Let’s Talk Franchising!

The concept has “legs” and the demographics for the business with the aging baby boomers is ripe. Honest franchisors will not use every legal opportunity to skim money from your wallet through suppliers and other means…these arbitration hearings all seem to point to dishonesty.

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State to promote Learn and Earn …Blogged about at Sona Med Spa Franchisee takes over as Franchisor - let&1;s talk franchising!,

I just found out that the Sacramento based Sona Med Spa closed their doors and are filing bankruptcy. I invested $900 last year for 5 laser hair reomval treatments and have only received 2 treatments so far. Is there anything you are going to do to help all the Sacramento patients who paid for treatments and are now left out in the cold with no treatments and no money?

I am in the same situation as the previous customer. I invested almost $1,500 in my laser hair removal and had my last treatment scheduled for November 14, 2007. I received a voicemail message from Sona cancelling my appointment on November 13, I was told that someone will be calling to reschedule my last treatment! Now what?? no treatment, no money back? at least give us a credit for the leftover amount to use at a different location to finish up our treatments!!

My wife and I both purchased services from Sacramento Sona office. We were scheduled for appointments and were told that the appointments were going to have to be re-scheduled. We called to find out more and were then told that the office was repainted and that the paint had not dried and that was why they were re-scheduling. Now we find out that was a lie. We e-mailed the corporate office and received a reply. The “franchise” owner as follows:

Duck Hill Corporation
29 Lake Vista Court
Sacramento, CA 95831

Duck Hill Corporation Registered Agent:
Attn: John B. Cinnamon, Inc.
11335 Gold Express Drive, Ste. #105
Gold River, CA 95670-4491

The corporation has to have an “agent” as required on their corporation paperwork.

I’m willing to bet that it may be the attorney. I feel as though as much money that they will owe to the many clients and to Sona Corporate, the clients will see very little return of their initial investment.

I just sent this email to Sona Med Spa:

Dear Sona Med Spa,

There have been a number of postings on my Blog: Let’s Talk Franchising regarding the closure of the Sona Med Spa in Sacramento.

Can you please get back to me with any comments or suggestions you have to help these customers.

Thank you, and please don’t hesitate to contact me with any comments, questions or suggestions.

Jim Coen
Franchise Perfection
675 VFW Parkway #121
Chestnut Hill, MA 02467-3656
Local: 617-469-3002
Toll Free: 877-469-3002
Fax: 617-323-4030
email: jim@franchiseperfection.com
website: Franchise Perfection
blog: Let’s Talk Franchising

Jim Coen is also the Executive Director of the New England Franchise Association (NEFA)

I just got a phone call from Byron Ashbridge, the President of Sona Med Spa International, Inc. Byron stated that the franchisee in Sacramento, Randy Denning, is now closed and is preparing to file for bankruptcy.

Sona Med Spa International, Inc. is also one of the creditors for over $100,000.00. Byron is very interested in satisfying the claims of Sacramento clients as soon as it is clear what the best course of action is.

There is a an option that services may be performed at other facilities nearby or at other Sona Med Spa facilities, unfortunately the closest Sona facilities are in the Bay Area, so that option may not be appealing to all clients.

He stated that his interest is to get this resolved as soon as possible, he has pledge to keep us informed to the progress of the case.

So stay tuned. I’ll keep you posted.

I am in the same position as a prepaid client of Sona Med Spa Sacramento. I want my money back. As a consumer of this type of service, I would now demand that I only pay a per service rendered price. This pay up front approach when so many med spas are going bankrupt is unfair to consumers. I am in government affairs, and I inted to pursue this with the CA Dept of Consumer Affairs, and also possibly with the Legislature, and with CareCredit, the credit card to which I applied through Sona to charge my prepaid services on.

The misleading message I too received the day before my scheduled appointment was fraudulent, making you believe they were going to call you back and reschedule you. Today (11/26) I called back a got a recorded message that said something else.

If Sona Med Spa International wants to do what it should to avoid further liability with these consumers and other franchise owners that may choose bankruptcy as well, it should be sure to do what it can to salvage the Sona name it sells, and refund money to prepaid client victims, before collecting on or retaining its $100,000 its owed by the Sacramento owner.

I am also a prepaid client of Sona MedSpa in Sacramento (1860 Howe Ave #230). I would also like my money back, please don’t make this more difficult for the consumer then it already is by asking us to go somewhere else to get services.

Sona owes me several hundred dollars of prepaid treatments.

I support Caroline S’.
I will also pursue this with the CA Dept of Consumer Affairs.

I’ve listed an additional complaint to the BBB.

My wife and I also prpaid for services at the Sona MedSpa in Sacramento for skin treaments and lost around $600. If anyone is persuing a class action suit against Sona MedSpa I would like to participate. The franchisee AND franchisor should be held lible.

ericzman@earthlink.net

I HOPE THIS HELPS.
As a long time medical spa consultant I would like to offer some advice to all of you searching for hair removal services > at any medical spa facility> DO NOT PRE-PAY for a packege of services. It may seem like a better deal to purchase a program and pay up front, however this is not suggested. Over the years I have seen this as a horrid problem in the industry. Pay as you go and ask for a discount coupon toward the program cost so they will keep your business!

I am also a customer of the sona med in Sacramento that prepaid for facial treatments. I bought a pixel treatment package for $1900 and only received 2 out 3 treatments. I also bought a facial package and received 0 out of 4 treatments, that was $230. Now I’m stuck with a credit card bill and no services. I also would like my money back. I dont want to go to another spa center, just my money!!!

I am also a prepaid client of Sona MedSpa in Sacramento (1860 Howe Ave #230). i going today to small court claim today iIm not going to wait for this people to go bankrupt they have not even try to contact me they have my cell phone work number home number email and physical address and still not received any info that they were closed i paid them 3,395.00 i got two treatment wich i was not happy and i was told by them the after finishing the treatment and if i did not see any changes i will be partially refund or they will give me three more free treatments wich now i know is never going to happend

I am also a customer of Sona Med Spa in Sacramento. I prepaid for 3 pixel laser treatments and have not received any of them. I would be willing to be part of a class action lawsuit. I am absolutely furious. They charged my care credit account only a couple of days before they closed their doors. I am furious

I bought a package for my wife as a birthday gift, spent over $3000.00, she has only been for her first treatments and now this. I do not know how they selected who was to be notified, she has her follow up appointments scheduled for next week.
Had we not been told about this by a friend we would never have known, I do not understand how they can be allowed to get away with this, I do not have this kind of money lying around, it was a special gift for my wife and now we both lose.
We will stand with everyone who are in the same boat, they owe us money and we want it back.

