Rialto Police Department Takes Top Honors in Brisket Showdown at National Night Out; Raises Funds for MADD
By Manny Sandoval
The Rialto Police Department claimed first place in a brisket competition against the Fire Department and City Council during the city’s National Night Out event on August 6th at Rialto City Park. The event, which drew over 500 residents, featured a variety of familyfriendly activities and raised funds for
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).
City Clerk Barbara McGee proudly announced the brisket competition winners, highlighting the Police Department’s victory. The voting process was conducted blindly, with attendees paying $5 to taste and vote on their favorite brisket without knowing which team prepared it.
All proceeds were donated to MADD,
supporting their mission to prevent drunk driving and assist victims.
Mayor Deborah Robertson praised Councilmember Ed Scott’s contribution to the competition. “Councilmember Ed Scott definitely cooks the best brisket that I know around town. I have to give it up to him because I’ve had a lot of it, and it is good,”
National Night Out, cont. on next pg. HOW TO REACH US HOW TO REACH US
ith the 2024-2025 school year already off to an exciting start, the Rialto Unified School District (RUSD) continues its tradition of fostering community engagement with a series of events designed to bring students, families, and residents of Rialto together.
The District is preparing for a season filled with community-centered events that cater to students, families, and residents of Rialto. From an Open House to celebrate the District’s Special Services to a vibrant Hispanic Heritage celebration and the annual RUSD Family Summit, there's something for everyone in the coming months so mark your calendars for these educational events.
Special Services Open House – August 26, 2024
Kicking off the series of events is the RUSD Special Services Open House, scheduled for August 26, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. at the new RUSD Special Services Office building, located at 182 E. Walnut Avenue in Rialto. All RUSD families are invited to learn more about the special edu-
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL
Winners of the Rialto National Night Out Brisket Competition including Chief of Police Mark Kling, Councilman Ed Scott, Mayor Pro Tem Andy Carrizales, and Mayor Deborah Robertson.
PHOTO RUSD
Ariana Carrillo, a fourth-grade student at Preston Elementary School in the Rialto Unified School District, smiles brightly on the first day of school, eager to engage in learning and discovery.
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL
A Rialto PD Officer handing a wiffle ball to a child playing a game at the event.
National Night Out
Robertson said. She also addressed the intense heat during the event’s 5 p.m. start time, noting that next year she plans to negotiate with the Police Department to begin at 6 p.m., which garnered applause from the audience.
Chief of Police Mark Kling was actively engaged with the community throughout the event, emphasizing the department’s commitment to fostering positive relationships with residents. His leadership and the department's involvement were central to the evening's success, including their triumph in the brisket competition.
Councilmember Ed Scott, who represented the City Council in the competition, also emphasized the importance of supporting MADD. “It’s important to support MADD and all the work that they do to help save lives. I want to thank MADD for being here,” Scott said.
The brisket competition was one of many highlights of the event, which also featured free games
RUSD Events
cation programs, services, and supports available within the District. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet the RUSD’s team of specialists, tour the new Special Services Office — a state-of-theart facility that opened its doors in April — and participate in a mini mental health workshop. Light snacks and beverages will be provided. For more information on the Special Services Open House, please contact Dr. Sonya Scott, Lead Special Services Agent, at 909-820-7700 ext. 2722.
Viva la Fiesta: Hispanic Heritage Celebration – September 28, 2024
In collaboration with the City of Rialto, RUSD will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with the "Viva la Fiesta" event on September 28. The celebration will take place at Jerry Eaves Park (located at 1485 N Ayala Dr, Rialto) from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. and promises a lively evening filled with cultural festivities. The event will feature food vendors, live entertainment including performances from RUSD students, a Catrina's fashion show, and ofrendas (traditional altars). This celebration is a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and honor the rich cultural contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans. For more information on Viva la Fiesta, please contact Cynthia Alvarado-Crawford, City of Rialto Director of Parks, Recreation & Community Services, at 909421-4949.
