“As pediatricians, we strive for 100 percent immunizations of pediatric patients and, while that’s probably a utopian objective, our goal is to get as close as to that 100 percent as we can,’’ says Dr. Albert Arteaga, president and founder of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. . “This CDC recognition is the fruit of two to three years of intense labor on part of me and staff.” Photo by Carl Dameron
Dr. Albert Arteaga is California’s First-Ever CDC Childhood Immunization Champion (San Bernardino, Calif.) Dr. Albert Arteaga, president and founder of LaSalle Medical Associates, is California’s first-ever CDC Childhood Immunization Champion and one of only 39 across the country receiving the prestigious honor.
The award given by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recognizes advocates who work to make sure children are protected by immunizations. Nominations for the award are open to one individual from each state. Already, LaSalle’s clinics boast a 91 percent influenza immunization coverage rate among its staff and medical associates, which serves as an example for its patients.
“We are seeing the results of three years of work coming to fruition,” says Dr. Albert Arteaga, president and founder of LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc., about his honor as a CDC Immunization Champion. “To me, as a pediatrician, this is like the good housekeeping seal of approval. On an emotional level, it’s like winning the battle of Cinco de Mayo, Bunker Hill and the World Cup all at the last minute.”
In recent years, Dr. Arteaga and his staff have increased childhood immunizations rates among their patients. Highlighting this success is a pilot project created a few years ago in which each LaSalle clinic staff collected, sorted and organized data identifying pediatric patients in need of updates to their childhood immunization charts. Parents of those children were called and asked to bring them in for their immunizations, Dr. Arteaga says.
This pilot project is now a permanent part of LaSalle’s culture and routine, Arteaga says.
“As pediatricians, we strive for 100 percent immunizations of pediatric patients and, while that’s probably a utopian objective, our goal is to get as close as to that 100 percent as we can. And, friendly reminders can only go so far, which is a reason we needed a better approach,’’ says Dr. Arteaga. “This CDC recognition is the fruit of two to three years of intense labor on part of me and staff.”
While the number of children receiving vaccinations in pediatric offices is high, the percentage of those children whose vaccinations are up to date may not be, says Dr. Arteaga. This statistic is in no way a reflection of a possible deficiency in services as the onus is on the parents to ensure their children are up to date on their vaccines. LaSalle’s goal is to ensure each pediatric patient’s immunization chart is updated.
“Friendly reminders can only go so far, which is a reason we needed a better approach to reach parents. The CDC recognition is a reflection of our work to reach parents,’’ Dr. Arteaga says. “From a pediatric stand-point, this honor has major impact because unlike, lets say surgeons whose mark of excellence is based on surgery outcomes, a pediatrician’s performance is marked by how much we do in pediatrics. Ensuring our patients timely immunizations is a big component of our jobs and a mark of excellence.”
The CDC Childhood Immunization Champion Award is given jointly by the CDC and the CDC Foundation. It is given annually to individuals who are doing an exemplary job or going above and beyond to promote or foster childhood immunizations in their communities.
Individuals were selected for the honor based on the following criteria:
Has provided community leadership on immunization issues and collaborated with others to build support for and increase immunization rates of infants and young children.
Has used creative and/or innovative strategies to promote infant and young child immunization and meet unique immunization challenges within their community, state or region, including, for example, reaching hard-to-reach or under-immunized populations.
Has been a visible immunization champion in a community and/or medical system by acting as a spokesperson, advocate, and/or educator.
Has been an advocate for immunization policy advancements.
This year’s nominations were submitted directly to state immunization programs. Managers of those programs reviewed and evaluated nominees and then made a recommendation to the CDC.
In his nomination letter, Dr. Arteaga’s accomplishments noted several community collaborations and outreach efforts to build support for increasing childhood vaccination rates as well as promoting vaccines for various common communicable viruses, such as the seasonal flu. An example is a 2011 partnership with the Inland Empire African American Chamber of Commerce, where Dr. Arteaga co-sponsored a series of Public Service Announcements (PSA) on local radio stations promoting the flu vaccine. Messages were delivered in English and in Spanish.
