GRANADA HILLS RESIDENT HONORED FOR HER GOOD DEEDS.

Byline: Tracy Valeri Community Columnist

Most employers don't often recognize the gifts of a generous employee, but Ralphs Grocery Co. has - and it has rewarded her.

Wendy Johnson of Granada Hills was named Volunteer of the Year by Ralphs for the time and care that she has given freely to several charitable organizations.

``We are very fortunate to have so many of our company members volunteer their time and skills for the benefit of others,'' said George Golleher, chief executive officer of Ralphs and president of the board of trustees of the Ralphs/Food 4 Less Foundation. ``Wendy is most deserving of this honor.''

The Malibu-Pacific Palisades YMCA, the Los Angeles Marathon, the AIDS Service Center of Pasadena and the Community Counseling Center of Whittier are just some of the more than 100 charities and events for which Johnson has volunteered.

In addition to a plaque of recognition, Johnson received $2,000 to donate to the charity of her choice.

She chose the American Red Cross.

``I've been through major earthquakes and whenever there is a disaster, the Red Cross is always the first one you see there helping people,'' Johnson said from Ralphs offices in Compton, where she works as an analyst in the data processing department.

The Red Cross will use the money for youth programs including water safety, anti-drug education, and first aid instruction.

``I like that the money will stay in the Valley and help Valley kids,'' she said.

Children are especially at risk for developing serious infections and orthodontic problems if they do not have regular professional dental care, according to the Providence Saint Joseph Medical Center's Children's Dental Clinic.

Yet many families do not have dental insurance and cannot afford dental visits so their children risk a lifetime of unhealthy teeth.

On Friday, the hospital dental clinic was proud to mark 30 years of serving low-income families for a nominal fee.

The clinic opened on May 1, 1968, and in the first two months served more than 70 patients at $1.50 to $2.50 per visit. Twenty dentists volunteered their time for the health of children.

Thirty years later, the clinic treats more than 1,100 children ages 3 to 14 per year. At $10 per visit, low-income families without insurance or MediCal pay a fraction of what it would cost to go to a private dentist or orthodontist.

The clinic - in the Providence Saint Joseph Occupational Health Center, 3413 Pacific Ave., Burbank - sees patients from all over the San Fernando Valley.

For hours or an appointment, call [phone].

Attention high school and college students: Are you dreading a long sweltering summer with nothing to do but sweat about your future?

You can apply for a summer internship program in the office of Assemblyman Robert Hertzberg, D-Van Nuys.

Interns will act as special assistants and work on a variety of projects. They will work on the staffing of advisory commissions, the promotion of legislative issues and community outreach.

``We give these kids real projects that they work on from conception to completion,'' Hertzberg said. ``Interns in my office learn the meaning of teamwork while building leadership skills.''

CAPTION(S):

Photo

PHOTO Wendy Johnson received a $2,000 award to donate to the charity of her choice. She gave the money to the Red Cross.

Hans Gutknecht/Daily News