From Left to Right: Alonso Dominguez, Executive Director, Ron Artest, LA Laker Forward, Karen Rubenstein, Clinical Director

LA Lakers Star Acknowledges Recovery, Speaks to Youth at Echo Malibu Treatment Center

(Malibu, CA – February 22, 2010) – The National Basketball Association’s Los Angeles Laker forward Ron Artest paid a visit to ECHO Malibu Youth Treatment Center on Friday, February 19, but he wasn’t checking in. Artest was there to speak to the youth, alumni, families and staff of ECHO Malibu Treatment Center about his personal, well-documented childhood experiences with drugs and alcohol, as well as his road to success.

“We were honored to have Ron speak with the teens, and grateful for his candor,” said ECHO Malibu’s Executive Director, Alonso Dominguez. “Sports stars are heroes to these kids, so they respond to someone like Ron talking about his struggles.”

Artest was open about his life experiences. Speaking from the heart, an entire room was captivated by his honesty and directness. Some of Artest’s friends even joined in the discussion to talk about their support of his success.

One current resident of ECHO Malibu stated: “Before he arrived, I wanted to try to get him really mad to see what would happen. But once he spoke, I thought he was cool. It was chillin’ that he returned to his hometown and helped his friends who where in trouble.”

Artest graciously answered questions, signed posters, basketballs and jerseys, and posed for pictures.

When leaving Echo Malibu, he told staff that he truly enjoyed his visit and was grateful that he had a chance to be there.