It’s been a smooth transition for our new Medical Director, Dr. Landon Whittington. He’s been at the helm for nine months now and because he served his residency at Waterfront, he hit the ground running. Having worked closely with co-founder and outgoing Medical Director, Dr Ruby Bayan, Whittington’s familiarity with Waterfront protocols coming in to his new leadership role has been an asset. Naturally he’s made some updates and a few changes to increase efficiencies in the ever-changing realm of SUD treatment.
From the start, Whittington’s working relationship with Waterfront staff has been one of mutual respect. “I love all the staff here. I think it’s just a place unlike many other places . . . people are here for a greater purpose and it’s just very clear that it’s about passion, they’re driven.” He notes that it can be challenging at times when there are differences between his perspective and a nurse or counselor but recognizes that they all have the same goal, “We always work through it,” he smiles. “With Dr. Bayan, and now Jeremy (former ED) moving on, we’ve changed up our leadership with Jamaica, Stacy and Becca and I think the three of them are doing an amazing job. It’s a pleasure to work with them. I think we make a good team, all of us.”
Whittington shares that one of the biggest rewards is seeing the difference in clients when they’re initially admitted and “at the end of 30 days, they’re a whole different person. They have more energy and their self-respect is just so much higher. Even though I’ve only been here [in this role] 9 months now, I’ve seen multiple [former] patients on the streets. I recently saw one at a coffee shop and they were doing great and with their partner. It’s very rewarding to see.”
On the personal side, Whittington has been able to squeeze in some of the things that made him want to settle in Humboldt—spending time backpacking and exploring the region. “I’m trying to make the most of it out here for sure.” It’s just that kind of balance that makes a good healer and a great leader.
Dr. Landon Whittington Update
WELCOME
Photos: TOP - New Medical Director Dr. Whittington with retiring Medical Director, Dr. Bayan
Introducing Our New Medical Director
Dr. Landon Whittington
Waterfront Recovery Services is excited to announce our new Medical Director, Dr. Landon Whittington. Dr. Whittington’s journey from Texas to Humboldt is a testament to his passion for medicine, his love for the outdoors, and his commitment to serving vulnerable populations. Humboldt perfect.
Before pursuing a career in medicine, Dr. Whittington worked as an engineer in Houston’s oil and gas industry. However, his desire for a more fulfilling vocation prompted him to return to school to study medicine at the University of Texas Medical Branch.
His connection to the Northern California coast began years earlier. As a passionate outdoor enthusiast, Dr. Whittington spent time exploring the area during a cross-country road trip, even biking through Eureka. These experiences left a lasting impression and sparked a dream of one day living and working along the North Coast.
That dream became a reality when Whittington discovered a family medicine residency program in Eureka and successfully applied. After being accepted, he moved to Humboldt County to begin his three-year residency. His rotations at Waterfront Recovery Services were where he discovered his interest in and empathy for those struggling with Substance Use Disorder, providing the ideal opportunity to combine his medical expertise with his passion for making a difference.
"One of the biggest challenges in this field is managing the complex social situations that come with each patient," Dr. Whittington explains. “But the rewards are immense. These patients are often at their most vulnerable, and you have a unique opportunity to help them when others may have overlooked them.”
Dr. Whittington also credits Waterfront Co-Founder and Medical Director Dr. Ruby Bayan as an invaluable mentor during his training. “Her wealth of experience, particularly in psychiatry, has been a tremendous resource. I’ve learned so much from her,” he says.
Dr. Bayan shares that she confidently recommended Dr. Whittington as her successor after working closely with him for the last few years and seeing that he is a good fit for the organization and well received by staff.
Of critical importance, Waterfront staff impressed Dr. Whittington with their dedication and their shared commitment to patient care. “It’s rare to find an organization where everyone is so deeply invested in their work. That’s the hallmark of Waterfront,” he notes.
The professional appreciation and respect seems to be mutual; Waterfront staff enthusiastically responded to queries about their new Medical Director positively. This is huge when factoring in their profound connection to and love for Dr. Bayan.
While he’s still settling into his new role, Dr. Whittington is optimistic about the future and the potential to make a lasting impact. He remains committed to building on the strong foundation at Waterfront, ensuring that patients receive the care and support they need to rebuild their lives.
Outside of work, Dr. Whittington continues to embrace the outdoor lifestyle that first drew him to Humboldt County. From hiking and biking to simply enjoying the area’s natural beauty, he finds the perfect balance between his professional and personal life in this unique corner of California.
Rebecca Camilli is our new Chief Operations Officer but Camille is not new to Waterfront. She’s been with the organization for six years—originally hired as a case manager, Camilli moved to SUD Counselor and has been thriving in that position.
Actually, at this time, Camilli is gradually transitioning from her role as SUD Counselor. "I’m still doing my old job. I have a caseload and I love working with the clients because I was in their shoes.” Referencing her promotion to COO, she describes a very different set of expectations. “I’m working on scheduling and time cards and doing a lot of new things so right now I love where I’m at because I’m filling both roles in working with the clients . . . I’m kind of like the counselor for the clients and for the employees at the same time. It’s a big deal and I’m proud to have this position. It’s kind of perfect.” And that’s the kind of shape-shifting and institutional knowledge that strengthens an organization.