Same here re Sona Medspa. I walked up to the door last Monday to find a note saying they were closed and a phone # to call. I called the # and a recorded message said I would be added to list of creditors (how do they know who I am???) and I could possibly get discounted services at another Sona Medspa (I’m not paying any more $!). I paid $1300 for 5 laser treatments and got 2. Where do we go from here????

I am sorry for the inconvenience all Sona clients have experienced in Sacramento. As the founder of Aria MedSpa in Folsom, CA I have contacted Sona corporate in an effort to at least offer Sona clients a big discount on finishing services at my location. If anyone is looking for an honest, warm, safe and trustworthy medical spa to finish services please call us. 916.985.2742 or email me at: kelleyt@ariamedspa.com

Like others who have been ROBBED, I’m very unhappy with the current situation. I did get some infomation that the Bunkruptcy Counsel for “Duck Hill Corp” is Walter or Candy Dahl in Sacto at 916-446-8800. What I understand is that they have yet to file the bankrupcy claim. Until they do, we cannot file a claim- the number to find out if they have filed is 916-930-4400. According to KCRA Call 3 Jack Tuesday, you do not need an attorny to file a claim once the bankruptcy case is filed. If anyone is organizing to file class action, I’m in.

hi i file the claim last week i will have court on 1/31/08 if you wait until they file bankkraptcy then you never recover you money because brankcraptcy protect them however if you file and get a gudgment then you become part of the bankracpty meaning they must pay you first then they pay the deators but if you don’t file they will pay the deators but not you because bankcraptcy protect them so you must go to SACRAMENTO SUPERIOR COURT TO SMALL CLAIMS IF THEY OWE YOU UNDER 5,000.00 NOT SURE IF YOU CAN ASK FOR THE SAME DAY I HAVE MY COURT BUT WILL BETTER IF WE ARE A GROUP ANY QUESTIONG MY EMAIL IS ivan@premierlife.com

leisa Hamm not sure who told you can’t file the claim but you can need to go to small claims superior court
you don’t need an attorney and there is a 50.00 dollar fee

I paid $3000 for laser hair removal at Sona MedSpa Sacramento and only received 4 out of 10 treatments. I sent certified letters to Duck Hill’s Agent for Service of Process, the CA AG’s Office, CA Dept. of Consumer Affairs, BBB, my CA senator and representative, and the FTC, asking for my money back or treatments at the San Mateo MedSpa.

I was planning to file a small claim as well as a bankruptcy claim against Sona, but like most everyone else, I don’t have $500 an hour to hire an attorney. If someone knows of a good fraud attorney to represent us, I am happy to chip in if they don’t work on contingency.

oldcathay@hotmail.com

I am interested in trying to recoup ANY of my money.
I paid $1800.00 upfront for laser hair removal.
The treatments I DID received were shoddy- rushed and incomplete.
If a refund is not possible, I am interested in transferring my account with NO additional money out pocket.
I can’t convey how unappealing it is to be patchy. And how utterly disappointed I am with this whole Sona experience.
I truly hope Sona (Corp.) will do the right thing and take care of their clients who trusted in their national name.

diane
916.806.6999
dianedehart@gmail.com

My certified letter to Sona’s Agent for Service of Process came back as “attempted delivery, not known, unable to forward”. Duck Hill Corporation and John B. Cinnamon have fraudulent/missing/out of date information with the County of Sacramento and the CA Secretary of State. The Sona franchisee Randy Denning is a complete scam artist. I have filed complaints with the Sacramento DA’s Office, the AG’s Office, and the State Medical Board (against Sona’s never-present “medical director” David Ferrera).

all the legal complaints need to go to sona medspa corp

840 CRESENT CENTER DR
FRANKLIN TN 37067

FOR THE AGENT OF SERVICE
Alex Bernard
he is in charge of dealing with all the complaints against any sona med spa that is who i have for my small claims court complaint

Sounds like I am one of many pissed off clients of SONA MedSap Sacto. I, too, just bought the laser underarm pkg for $600 and have had 1 treatment. They still owe me one final bikini laser hair removal as well, so I figure I’m out about $800. (not to mention I referred them to a friend who has also lost money) I am in for a class action suit for sure. It will be a cold day in hell that I drive to the Bay area to get a laser treatment!!

I am another of the unlucky Sacramento SONA MedSpa saga. I prepaid $500.00 in the beginning of 2007 for a bikini hair removal package and have had two procedures done. I was not informed of the franchise closing and found out when I called to confirm my appointment for December 7, 2007. I, too, received the dreaded message of the business being closed. I will be part of any class action suit and would like my money back. Feel free to contact me at my email addess: lflynner@yahoo.com.

Dear Clients,
As the nurses of SONA Med Spa we just wanted to let everyone know we feel bad about what has occured. All of us are out of a job. We truly enjoyed working with all of you! We were caught off guard just like you were, we had NO notice what so ever. Our job was client based and we not involed in the management part of SONA. In fact they would dismiss any of our suggestions!!!! SONAs demise was due to an inconsistant management turnover and undercutting of service pricing!! Please respond to the nurse through this website!!!
Thank you, SONA Nurses (ex)

to the ex sona nurses can you give us names of owner,manager so we can include them on our law suit and can you tell us exactly that day they closed down thank you

Randy Dinning, owner
closed november 10, 2007

I looked into Small Claims and understand that you have to serve (or have served) the papers to SOMEONE. Does anyone know if this Randy Dinning is local (to Sacramento) and if so, is there and address? Thanks.

I too am a pissed off Sona customer SCAMMED out of $1300. I have evidence this guy knew he was closing back in August but continued accepting money from new clients to line his pockets. I’m working with the CA AG’s office to find out what my rights are as a consumer and will leave no stone unturned. You can bet I’m not only going after Sona, but also after David Ferrera’s medical license. Come out, come out, wherever you are David Ferrera! You can file bankruptcy, but losing your medical license will hurt even more.

