BCHD September 2024 Newsletter | Beach Cities Health District

Join us for a Community Forum

Beach Cities Health District, the City of Redondo Beach and the Redondo Beach Unified School District are hosting a community discussion to provide information about the three (3) Redondo Beach measures on the November ballot.

Monday, September 23

6:30 - 8 p.m.

Redondo Union High School Auditorium

1 Sea Hawk Way, Redondo Beach

BCHD's School District Health Report

Beach Cities Health District partners with elementary, middle and high schools in the Beach Cities to offer programs to increase physical activity, improve nutrition and promote social-emotional well-being. This summary report includes programmatic outcomes and measurable results. The reports also include best practices that local schools have implemented to address the health and well-being of students, families and staff.

September is Suicide Prevention Month

As we recognize those we’ve lost to suicide, we work diligently to prevent more loss and keep our community safe. Here are a few facts about suicide and ways you can help:

Suicidal thoughts, like many mental health challenges, can affect anyone regardless of age, gender and background.
Know the warning signs for suicide like increased alcohol and drug use, aggressive behavior, withdrawal from friends, family and community, dramatic mood swings and impulsive or reckless behavior.
Other behaviors to look out for include collecting and saving pills or buying a weapon, giving away possessions, tying up loose ends, like organizing personal papers or paying off debts, and saying goodbye to friends and family.
Ask direct questions: Do you have thoughts about suicide? Are you thinking of killing yourself? According to Mayo Clinic, talking about suicide may reduce, rather than increase, suicidal ideation.
Keep the Crisis Text Line number - 741741 - handy and save 988 in your phone.

Protect Yourself and Your Community: Get Your Flu Shot Today

As we approach the peak of flu season (December to February), it's crucial to prioritize your health and the well-being of those around you. The flu vaccine remains the most effective way to prevent influenza, and it's recommended for everyone 6 months and older, with rare exceptions.

To ensure you're protected when flu activity is highest, aim to get vaccinated by the end of October. The same prevention tips to protect yourself from the flu can also protect you from other respiratory illnesses like the common cold, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). By getting vaccinated, you're not only safeguarding your own health but also protecting those who can't receive the vaccine. Don't wait – schedule your flu shot today. Get more information at https://www.bchd.org/flu

Save the Date for Active Aging Week, Sept. 30 – Oct. 4!

Join the Center for Health & Fitness for FREE lectures and workshops designed to teach you about staying healthy, strong and connected as we get older.

Here's what you can expect:

LEARN fitness tips, nutrition advice, healthy living strategies and more!
GAIN valuable information from our expert speakers.
MEET like-minded people who share your passion for staying active.

Join us! Space is limited, so register for your FREE events today: https://www.beachcitiesgym.org/active-aging-week .

September is National Preparedness Month

Preparing for a disaster is crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of yourself and your loved ones. Whether it's a natural disaster like an earthquake or flood, or a man-made emergency such as a power outage, cyber security breach or even a pandemic, being prepared can make a significant difference during and after the emergency. To help you prepare, be sure to:

Create a family emergency plan
Build an emergency kit
Stay informed
Secure your home
Prepare emergency documents
Prepare cash to keep on hand
Charge electronic devices
Plan an evacuation route
Practice!

To read more about these tips and to learn more about emergency preparedness, visit https://www.bchd.org/emergency-preparedness.

Workout Your Core with the Fitness Moai!

Our Core Moai hosts early morning workouts through Zoom every Monday, Wednesday and Friday where members share lighthearted jokes, interesting trivia and even celebrate birthdays.

If you’re looking to create your own group and would like help with promotion, recruitment or need to reserve a space at Beach Cities Health District to host your meeting, please contact Jackie Uy (Jackie.Uy@bchd.org). Our team is happy to help you get started.

For a full list of BCHD Moais, please visit our website here: https://www.bchd.org/moai.

Join us for our Quarterly Blue Zones Project Social Hour

Blue Zones Project's quarterly Social Hour is an opportunity to experience good company and practice some of Blue Zones Project’s Power 9(R) Principles of Longevity, including Down Shift and Positive Pack at a Blue Zones Project ApprovedTM Restaurant.

