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 Honorable Connie Leyva a former California State Senator and current executive director of KVCR TV/FM
The Claremont Links will present its Community Service Award to the Honorable Connie Leyva a former California State Senator and current executive director of KVCR TV/FM at the annual Red Dress Luncheon.
Claremont, Calif. Amaryllis Watkins, president of the Claremont Area (CA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, announces the return of the Red Dress Luncheon at the Sheraton-Fairplex Hotel in Pomona since the pandemic restrictions were lifted. “This exciting event will be held on February 18, 2023. Reception at 10 am followed by Luncheon and Program at 11:30 am.,” said Watkins.
Amaryllis Watkins, president of the Claremont Area (CA) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated
Community Service Award will be presented to the Honorable Connie Leyva a former California State Senator and current executive director of KVCR TV/FM- the Inland Empire’s only public media station.
Mistress of Ceremony for the day is Dr. Soraya M. Coley the sixth president of the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. The Keynote Speaker is Dr. Gloria Morrow, the CEO of GM Psychological Services and Director of Behavioral Health for Unicare Community Health Center, who is one of the nation’s leading clinical psychologists.
Heart disease is the leading killer for both men and women according to 2021 statistics with Blacks two to three times more likely to die of the deadly disease. The event will focus on heart health, especially that of women.
“Our goal is to raise awareness about the prevention of heart disease because, according to 2021 statistics, heart disease is the leading killer for both men and women.,” said Watkins.
“We encourage prevention that is gained by knowing your “cholesterol and glucose numbers”. Experts also encourage us all to exercise regularly, manage stress, and maintain a healthy diet and weight. We will have health professionals at the Red Dress luncheon to answer questions and share information on prevention,” said Watkins.
This event is also a fundraiser that delivers funds for The Links, Incorporated to provide college scholarships and other services to graduating high school students, continuing college students, and medical and law students.
The Claremont Area (CA) Chapter of The Links provides transformational community service which includes families transitioning from homelessness and the mentoring of students to ensure their college graduation.
“Please consider supporting our event by attending the luncheon or by donating on our website www.claremontarealinks.com. “Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others”. ~Booker T. Washington,” said Watkins.
Biographies
Dr. Soraya M. Coley ~ Mistress of Ceremony
Dr. Soraya M. Coley is the sixth president of the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona).
Dr. Soraya M. Coley is the sixth president of the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona (Cal Poly Pomona). An accomplished educator and administrator with four decades of experience in higher education, Dr. Coley is the first woman and the first African American scholar to be named president of Cal Poly Pomona. She has ushered in a new era of strategic leadership for the campus, establishing a vision for Cal Poly Pomona as a model for an inclusive polytechnic university that inspires creativity, discovery, and innovation embraces local and global challenges, and transforms lives. In 2019, California Governor Gavin Newsom appointed Dr. Coley to the California Future of Work Commission, which is charged with making recommendations to the Governor and Legislature regarding the kinds of jobs Californians could have in the decades to come. Additionally, Dr. Coley is a member of the American Council on Education Women’s Network, the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce, the Pasadena Bioscience Collaborative, and the Los Angeles Coalition for the Economy and Jobs. She is a former member of the board of directors for Children and Family Futures as well as the Kern County Schools’ “Ready to Start” program. In 2000, she was recognized as “One of Ten Women Making a Difference” by Orange County Metro Magazine.
Connie Leyva ~ Community Service Award Winner
Community Service Award will be presented to the Honorable Connie Leyva a former California State Senator and current executive director of KVCR TV/FM
The Honorable Connie Leyva is a former California State Senator and current executive director of KVCR TV/FM- the Inland Empire’s only public media station. San Bernardino Community College District Chancellor Diana Z. Rodrigues said, “Connie Leyva has spent her entire career centering Inland Empire families, and she’ll bring her passion for our region’s success to advance KVCR’s success.” At KVCR, she oversees their long-range plan which includes expanding student training opportunities for careers in media and journalism, broadcasting the country’s only twenty-four-hour national Native American and World Indigenous television channel, growing content relevant to Riverside and San Bernardino counties, and strengthening community partnerships and raising funds.
Dr. Gloria Morrow~ Keynote Speaker
Dr. Gloria Morrow, the CEO of GM Psychological Services and Director of Behavioral Health for Unicare Community Health Center, is one of the nation’s leading clinical psychologists.