Our New Chief Operations Officer: Rebecca Camilli
We are thrilled to announce that Jamaica Bartz, our Chief Operations Officer and longtime team member, has been named Executive Director of Waterfront. Jamaica has been an integral part of Waterfront since the very beginning—even before our doors officially opened. Her journey began at the former social model detox facility operated by Alcohol Drug Care Services (ADCS) as a detox specialist, laying the foundation for her deep understanding of the field.
Waterfront, as a medically managed program, differs significantly from the social model, and Jamaica has been with us through every challenge, transition, and milestone. Over the years, she has taken on a wide range of roles, gaining valuable hands-on experience in nearly every facet of our operations. From her start as a Counselor, she quickly advanced to Lead Counselor, Admissions Supervisor, Director of Admissions, Assistant Clinical Director, and ultimately Chief Operations Officer.
Now, as she steps into the role of Executive Director, we are excited to see her bring her extensive experience, leadership, and unique perspective to guide Waterfront into the future.
Our New Executive Director: Jamaica Bartz
As we approach the end of the year, we approach the end of an era.
Our beloved Co-Founder and Medical/Clinical Director, Dr. Ruby Bayan, is retiring. Her commitment to the success of Waterfront Recovery Services is unparalleled, and we express an infinite amount of gratitude as she has devoted countless hours to helping our community's most vulnerable achieve recovery. But now is the time for her to be closer with family and share the joy and laughter of her children and grandchildren. Since Waterfront opened, Dr. Bayan has become grandmother to five beautiful babies on opposite sides of the country.
Dennis Leonardi - Board President
Lea Nagy - Secretary
Jacob Rosen - Vice President
Dylan Feierabend - Treasurer
Our Staff
Stuart Altschuler
Shannon Chavez, MD
This month, we bid a heartfelt farewell to our Executive Director, Jeremy Campbell, as he embarks on an exciting new chapter in his life.
Jeremy stepped into leadership following the passing of our cofounder, John McMannus, and over the past three years, has played a pivotal role in continuing to grow and strengthen our organization. His dedication, vision, and steady guidance have made a lasting impact.
We extend our deepest gratitude to Jeremy for his service and leadership, and we wish him every success in his educational and professional journey on the East Coast—alongside his new bride!
A Fond Farewell to Executive Director Jeremy Campbell
Waterfront staff and friends gathered to send Executive Director, Jeremy Campbell off with gratitude and appreciation for his contributions and steadfast leadership. Above Caitlin and Jeremy Campbell, founding board member Stuart Altschuler, board president Dennis Leonardi.
Front row: co-founder Dr. Ruby Bayan, board member Lea Nagy and new Executive Director Jamaica Bartz
Our Staff
Your one time or sustaining monthly donations help us help others. No amount is too small to make a big difference in someone’s life.
4th Anniversary Speaker Highlights
Waterfront Celebrates Staff Graduations
College of the Redwoods Spring 2022 graduation was a family affair for Waterfront Recovery Services. Staff member Jeremy Campbell shown here with WRS Medical Director Dr. Ruby Bayan (above left) and WRS Board member and CR professor in the Addiction Studies Program, Stuart Altschuler (above right). Campbell graduated with 3 degrees!
AS Social Work & Human Services
AA Liberal Arts: Behavioral Social Science Addictions Studies Certificate
Randy Patton, WRS SUD Counselor (right) with Professor Altschuler graduated with an Addiction Studies Certificate.
Community Steps Up To Honor
John McManus and Support WRS
Sunday June 5th. Click here for info.
John McManus 1964 - 2022
raising the bar for care in our community. McManus walked the walk and showed others the way. We will forever be indebted to this tenacious and compassionate man.
Family, friends and community collaborators came together at his memorial to celebrate the life of this powerhouse that ended too soon due to ALS. Speakers shared stories about McManus as loving father, smart, compassionate advocate, amazing musician and most of all, hilarious friend. Laughter marked most interactions with him and this occasion was no different. There was a general sense of appreciation that we had this wonderful man in our lives.
It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Alcohol Drug Care Services’ Executive Director and Waterfront co-founder John McManus. He was a fearless, street-smart visionary who insisted on
Waterfront Celebrates Four Year Anniversary!
Waterfront Recovery Services observed our 4th Anniversary on November 1st with a celebration that especially honored co-founder, John McManus. Guests, staff and officials from local government and health agencies shared stories about all of the hard work and the unique collaborations that served to raise the bar for delivering Substance Use Disorder services in Humboldt County. Details in slide show below.
Our lobby is now dedicated to co-founder John McManus.
John and Dr. Bayan greet attendees.
Mike Wilson delivers Humboldt County Board of Supervisors Resolution
Miles shares his working and personal relationship with John McManus.