17th Annual Family Summit – October 26, 2024
RUSD’s 17th Annual Family Summit will be held on October 26, at Wilmer Amina Carter High
for children, a rock climbing experience, and booths from various public safety and city departments offering giveaways and information. The evening concluded with an exciting SWAT and K9 demonstration, where children and adults were thrilled by the popping sounds of dummy rounds during the display.
In addition to celebrating National Night Out, the Rialto Police Department announced a DUI checkpoint scheduled for August 16, from 6 p.m. to 3 a.m., as part of their ongoing efforts to prevent drunk driving.
MADD will continue its mission in Rialto with its “Walk Like MADD” fundraising event on October 5, 2024, at Joe Sampson Park, furthering the fight against drunk driving and supporting victims and their families.
The success of this year’s National Night Out in Rialto showcased the community’s spirit, commitment to safety, and support for causes that save lives.
School (located at 2630 N Linden Avenue in Rialto) from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The theme this year's summit is “Growing Literacy & Numeracy for a Future Without Limits!” The event, which draws thousands of families from across the District and community, will include a College and Career Fair, offering valuable resources and information for students and their families as they plan for the future. The event will also feature informational booths from various schools, multicultural activities, and a selection of food options for attendees. The Family Summit serves as a cornerstone for community engagement, providing families with the information, tools, and support they need for student success. For more information on the Family Summit, please contact Joseph Williams, RUSD Community Agent of Strategic Partnerships, at 909-879-6002 ext. 2900.
“It’s important to promote vibrant and positive educational experiences for our families, students, staff, and partners through engaging communitybased events that enhance our opportunities for learning, connection, and growth,” stated Syeda Jafri, RUSD Spokeswoman. “These events not only provide valuable resources and information but also strengthen the bonds within our community, making Rialto a place where everyone feels supported and empowered.”
Families are encouraged to visit the District’s website at rialtousd.org for information on these events and more. These events reflect RUSD’s ongoing dedication to fostering a strong, supportive community. By participating, families can stay connected, informed, and engaged in their children’s education and the wider Rialto community.
Beyond Food Mart Adds U-Haul Rentals to Grocery List in Rialto
Community News
U-Haul Co. of California is pleased to announce that Beyond Food Mart 76 signed on as a U-Haul® neighborhood dealer to serve the Rialto community.
Beyond Food Mart at 1944 Alder Ave. will offer essential services like U-Haul trucks, trailers, towing equipment, moving supplies, and in-store pickup for boxes.
Normal business hours are 6 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Reserve UHaul products at this dealer location by calling (909) 424-0150 or visiting https://www.uhaul.com/Locations/Truck-Rentals-near-RialtoCA-92376/025172 today.
Beyond Food Mart owner Nick Fahed is proud to team with the industry leader in do-it-yourself moving and self-storage to better meet the demands of San Bernardino County.
U-Haul has teamed with independent dealers to offer rental
San
Bernardino
equipment to do-it-yourself movers since 1945. During these challenging times for small businesses, more than 21,000 dealers across the U.S. and Canada are generating supplemental income through their U-Haul affiliation. When customers rent from a UHaul dealer, they are directly supporting an independent small business in their community.
Because no financial investment is required to be a dealer, these local affiliates are not U-Haul franchises. They are simply small businesses that have committed a portion of their lot space for UHaul equipment, and a portion of their time to help meet the mobility needs of their neighbors. Learn more about the dealer program and how to join by visiting uhaul.com/dealer.
U-Haul Truck Share 24/7® allows customers to create an online account and pick up their truck at any hour using only their smartphone with photo feature and GPS. Trained Live Verify agents support customers online, enabling them to skip the lines and go straight to their truck.