Dr. Gloria Morrow, the CEO of GM Psychological Services and Director of BehavioralHealth for Unicare Community Health Center, is one of the nation’s leading clinical psychologists. She serves as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Consultant and a Lead Trainer for the CBMCS (California Brief Multicultural Competency Scale) Training Program. Dr.Gloria also facilitates a wide range of training relevant to cultural humility and cultural competency. She has served as a consultant for The King Center in Atlanta, Georgia, where. Bernice King serves as the CEO. Dr. Gloria’s work surrounding the role of Spirituality in recovery has gained notoriety with the development of a three-day training and handbook entitled S.A.F.E. (Spirituality and Faith Empowers) to equip the faith community and mental health professionals to help hurting people. She is also known for her extensive leadership and team-building training. Dr. Gloria is a sought-after keynote speaker and workshop facilitator for conferences and retreats, who discusses mental health and life skills topics for women and men. Dr. Gloria has authored several books and has appeared as a frequent guest on various news networks and a variety of radio shows, including Stevie Wonder’s KJLH.
About The Claremont Area Chapter of the Links, Incorporated
The Claremont Area Chapter in the tradition of the Links, Incorporated is committed to linking our friendship and resources to form a chain of strength, pride, and trust which works to improve the quality of life in our joint communities. Our voluntary efforts, energies, talents, and thrusts are dedicated to stimulating and supporting the positive goals and aspirations of minorities, through our commitment to our national programmatic thrust. In our 35-year history, the Claremont Area Links has made great strides in developing and implementing exemplary programs in the Inland Empire of Southern California.
theBlack Rose Awards honors of the unsung heroes who have worked diligently to improve the lives of others throughout the Inland Empire, in 2011 The Black Cultural Foundation awarded Black Rose Awards to the following award community advocates: (back row left to right) Juanita Dawson, James Butts, Jimmie Brown, Herb English Jr., John Futch, Mark Campbell, Vicki Lee, Carl Dameron, Timothy Evans from The Unforgettables Foundation, Dr. Queen Hamilton, (left to right front row) Geraldine Reaves, Jennifer Vaughn-Blakely and Dr. Harold Cebrun. Photo by Chris Sloan.
San Bernardino, Calif. In 1926 Carter G. Woodson founded the first Black History Week, selecting the second week of February to commemorate the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass, whose birthdays were the 12th and 14th, respectively. In the 1940s, efforts began to expand the week to a month, with West Virginia Blacks inaugurating the change.
Black History Month
Known then as Negro History Month, the expanded commemoration began to spread and by the mid-1960s had taken root in Chicago, where cultural activist Frederick H. Hammaurabi, who founded the Association for the Study of African American Life and History, made the change. Later in that decade, young Black college students all over the country (starting with Kent State in Ohio in February of 1969), who were becoming more politically conscious and active, began changing the name to Black History Month.
In 1974 then-President Gerald Ford met with civil rights leaders Vernon Jordan, Bayard Rustin, Dorothy Height, and Jesse Jackson and two years later made the celebration of Black History Month official. As he said at the time, “…we can seize the opportunity to honor the too-often neglected accomplishments of Black Americans in every area of endeavor throughout our history.”
As the Association for the Study of African American Life and History notes on its website about the adoption of Black History Month, “Since the mid-1970s, every American president, Democrat, and Republican, has issued proclamations endorsing the Association’s annual theme.”
Black Rose Awards
The Black Rose Awards are a complement to Black History Month. The awards are sponsored by the San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation, a nonprofit founded in 1968 by a small group of people who were concerned that, “…nationwide, our school systems have not yet incorporated Black history studies into regular school curriculums. Thus, all students miss the opportunity to learn more about a vital part of this country’s history.”
The Foundation’s purpose “…is to foster an interest and a greater understanding of African-American culture, to heighten community awareness of the accomplishments of Black people, past and present, and to plan, coordinate and direct an annual Black History Month parade and related cultural activities…[and] bridge the gaps that exist across cultural lines by bringing the local community together to celebrate this event in the spirit of unity and brotherhood.”
The Black Rose Awards are the Foundation’s showcase cultural event. The San Bernardino Black Culture Foundation’s 30th Black Rose Award Winners will be recognized at the annual banquet on Saturday, February 4, 2023, from 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm at the California State University, San Bernardino, Santos Manuel Student Union 5500 University Parkway.