PS to the poster above who said to not buy a package upfront, that’s the only way Sona let you buy services. Or at least that’s what they told me.

I would suggest that you look up the law firm (Garner) who won the settlement for the franchisee’s earlier this year. You can also see his statements by searching Sona Franchising Blog. The franchisee’s were sold the products, services and so on. They were proven not to work. Now this is just my view. Heather Rose seems to have been dismissed and sent along her way, possibly for her conduct at work and while repersenting Sona at other functions. She seem’s to have an eye for the boy’s when out of town. I heard that she has hooked up with a country singer (Chad Bradford) that while at the IFA had a fling with and has since discarded husband and since then lost her position with Sona. I believe they were sold a bill of goods by Dennis Jones and that the products and services were of question. There are alot of customers and Franchisee’s that feel they were sold down the river. Pitt will bring some character to Sona and I think will deal in an honest and ethical manner with all involved. I feel for people who lost money and more. Thanks for letting me have my say. It is great to be able to express your op in this forum. I have heard that Heather Rose will be in the ice cream business with her dad?

i received this letter from sona medspa this morning

December 12, 2007
Dear Sōna MedSpa of Sacramento Client,
Thank you again for contacting us regarding the closure of the Sōna MedSpa location in
Sacramento, California (the “Center”). We are continuing our efforts to investigate the situation
with the Center and have more information to pass along to you.
Please recall from the previous letter, that Sōna MedSpa International, Inc., through its
affiliate, Sōna Laser Centers, Inc. (“Sōna”) operates a franchise system in which independent
business owners are licensed to own and operate businesses using Sōna’s trademarks, processes
and other intellectual property. Duck Hill Corporation, a California corporation (“Duck Hill”),
was the owner and manager of the Center. While Sōna had licensed Duck Hill to use the “Sōna”
name and certain proprietary systems and methods under a franchise agreement, Sōna is not
otherwise affiliated with Duck Hill. Sōna does not have and has not had an ownership or
management interest in Duck Hill or the Center. All contracts for services were entered into
with Duck Hill, not Sōna. More importantly, all amounts paid by consumers for future
treatments were paid to and accepted by Duck Hill, not Sōna.
Sōna has recently discovered that Duck Hill is in the process of filing bankruptcy. To
obtain more information about the bankruptcy please contact Duck Hill’s Bankruptcy Counsel,
Walter Dahl, Esq. at (916) 446-8800.
Duck Hill has informed Sōna that Duck Hill has setup a process for returning each
client’s medical records. To obtain your medical records, please send a request including all of
your contact information and a self-addressed 9” x 12” envelope to:
R. David Ferrera, M.D.
107 Scripps Drive, Suite 210
Sacramento CA 95825
If your medical records require extensive photo copying, Dr. Ferrera may request
reimbursement of copy and postage fees. Please note that Dr. Ferrara is only providing
assistance as it relates to the medical records and cannot assist you in answering any questions
relating to Duck Hill, continuing your treatments or assisting you in receiving a refund.
Additionally, Sōna has also learned that another medical spa has expressed an interest in
servicing your remaining treatments after you speak with them so they can clearly understand the
nature of your remaining treatments. If you desire to contact this medical spa after you obtain a
copy of your medical records you may do so at the following address or phone number:

Aria MedSpa
1360 E. Natoma Street, Suite 100
Folsom, CA 95630
916-985-2742
840 Crescent Centre Drive, Suite 260, Franklin, TN 37067

Be sure that you to identify yourself as a client of the Center and please do not contact
Aria MedSpa until you have obtained a copy of your medical records. It should be understood
that Aria MedSpa is not affiliated with Sōna or Duck Hill and has no obligation or requirement
to service any remaining treatments of the client’s of Center and are simply providing their
assistance as Aria MedSpa deems appropriate.
If you should have further questions, concerns, inquiries, or demands to make please
address them to either the attorney listed above or the owners and manager of the Center, Duck
Hill Corporation at the following addresses listed on the California Secretary of State website:
Duck Hill Corporation Duck Hill Corporation Registered Agent
29 Lake Vista Court Attn: John B. Cinnamon, Inc.
Sacramento, CA 95831 11335 Gold Express Drive, Suite 105
Gold River, CA 95670-4491
Again, we apologize for any inconvenience this has caused you.
Yours truly,
Sōna MedSpa International, Inc.

December 12, 2007
Dear Sōna MedSpa of Sacramento Client,
Thank you again for contacting us regarding the closure of the Sōna MedSpa location in
Sacramento, California (the “Center”). We are continuing our efforts to investigate the situation
with the Center and have more information to pass along to you.
Please recall from the previous letter, that Sōna MedSpa International, Inc., through its
affiliate, Sōna Laser Centers, Inc. (“Sōna”) operates a franchise system in which independent
business owners are licensed to own and operate businesses using Sōna’s trademarks, processes
and other intellectual property. Duck Hill Corporation, a California corporation (“Duck Hill”),
was the owner and manager of the Center. While Sōna had licensed Duck Hill to use the “Sōna”
name and certain proprietary systems and methods under a franchise agreement, Sōna is not
otherwise affiliated with Duck Hill. Sōna does not have and has not had an ownership or
management interest in Duck Hill or the Center. All contracts for services were entered into
with Duck Hill, not Sōna. More importantly, all amounts paid by consumers for future
treatments were paid to and accepted by Duck Hill, not Sōna.
Sōna has recently discovered that Duck Hill is in the process of filing bankruptcy. To
obtain more information about the bankruptcy please contact Duck Hill’s Bankruptcy Counsel,
Walter Dahl, Esq. at (916) 446-8800.
Duck Hill has informed Sōna that Duck Hill has setup a process for returning each
client’s medical records. To obtain your medical records, please send a request including all of
your contact information and a self-addressed 9” x 12” envelope to:

R. David Ferrera, M.D.
107 Scripps Drive, Suite 210
Sacramento CA 95825

If your medical records require extensive photo copying, Dr. Ferrera may request
reimbursement of copy and postage fees. Please note that Dr. Ferrara is only providing
assistance as it relates to the medical records and cannot assist you in answering any questions
relating to Duck Hill, continuing your treatments or assisting you in receiving a refund.