Secures Historic $676,000 Grant Under Biden-Harris Administration for Bridge Rehab
By Manny Sandoval
The City of San Bernardino has been awarded over $676,000 in federal planning grants to rehabilitate 11 priority bridges, marking a significant step in addressing the city’s aging infrastructure. This funding, part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s $2.6 million investment in California through the Federal Highway Administration’s (FHWA) Bridge Investment Program, represents a historic opportunity for the underserved community.
The allocation for San Bernardino is the largest among the five California cities and counties receiving funds, underlining the critical need to restore the city’s bridges, many of which face structural deficiencies. The grant will fund the initial planning and feasibility studies required to bring these bridges up to current safety standards, ultimately reducing the risk of future accidents and ensuring smoother travel for all users.
“The Bridge Investment Program Planning grants we’re announcing today will provide much-needed resources to communities nationwide so they can complete the plans and studies required to move forward with important bridge projects,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg.
The focus on San Bernardino is part of a broader national effort, as the Biden-Harris Administra-
tion continues to prioritize infrastructure improvements under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This initiative has already funneled $7.4 billion into 78 projects across 38 states, launching over 10,200 bridge projects nationwide since the law's enactment.
“The planning grants announced today will help California prepare critical bridge projects for restoration or replacement before they fall into a state of disrepair,” said Federal Highway Administrator Shailen Bhatt. “By making historic investments in bridge projects that serve as a vital transportation link in communities nationwide, the Biden-Harris administration is supporting local economies, strengthening supply chains, and promoting resilience and safety in transportation.”
In addition to San Bernardino, Sacramento County received $800,000, Yuba County $400,000, Pico Rivera $400,000, and Los Angeles County $320,000. These grants will fund early-phase planning activities that are essential for future construction, setting the stage for safer, more efficient infrastructure across the state.
San Bernardino’s bridges, many of which are in dire need of attention, will see critical improvements that are expected to enhance economic growth by preventing major travel delays and improving the movement of people and freight.
David E. Smith: Prioritizing Community Over Politics—SNRC
Ensures Sustainable Water and Sewer Rate Stability at
EVWD
By David E. Smith
Experience matters, I understand the challenges we face when it comes to managing our water resources. I have been committed to serving our community with a focus on water sustainability since 2015. I am not a politician; just a fellow ratepayer, community-minded and deeply invested in ensuring that we all have continual access to reliable, safe, and affordable drinking water. I am asking for your vote.
During my current term, from 2020 to 2024, I have worked closely with my fellow Board members to successfully help mitigate major water rate increases—due to drought, inflation, and an unfavorable State regulatory environment. The Sterling Natural Resource Center (SNRC) has made a significant impact in the area.
The SNRC is not just another facility. It is the cornerstone of our Community’s sustainable water future. This state-of-the-art wastewater treatment facility, located in the City of San Bernardino, treats wastewater generated within our service area of The City of Highland, North San Bernardino, Patton State Hospital, and the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians.
California Powers Ahead: State Achieves 100 Consecutive Days of 100% Clean Energy Amid Heatwaves
By Manny Sandoval
California has marked a significant milestone by achieving 100 consecutive days powered entirely by clean energy sources, including solar, wind, hydropower, and battery storage. Despite enduring a brutal heatwave and wildfire season, the state met its electricity demands daily, with no major blackouts or power disruptions.
Stanford University professor Mark Z. Jacobson, who closely monitors California's renewable energy progress, highlighted the unprecedented nature of this achievement.
“California's milestone of 100 days from March through July 2024 is unprecedented... It's driven by a 30% growth in utility-scale solar and an 8% growth in utility-scale wind power output in just one year," Jacobson stated.
This accomplishment comes as California experiences a surge in clean energy and battery storage. In April, Governor Gavin Newsom announced that the state has increased its battery storage capacity more than tenfold over the past five years.