Arlington Rodgers, President of the Foundation, said, “We are enthusiastically looking forward to this year’s Black History Month activities as we extend the hand of friendship and understanding to all ethnic groups throughout the Inland Empire.”
The Black Rose Awardees for 2023 are: Dr. Juanita H. Scott Humanitarian of the Year, Humanitarian of the Year to Rose Mayes, Executive Director Fair Housing Council of Riverside County; Black Rose Recipients are: Linda Wright, Moreno Valley Black Chamber of Commerce; Gloria Macias Harrison, President Emeritus, Crafton Hills College, San Bernardino Community College Board of Trustees; Deborah Robertson, Mayor of Rialto, Founder of The Women’s Conference; and the Jim King’s Black Rose Corporate Founder’s Award from Dignity Health—Community Hospital of San Bernardino: Administrators June Collison, President, Roz Nolan, Chief Nurse Executive Officer and Staff Dr. Ruby Skinner.
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.
RSV’s symptoms include runny nose, loss of appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing. In most cases, these symptoms show up in stages, rather than all at once. In very young infants, “the only symptoms may be irritability, decreased activity, and breathing difficulties,” per the CDC. Shiane and Shaila Dameron’s parents use preventive medicine. The children have all of their vaccines and receive checkups with their doctors every six months.
“Parents of infants and seniors should see their doctor right away if symptoms are not responding to treatment, to make sure that the illness does not get worse and turn into a case of bronchitis or pneumonia,” said Dr. Albert Arteaga, CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. Respiratory syncytial virus, better known as RSV, has been spreading rapidly this fall. Both children and adults can easily contract this common illness and since no vaccine or drug combats this infection, it’s important to treat it properly. Also, like the flu or the common cold, you can catch it more than once.
A virus is syncytial when its cells have more than one nucleus, a result of multiple cells fusing. RSV, per the Centers for Disease Control, is a common respiratory virus and most often causes mild, cold-like symptoms. Most people recover in a week or two. As the CDC has noted, almost all children will have contracted the illness one or more times by the time they are two years old.
That said, as Dr. Albert Arteaga, CEO of LaSalle Medical Associates, said, “Sometimes RSV can have serious outcomes, especially in children less than one-year-old, senior citizens, and immuno-compromised people.” Serious consequences may include the onset of bronchitis or even pneumonia.
RSV’s symptoms include runny nose, loss of appetite, coughing, sneezing, fever, and wheezing. In most cases, these symptoms show up in stages, rather than all at once. In very young infants, “the only symptoms may be irritability, decreased activity, and breathing difficulties,” per the CDC.
No vaccine currently exists for RSV, although research to develop one is ongoing. Since there’s no readily available cure, there are three steps to treat the infection.
One, use over-the-counter fever reducers and pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Never give aspirin to children, as it could result in the child developing Reye’s syndrome, a disease that may cause seizures, coma, and even death.
Two, make sure the patient drinks plenty of fluids and stays properly hydrated.
Three, and this is especially advisable, talk to your doctor before giving your child nonprescription cold remedies. Some over-the-counter medicines that are fine for adults may contain ingredients that should not be given to children.
“Parents of infants and seniors should see their doctor right away if symptoms are not responding to treatment, to make sure that the illness does not get worse and turn into a case of bronchitis or pneumonia,” said Dr. Arteaga.
For more information about LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. 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 more than 1,100,000 patients in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Joaquin, and Tulare counties.
Pastor Chris Reinhard of the San Bernardino Sandals Church in front of the building to be remodeled into The 10,000 sq. ft. Hill Teen Center. Groundbreaking is scheduled for January 2023.
The Hill Teen Center is now going to happen! The new center is named after the late educator and community leader Dr. Margaret Hill. The center will support teenagers suffering from homelessness, hunger, gang violence, drugs, alcohol, and poverty.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF. – The Hill Teen Center, a new refuge for youth in the San Bernardino area, will provide relief and services to Inland Empire teenagers who are at risk for homelessness, hunger, gang violence, drugs, alcohol, and poverty. The center raised more than $791,000 recently on Giving Tuesday.
The ROGO Foundation, in partnership with Sandals Church, led the effort and will build and operate the teen center on the Sandals Church property in San Bernardino. Groundbreaking is scheduled for January 2023.