If you should have further questions, concerns, inquiries, or demands to make please
address them to either the attorney listed above or the owners and manager of the Center, Duck
Hill Corporation at the following addresses listed on the California Secretary of State website:

Duck Hill Corporation Duck Hill Corporation Registered Agent
29 Lake Vista Court Attn: John B. Cinnamon, Inc.
Sacramento, CA 95831 11335 Gold Express Drive, Suite 105
Gold River, CA 95670-4491

you need to contact this guy

I recently discovered that Duck Hill is in the process of filing bankruptcy. To
obtain more information about the bankruptcy please contact Duck Hill’s Bankruptcy Counsel,
Walter Dahl, Esq. at (916) 446-8800.

If you should have further questions, concerns, inquiries, or demands to make please
address them to either the attorney listed above or the owners and manager of the Center, Duck
Hill Corporation at the following addresses listed on the California Secretary of State website:
Duck Hill Corporation
29 Lake Vista Court
Sacramento, CA 95831

Duck Hill Corporation Registered Agent
Attn: John B. Cinnamon, Inc
11335 Gold Express Drive, Suite 105
Gold River, CA 95670-4491

Call Jim Amos, his number is in the phone book. Franklin, TN.He was the principal in the founding of Sona. Garner was the name of the attorney who won the settlement. His firm is new york based and I believe he only does class action with a specialty in franchise law. Maybe the officers can be held liable because of the fraud finding. The franchisee was sold on the fact that the products, treatments and services worked. The case said that the fenchisee’s were “duped”. You can type in Soan Med Spas found guilty of fraud” on Google and you should be able to see the entire case finding. Heather Rose is no longer with Sona but was very active in the sales and presentation of the UFOC to potential franchisee’s.Seems to me that there could be a liability isusse for the previous officers because of the fraud and the fact that the franchisee was operating under Sonas guide lines and marketing plans. Sounds like everyone lost but Heather Rose. I wonder how much the officers lost? Food for thought.

I piad upfront $2.600.00 for laser rejuvination, I received olny 2 of 6 procedures. I want my money back.

I was blindsided when I called Sona today to set up some more appointments. I couldn’t believe they were closed!! I have more than half of my treatments left and I spent nearly $4,000.00 upfront for 4 areas of laser and facial treatments.

Thank you to all who have shared their information thus far. I will be requesting my medical records and trying to set up new treatments with Aria Med Spa. Please count me in for the class action suit if anyone is gathering names. I am so upset by this whole thing, it’s unfair to so many people.

I’ve lost 3,000 on this sonda medspa bankruptcy. I have had 2/10 treatments and i have no clue about how to file a claim. Could someone email me or call me what their claiming plan is or how their going about this situation.

thanks so much,

Sam,
916-335-1251

My loss was not as bad, as most of yours, around $200. Of course, I want my money back. I would rather buy my daughter a winter clothes, instead of giving it to a big fat lier. But what makes me even more angree is that I started my bikini treatment 2 years ago. Originally, when I was inside the sale office of Sona, it sounded like a ultimate beauty treatment. The consultant assured me that after 5 bikini treatments I will get the resaults I want. It has been more than 2 years now, and after 7 treatments I still have not acheved the reasults. It it very dissapointing to find out that after I pre-paid my 8th treatment, I will not get the searvice and still be the same as 2 years ago. Is something wrong with ther laser machines or it’s just me? Anyway, please include me in all of the feauture class action suits. You can contact me at olan144@comcast.net

I was wondering how you request your records when the place is closed? I paid $1500 dollars for my treatments and only recieved half of them. I feel so sick right now thinking about that money…I never spend money on myself like that, being a single parent. My head feels like it could explode!!!!

Both my daughter and I have lost out as well! Also, how many of you waited 4 hours for your treatments? We did……and drove over two hours to get to Sona. They NEVER offered us any services like they told us they would. My daughter had to give a mths notice at her job to schedule these appts too………they just called and said they had to reschedule appts. as the office was being remodeled, would call us back, and never did! I called them tonight, and just found out about the closure!! WE ARE PISSED!

For those of you looking for a place to go that you can trust. I found Rejuvene and Dr. Richey!!!! I went to him in Chico, CA. he is amazing and does all the work. I went in to “turn my frown upside down” and he found skin cancer on my face. Needless to say the cancer had been on my face the entire time I was having treatments at Sona……I can’t believe this wasn’t caught two years ago during a facial, a peel, or AFT photofacial……or any other treatments! Ladies, do yourself a favor……have a pro work on your skin, you’ll be happy you did! Dr. Richey is a very kind doctor. I can’t say enough about him and his team! If you have any questions call his office 530-342-8295…..you’ll be happy you did!
Good luck……

B Shafer
P.S. Some of the pricing is better than Sona’s, and they offer little perks along the way.

Dr. Richey
Rejuvene
251 Cohasset Road, Suite 240
Chico, California 95926
530-342-8295

I just got a letter stating that Sona MedSpa Sacramento is independently owned…to that I so so what! Sona…I want my money back! That check I wrote out for $1500 was to Sona. I located Sona MedSpa through the Sona website. I went to Sona because I thought it was a well know reputable company. I got another letter informing me I can get a discount at another location…what a joke! Never, ever, ever, again!

Looks like I am the last to know. Today I walked right up to the darkened doors and windows on the second floor to make an appoitnment and could not believe my eyes! Two little white pieces of paper stating they had filed bankruptcy. They also said they had mailed out notices to all those with funds at Sona and if we didn’t see anything in the mail we should go to some frigging bankruptcy website. I stood there in disbelief! No, I never knew, never got a letter, and I have at least $900.00 worth of funds there waiting–or should I say in the gas tanks of the crooks that robbed us Porsches? Since I was on my lunch and certainly not expecting this!!!–I had no pen or anything to write the bankruptcy website down. Does anyone have it?
I cannot imagine the magnitude of those people who still do not know about this…there must be hundreds!!