California also leads the nation in largescale solar power generation and ranks eighth in wind power production. Additionally, rooftop solar installations across the state have generated double the amount of clean energy compared to any other state.
which oversees most of the state's electricity flow. CAISO has stated that California will have a "surplus" of power even during the hottest months of the summer, reducing the likelihood of dangerous rolling blackouts that have plagued previous years as the electricity grid struggles to cool homes and workplaces.
This achievement is also welcome news for climate and environmental justice organizations, which have been urging Governor Newsom to shut down the state's oldest and most polluting power plants.
Currently, California plans to spend $1.2 billion to extend contracts for several gas-powered plants to meet peak power demand this summer. These plants contribute not only to climate change but also emit harmful pollutants that disproportionately impact low-income and minority communities.
According to a research brief by PSE Healthy Energy, 84% of California's gas plants are located in disadvantaged communities.
Jacobson also noted that the abundance of clean energy on California's power grid reduced the use of fossil gas by close to 40% during the 100-day period. However, he emphasized that the state still has a long way to go before it can rely on 100% renewable energy around the clock without needing fossil fuel backup.
The SNRC is capable of recycling up to 8 million gallons of wastewater per day to replenish our local groundwater basin. The SNRC also converts up to 130,000 gallons a day of imported organic waste streams into 3 megawatts of renewable energy to power the facility, providing two valuable components to help the environment.
As we look to the future, it is vital that we continue this work. The SNRC has proven that we can manage our resources wisely, sustain rates, and provide a model for other communities to follow.
I have said before, “I am not a politician; just a ratepayer charged with the stewardship of the East Valley Water District. It seems disingenuous to run for an office for which you are not prepared. None of the current first-time candidates have experience in Water Policy, nor do they attend District meetings with regularity, if at all.
I would be honored to continue representing my friends and neighbors. Your support on November 5, 2024, will keep the East Valley Water District the “world class” organization you have grown to expect.
Steven King, a clean energy advocate with Environment California, praised the state's progress. “California's remarkable renewable energy progress shows the world that we can tap into abundant clean energy sources such as the sun and the wind to sustainably power our lives. Days where we reach 100% renewable energy are becoming increasingly common, and this latest milestone provides hope that one day we can meet 100% of our energy needs from renewable sources every day of the year,” King remarked.
The 100-day milestone supports a recent announcement by the California Independent Systems Operator (CAISO),
As heatwaves intensify and California continues its push to phase out fossil fuels, the state will need to nearly triple its electricity generation. This will require rapidly expanding large-scale wind and solar power and battery storage by 700%.
California is committed to generating 100% of its electricity from clean and zero-carbon resources by 2045, as well as achieving 100% carbon neutrality for the world's fourth-largest economy. The state's recent milestone is a powerful indication that this ambitious goal is within reach.
San Bernardino Police Department Holding DUI Checkpoint on August 16
Community News
On Friday, August 16, 2024, the San Bernardino Police Department will conduct a driving under the influence (DUI) Checkpoint from 6 PM to 2 AM at an undisclosed location.
DUI checkpoint locations are determined based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The primary purpose of DUI checkpoints is to promote public safety by taking suspected impaired drivers off the road.
“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” Sgt. Jeff Harvey said. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improves traffic safety.”
San Bernardino Police Department reminds the public that impaired driving is not just from alcohol. Some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving.
While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.
Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license. Funding for this program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
PHOTO COURTESY OF DAVID SMITH
Highland Resident David E. Smith is currently serving as a governing board member of the East Valley Water District.
San Bernardino Symphony Establishes Youth Orchestra, Auditions Scheduled
By San Bernardino Symphony
At his job interview back in 2017, conductor candidate Anthony Parnther articulated his dream of a full youth orchestra in San Bernardino. He spoke of a platform for the region’s best young musicians who would showcase the work of new and underrepresented composers and how meaningful that could be for both the participants and those in attendance to experience their work.
That dream has finally come to fruition, and auditions for the San Bernardino Symphony Youth Orchestra will be held in just a few weeks, but it was a long road to arrive at this point.