On the first day, owner Dr. Albert Arteaga and his wife Maria then employed as his nurse and still his chief assistant saw two patients at their clinic in Fontana. Today, LaSalle Medical Associates has grown to four clinics and 120 employees, and an Independent Practice Association (IPA) serving more than 1,900 doctors. Photo by Carl Dameron
In addition, and as a member of the Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP) Provider Advisory Council, Dr. Arteaga promotes utilizing provider reimbursements as an incentive to increase immunization rates of its members through the Healthy Families Program. Dr. Arteaga is also diligent in clarifying or dispelling common misinformation associated with childhood immunizations. To aid in these efforts, he produces and publishes a quarterly patient newsletter providing insight on vaccinations as well as to dispel any myths and concerns.
As president of the Latino Health Collaborative and a former San Bernardino County First 5 commissioner, Dr. Arteaga advocates for increasing funding for childhood immunizations. He also served on the California State Managed Risk Medical Insurance Board as the physician representative for Healthy Families, advocating for an increase in childhood vaccinations.
“Dr. Albert Arteaga’s leadership and collaboration with others to build support for and increase immunization rates for hard-to-reach and under-immunized populations is commendable,’’ says Senator Gloria Negrete McLeod. “His work with disease prevention of children and minorities is a testament to his commitment to improve community health. I want to congratulate Dr. Arteaga for his work and recognition as one of California’s CDC Childhood Immunization champions.’’
Award recipients were announced during National Infant Immunization Week, April 21-28.
For more information call LaSalle Medical Associates corporate office at (909) 890-0407. About LaSalle Medical Associates LaSalle Medical Associates is one of the largest independent minority owned healthcare companies in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.
LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc., operates four clinics employing more than 120 dedicated healthcare professionals, treating children, adults and seniors in San Bernardino County. LaSalle’s patients are primarily served by Medi-Cal and Healthy Families. LaSalle also accept Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net and Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP). LaSalle’s clinics are located at 17577 Arrow Blvd. in Fontana, 16455 Main St. in Hesperia, 1505 West 17th St. and 565 N. Mt. Vernon Ave. in San Bernardino. LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc., is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals and clinics, delivering high quality patient care to more than 190,000 residents in Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, Riverside, San Bernardino, San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Tulare Counties.
LaSalle’s IPA members in the Inland Empire include: LaSalle Medical Associates, Banning Medical Group and San Bernardino Urological Associates. Hospital affiliations include: Rancho Springs Medical Center, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Community Hospital of San Bernardino, St. Bernadine Medical Center, Mountains Community Hospital, Redlands Community Hospital, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Corona Regional Medical Center, Riverside County Medical Center, and Parkview Community Hospital.
“Far West Meats stocks only the highest quality grain-fed, naturally aged, trimmed to perfection, Premium Choice Northern California Beef. We also carry the best …
Far West Meats President Thomas Serrato, explains the scene of the newly rebuilt Far West Meats plant in Highland on June 7. Far West Meats President …
Penny Lilburn, highland Mayor Pro Tem welcomes Far West Meats owner Tom Serrato back to highland, Calif. Photo by Carl Dameron
“Far West Meats stocks only the highest quality grain-fed, naturally aged, trimmed to perfection, Premium Choice Northern California Beef. We also carry the best open-range, steroid-free Chicken and tender lean Pork,” said Serrato.
(Highland, CA) – How do you say thank you to thousands of loyal customers that have supported your family for more than 90 years though good times and bad and a devastating fire that cut output in half for two years?
Tom Serrato, owner of Far West Meats (FarWestMeat.com) is celebrating with a FREE Re-Opening Celebration Barbeque on Saturday, July 14 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at their newly rebuilt location and two-acre parking lot, 7759 Victoria Avenue in Highland.
“To celebrate our return to Highland Far West Meats will serve free Barbeque with our high quality meats to our customers, friends and neighbors,” said Serrato. He added, “We will also have two live top 40 bands, face painting for the kids, clowns, magicians, raffle prizes every 15 minuets and discount coupons for Far West Meats.”
San Bernardino Mayor Patrick Morris enjoys Far West Hot Links before the FREE Re-Opening Celebration Barbecue on Saturday, July 14 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at their newly rebuilt location and two-acre parking lot, 7759 Victoria Avenue in Highland. Photo by Carl Dameron
The celebration will have lots of room on the company’s two-acre parking lot. Far West Meats catering department is running the show and Serrato says they have thought of all of the details including: lots of free parking, a shuttle for remote parking, a lost and found, security, free water, shade, live music and lots of bathrooms.
The day’s menu includes: ten varieties of Far West Meats famous hotlinks, ribs, brisket, chicken, hot dogs and burgers and lots of beverages.
