoid Large Protein Rich Meals
Eating a large meal high in protein can also contribute to feeling sluggish and dehydrated in hot weather. This is because your body uses more water to digest protein, leaving you with less fluid available for other bodily functions such as sweating and regulating body temperature.
So, instead of heavy protein-rich meals, opt for lighter options such as salads, fruits, and vegetables during hot weather. These foods also contain high amounts of water and can help keep you hydrated throughout the day.
Schedule Regular Checkups to Monitor Your Health and Beat the Summer Heat
LaSalle Medical Associates provides comprehensive medical services for all ages. From preventative care to specialized treatments, our healthcare professionals deliver personalized care to keep you healthy and feeling great. Our clinics are located in multiple locations to make it convenient for you to access quality and affordable healthcare.
Albert Arteaga, M.D., founder and president of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc.
“I get asked two questions all the time by all kinds of people: Am I going to retire and is LaSalle Medical for sale?” — Albert Arteaga, M.D.
REDLANDS, CALIF. — As the company looks forward to celebrating its 40th anniversary in June, the answer is “No,” says Albert Arteaga, M.D., founder and president of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. “We are the largest private, Hispanic-owned healthcare organization in the Inland Empire, and we are growing. Why would I want to stop?”
Dr. Arteaga opened his first solo practice with his wife Maria in Fontana in May 1984, after completing his pediatric residency at Loma Linda University Medical Center. Funding for LaSalle came from Operation Second Chance, a Small Business Administration program created to train people of color and fund business start-ups, led by civil rights pioneer Francis Grice.
From that humble beginning, LaSalle has grown, adding facilities and a network of specialists, to the point where today there are five open clinics, two in San Bernardino and one each in Fontana, Hesperia, and Rialto, with plans to reopen the Victorville location that had to close during the COVID-19 pandemic. The practice employs more than 110 healthcare professionals.
“I would say that our crowning achievement is our emphasis on outreach, getting people to come in for regular checkups that focus on prevention,” says Dr. Arteaga. “Treating people who suffer from illness is fine, but being able to spot warning signs in advance and ensuring that patients don’t need to undergo more intensive and lengthy treatment is LaSalle’s priority.”
In 1995 Dr. Arteaga established the LaSalle Independent Practice Association (IPA), “…a business entity organized and owned by a network of independent physician practices.”
Today, the LaSalle IPA includes members in Southern California’s San Bernardino, Riverside, and Los Angeles counties, as well as Fresno, Kings, Madera, and Tulare counties in Central California. The LaSalle IPA serves more than 360,000 patients statewide.
LaSalle’s Corporate Headquarters in Redlands, CA
Dr. Arteaga goes on to say, “We recently changed our healthcare management services provider, hired a new CEO, Duane Whittington, eight months ago, and just added a brand new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), Brian Fraser. They both left one of the Inland Empire’s biggest healthcare organizations to come to work for us at LaSalle.
“Duane and Bryan have relieved me of a lot of administrative responsibilities and freed me up to focus on future growth prospects.”
LaSalle’s expansion plans include growing the IPA. “Our Independent Practice Association helps doctors focus on treating their patients while we do the paperwork and negotiate contracts with insurance companies, and companies that provide medical services including imaging, blood testing, and other services. We make it easier for doctors to be doctors,” said Dr. Arteaga.
The IPA is expanding the number of doctors, nurse practitioners and physician assistants for current and future locations. “If you are looking for a career serving patients with The Gold Standard of Care, LaSalle is looking for you,” said Dr. Arteaga, who is also looking to grow the number of clinics through mergers and acquisitions.
Selling or retiring is not an option for Arteaga. “Most retirees go ahead and retire for one of two reasons—they’re either tired or there’s something else they want to do. In my case, neither of those apply. So, is LaSalle for sale? My answer is no!”
Dr. Albert and Maria Arteaga, Founders of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc.
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 more than 350,000 patients in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino and Tulare counties.
BRIEF: 275 words
Is LaSalle Medical Associates for Sale?
Albert Arteaga, M.D., founder and president of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc.
“I get asked two questions all the time by all kinds of people: Am I going to retire and is LaSalle Medical for sale?” — Albert Arteaga, M.D.
REDLANDS, CALIF. — As the company looks forward to celebrating its 40th anniversary in June, the answer is “No,” says Albert Arteaga, M.D., founder and president of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. “We are the largest private, Hispanic-owned healthcare organization in the Inland Empire, and we are growing. I don’t want to stop?”
Dr. Arteaga opened his first practice in Fontana in May 1984. Since then, LaSalle has grown, adding facilities and a network of specialists. Today, there are two clinics in San Bernardino and one each in Fontana, Hesperia, and Rialto, with plans to reopen the Victorville location that had to close during the COVID-19 pandemic. LaSalle employs over 110 healthcare professionals.
“Our crowning achievement is our outreach program, getting people to come in for regular checkups that focus on prevention,” says Dr. Arteaga. “Treating sick people is fine, but being able to spot warning signs in advance so patients don’t need to undergo more intensive and lengthy treatment is LaSalle’s priority.”
In 1996 Dr. Arteaga established the LaSalle Independent Practice Association (IPA), a network of independent physician practices that reduces overhead while pursuing opportunities with employers, accountable care organizations and/or managed care organizations.
Dr. Albert and Maria Arteaga, Founders of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc.
The LaSalle IPA serves more than 360,000 patients statewide. “Our IPA helps doctors focus on their patients while we do the paperwork and negotiate contracts with insurance companies and companies that provide medical services. We make it easier for doctors to be doctors,” said Dr. Arteaga.
Selling or retiring is not an option for Arteaga. “Most retirees go ahead and retire for one of two reasons—they’re either tired or there’s something else they want to do. In my case, neither of those apply. So, is LaSalle for sale? My answer is no!”