I’m one of the people who was victimized by this effin bastard. Can someone tell us, what steps need to be taken to go forward? I received my letter in the mail this past week about the bankruptcy filing, and heard on Sonas voicemail to contact the doctor for our med records…but does anyone know exactly what we need to do to be included on the suite or whatever?

I wrote to Dr. Fererra, as suggested above, and did indeed receive copies of my medical records. And to my surprise, it was a fairly prompt turnaround time. At least it’s a start. Hopefully another laser center will help some of us out by giving us a little price break to finish our treatments.

I am so mad. I have lost 1500 in a treatment I never recieved. This was something I was looking forward to before my wedding. Now I am broke and upset. How do we file a claim. I never received a letter or a call.

I am also a client at Sona and figure I am out about $900. Please involve me if there is any class action suit! There is no clear path on how we get our money back…this is so frustrating!

Dear Ex-Sona Clients,
As former Sona registered nurses, we are very sorry for the losses you have incurred. We have lost alot too. Sona’s demise was our push to start our own laser center. As of February 1st, we will be starting our business in Folsom. Rest assured we will take in consideration your losses and offer a discount for your remaining services. We have an excellent reputation and are highly trained using multiple types of lasers. Please contact “Skin 2 Envy and Elite Laser Center” at #990-0907 for your consultation. To obtain your medical records, please send a request with a self-addressed 9″ X 12″ envelope to:
R. David Ferrera, M.D.
107 Scripps Drive, Suite 210
Sacramento CA 95825

If you know of other Sona clients who aren’t reading the blog, please pass on our information. We look forward to working with our former clients!

Roxanne Olsson,R.N.
Peggy McQuade, R.N.
Jennifer Hatfield, N.P.
Caroline Greenberg R.N.

I like many of you received only one of my five services. I am disgusted with Sona Corporation for taking NO finiacial responsibility and doing NOTHING to make this worng right. I even offered to drive to the San Mateo or San Jose Sona location to finish my services and unlike what is posted above they said this was NOT possible. I was very excited about Aria Med Spa, but when I contacted them their discount package was going to be the same price as the package I already bought. And do they think I really want to buy another package after this? When I lived in Los Angeles we could buy individual services for very reasonable prices. For example I got bikini and underams done for $99 per visit. So I know it can be done in Sacramento, but Sacramento is not as competitive. I left a message for the Nurses and Elite today and am crossing my fingers for good news. The nurses I did meet were very professional and nice, but it would have to be a pretty BIG discount to make this feel any better. I would think some companies out there would do a few services for free for PR. If they believe in their product clients will be back for more. Has anyone found anyway to get some peace of mind over throwing this money away? I toss and turn just thinking about how wrong it all is.

I am also a client at the sacramento sona medspa. It’s very frustrating to find out that it’s been closed. I used to live in Sacramento but have moved to Fresno and have been traveling 3 hours each way for my treatments. Since I’ve moved, sona did not have my new address but I’ve given them my new phone #. Still, I did not get a call about my appointment being cancelled. I had an appt on 11/17/07 and I found out I was pregnant so I called to find out if it was okay to do the treatments while pregnant and to my surprise I get the message stating it was closed. It’s a good thing I didn’t drive 3 hours to find this out because I would have been even more furious. I’ve paid $1500 and still have one treatment left. When I first met with the original representative/office manager Victoria, she told me that because I was asian and have darker hair, sometimes it took more than the normal to get rid of all the hair. So after my 5 treatments, if I needed more, it would be free, at least 2 treatments. I did two areas of my body and finished one area but hair is still growing in that area and I spoke to sona med about this and they did not back up what Victoria said, they said I would have to pay for more treatments. I am not happy about this, and even more furious about them closing. I didn’t pay this much money to still have hair growing! I don’t know what to do from here. I live in fresno, does that mean I have to drive to sacramento court to file a claim or can I file one here in fresno? If anyone is going to file a class action suit, please include me in. Here is my information to contact me. Anyone who can help with any information is appreciated.

Chong Thao
(916) 212-5605
frsc2t@hotmail.com

I too am out $2155. for 5 each of 3 treatment areas & received 1 treatment only. They called me 2 days before closing advising me they were charging my credit card for the $555. balance that was to be paid at the 2nd treatment apt. of Dec. 9. I had paid $1600 when I recieved my initial treatment. I am very upset along with the rest of you especially since they underhandedly charged the addl. $555. 2 days before closing!! Does anyone have the bankruptcy claim no? I have completely the U.S. Bandruptcy claim form but need the claim no. in order to complete the filing.

Thank you,

Amy Fischlin
afischlin@sbcglobal.net

I am sorry to hear of all the trouble with your experience and distress after planning and paying for treatments that will never be received.

As a board certified surgeon, I specialize in weight loss surgery and I am expanding my practice to include laser skin treatments, IPL, and infrared skin tightening procedures. I have found this will complete the transformation that many of my successful weight loss surgery patients have made. I am happy to offer a significant discount to patients who have been victimized by the “medical spa” marketplace. All procedures will be done personally my myself, not by a nurse or technician, and in my private, professional office. Laser treatment is medical therapy and in my opinion is best performed by a physician.

Dr. Laura Machado
Feel free to call my office for complete details
info@sacbar.com
916-338-7200

Yes, laser treatment is a medical procedure, and can be performed VERY PROFESSIONALLY and adequately by well trained RN’s–this is an expanding nursing field with many classes and certifications in all areas of laser, skin rejuvenation, and injectables.

i request my files to
dr R. David Ferrera, M.D.
107 Scripps Drive, Suite 210
Sacramento CA 95825
so i received a called and i was told if i want my records i have to pay them first then they will send to me it was not much money but after all the damage and stress sona medspa has make me go throught now i have to pay them is just ridiculous so don’t spect getting yours records for free does any body knows how to complaint about this dr. where i can go and file a complaint so he license can be taken away

The fee you are being charged by Dr. Ferrera’s office for copying your records is to cover supplies and postage. No need to take away his medical license for that.