The rebuilt location gives Far West Meats the production capacity they need to reclaim lost market share and increase sales. Their meats are available at Food 4 Less, Stater Brothers, El Super, Superior Markets, Smart and Final, Albertson’s and Ralphs and many other southern California grocery stores.
Far West Meats has been a butcher and meat supplier for 90 years, but it wasn’t until the 1980’s that they recognized a demand in inner city locations for smoked sausages or “Hot Links”. “We came up with a Far West Hot Links and it was an immediate success,” said Serrato.
Since then they added 10 flavors of Hot Links as well as a complete line of smoked meats including: turkey legs, wings and necks also pork loins, necks, and hocks. Far West’s products are now sold throughout the Southland all sold with a 100 percent quality and freshness guarantee.
Far West Meats product line includes all cuts of beef, pork, poultry and 10 flavors of their famous Hot Links including hot and mild, pork, chick and beef. Customers can order from the website FarWestMeat.com for shipping anywhere in the United States or for pick up at the Highland location. The website also offers free tips on meat handling, cooking, recipes, and catering.
“Far West Meats stocks only the highest quality grain-fed, naturally aged, trimmed to perfection, Premium Choice Northern California Beef. We also carry the best open-range, steroid-free Chicken and tender lean Pork,” said Serrato.
Far West Meats Grand Re-Opening Barbeque is Saturday July 14, 2012 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
“We welcome all meat lovers and well-wishers happy to have Far West Meats back home in Highland. Let’s party!” said Serrato.
For more information please call (909) 864-1990.
Facts Sheet
About Far West Meats – Tom Serrato, President and CEO
Far West Meats is a 90-year-old Highland based Meatpacking Company. Our products are sold throughout the Southland. Product includes many cuts of beef, pork, chicken and seafood as well as their 10 flavors of their famous signature smoked sausages and a complete line of smoked meats. Every product sold is guaranteed 100% for quality and freshness.
• At our peak Far west processes 40 tons of meat a day
• Cost of renovations $3,000,000
• Out of pocket cost $350,000
• Peak Employees 75
• Current Employees 21
• Hiring in next 90 days 23
• Estimated time to return to 75 employees 30 to 180 days
• Building – Square footage 30,000
• Cold storage – Square footage 15,000
• General Contractor C.E.G. Construction workers employed 95
o Sub Contractor So Cal Plumbing – Refrigeration, plumbing and electrical
• Earthquake reinforcement of the roof and walls
• Tours of the building with local fire departments to facilitate continued superior fire fighting on site should the need arise.
• New Refrigeration units for 15,000 square feet of freezers and cold rooms
• New roof and independent roof supports
• New test kitchen and conference room
• New insulation to keep the cold rooms and freezers frozen
• New front offices
• New flooring and floor treatments
• New meat transportation racks
• New smoker room
• New fire sprinkler system with attic sprinklers and 425 heads
• New alarm and video monitoring system
• New staff locker rooms
• New break room
• New doors
• New windows
• New sinks
• New counter tops
• New stainless steel sinks for wash up and prep
• New phone system
• New computer network and wiring
• New Parking structure
• New bathrooms
• New front landscaping
• New paint inside and out
Far West Meats President Thomas Serrato talks bout some of the equipment at the newly rebuild Far West Meatsplant in Highland. From 9 am to 3 pm Saturday, …
“Far West Meats stocks only the highest quality grain-fed, naturally aged, trimmed to perfection, Premium Choice Northern California Beef. We also carry the best …
Far West Meats President Thomas Serrato, explains the scene of the newly rebuilt Far West Meats plant in Highland on June 7. Far West Meats President …
The African American Health Institute of San Bernardino County was awarded the State contract to conduct the 2-year long study. They will release a full report as well as FREE resources during a statewide Town Hall meeting, a workshop and press conference on Tuesday July 17, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon at the Los Angeles Airport Westin Hotel. The press conference is at 1:00 p.m. This is a PUBLIC meeting. All are invited to attend. The meeting is FREE and no prior reservation is needed. For more information call (909) 880-2600, or Dr. Woods at (951) 201-4364. The shocking complete report will be distributed at the July 17th meeting.
“It is unpleasant to admit, but many African Americans do not receive appropriate mental health services, even when they go to places that are suppose to help them. Why is that?” reports Dr. V. Diane Woods, Dr.P.H.