In October, Lido di Manhattan opens its doors for the community to connect with others and enjoy their special Blue Zones Project® inspired menu with plenty of healthy options to choose from.

Tuesday, October 1

5 - 7 p.m.

Lido di Manhattan

1550 Rosecrans Ave.

Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

Do you have your Perks Card?

Blue Zones Project® is working with restaurants throughout the Beach Cities to give customers more options to make healthier choices. Some Blue Zones Project Approved™ Restaurants and retailers offer discounts to help you make the healthy choice the easy choice. Present your Perks Card at these local Blue Zones Project Approved Restaurants and retailers to receive 5 – 15% off.

To receive your Perks card, visit one of our facilities during business hours or stop by our booth at one of our community events and pick one up to start receiving discounts today!

What I Wish My Parents Knew: Dangers of Youth Substance Use and Fentanyl

This in-person event for parents, caregivers and concerned residents will include a film screening of “Come Back Home,” that delves into the lives of young people who survived the loss of their loved ones to fentanyl, followed by a panel discussion. This event is intended for adults to hear from young people who have lived experience with substance use and what they wish their parents knew. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a candid discussion with the panel to learn more about what they can do to better support the mental health of young people in their life.

Naloxone (the life-saving opioid overdose reversal medication) will be available for participants. BCHD’s supply of naloxone is provided by the California Health Care Services’ Naloxone Distribution Project.

Wednesday,

September 18

6 – 7:30 p.m.

Hermosa Valley Middle School

1645 Valley Drive, Hermosa Beach

Multipurpose Room

Monday,

September 30

6 – 7:30 p.m.

Parras Middle School

200 N. Lucia Ave., Redondo Beach

Multipurpose Room

Monday,

October 21

6 – 7:30 p.m.

Manhattan Beach Middle School

1501 N. Redondo Ave., Manhattan Beach

Multipurpose Room

South Bay Dementia Education Consortium Presents: The 2024 Update on Alzheimer's Disease Research and Treatment

Join the South Bay Dementia Education Consortium for an enlightening talk with Dr. Sarah Kremen, a leading expert in the field of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. Dr. Kremen will share the latest advancements in treatment, including the recent FDA approval of amyloid vaccines—a groundbreaking development in the fight against Alzheimer's. She will also explore the most promising research on the horizon, offering a glimpse into the future of dementia care. Whether you're a healthcare professional, caregiver or simply interested in the latest in Alzheimer's research, this event is not to be missed!

Thursday, September 19

3 – 4 p.m.

Dementia Caregiver Support Groups

Caring for a loved one with a dementia diagnosis can be overwhelming and stressful. Our support groups offer a safe space to address the challenges that come with caring for someone, find support amongst peers who share similar experiences and openly express your feelings around being a caregiver.

REDONDO BEACH - Please join us on the third Monday of the month (September 23) at 2 p.m. in the cafe at 514 N. Prospect Ave, Redondo Beach, 90277. Facilitated by Beach Cities Health District’s Care Managers Joy Schmidt, LCSW and Rudy Diaz, ASW. In partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association.

MANHATTAN BEACH - please join us on the second and fourth Tuesdays (September 24 & October 8) at 1:30 p.m. at the Joslyn Community Center, 1601 N. Valley Dr., Manhattan Beach, CA 90266. Facilitated by Beach Cities Health District's Care Manager, Charlotte Barnett, MSW. In partnership with the Alzheimer's Association and Manhattan Beach Older Adults Program.

Screenagers: Elementary School Edition

Join us for a free movie screening of “Screenagers: Elementary School Age.” The new version of the original Screenagers movie addresses issues that elementary school aged kids, parents and educators are facing – smartwatches in class, unhooking from and monitoring video gaming, social media pressures and exposure too young. This screening and discussion are intended for parents and caregivers to learn about existing research around these topics and potential solutions to these and other challenges in order to address and support mental well-being in the digital age. South Bay parents and caregivers are welcome to attend any event date. Free childcare offered by Adventure Plex staff. Find more information on the registration form. More showings will be offered throughout the 2024-25 school year.

Tuesday, September 24, 5:30 – 7 p.m.