“We are very excited about what this money will mean for our community,” said Scot Camden, Advancement Director for the ROGO Foundation. “Our community banded together to make The Hill Teen Center dream, a reality. This center tells our teenagers that they matter to us and we will do everything in our power to help them lead healthy and happy lives.”
The Hill Teen Center is a 10,000-square-foot facility delivering FREE clinical counseling, tutoring, skill – and life-coaching, mentorship, and laundry facilities, as well as a safe and fun environment for teenagers to spend time with friends.
An energy-efficient laundry facility opens to students of surrounding middle and high schools, free of charge, allowing them access to the facility, which will include water-efficient washers/dryers (along with detergent, fabric softener, bleach, etc.) and a lounge for them to hang out in while they wait for their laundry. Watch a short video on the project: https://youtu.be/F3gx6RqmsQE
The project is estimated to cost $1.3 million to complete, and the money raised lets much of the work begin, as the organization continues to fundraise the remaining $510,000.
“The Hill Teen Center is very much aligned with my own vision for the broader community,” said Ken Ramirez, former Chairman of the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, and contributor to the project. “It provides a road map to make a difference in the lives of our young adults.”
Ramirez, an active member of the Inland Empire for many years, mobilized his network to get the word out about The Hill Teen Center and the Giving Tuesday crowdfunding campaign.
“My own childhood motivated me to want to bring hope to teenagers struggling with adverse conditions,” said Ramirez.
COURTYARD PATIO This eco-friendly, drought-tolerant landscaped patio space will support various programming opportunities, including open-mic nights, life skill classes, and micro-concerts, while also being accessible to students to hang out with their friends or work on their homework. Watch a short video on the project: https://youtu.be/F3gx6RqmsQE
“One in ten youths in the City of San Bernardino is homeless. In the 2019/20 school year, 30,270 San Bernardino County K-12 students were identified as homeless or lacking secure housing. The problem is getting worse as this is a 6.6 percent increase from the previous year,” said Pastor Chris Reinhard of the San Bernardino Sandals Church.
“These factors, along with alcoholism and drug addiction, have left too many students and their families hopeless, with little belief that their lives will have any meaningful change. This teen center will start to change that,” said Pastor Reinhard.
“And after all, that’s really what it’s all about—delivering a beacon of hope,” said Ramirez, “helping to show that life has a lot to offer, but sometimes we need to be shown what’s possible.”
LOUNGE A fully furnished and beautifully designed lounge space for students to rest, relax or even get some studying done. While safe and secure alternatives to hanging out on the streets are hard to come by, this lounge will serve as a sanctuary for teenagers—a place where they’ll feel safe to let their guard down. Watch a short video on the project: https://youtu.be/F3gx6RqmsQE
The Hill Teen Center is located at Sandals Church in San Bernardino at 3701 N Sierra Way.
The Hill Teen Center is named after the late educator and community leader Dr. Margaret Hill. Watch a short video on the project: https://youtu.be/F3gx6RqmsQE
For more information about The Hill Teen Center, go to TheHillTC.com, or call The ROGO Foundation at (951) 800-7865.
COUNSELING AND TUTORING Partnering with licensed professionals and local organizations, several rooms and spaces will be available for free counseling to support students’ mental and emotional health needs and tutoring to broaden their academic/career opportunities in the future, as well as STEM spaces to enhance their learning.
About Sandals Church
It is a Christian church affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention and has an average weekly attendance of over 13,000 adults and children. The vision of the church is “to be real with ourselves, God and others.” Sandals Church holds services every Saturday and Sunday.
About The ROGO Foundation
We exist to develop the two critical components of healthy churches; the people that lead them and the places where they gather. We merge with struggling churches, remodel, and upgrade the facilities, and implement our proven ministry leadership model so that their legacies can continue with our resources and support. We also plant Sandals Church campus locations to further reach the lost with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
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.
Don English, Chaffey Joint Union board member, has known Mikki for more than 15 years. He said, “Mikki cares about what’s best for all her students. She knows what it takes and knows what to do to make things better.”
“She knows the ins and outs of the system from the student’s perspective and has clear and sensible ideas about what to do to make things better,” said Upland Unified School District board member Sherman Garnett.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.—Three highly regarded Inland Valley school board members representing three local school districts are all throwing their support behind Mikki Cichocki for the San Bernardino City Unified School District Board.