(Los Angeles, Calf: July 2012) All people in California suffer from not receiving mental health services in a timely manner. Some people suffer more than others, especially if you are poor, less educated, and do not know what to do or where to go.
“In addition, having a mental issue is embarrassing. Most people do not recognize when they need help, and when they do, most people do not feel comfortable in asking for help with a mental issue,” said Dr. V. Diane Woods, Dr.P.H., M.S.N., B.S.N., president of the African American Health Institute of San Bernardino County (AAHI-SBC).
Dr. Woods is the principal investigator, for a statewide team of Black strategic planning workgroup members tasked to develop a major statewide policy initiative to improve access and quality of care, as well as increase positive outcomes for historically underserved communities and ethnic and cultural population groups.
The research was contracted to AAHI-SBC through The California Department of Mental Health (DMH), in partnership with the Mental Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission (MHSOAC) and funded by the Mental Health Service Act, Prop 63.
AAHI-SBC is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 grassroots community-based organization. It was awarded the $411,052 contract to conduct the California Reducing Disparities Project (CRDP) for the African American population. Funds were made possible by the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) of 2004. The contract period was for two years, from March 1, 2010 to February 29, 2012.
This statewide initiative was called the California Reducing Disparities Project (CRDP), and focused on five (5) populations that have the largest number of underserved individuals. Those populations were:
When it comes to African Americans and mental health issues in California, Helen B. Rucker probably explains it best.
“I should have been in counseling a long time ago,’’ says Rucker, a 79-year-old Monterey County community activist and county school board member about California’s fragmented mental health system supporting African Americans. “I wish I had access to talk to someone about how I feel. But, there has never been anyone I could talk to who understood what I was going through.”
Rucker epitomizes what was unraveled during a two-year study looking at mental health issues in ethnic and cultural populations in California.
“It is unpleasant to admit, but some people do not receive appropriate services, even when they go to places that are suppose to help them. Why is that? Why are some people not understood? California’s African American residents were interviewed and given the opportunity to share their real experiences with getting help with mental issues,” said Dr. Woods.
“We Ain’t Crazy! Just Coping with a Crazy System: Pathways to Eliminating Mental Health Disparities in the Black Population,” is the comprehensive report of this 2-year long African American study that sought to answer one major question: What are community practices Black people believe would help them have good mental health? As well as, how are mental issues prevented from occurring in Black people?”
“There were 1,195 individuals who participated in the African American study. Community-based participatory research methods were used that included 15 key informant interviews, 35 focus group meetings, 43 one-on-one interviews, 635 surveys, 5 case studies, 6 small group meetings and 10 public meetings. Individuals participated from over 30 California counties,” said Dr. V. Diane Woods, the Project Director and lead investigator.
Dr. V. Diane Woods and The African American Health Institute of San Bernardino County will release a full report, as well as FREE resources during a statewide convening that include a workshop a workshop, a Town Hall meeting, and a press conference on Tuesday July 17, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Los Angeles Airport Westin Hotel.
The investigation found that while California has a mental health system in place, its fragmented delivery system exposes African Americans to inappropriate and or inadequate diagnoses, and initiates a high rate of involuntary commitments within this population. Many individuals are placed on medications that may not help their condition but make it worse. And, many African Americans state they do not have prevention services or programs in their communities. If prevention services are there, they are not visible or accessible to the African American population.
Overwhelmingly, Blacks stated they were not properly assessed, said Dr. Woods. “Participants believe that diagnoses given were not correct, which caused the treatment and medications given inappropriate.” People felt the medication made them “act crazy.” A major concern was a lack of Black providers. People felt providers seen did not understand their experiences and the psychological and emotional impact on their physical and mental health.
“During the study, it was discovered that there are community-based programs and projects that help African Americans have balanced lives and help them to learn how to cope with threatening mental issues. However, African Americans are not aware of these community programs projects, or where to find an African American mental health provider. Many participants were not early signs of mental issues,” said Dr. Woods.
The African American Health Institute of San Bernardino County will release a full report, as well as FREE resources during a statewide convening that include a workshop a workshop, a Town Hall meeting, and a press conference on Tuesday July 17, 2012 from 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon at the Los Angeles Airport Westin Hotel. The press conference is scheduled to start at 1:00 p.m.