Couple of things…I did get my records from Dr. Ferrera with no charge only to send in a request in writing with a stamped (2 stamps) self-addressed envelope and they arrived within 2 weeks. Second, if you financed through CareMark, give them a call and you can file a dispute. I already have and I’m not sure if I will get any $$ back, but it was worth the price of a phone call and a stamp. Third, I have a hard time believing that they are an independent franchise. I started going to them 3-4 years ago and the person who sold me my initial 2 treatment areas (Jeryl) was transferred to their “corporate” office. If it is an independent franchise as they are saying, why do they offer employees transfers? And lastely, does anyone know if they are going to honor the remaining treatments at their locations in the Bay Area?

Randy Dinning, the owner, appears to live at the 95831 address listed above for the “Duck Hill Corporation.” This is not a business address. This is a residential address. “Duck Hill Corporation” is being run out of a residential gated community with million dollar homes. If he is running a business from what appears to be his home, he needs the proper business license permits…

Like many, I was a Sona Sac customer… I actually walked up for an appt in Jan to find the office closed. I always worried about the shaddy aspect of getting medical treatments by the Sona crew. Anyway, so like other here… I am looking for alternatives. I suggest having treatments done in a doctors office, this will not fully protect us from this type of fraud but I think it can reduce the risk. I am a Kaiser member and KP actually has cosmetic services open to member and NON members. These are pay for services… not covered by Kaiser. Here is the link…

http://www.kpcosmeticservices.com/locations/sacramento-cosmetic-services.cfm

i never said that i want to take his license because of the fee for the records he was also one of the associates of medspa center he did not care about us the clients receving treatment and knowing the they were going to file for bankraptcy they continue making contracts and taking our money that he needs to have his license takeng away

P.S. i send the office of dr a prepaid envelop so is not for postage that they are charging if they need to make copies why they need to keep my origianl copies i did not sign any release form for this dr to get my private information i never met him on medspa i was never told by medspa that other people will be able to get my original private documentation

Dear former Sona Clients,

Aria MedSpa is willing to service all Sona clients at a discount. Unfortunately, Aria did not receive any compensation from Sona and we are extending 30% discounts to Sona clients on prices that are already very competitive. Please keep in mind that what you paid for laser hair removal two years ago is not necessarily the current going rate and that treatments should not be spread out every 3 to 4 months, but 6 to 8 weeks. Also keep in mind the involvement of a physician in the practice as well as the brand of laser being used as there is a huge variation in laser effectiveness. We have complimentary consultations and have a fabulous staff and facility. Please call me with any other questions: 916.985.2742

To Sona Nurses,

If for some reason your new arrangements do not work out with Skin 2 Envy please contact me as I am looking to expand services, staff and am open to various ownership models. Thanks!

Kelley Tyburski, Aria MedSpa
916.365.6268

I was a Sona client that had a couple treatments remaining that have now been lost with the Sacramento Sona bankruptcy. I was eager to get my scheduled treatments going somewhere else and I ended up going to Aria Medspa in Folsom after emailing with Kelley (see posting above). I was very satisfied with the quality of the service at Aria. The nurse, the staff and owner were very friendly and sympathetic to the problems caused by Sona. I suggest checking out their services, the “spa” is very nice, new, and the staff very professional. Regardless of my advice, shop around and visit clinics so you are more confident in your choices… Sona was shaddy from the start…. Good luck.

http://www.ariamedspa.com/

I went today to the sona medspa court meeting with the judge and the sona medspa owner if you did not file the claim today at 1:30 you are not getting any money he will only be able to pay around 100 people accrding to judge so i hope everybody here went to the court meeting within 6 months we will know if we get any of the money because owner will pay first to who he owe more then go down

My Notice of chapter 7 bankruptcy case paper work states that “the deadline to file a proof of claim” is 4/10/08. Are we to believe that this is not a deadline that is to be of any value for compensation of monies prepaid. I will continue to monitor this site for any information offered.

I left my information on the phone # provided for the Attorney (Walter Dahl) and received a notice of Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Case Meeting that was Fri Jan 11. On the notice I received from the court, I have until 4-10-08 to submit my claim. I did not go to the meeting but feel certain that because I received the notice, I’ll be included in the claim (as long as I submit my claim before the above date). Can anyone comment as to if I’m correct??

Heather Rose was not qualified to be the CEO. It was a position that her father made available for her. She is on the IFA because of her father. She talks a good talk but wait until the wine starts pouring. She is a digrace to franchising and to the women in franchising. She was able to bypass hard work and years of experience through her father. Google her name and you will see negative reviews of her work and character. I have yet to see one positive note. I worked with Sona from the onset, overstaffed and highly paid executives with no revenues. Sounds like a good business plan? The real victims are the franchisees and the investors of the company who have to come in and clean up. You can be sure of one thing. Where Jim Amos is you will find Heather and the same old MBE, TCBY cronies on the payroll.

last friday i received a letter from Walter Dahl wich indicates that the theft owner of sona medspa does not have any money or property so meaning that we are not receiving any money

Sona MedSpa of Sacramento owner hiding under the name of Duck Hill Corporation, you know who you are, you are no better then a thief and the whole business including the Corporate Office is a racket. Is this the American way to file bankruptcy and steal thousands of dollars from innocent people? You should be put in jail for what you have done.

SKINovative Laser Center
(located temporarily within Skin 2 Envy)

Exclusively for
SONA CLIENTS
30% off per treatment
no packages needed!

Michael A. Greenberg, Medical Director
6611 Folsom-Auburn Road, Ste. E
Folsom, CA. 95630
916-989-LASR (989-5277)

Your favorite, former SONA Nurses are
announcing the opening of their own laser center in Folsom, CA.

February 1, 2008

We will be offering:
Botox®
Dermal Fillers
Skin Rejuvenation
Laser Hair Removal
Acne Treatments
Chemical Peels
Body Contouring and Sculpting with Accent XL

Call for a free consultation today!
Appointments are filling up fast!

