Recent Valley Children’s decisions betray institution’s original mission | Opinion

Valley Children’s disappointing turn

“Valley Children’s farming out food services to Idaho Co.; laid off workers to be rehired,” (fresnobee.com, June 26)

Since the new board assumed leadership, workers at Valley Children’s Hospital have witnessed department cuts, reduced services and decisions that many believe disregard the hospital’s longstanding commitment to its employees and the community.

One example is the decision to outsource food services to Thomas Cuisine, a company based outside the Central Valley. While the change may reduce costs, it comes at the expense of employees who have dedicated decades of service. Many members of the kitchen staff have worked at the hospital for 30 or 40 years, caring for generations of families whose children — and now grandchildren — have received treatment there.

Valley Children’s Hospital was founded by local mothers and built through the dedication of volunteers, employees, donors and the guild system, which united the community behind a hospital committed to serving Central Valley children.

Replacing loyal employees with an outside company may save money, but it also raises questions about whether the hospital is remaining true to the values on which it was founded. As these decisions continue, the community should carefully consider where it directs its donations, volunteer efforts and financial support.

Lisa Sartor

Fresno

Combating physician shortage

“I have seen the Central Valley’s dangerous physician shortage first-hand | Opinion,” (fresnobee.com, June 20)

This piece from Sparsh Malhotra about the shortage of primary care doctors in the Central Valley is very strong — and very painful. The physician shortage affects us all when we most need them. Primary care doctors keep us healthy and prevent diseases and chronic problems from becoming serious and sometimes fatal.

The San Joaquin Valley Medical Scholarship Foundation is helping to solve the problem by addressing one of the reasons why doctors leave the Central Valley. Average medical tuition debt can be about as much as a home mortgage ($247,000).

Our scholarship grants $55,000 per year for four years to primary care doctors in training who commit to work in an underserved area for four years and work as a primary care doctor in the Central San Joaquin Valley once they graduate from their specialty training.

Sergio D. Ilic, MD

President, San Joaquin Valley Medical Scholarship Foundation

Why does Newsom oppose tax?

“Gavin Newsom trapped between Democrats, billionaires over tax ballot fight | Opinion,” (fresnobee.com, June 23)

Why does Gov. Gavin Newsom oppose the billionaire tax? Is he seeking favor with the billionaires who might donate to his next political campaign?

We need leaders “of the people, by the people, for the people.”

Curtis Panasuk

Sacramento

Recommit to dignity

“Where can I watch fireworks in Fresno County? Check out these July 4th events,” (fresnobee.com, July 1, 2025)

This Fourth of July carries special significance as our nation marks its 250th anniversary — a moment to celebrate our freedoms and reflect on the future we want to build together.

Here in the Central Valley, increased immigration enforcement activity has left many families living in fear. Farmworkers and immigrant families who contribute to our communities and economy are navigating uncertainty, exposing the shortcomings of a deeply broken immigration system.

At the same time, families are grappling with rising costs, economic insecurity and concerns about whether our institutions are working for everyday people. Too often, powerful interests seem to have a louder voice than the communities most affected.

As we mark 250 years of American history, we can recommit to a country where opportunity, dignity and justice are within reach for everyone. The freedoms we celebrate come with a responsibility to participate in our democracy. By staying informed, making our voices heard and casting our ballots, we can help shape the future of our communities and nation.

Norberto Gonzalez

California State Director, Poder Latinx

A debt owed

“1944 Newsreel film recaps D-Day invasion (Video),” (fresnobee.com, June 2, 2019)

My husband, Ron, and I recently had the profound privilege of visiting Omaha Beach and the American Cemetery in Normandy. We visited on the 82nd anniversary of the D-Day invasion.

Like so many Americans, we grew up seeing historic photographs, watching documentary footage and reading textbook accounts of June 6, 1944. We thought we understood what happened there but quickly realized that no amount of preparation can prepare your heart for the wave of emotions that overtakes you when standing on the beaches and looking at the American cemetery.

We had the unexpected honor of meeting two veterans of the invasion. They are elderly and use wheelchairs but have pride for the service they rendered to our country and to the world. At the time of the invasion, these men were just boys, yet they possessed clarity and understood what was at stake, and they willingly stepped into battle.

As I reflect on our journey, I am overwhelmed by the magnitude of what these soldiers gave up for us. It has made me realize that a casual “thank you for your service” is not enough. We owe them a debt that can never be fully repaid, but we can ensure that we never forget their sacrifices.

Debra McCartney

El Dorado Hills