This state wide meeting is held collaboration with The Annual International convention of the Association of Black psychologists
This is a PUBLIC meeting. All are invited to attend. The meeting is FREE and no prior reservation is needed. For more information call (909) 880-2600, or Dr. Woods at (951) 201-4364.
The shocking complete report will be distributed at the July 17th meeting. California African American state Assemblymembers, Senators and Congressional representatives are invited to attend.
Dr. Woods is an experienced public health community-based participatory researcher and executive administrator in acute and non-acute clinical healthcare, health education and counseling.
About The African American Health Institute (AAHI)
The African American Health Institute of San Bernardino County, is a non-profit 501c3 grassroots community-based organization. It was awarded a $411,052 contract to conduct the California Reducing Disparities Project (CRDP) for the African American population. Funds were made possible by the Mental Health Services Act (MHSA) of 2004. Contract period was for two years, from March 1, 2010 to February 29, 2012.
The African American Health Institute of San Bernardino County can be reached at P.O. Box 12083, San Bernardino, CA 92423 or by calling (909) 880-2600, or visit their website at www.AAHI-SBC.org.
(San Bernardino, CA) The Inland Empire Chapter of the American Advertising Federation has announced the Board of Directors for 2012-1013. The Ad Club hosts the annual ADDY Awards, which recognizes advertising excellence in the Inland Empire.
On July 1, Jacob Poore, Marketing Coordinator at Cal-State San Bernardino will serve as the incoming President. Lacey Kendall of Rialto, an Information Technology Consultant at CSUSB is Vice President. From Wrightwood, Julie Wright, Editor of Sight and Scent Magazine returns as Secretary, and the new Treasurer is Bobbi Albano, from Rialto who is an accountant at Loma Linda University.
Jon Burgess, Vice President, Red Fusion Media in Redlands will advise the board as immediate past president. John McCarthy, Senior Director, Digital Strategy at WebMetro in San Dimas and also a past president will continue as chair of events and the ADDY Awards.
Tom Windeknecht, a project manager at Red Fusion Media returns to the board and joining the team is Su Pak of Claremont, a brand manager for Nickelodeon Games and founder/blogger IEShineOn.com. John Barry of Newport Beach continues as the public relations chair for the AAF.
“I am very excited about carrying on the long tradition of service to the advertising community here in the Inland Empire,” said new president Poore. “We have a board strategy meeting on July 28 to get off to a great start. And I want to thank Jon Burgess and John McCarthy for their service last year.”
To learn more about the AAF, the ADDY Awards and upcoming events, visit www.aaf-inlandempire.com.
Carl Maier, executive vice president of operations for LaSalle Medical Associates, signs an agreement with Rhonda Trindle, owner of Tritan International Services. This new agreement extends medical waster services to include members of LaSalle’s Independent Physician Association. Photo by Chris Sloan.
(San Bernardino, Calif.) Members of LaSalle Medical Associates’ Independent Physician Association (IPA) can now save up to 45 percent on the collection and disposal of medical waste thanks to a new agreement with Tritan International Services.
Under the new agreement, Tritan, an Apple Valley-based medical waste disposal company, will provide disposal of sharp object and medical waste to all interested groups within LaSalle’s IPA at a discounted rate.
“The goal is to provide our practitioners with options,” says Carl Maier, executive vice president of Operations for LaSalle Medical Associates. “When practitioners have options the end result is more flexibility to manage their clinic efficiently and provide quality care, which benefits the patient.”
Tritan International Services is family-owned and services all medical facilities, including physician and dental offices, clinics and hospitals. It’s known as a leader in the disposal of sharp objects and medical waste.
“The prices are very reasonable, the service is excellent, and they are environmentally conscientious,’’ said Alexandra Acosta, director of finance and clinic operations at LaSalle Medical Associates. “We also like that they are family-owned and operated.”
LaSalle’s commitment to extending every dollar to practitioners is a key reason healthcare providers across Southern and Central California join LaSalle Medical Associates’ IPA. And, creating an environment where long-standing relationships are extended to those providers is what LaSalle strives for, says Dr. Albert Arteaga, founder and CEO.
“Our healthy relationships with vendors, such as Tritan, are a testament to the type of business we operate, the services we provide and the commitment to the patients we care for,’’ Arteaga says. “And, when there is an opportunity to expand that relationship or to pass on savings to our providers there’s no hesitation.”