Jennifer N.P. Peggy R.N.
Caroline R.N. Roxann R.N.

i went to my court day for small claims and judge (really nice lady)sona med spa owner did not show so judge told me that only way i can get some money back is to go after the owner so she ask me to go back to court next month and to go to the secretary of state to get a statment of domestic stock corp wich will show the name of the sona spa owner so she can go after him not the corp Duck Hill Corporation because he is doing bankruptcy for his company not for him so i will go after him and his properties and get some of my many very smart the thieft using his company as bankruptcy not his name so he can keep all our monay i not going to stop until i get some of my money

The owner did nothing wrong here. Companies go bankrupt every day. I know for a fact he did everything in his power not to have to take this route and pushed hard until the very end. It is wrong to attack someone for doing something he did not do. He is not a thief. He is not a horrible person at all. He was scammed into starting a company that had “failure company” written on it from the beginning and he now has not one dime to show for it. Go to corporate if you’re going to go to somebody. The owner of the Sacramento location and all other Sona MedSpa locations are just as innocent as the rest of you. Leave him and his charactor alone. It hurts to read these words written about a man that is so loving he would freeze giving the shirt off of his back. He was scammed. Move on!

he still a thieft took money from us and an idiot who will start a compnay not knowing anything about it only an idiot and if you don’t like to read what we all think about him then don’t read it K

K - are you f$cking serious? Get over it? Do you realize how many people are out THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS? We’re not talking a couple of bucks here so no one is going to GET OVER IT. If he tried so hard - why did he keep taking peoples’ money KNOWING he was going to declare bankruptcy. That reads THIEF ALL OVER IT.

Regarding K’s comments above - While he may have been scammed into an unprofitable business model, the fact that he continued to sell new prepaid packages when he knew that he was trying to pay past debts and that insolvency was inevitable, that is immoral and fraudulent. It is my understanding that when my second package of treatments was sold to me, that there was already evidence of insolvency, though it was not being shared publicly. There may be shared blame with this operator and Sona Corporate, but this operator knew he was trying to dig himself out of his self-imposed financial hole from his own failing business and it has cost people thousands of dollars. Bankruptcy may happen often, but it is too often, and those who choose that route have made many mistakes to put themselves in that position. K - you should put yourself in the shoes of people who have lost money, many of us thousands, and have no recourse. You are the insensitive person here.

I am in your shoes. I did lose a lot of money. He is still not a bad man. The company failed. Corporate is to blame. End of my words. This is where I stop typing.

good finally

I too got scammed out of $1000 by Randy Denning. If anyone is interested in a CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT, please contact me at Monica11052003@yahoo.com. If anyone has any up-to-date information on how to make this loser pay me back, please let me know. I’m going to court in 2 hours, so I’ll let everyone know the outcome.

To the Author K - You are making me sick. We could care less that you are saddened. If your so saddened, then why don’t you pay us back. I am a hard working person as well as all the other people that gave Duck Hill Corporation money. It is a crime that is deguised as Bankruptcy and in my opinion the person that took my money is a theif. I purchased those treatments in good faith and got nothing in return. If he would give me the shirt off his back, I’ll take that and at least I might be able to sell that on EBay to recoup some of my money. Did my money pay his salary? Which also paid his mortgage and other personal expenses, yes it did. Is he living in a house while I live in a crappy duplex in a bad part of town, probably. I want my money back - K - you get over it. Oh, poor franchise owner had to file bankruptcy, yeah I feel sorry for him. What a bunch of B.S.

Mrs. Rose shows no remorse for the hundreds of people that were left out in the cold, she also has less concern for the Zee. She left wtih a nice package and will be on her way to her next position with daddy. There was never any concern for the client or a pledge of outstanding service. Franchises are built on a burning desire to provide a world class experience though service to the customer and a partnership to the franchisee. The model will not work without that component. The only passion was a desire to sell more franchise’s and then spin them off. The customer was left short changed but the franchisee has lost million’s in some cases. They first sell the dream to the propsective franchisee with promise’s of a very lucrative business along with the promise of support, advertising and the business model. in this case they were instructed to sell packages that were paid in advance and the str was paid then, not accured. The operator found they had sold treatments for the next year with no income but still the operating expense. It was to raise capital for the corp operating expenses. It failed. Everyone lost. I worked with SONA and I can tell there was a huge level of greed and people who just plain covet. Mrs. Rose has no character with has been well established on many of these BLOGS. Franchising is about helping to make peoples dreams come true. These people will fight in any way to make sure the franchisee is always the one who pays the price. The UFOC is complex and always to the advantage of the franchisor. Beware of Heather Rose and any future franchise that she may be involved with. She is on the board of the IFA (her father made that happen) and you would hope that would set the example for women in franchising.

Why don’t you check out the article and comments: http://www.medicalspamd.com/the-blog/2006/11/22/sona-medspas-an-unhappy-franchise-owner.html

Mr Ron Berglund explains very well what Sona Sac Owner has been through. And, the possible thousands each of you have lost, he has lost over a million. This is a sad, but realistic, fact of our economy! Businesses all over this country are being forced into their closing doors. The med spa industry is up there as one of the least likely to succeed.

This has been a real life lesson for me and you can be sure that I will never again pay for services not yet rendered!

I am now in the same boat as the other Sacramento Sona Med Spa clients who got completely stiffed. I paid Sona Med Spa $940 for hair removal. My next appointment was going to be today. I was called and told that the company had gone out of business and that I would receive a “packet in the mail” in about two weeks with instructions on how to get my refund. HA! I doubt whether I will see a dime of my money back. I also emailed the corporate offices, but of course have not heard from them.

I will however be filing a formal complaint with the State of Florida. This is the kind of flim flam that gives franchising a bad name.

Hi all, I’m new to this whole mess. I found out in mid-December 2007 that Sona Med Spa Sacramento is/was going Bankrupt. I filed a claim as a creditor at the District Bankruptcy Court in January 2008, but am doubtful that I will a dime of the $1000 that I was stiffed out of. I am interested in filing a class-action lawsuit, if anyone is interested, please e-mail me: beckybird@juno.com

SKINovative Laser Center
(located temporarily within Skin 2 Envy)
Exclusively for
SONA CLIENTS
30% off
remaining treatments from a previously pre-paid package
No packages needed!

Michael A. Greenberg, Medical Director
6611 Folsom-Auburn Road, Ste. E
Folsom, CA. 95630
916-989-LASR (989-5277)

Your favorite, former SONA NURSES are
announcing the opening of their own laser center in Folsom, CA.

February 1, 2008

We will be offering:
Botox®
Dermal Fillers
Skin Rejuvenation
Laser Hair Removal
Acne Treatments
Chemical Peels
Body Contouring and Sculpting with Accent XL

Call for a free consultation today!
Appointments are filling up fast!