As local music lovers will remember, Mr. Parnther did not become San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra Maestro Parnther until 2019 and was only able to lead three concerts before the pandemic shut down all performance venues for over two years.
Battling their way back to into the hearts of potential ticket holders postpandemic has been a challenge for all orchestras, and resources were scarce… certainly too scarce to begin an initiative as significant as a youth orchestra.
However, when former Symphony Board Member Dr. Nicholas Bratcher, who was at the time head of bands at California State University San Bernardino (CSUSB), suggested a Youth Wind Ensemble, a spark was ignited.
The narrow focus was less resourceheavy and with donated space from San Bernardino Valley College, a group of 17 students met weekly to rehearse. That group quickly grew and when Dr. Bratcher left to take a promotion out of
state, had reached 77 participants and their concerts were performed to standing-room-only audiences.
Based on the success of this program, parents asked if there would be other ensembles available for their strings, brass, and percussion students, and while those requests were considered, the scarcity of mission-relevant music was a significant consideration, as were the various complexities of holding multiple rehearsals and multiple concerts.
The answer, of course, came back to the Maestro’s goal: a youth symphony orchestra for string, woodwind, brass, percussion, harp, and keyboard.
Setting the Stage
Considerable foundational work had been previously completed for the Ensemble, including the establishment of an oversight committee, the venue partnership, and the development of a detailed participant handbook; but, new repertoire, leadership, and focus were still needed.
The Symphony looked within once again, and invited Dr. Lucy Lewis, a former Board Member and substitute Orchestra player, to consider the role of Director. Lewis, Professor of Violin/Viola and Director of Orchestral Studies at CSUSB, was quick to accept.
Explained Dr. Lewis, “We are exceptionally proud of our Inland Empire youth, and are excited to be launching the San Bernardino Symphony Youth Orchestra as a creative space for motivated young musicians to further develop their talents. This ensemble will provide students with a nurturing environment that both challenges and inspires them to the highest standards of music-making and professionalism, while simultaneously bringing the com-
munity together to support quality music education.”
Dr. Lewis suggested Veronica Manzanera, who had conducted a piece at the December 2023 San Bernardino Symphony Orchestra concert, as Assistant Conductor.
“It is a distinct pleasure to be sharing the podium with Maestra Manzanera who is a San Bernardino native and recent graduate of the Music Department at CSUSB where she served as the principal oboist of the CSUSB Symphony Orchestra, and was my assistant in the orchestral program,” shared Dr. Lewis.
Added Manzanera, “I am so excited to be taking part in the development of the San Bernardino Symphony Youth Orchestra. As a life-long resident of the San Bernardino community, I am thrilled that there is now an ensemble so close to home where students can expand their musicianship. The establishment of this youth symphony orchestra truly demonstrates our community's advancements in the arts, and specifically, music education. I am extremely grateful to have this opportunity to serve my community and to contribute to the growth of young musicians in the Inland Empire."
Auditions Scheduled
Placement in the San Bernardino Youth Symphony Orchestra will be determined at auditions which will be held on Wednesday, August 28 and September 4, 2024, from 4:00 - 8:00 p.m. at San Bernardino Valley College in North Hall, 701 S. Mt. Vernon Avenue in San Bernardino.
The deadline to sign up for an audition on Wednesday, August 28, is Tuesday, August 27, 11:59 p.m. The deadline to sign up for an audition on Wednesday,
September 4, is Tuesday, September 3, 11:59 p.m. Sign-ups must be scheduled through the Symphony’s website at https://www.sanbernardinosymphony.or g/symphony-youth-orchestra.
Auditioners must be students ranging from ages fourteen to eighteen from the Inland Empire, Coachella Valley, and surrounding areas.
Auditions will be held for flute/piccolo, clarinet/bass clarinet, oboe/English horn, bassoon/contrabassoon, alto/tenor saxophone, French horn, trumpet, tenor/bass trombone, euphonium, tuba, percussion, harp, keyboard, violin, viola, cello, and double bass.