While savings is a big component of contracting with a vendor, Maier notes there are other factors taken into consideration when negotiating with vendors. He says LaSalle has to take into consideration what geographic location a vendor serves, their performance history, economic viability and service capacity.
“It is important to find saving opportunities without compromising service,” Maier says. “Not only does Tritan produce significant savings for our members, but their collection and disposal methods are environmentally conscientious and they are dedicated to meeting customer needs.”
Based in Apple Valley, Calif., Tritan is operated by Rhonda and Alan Trindle. It has been in operation for 12 years, providing biohazard waste disposal, hazardous waste disposal, sharps collection and disposal, and emergency response in California, Oregon and Washington State. The company is currently negotiating expansion into New Mexico, Colorado, Arizona and Utah.
Apple Valley-based Tritan International Services provides medical waste disposal at a discount to healthcare facilities. A new agreement between LaSalle Medical Associates and Tritan will save practitioners up to 45 percent on medical waste disposal. Photo by Chris Sloan.
“We began by just focusing on providing customers with a friendly, personal approach, working to meeting their needs,” says Rhonda Trindle. “We are a family business and we want to treat everyone like they are family. We are excited our relationship with LaSalle now includes its IPA members. This extension is proof LaSalle only wants the best for its providers and, ultimately, its patients.”
LaSalle Medical Associates operates four neighborhood clinics, in Fontana, Hesperia and two in San Bernardino, caring for more than 7,500 Inland Empire patients each month. In addition, LaSalle is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals and clinics, delivering high quality patient care to more than 190,000 residents in nine California Counties.
For more information about LaSalle Medical Associates or to make an appointment, call (909) 890-0407 or visit www.LaSalleMedicalAssociates.com. About LaSalle Medical Associates LaSalle Medical Associates is one of the largest independent minority owned healthcare companies in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.
LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. operates four clinics employing more than 120 dedicated healthcare professionals, treating children, adults and seniors in San Bernardino County. LaSalle’s patients are primarily served by Medi-Cal and Healthy Families. LaSalle also accept Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Molina, Care 1st, Health Net and Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP). LaSalle’s clinics are located at 17577 Arrow Blvd. in Fontana, 16455 Main St. in Hesperia, 1505 West 17th St. and 565 N. Mt. Vernon Ave. in San Bernardino. LaSalle Medical Associates, Inc. is also an Independent Practice Association (IPA) of independently contracted doctors, hospitals and clinics, delivering high quality patient care to more than 190,000 residents in San Bernardino, Riverside, Fresno, Kings, Los Angeles, Madera, San Joaquin, Stanislaus and Tulare Counties.
LaSalle’s IPA members in the Inland Empire include: LaSalle Medical Associates, Banning Medical Group and San Bernardino Urological Associates. Hospital affiliations include: Rancho Springs Medical Center, Arrowhead Regional Medical Center, Community Hospital of San Bernardino, St. Bernadine Medical Center, Mountains Community Hospital, Redland Community Hospital, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Corona Regional Medical Center, Riverside County Medical Center, and Parkview Community Hospital.
Meet Andrew Rocha, a quiet 18-year-old son of a physician, applying to college. While he lay sleeping in his Lake Arrowhead bed, a neighbor was being accosted in the middle of the night. She accused Andrew of the crime. left to right attorney Christopher Persaud and Andrew Rocha
(Lake Arrowhead, Calif.) You stand accused of a crime you did not commit. The police have a surveillance tape showing someone other than you committing the crime. They even have a statement from the person, saying that he did it. Still, you are put through the nightmare of being arrested and sitting in jail, waiting for your day in court. Sounds absurd, you say?
Meet Andrew Rocha, a quiet 18-year-old son of a physician, applying to college. While he lay sleeping in his Lake Arrowhead bed, an elderly neighbor and grandmother was being accosted in the middle of the night. She accused Andrew of the crime.
“This was the clearest case of mistaken identity that I have ever seen,” said Christopher Persaud, Andrew’s attorney.
“The police never did a thorough investigation. If they had taken the time to really look at the video tape taken by the grandmothers security system, they would have had no choice but to let Andrew go; as it was clearly someone else who was in the fight that morning.”
Fueled with a passion and the understanding that if this could happen to Andrew, it could happen to anyone, Persaud worked tirelessly to prove his client’s innocence.
Although he spent 75 days in jail, Andrew was ultimately acquitted of all charges. Persaud is now considering bringing a civil suit against the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s department for wrongful detention and false imprisonment.