Hermosa Vista Elementary School

417 25th St., Hermosa Beach

Tuesday, October 1, 2024, 5:30 – 7 p.m.

Pacific Elementary School

1200 Pacific Ave., Manhattan Beach

Monday, October 7, 2024, 5:30 – 7 p.m.

Tulita Elementary School

1520 S. Prospect Ave., Redondo Beach

Wednesday, October 9, 2024, 5:30 – 7 p.m.

Washington Elementary School

1100 Lilienthal Ln., Redondo Beach

Tuesday, October 29, 2024, 5:30 – 7 p.m.

Robinson Elementary School

80 Morningside Dr., Manhattan Beach

Social Hour with BCHD Care Manager Charlotte Barnett

If you have a question regarding community resources, want to learn more about Beach Cities Health District or share and learn ways to keep busy, please join us! These meetings are for all, a place to connect and feel heard.

First & Third Tuesdays of the Month, Virtual

(October 1 & 15)

10 – 11 a.m.

Zoom link: https://bchd-org.zoom.us/j/87651635014

2nd Mondays, In person

(October 14)

2 – 3 p.m.

Manhattan Beach Joslyn Center, Sunset Room

1601 N. Valley Dr., Manhattan Beach, CA 90266

Mindful Connections Wellness Workshops

Mindful Connections is the go-to place for you to gain valuable insight and practical tools to help shift your mindset and improve your quality of life. Workshops will cover topics such as taking control of stress, goals, physical health, and more.

By completing this registration form once, you are welcome to attend one or multiple sessions. We ask that all participants be age 18 and older to receive services at South Bay Adult School. Once registered, you will receive email reminders for each session.

This 8-week series will take place every Tuesday from 12 – 1:30 p.m. through November 12.

South Bay Adult School

3401 Inglewood Avenue,

Redondo Beach, CA 90278

Room 10 and adjacent patio

Sessions will not be available online or recorded.

Virtual Mindfulness Drop-In

Take 30 minutes to downshift and practice mindfulness techniques. The guided session will be led by a trained Beach Cities Health District instructor.

First Wednesday of the Month

(October 2)

4 – 4:30 p.m.

Virtual Happiness Chat

This is a casual discussion group with light-hearted activities to spark conversation. Share ideas, tips, resources, jokes, quotes – anything that supports our happiness!

Second Tuesday of the Month

(October 8)

12:30 – 1 p.m.

Virtual Families Connected Parent Chat

The Families Connected Parent Chat is a free monthly support group open to all South Bay parents and caregivers. Provided in partnership between BCHD, South Bay Families Connected and Thelma McMillen Center, the Parent Chat offers its participants a confidential and supportive space to share their parenting challenges and successes. Please note that the Parent Chat is not a therapeutic program, but rather a peer-to-peer support group with educational guidance from a mental health professional

Second Tuesday of the Month

(October 8)

10 - 11 a.m.

Zoom: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87374623578

Save the Date for Walk and Roll to School Day

Walk and Roll to School Day is an international event that involves communities walking and rolling to school. On October 9, three Beach Cities school districts (Hermosa Beach, Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach), Beach Cities Health District staff, students and their families, school administrators, volunteers and local officials, as we lace up our sneakers and start the day walking or rolling to school.

Hybrid Board of Directors Meeting

Residents are encouraged to attend BCHD Board Meetings either via Zoom or at 514 N. Prospect Avenue. Details about the meeting and agenda can be found online. Residents are encouraged to attend board meetings and may also contact board members directly with questions or comments.

Wednesday, October 23

6:30 p.m.

Beach Cities Health District

514 N. Prospect Ave.

Redondo Beach, CA

Lower Level, Beach Cities Room

Mental Health First Aid Training

BCHD will host Mental Health First Aid trainings from the National Council for Mental Health. Similar to how CPR training teaches individuals how to respond to medical emergencies, Mental Health First Aid teaches how to support people experiencing mental health challenges.

At this training, you'll learn how to assess risk factors, provide initial support and connect individuals to professional resources, when needed.

Friday, October 25

9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

514 N. Prospect Ave.

Redondo Beach, CA

Lower Level, Beach Cities Room