All auditioners should prepare a threeoctave scale and arpeggio (two-octave for brass and double bassists) in the key of the student’s choosing, along with one piece or excerpt that the auditioner feels best represents their current playing level. Auditioners should also prepare for a sight-reading which will be given in the audition.
Orientation for those accepted will take place on September 8. Thereafter, the San Bernardino Symphony Youth Orchestra will rehearse Sundays from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. at San Bernardino Valley College in North Hall, Room 164. Their first concert will take place at the San Bernardino Valley College Auditorium on Sunday, December 15 at 3 p.m.
Concluded Lewis, “We are honored to have the opportunity to nurture the next generation of young orchestral musicians in San Bernardino, and we hope you will join us, if not in the ensemble, then at a concert!"
For more information, please contact SBSYO@sanbernardinosymphony.org.
PHOTOS SB SYMPHONY
The San Bernardino Symphony Youth Orchestra is holding auditions August 28 and September 4.
San Manuel Band of Mission Indians Awards $60,000 to Growing Inland Achievement to Support Student Success in the Inland Empire
Community News
Growing Inland Achievement (GIA) has been awarded a $60,000 grant from the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, generated through the Tribe's annual Charity Golf Tournament. This grant will support GIA’s mission to increase equitable educational attainment and economic success in the Inland Empire.
The funds will enable GIA to enhance its outreach initiatives, including college financial aid and financial literacy training programs for students and families and support for adult learners over 25 seeking to return to college to earn a certificate or degree.
“We are deeply grateful to the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians for their generous support,” said Ashish Vaidya, President and CEO of Growing Inland
Achievement. “This funding will significantly advance our mission, helping us provide crucial resources and support to students and families in the Inland Empire.”
The San Manuel Band of Mission Indians' annual golf tournament, held this year from July 25-28, has a long-standing tradition of supporting various charities nationwide. The tournament embodies the Serrano concept of Yawa— “to act on
one’s belief”—and has raised over $3.5 million for over 70 charities over its 25year history.
San Manuel has donated nearly $400 million to causes in the Inland Empire and across Indian Country. Supporting nonprofit organizations is part of the Tribe’s commitment to unity and stewardship. For more information on San Manuel Cares Program, please visit www.sanmanuelcares.org.
Announces $3 Million to Reduce Commute Times, Improve Road Safety
Community News
Rep. Pete Aguilar announced $3 million that he secured in federal funding to make improvements to the State Route 210 and 5th Street interchange in Highland that will reduce congestion and improve commute times.
The State Route 210 and 5th street interchange has some of the worst traffic congestion in the region, connecting Highland, Redlands and San Bernardino.
As businesses and other developments continue to grow in the Inland Empire, these infrastructure improvements will meet increasing demand, while helping
businesses and supply chains be more efficient. By widening 5th Street and adding lanes to the on- and off-ramps, this project will ease the flow of traffic, reduce commute times and increase access to the southern part of San Bernardino, including the San Bernardino International Airport.
“Every day, our friends and neighbors rely on this freeway to get to work, take their kids to school and enjoy time with friends and family,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar.
PHOTO STEVEN ROBLES
Ann Marie Sakrekoff accepts the award for GIA during the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians’ Charity Golf Tournament.
Rep. Pete Aguilar
PHOTO AGUILAR’S OFFICE
Rep. Aguilar (center) with city councilmembers from the City of Highland.
By Manny Sandoval
PSyphilis Cases Decreased in Cities with Planned Parenthood: 43% Drop Among Women in San Bernardino County
lanned Parenthood of Orange and San Bernardino Counties (PPOSBC) has reported a substantial decline in early syphilis cases in cities with PPOSBC health centers, marking a significant public health achievement amidst a national rise in syphilis rates.