“The sheriff’s department should have never pursued the case, much less kept my client in jail based on the very evidence they have in their possession,” said Persaud. “Their failure to properly investigate and act on that investigation led to the injustice my client endured.”
As for Andrew, he is attempting to put his life back on track, after being disrupted by this case of mistaken identity and wrongful detention. He is currently making plans to enroll at San Bernardino Valley College in the Fall.
“Andrew is a good kid and remains optimistic about life,” said Persuad. “Unfortunately, he was the biggest victim in all of this.”
For more information call Attorney Christopher Persaud at (909) 547-3837 or go online to http://christopherpersaud.org/
About The Law Office of Christopher Persaud
Go at warrantcheckonline.com to read more about the warrant check online.
The Law Office of Christopher Persaud emphasizes its practice on criminal law, bankruptcy, business law, and immigration law throughout Southern California. They also provide legal services to commodities trading advisors, commodities brokers, and other firms in the commodities industry. Each member of their staff is dedicated to providing clients with exceptional professional legal and litigation services, backed by an extensive range of legal credentials and experience.
The California Women’s Conference is designed to benefit women from all walks of life – from the everyday woman to female entrepreneurs worldwide. It is intended to guide and serve women who are creating businesses, strengthening existing ones, and positively advancing their careers and the world around them. The women attending this conference do not wait for things to happen; instead they go out with intention and passion to make the next GREAT thing happen.
THE CALIFORNIA WOMEN’S CONFERENCE – THE WOMEN’S ECONOMY STARTS HERE
Long Beach, CA – The California Women’s Conference, debuting this Fall, is intended to be a forum for the world’s most influential voices, hearts and minds, and will be held at the Long Beach Convention Center on September 23-24th, 2012.This year’s theme is “The Women’s Economy Starts Here.”
This conference is intended to fill in the void left by the “California Governor & First Lady’s Conference on Women,” which, for most of its 27 year history, was a star-studded event hosted by California’s First Ladies.With each successive administration, the size and scope of the event grew exponentially. During the recent past, attendance mushroomed to tens of thousands and sold out within hours of opening ticket sales. It established itself as the largest conference of its kind in the world. However, in 2011, California’s current First Lady, Anne Brown, declined to continue this hosting tradition, citing a desire to focus on other economic priorities. The California Governor & First Lady Conference was not held in 2011 and no plans were announced to hold such a conference in 2012.
With the fate of the tradition of such a conference in the balance, a producer of successful 30,000 in-attendance events stepped into this void to ensure the continuation of the tradition by hosting a new conference at the same venue. Michelle Patterson, CEO of Event Complete, and her team, are now building innovative new traditions into time-honored conference elements put in place by the former First Ladies.
“The women’s economy starts here, and the future is happening now for all women committed to success,” says Patterson, referencing this year’s conference theme and tagline. “This tradition has too rich a legacy, and is too valuable a resource for women dedicated to making a difference, to be allowed to vanish.Visionary women from all backgrounds will be exposed to new and valuable resources, insight and encouragement from other like-minded women, and gain the momentum they need for their next small step or large leap of faith in their personal venture for change.”
Today, with so many feeling the need for such a conference, the new 2012 conference will feature a vast marketplace of ideas, exhibits, and internationally known speakers. While this new conference is not affiliated with the organizations previously responsible for the old California Governor & First Lady’s Conference on Women, the new conference is intended to serve a similar purpose and drive the same benefits for the community of women who came love the California Governor & First Lady’s Conference on Women.
The conference is now accepting sponsorships and exhibitors. For application details and to learn more visit www.californiawomensconference. com. Join the California Women’s Conference community to stay informed of pre-sale ticket information.
About the history and tradition of the CaliforniaGoverner & First Lady Conference on Women The spiritual predecessor of the California Women’s Conference, namely the California Governor & First Lady’s Conference on Women was an annual non-partisan event, was created in 1985 by then-Governor George Deukmejian, to address the high failure rate among women-owned businesses by giving women entrepreneurs greater access to funding and other helpful resources. Selecting the city of Long Beach as the event’s host, city officials and businesses quickly became enthusiastic supporters.Then-First Lady Gloria Deukmejian assumed responsibility for the con- ference, which became known as the California Governor and First Lady’s Conference. After Maria Shriver entered the Governor’s Mansion, she transformed the conference into a star-studded event and renamed it “The Women’s Conference.” Past speakers have included: His Holiness the Dalai Lama,Tenzin Gyatso,First Lady Michelle Obama,OprahWinfrey,former British Prime MinisterTony Blair,Duchess ofYork Sarah Ferguson, Barbara Walters, Jane Fonda, Queen Noor of Jordan,Tyra Banks, Martha Stewart, Madeline Albright, Condoleeza Rice, and many others.Today, the tradition of enthusiastically serving women-owned businesses continues under the stewardship of Michelle Patterson, CEO of Event Complete.