Eureka City CSET officers work closely with Waterfront.
Joy shares a message from Martha Shanahan, St. Joseph Health Community Investments Manager.
Board members Caren and Jon listening to speaker.
The head of Humboldt County Health & Human Services talks about working with WRS.
Eureka City Mayor Susan Seaman and Supervisor Mike Wilson smile for the camera.
As always, Jesse, Jessica Pearson and the WRS kitchen staff make holiday celebrations special. Halloween was no exception this year. The food was great and staff went all out with their costumes!
Don’t Go Alone
Support comes in many ways, but having someone you trust by your side at gatherings can provide a sense of added comfortability during times when we may feel triggered. During the holidays we may be in the company of people who do not fully believe in us, which can lead to a variety of feelings. But to have another person with us who fully supports where we are in the recovery journey can bring balance and strength to those moments.
Volunteer
Volunteering at local food banks or other places is a great way to feel connected if you feel isolated during the holidays. Volunteering at places providing free holiday meals is a way to be around others and feel a sense of self-worth in giving back.
Self-Care
The holiday season can be incredibly stressful and triggering. Taking care of ourselves during this time is often overlooked, but when we allow the time and space to give back to ourselves we can truly enjoy special holiday moments even more.
Start a New Tradition
Traditions had to begin somewhere, and the holiday season is a great time to start something new. This is an opportunity to bridge relationships into the future with the people who we are close with. The best thing about traditions is that there are no guidelines to what is considered special. Gather with your close friends and family and have a discussion on a collective experience that would bring joy to everyone involved during this time of year.
Holiday Outings
Holiday outings are often equated with a financial burden. However, there are many different ways to gather that are very low cost, or even better, no cost at all. Here are a few suggestions:
Drive/Walk around to explore decorated neighborhoods
Christmas movie night w/ popcorn and hot chocolate
Board games
Baking cookies
Spend time in nature
Be Kind to Yourself
Most importantly, be kind to yourself. We often feel obligated to others during the holiday season which can leave us with a multitude of feelings, and simply exhausted. This is a great time of year to give yourself permission to sleep in or go to bed early, to treat yourself with something our of the ordinary, or to just simply allow yourself to breathe. The most important part of the holiday is you, so be kind to yourself!
Free Local Thanksgiving Meals
If you are alone for this Thanksgiving there are a variety of places offering free holiday meals.
Follow this link for places to visit:
https://lostcoastoutpost.com/2023/nov/20/need-meal-heres-list-places-serving-free-thanksgiv/
Healthy Holiday Celebrations
Waterfront decorations are always a part of the the holiday cheer from Jesse & Jessica Pearson and their crew.
Music Program Honors Co-founder McManus
As a way to honor co-founder and talented musician, John McManus, Dr. Ruby Bayan has added a Sunday afternoon music program that aligns with the Waterfront inclusion of creativity in the healing process. Facilitated by staff members Wade Mallett and Jamie George, residents and program graduates gather to share and learn music, often joined by some of McManus’ musician friends and family. Generous donations of instruments from the community are greatly appreciated. Full story on our Community page.
Waterfront Celebrates 5th Anniversary!
On November 1st we celebrated the 5th anniversary of Waterfront Recovery Services. The year seems to have zipped by with so many changes and challenges that it almost got away from us! The 4th anniversary celebration focused on honoring our visionary co-founder, John McManus. He lost his battle with ALS in May and we have been working hard to fill the void he left. Our team is doing an amazing job of staying true to the mission and growing into the long-term Waterfront Recovery Services vision.
On this 5th anniversary, we have so much to celebrate. Medical Director and co-founder Dr. Ruby Bayan formally introduced our new Executive Director Jeremy Campbell to those in attendance. Some of those in attendance have been collaborators from the beginning and some are new partners from other parts of Northern California working with us to implement the crisis triage center. This was the last project John McManus prioritized as his health declined. It’s incredibly rewarding to now have a team of professionals, local and from other regions, engaged and contributing to making this much needed program a reality. We’ll keep you updated as this exciting project develops.
Two program graduates who now work at Waterfront shared their stories and touched hearts. As always, the food from the kitchen was beautiful and delicious!
Staff member shares her success after going through program. With Dr. Bayan and Director of Admissions Jamaica Bartz.
Martha Shanahan, St. Josephs Health Community Invesatments Manager has been with WRS from the beginning.
Board chair and sister of co-founder, John McManus celebrate WRS 5th anniversary.
Staff member shares her success after going through program. With Dr. Bayan and Director of Admissions Jamaica Bartz.
Wishing a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season to All
The holiday season is in full swing at Waterfront, led as always by the amazing Jessica and Jesse Pearson from our kitchen. The comfort and caring they bring creates a sense of family - and includes family! They start shopping for gifts early. This year warm socks and blankets for residents. In December Toys for Tots is their go-to for the children of Waterfront clients. Jessica demonstrates gift wrapping and her mom sews stockings for everyone. Decorations and fabulous food make the holidays festive and fun and most importantly healthy and sober!