Jennifer N.P. Caroline R.N. Peggy R.N. Roxann R.N.

Another Sona Medspa just closed with no warning in Coral Gables, Florida leaving customers like myself with pending treatments that were required to be paid in full in advance. Contacted Sona via email and phonecall and am waiting to hear back. Any suggestions on what to do next?

Hi I have not received my bankruptcy forms for the Sona Medspa in Sacramento and we are nearing the deadline. Do you know who I can talk to, to get these turned in on time. My friend turned in hers but didn’t retain any contact info.

Thanks and sorry for the late request.

Contact me via email: jmraju@yahoo.com

Client File Update:

Dr. Ferrara has updated the process for each client to obtain their medical records from SONA. To obtain your medical records, please send a request including all of your contact information, a check for $5.00 to cover processing fee and postage, and a self-addressed 9″ x 12″ envelope to:

Roxann Olsson
7795 Sierra Dr.
Granite Bay, CA 95746

916-989-LASR(5277)

you don’t have to pay anything the judge on the meeting with the owner of medspa told him that files need to be given to us for free i got mine and i did not pay for anything

I am in the same boat as all of you. I had seven treatments on a couple of areas and the hair is not gone. I also purchased two more packages which were not fulfilled. What’s the latest? Has anyone filed a class action yet because I want in. I can’t physically go to court in Sacramento because I moved out of state and live in Florida now. Does anyone have any advice?
Thanks.

SKINovative Laser Center
(located temporarily within Skin 2 Envy)

Four former SONA NURSES
have opened our own laser center in Folsom, CA.
Jennifer N.P. Caroline R.N. Peggy R.N. Roxann R.N.

Michael A. Greenberg, Medical Director
6611 Folsom-Auburn Road, Ste. E
Folsom, CA. 95630
916-989-LASR (989-5277)

Dr. Ferrera, the Medical Director from SONA, has passed on the SONA client files to Dr. Michael Greenberg, Medical Director, as noted above.
To obtain copies of your medical records, the policy is as follows:

* $5.00 check or cash
* A letter requesting copies of your records
* A self addressed 9 x 12 envelope

Send to:
Roxann Olsson
7795 Sierra Drive
Granite Bay, Ca 95746

Make checks payable to Roxann Olsson
This covers the processing and postage fees.
989-5277 with any questions

SONA CLIENTS
30% off
remaining treatments from a previously pre-paid package
No packages needed!

you don’t have to pay them anything this are you private medical records i did not pay any and i got my mine records

I am out $1200 from the SF Sona closure. If anyone has any information on that one also, I’d really appreciate it…

i bought my daughter a package in the sacramento branch what a crock….they take peoples money and can keep going on…how these ceo’s sleep at night is beyond me….they will get there’s in the end.

does anybody have hear anything ?

I just called the bankruptcy court again… wishful thinking… they said that no other cases have been filed, as the main case, #2007-30648, ended with the court saying that Duck Hill Corporation had no assets and therefore could not pay any of the creditors the owe money to. Translation: Randy cleverly hid all of his assets, we’re all screwed out thousands of dollars, and the Sona nurses are posting “offers” trying to get what little $ we have left.

the sona nurses new exactly what was going on. in fact. they were in on everything and were trying also to help with deals to not go into bankruptcy. the owner is not the only one you should be blaming. i would almost blame the nurses for the fallout. ask them how much they lost. a lot less than the owner. an owner who is not living in a gated community. not living in luxery. pitiful people.

are the sona medspa customers in san fran and sacramento the only places being affected by the bankruptcy or is this a nationwide thing?

pitiful–you are pitiful!!
how could you blame the nurses? I was a client at Sona for many years–and knew the nurses quite well–they were as much in shock as we, the clients were! and now I have followed the 4 who have opened their own business, as have MANY other Sona clients.They are understanding and empathetic to our situations,and doing the best they can to accomodate those of us who lost money and had remaining treatments in our packages. I am happy I followed them as they are educated and knowledgeable–and I trust them as I already had established a client/nurse relationship with them at Sona!

Did anyone sue Randy?

Please help…. The Sona/Benya Med SPa in San Jose was sold to Reviance????? I tried to schedule an appointment there. I paid $1300.00 for laser treatment. I could not get an appointment. I tried for over a month with the receptionists giving me the run around saying some one would call me back in 20minutes. It was not until I introduced small claims court into the conversation that Sandi and Rachoel (nurses) told me they were having issues during the transition. They will not give me my money back. The nurse there Sandi Miller will only give me an email address for the person who Reviance purchased the business from. She said in an email that she has no other contact information for the previous owner.( Not logical) Rachoel one of the nurses at Reviance said they were honoring all contracts but would not refund my money. Any ideas on who is responsible for my money and how I can get it back. Was Benya/Sona also bankrupt? I will never buy another package from any company. With the run around Reviance is giving me I would advise people to stay away.

I went to a Sona MedSpa in Costa Mesa, California. I paid for six laser hair removal treatments. I still had about 50% regrowth (by the way, I’m supposedly the “best” candidate for laser hair removal - fair skin, dark hair), so I ended up paying for two more treatments after my six were up. I’ve had a rough year and have not been able to afford another appointment, but I’m back on my feet and back to about 90% regrowth - I’ve been told this is VERY odd by other MedSpas and that they must have used a non-permanent laser machine, such as the Yag Laser Machine - if so, I was NEVER informed that these results were not going to be permanent. So I tried to call Sona to talk to them about my results (and, also, reading on another Sona MedSpa website, I saw the “Sona Promise” which stated that if your weren’t happy with your results, they’d give you two more treatments for free (I had to pay for mine!) AND anymore treatments would be at 75% off). When I called, they were out of business! Gone! I started to do some research online and found out that a lot of customers were unhappy with their results and felt like they were taken advantage of. I paid about $1500 total - and to be honest, this IS NOT chump change to me. Too bad that the corporate offices selling Sona franchises are so cold and unconcerned regarding their customers and their reputation. Shame on them.

Does anybody know about Skinovative the was located in the Tucson Mall?
I paid just over $1,000 for IPL treatments that I never did receive.
Is there a way to file to try to reclaim any this?