About Event Complete EventComplete, LLC, is a full-service event marketing company specializing in strategy, production and marketing for large scale conferences, workshops, and charitable events.They partner with each client at every step in creating, planning, marketing, and producing signature events in which businesses, non-profits and the community collaborate effectively to maximize marketing objectives.They “complete” events by utilizing their proprietary methods for Marketing Sequence Campaigns,Database Management,Event Registration,Sponsorship Development,andVenue Management.To learn more about Michelle Patterson and Event Complete, visit www.eventcomplete.com.
The California Women’s Conference offers its attendees inspiration, resources, and connections to take the next step in business, personal development, health and wellness, or philanthropic endeavors. Featuring widely respected thought leaders, talented entertainers, and a marketplace of ideas, exhibits, networking and panel discussions, the conference is designed to benefit women from all walks of life.
Tickets go on sale June 15th for this must-attend conference for women
Long Beach, CA – May 29, 2012 – The California Women’s Conference, an event endorsing leading women everywhere, has announced exclusive access to pre-sale tickets available for purchase beginning on June 15, 2012. On this date tickets will be available for businesses and individuals to attend the September 23rd and 24th conference at the Long Beach Convention Center, promoting its theme, “The Women’s Economy Starts Here.”
Women everywhere are anticipating this momentous event as The California Women’s Conference offers attendees inspiration, resources, and connections for greater advancements in personal development, business and career ventures, health and wellness, and philanthropic endeavors. The conference features widely respected thought leaders, talented entertainers, and an infinite marketplace of ideas, exhibits, networking and panel discussions. Intended for women committed to success, and those seeking to connect and inspire, this year’s conference is a must-attend event.
Keynote speakers for this conference are continuing to be added to the lineup. Some of our current featured speakers include, Gloria Allred, Maria Bello, Marcia Cross, Carlos Dominguez, John Gray, Rita Devenport, Donna Karan, Patricia Arquette, Janet Evans, and many more renowned leaders.
For nearly thirty years, women in California have enjoyed a conference that provided women resources for building successful businesses, strengthening careers, and positively influencing the world around them. The mission of The California Women’s Conference is to empower women and provide resources for every aspect of their lives. To learn more and to get information on how to purchase tickets, join our community by visiting www.CaliforniaWomensConference.com.
About the history and tradition of the California Governor & First Lady Conference on Women
The spiritual predecessor of the California Women’s Conference, namely the California Governor & First Lady’s Conference on Women was an annual non-partisan event, and was created in 1985 by then-Governor George Deukmejian, to address the high failure rate among women-owned businesses by giving women entrepreneurs greater access to funding and other helpful resources. Selecting the city of Long Beach as the event’s host, city officials and businesses quickly became enthusiastic supporters.
Then-First Lady Gloria Deukmejian assumed responsibility for the conference, which became known as the California Governor and First Lady’s Conference. In the recent past, this conference became a star-studded event. Past speakers have included: His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Tenzin Gyatso, First Lady Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, Duchess of York Sarah Ferguson, Barbara Walters, Jane Fonda, Queen Noor of Jordan, Tyra Banks, Martha Stewart, Madeline Albright, Condoleeza Rice, and many others. Today, the tradition of enthusiastically serving women-owned businesses continues under the stewardship of Michelle Patterson, CEO of Event Complete.
About EventComplete
EventComplete, LLC, is a full-service event marketing company specializing in strategy, production and marketing for large scale conferences, workshops, and charitable events. They partner with each client at every step in creating, planning, marketing, and producing signature events in which businesses, non-profits and the community collaborate effectively to maximize marketing objectives. They “complete” events by utilizing their proprietary methods for Marketing Sequence Campaigns, Database Management, Event Registration, Sponsorship Development, and Venue Management. To learn more about Michelle Patterson and Event Complete, visit www.eventcomplete.com.