“I am honored and excited to receive the endorsement of Sherman Garnett with Upland Unified, Don English with Chaffey Joint Union and Don Bridge with Chino Valley for the San Bernardino City Unified School District Board,” said Mikki Cichocki.
All announced their endorsement of Mikki Cichocki for the SBCUSD Board short term seat. Their support comes from their personal experience of watching her in action as a classroom teacher, program specialist and as the Secretary-Treasurer for the California Teachers Association, a position that allowed her to build coalitions with educational programs and resources.
“I support Mikki because she not only knows her students and what they need, she also knows finance thanks to her tenure as Secretary-Treasurer of the California Teachers Association and she has been able to create productive relationships with members of the California legislature. That combination means she can actually get things done to make things better for her district,” said Chino Valley Unified School District board member Don Bridge.
“I support Mikki because she not only knows her students and what they need, she also knows finance thanks to her tenure as Secretary-Treasurer of the California Teachers Association and she has been able to create productive relationships with members of the California legislature. That combination means she can actually get things done to make things better for her district,” said Chino Valley Unified School District board member Don Bridge.
“Mikki has been very active in the administration of child welfare for the California Teachers Association and is truly passionate about seeing that every student gets a chance to succeed,” said Upland Unified board member Sherman Garnett.
“Mikki has been very active in the administration of child welfare for the San Bernardino School District and is truly passionate about seeing that every student gets a chance to succeed. She knows the ins and outs of the system from the student’s perspective and has clear and sensible ideas about what to do to make things better,” said Upland Unified board member Sherman Garnett.
Don English, Chaffey Joint Union board member, has known Mikki for more than 5 years. He said, “Mikki cares about what’s best for all her students. I’ve seen her go to bat for youngsters that come to her Youth Court and keep them out of the criminal justice system, helping them to turn themselves around and get on the right track. She knows what it takes and knows what to do to make things better.”
Cichocki is convinced that all members of the SBCUSD must have their voices heard and that certainly includes parents. Decisions about funding and setting priorities need to be aired and discussed openly with a view to reaching a consensus on actions to take.
“Together with the board, parents, teachers, and classified employees we will give every child the chance to succeed,” said Cichocki.
The SBCUSD is the seventh largest school district in the state with an annual budget of $824.7 million and spends $16,492 per student each year. The district has more than 54,000 students and 11,000 adult education students, in 73schools.
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 1987. 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.
“Women should not take chances. Every woman should get an annual breast cancer screening and because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, now is the perfect time to schedule an exam,” said LaSalle Medical Associates CEO Dr. Arteaga.
REDLANDS, CALIF. LaSalle Medical Associates encourages women to come in for breast cancer screening during October, which is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month. ” October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, an annual campaign to raise awareness about the impact of breast cancer.,” said the National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network says mammograms should start at 40 for women at average risk, but before40 for women with a higher risk profile, such as a genetic mutation, family history, a benign breast disease diagnosis, or radiation therapy to the chest at a young age.
“Women should not take chances. Every woman should get an annual breast cancer screening and because October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, now is the perfect time to schedule an exam,” said LaSalle Medical Associates CEO Dr. Albert Arteaga.
Dr. Arteaga himself lost a younger sister to breast cancer when she was in her 40s. “There were three of us,” said Dr. Arteaga. “Our youngest sister never opened up to tell either me or her older sister—both of us being doctors—that she had a lump on her breast. Later we learned that she kept making excuses about it, ‘I bumped myself’ or ‘It’s just a bruise’ and she basically ignored it for over six months.
“She was in her early 40s and unfortunately, the disease spreads more rapidly in younger women than it does in women who are past menopause, due to female hormones that promote growth. Our family had no history of cancer, and she was otherwise healthy. But at the age of 48 years, six months, and 28 days she died.
“Once she was diagnosed, she was a good patient and followed her doctors’ orders and participated fully in her treatment. The cancer metastasized to her brain, and she was able to beat that. But in the end, it spread to her liver, and that was the end.”
When asked what he would say to women about this tragic disease, Dr. Arteaga said, “Stop living in denial! At the first sign of a lump, make an appointment to see your physician. And make it a habit to get screened every October when breast cancer awareness month comes around, which is a good way to remember it’s time for a routine mammogram.”
LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc., clinics accept Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net, and Inland Empire Health Plan coverage, as well as Medicare Medi-Cal and cash.
For more information or to make an appointment call the office closest to you: Fontana (909) 823-4454; San Bernardino17th Street (909) 887-6494; San Bernardino Mt. Vernon Ave. (909) 884-9091; Rialto (855) 349-6019; and Hesperia(760) 947-2161.
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 380,000 patients in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Joaquin and Tulare counties.
Herb Fischer Former San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Endorses Mikki Cichocki for SBCUSD Board.
“I support Mikki for SBCUSD School Board,” says former San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Herb Fischer.
SAN BERNARDINO, CALIF.— Education leaders, teachers, parents and students know that San Bernardino City Unified School District Board candidate Mikki Cichocki will work tirelessly to improve learning opportunities and defend neighborhood schools.
That’s why the endorsements of retired San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools Herb Fischer and San Bernardino City Unified Board President Scott Wyatt mean so much.
“Mikki is an experienced educator who has worked with students, teachers, administrators, parents and community members,” said Fischer. “She has a history of being focused on students and independent in her decisions and actions.”
Cichocki promises to focus on improving schools and expanding student opportunities.
“I want to give back to the community that raised me,” she said. I realize that I have the desire to serve as well as the experience in this district to understand what students and staff need and have experienced these past three years. We need a board that is focused on education.”
Cichocki has attracted considerable support from educators who have gotten to know her during her long tenure as a teacher and school administrator. What’s equally worth noting is how students feel about her candidacy.
“My experience as a student working with her at the San Bernardino Restorative Youth Court was an amazing experience. She made the work a safe and fun environment. She really made it worthwhile to attend Youth Court and helped open my eyes to new opportunities,” said 2022 San Bernardino Unified graduate Makayla Antweiler Keene.
Eric Johnson, a senior at San Andreas High School, said Cichocki is a valuable mentor.
“If I needed someone to talk to or needed a favor, Mikki is the first person I go to. So, students shouldn’t hesitate to call or text her because she’ll always be there when you need her.”
San Bernardino City Unified School District board candidate Mikki Cichocki
Student Fatima Villabazo Garcia said she had an amazing time working with Cichocki on youth court and the Student Leadership Advisory Committee.
“She always has the best attitude and there was never a dull moment. She is fun and always makes sure that everything is in check,” Garcia said.
Retired San Gorgonia High School teacher Angie Alvino said Cichocki is the right candidate for the SBCUSD Board of Education.
Retired San Gorgonia High School teacher Angie Alvino said Cichocki is the right candidate for the SBCUSD Board of Education.
“Mikki is a vote for the good of the students and staff,” Alvino said.
In addition to these testimonials, Cichocki has been endorsed by the San Bernardino Teachers Association and the Inland Empire Labor Council.
She’s also a strong advocate for parental involvement in schools.
“I believe that all members of the San Bernardino education community must to have their voices heard and that certainly includes parents. Decisions about funding and setting priorities need to be aired and discussed openly with a view to reaching a consensus on actions to take,” Cichocki said.
Don English-Chaffey Joint Union HS District Board Member
Don Bridge- Chino Valley Unified School District Board Member
Bill Hedrick- RCC Board of Trustees President
Jose Alcala- RCC Board of Trustees Vice President
Dr. Cheryl Fischer
Carl Dameron
Ray Culberson
Angie Alvino
Tony Wilson
Tobin & Erin Brinker
Linda Morgan
Nancy Glenn
Stephanie Fletcher
Gerald and Cindy Parks
Jan Bridge
Marjorie Israel
Margaret Paul
Nicolas G. Perez
Pat Mazzuli
Jo Bonita Rains
Amir Alavi- Secretary CA Assoc. of Youth Courts
Linda Savage- Former SBCUSD Board Member
Virgina Marquez- Former Councilwoman
Barbara Kerr- Former CTA President
Barbara Pastuchek- SBTA Vice President
Nancy Banales
Nena Torres
Marc Pollitt
Catherine S. Daly
Brenda Chow
Jennifer Noel Kelly
Gigi Jackson
San Bernardino Teachers Association
Inland Empire Labor Council
San Bernardino Young Democrats
San Bernardino County Democratic Party
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 1987. 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.