Since 2021, early syphilis cases have dropped by 43% among female-identifying patients in San Bernardino and Orange Counties, underscoring the impact of expanded STI screening efforts.
Dr. Shayne Poulin, MD, a physician based in San Bernardino with PPOSBC, highlighted the effectiveness of the organization’s strategy.
“When we implemented our ‘opt-out’ testing approach, we saw a significant improvement in early detection,” she said. “In San Bernardino County alone, congenital syphilis cases have dropped by 45% since 2021, according to data from the San Bernardino County health department. This demonstrates that widespread testing is crucial in combating this public health issue.”
The success of PPOSBC’s strategy is particularly evident in its ability to catch syphilis cases earlier, even among populations considered low-risk.
“An important thing to note is that when you test everyone, even lowerrisk patients, you catch more cases,” Dr. Poulin explained. “When we started testing everyone, the positivity rate re-
mained consistent, meaning early syphilis was more widespread than we initially thought. Importantly, 40% of those new positive tests were among patients who could become pregnant, mostly women who have sex with men.”
Since the implementation of the “optout” screening process in April 2021, PPOSBC has seen a 32% overall reduction in early syphilis cases in Orange County, with a 30% decrease among male-identifying patients and a 43% decrease among female-identifying patients.
Dr. Poulin emphasized that these statistics are a result of thorough and accessible healthcare services. “Our centers perform approximately 50,000 syphilis tests annually across both counties,” she noted. “In San Bernardino County, about 4.5% of those tests were positive.”
This proactive testing has proven to be a critical component in reducing syphilis rates, particularly in San Bernardino County, which has some of the highest STI rates in the nation, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
“The data clearly shows that our approach is working,” Dr. Poulin stated. “By making testing easily accessible and integrating it into routine care, we are catching more cases early and ensuring timely treatment.”
PPOSBC’s comprehensive care model, which includes cancer screen-
ings, Pap tests, birth control options, breast exams, and STI testing and treatment, plays a significant role in improving public health outcomes. “Last year alone, we had nearly 250,000 medical appointments across our health centers—a 5% increase from the year before,” Dr. Poulin said. “Our services are available to everyone, regardless of insurance, immigration status, or ability to pay.”
However, efforts to expand these services in Fontana have been met with resistance. On July 23, 2024, the Fontana City Council voted to extend a controversial moratorium on new construction, effectively blocking PPOSBC from establishing a new health center in the city.
The decision has drawn sharp criticism from PPOSBC, who argue that the move denies essential healthcare services to a community in need.
“The Fontana City Council’s decision to extend the moratorium is a clear disregard for the health and well-being of its residents,” PPOSBC stated. “This move not only infringes on citizens’ rights to access reproductive care but also perpetuates the public health issues that our health centers are actively working to address.”
Fontana, like many cities in San Bernardino County, faces significant public health challenges, including high rates of STIs and limited access to affordable healthcare.
PPOSBC contends that the new health
center would provide critical services such as cancer screenings, STI testing and treatment, birth control, and abortion care, in addition to offering sexual health education.
In protest of the council’s decision, PPOSBC organized a flyover of Fontana City Hall during the council meeting, displaying a billboard that read, “Fontana Deserves High Quality Healthcare.” While an in-person protest had been planned, it was canceled due to concerns over potential disruptions from opposing groups.
PPOSBC remains committed to challenging the moratorium and advocating for better healthcare access for Fontana residents.
“We believe that every person deserves access to quality healthcare, regardless of their circumstances,” the organization stated. “Our medical team looks forward to the day when we can welcome Fontana residents into our health center and help them lead healthier, happier lives.”
The next hearing in PPOSBC’s lawsuit against the City of Fontana is scheduled for August 25, a decision that could have significant implications for the provision of healthcare services in the region.
For more information about PPOSBC’s services and ongoing efforts in the Inland Empire, visit PPOSBC.
