Ralph Nader: Ignoring Propethic Predictors

 

I’ve wondered often why people who go to “town meetings” held by campaigning politicians rarely ask fundamental questions.  Here is one that should have been asked of presidential candidate Barack Obama: “If you get to the White House, will you appoint to top positions Americans with a track record of making the right decisions in their respective fields?”

“Of course, I will,” Obama would have undoubtedly replied.  Of course, he did not when it came to the collapse of the corrupt Wall Street casinos and the bailout of these gamblers by the American people. Obama chose the very Wall Streeters and Wall Street servants who were involved in, condoned, or who profited from the speculative binges that led to the biggest government bailout scheme in world history.  The President’s explanation is that he wants experienced people who know how Wall Street works.  Yeah, right!  In reality, he wanted political cover.

Something very important is missing when even people who are part of the ruling establishment are ignored, marginalized, or ridiculed even though their detailed, public warnings prove to be all too accurate. Consider billionaire, Ross Perot.  Back in the 1980s and 1990s, Ross, as everyone calls him, was right on General Motors, right on NAFTA trade, and right on the federal deficits.

In 1984, he joined the Board of Directors of GM after selling his successful company, EDS, to the auto giant. He could scarcely believe how stodgy, bureaucratic, and insensitive GM executives were in running the company.  He tried to shake up the boys at the top to meet the fast-growing competition from Asia and Europe.  GM brass couldn’t stand Ross “at large” probing up and down the company, so in 1986 bought out his shares in return for him leaving the Board.

Two years later, reflecting on his experience at GM with a reporter from Fortune, Perot called the “General Motors system a blanket of fog that keeps people from doing what they know needs to be done.”  Warming up, Perot continued: “One day I made a speech to some senior executives.  I said, ‘Okay, guys, I’m going to give you the whole code on what’s wrong. You don’t like your customers.  You don’t like your dealers.  You don’t like the people who make your cars.  You don’t like your stockholders.  And, to a large extent, you don’t like one another.  For this company to win, we’re going to have to love our customers. We’re going to have to stop fretting about dealers who make too much money and hope they make $1 billion a year though us.  The guys on the factory floor are the salt of the earth—not mad-dog, rabid, burn-the- plant-down radicals.  And all of this sniping at one another—financial guys vs. cars guys—is terribly destructive.’”

GM didn’t listen to Ross.  Now, after a long, relentless slide, GM is bankrupt, abandoning workers, two thousand of their dealers, and their customers’ grievances. Moreover, GM is into the U.S. taxpayer for over $70 billion.

Perot devoted much of his 1993 published book, Save Your Job, Save Our Country, to NAFTA and trade. Looking back, he was right most of the time.  NAFTA cost more U.S. jobs than it created, generated a huge U.S. trade deficit with Mexico, and mainly benefited the “36 businessmen who own Mexico’s 39 largest conglomerates or over half of Mexico’s Gross National Product.”  The border-located maquiladora factories have high worker turnover, squeezing laborers in often unsafe conditions for little pay.  

Here is how Perot described the scene behind the boasting of Washington, DC, and corporations about the large increase in trade after NAFTA: “Most of the goods produced in the maquiladoras are shipped into the U.S. market.  Consequently, most of the so-called trade between the U.S. and Mexico is not trade as trade is commonly understood.  Rather, it is primarily U.S. companies shipping their own machinery, components, and raw materials across the border into their Mexican factories and then shipping finished or semi-finished goods back over the border to the U.S.”

A good deal of the U.S. auto industry went south after NAFTA, left the workers and communities stranded in Michigan and other states. Bankrupt Chrysler is planning to move a modern, award-winning engine plant in Wisconsin to Mexico after receiving billions of dollars in taxpayer bailouts.

On Perot’s nationally-televised deficit warnings (with charts), what more need be said?  Even he did not envision what would pile up after his clarion calls.  The burden on the next generation and the tax dollars diverted from our country’s needs to pay the interest on these trillions of dollars of debt were pointed out again and again nearly twenty years ago by the Texas entrepreneur.  He even has a website (perotcharts.com) updating the red ink.

In Bush’s and Obama’s Washington, there is no room for Perot to gain visibility and recognition.  It is one thing for the Washington politicians to ignore prescient progressive commentators, like William Grieder, who have been prophetically right on.  It is quite another escape from reality to turn their backs on leaders within the business establishment itself.  There are many like Perot who must be watching the day’s news and saying “we told you so, but you didn’t listen then, and you are not listening now.”

By Ralph Nader

Beverly Hills Country Club

 

The Beverly Hills Country Club was founded more than 80 years ago by the great Merv Griffin’s late uncle Elmer Griffin.  It quickly became the play ground to 20th Century Fox and MGM headliners.  Its history runs parallel with the celebrities, studio exec, and famous socialites who frequented it.  Over the years the tradition of the Club has filtered through generations who still  include many of the most prominent families in Los Angeles.  Beverly Hills Country Club is a gathering spot for friends and family and offers a multitude of enter- tainment that include exceptional dining amenities from an intimate setting in a private room to business networking lunches, night dining and family celebrations.  The top floor of the clubhouse has indoor/ outdoor dining areas, banquet rooms and an intimate bar and lounge that are often the setting for dancing and other entertainment.  The Club’s creative event planners can assist  members with every- thing from party catering needs to choosing a florist, invitations, photography and even entertainment for those special occasions. 

Sports enthusiasts can enjoy golf, tennis and swimming. The poolside grill is perfect for those who never want to leave the water and sun.  The menu brings an array of delicious offerings perfect for a relaxing day at the pool.  The health & fitness spa can easily become a daily ritual with everything you need to get and stay in shape.  On the middle floor are the cardio and weight room, locker room, sauna and steam rooms, exercise studio and massage services, plus group exercise classes.  The ground floor houses the Pro Shop featuring Club Logo apparel—and because children want to have some fun too—a game room that will keep them occupied for hours, parent & me swim classes, kids yoga classes and even kids martial arts and jazz Hip Hop classes.  There is also  a child care center for adults to take a break and get in some quiet time to exercise on their own.  Outside the Clubhouse the view gets even better with a 25-meter heated Junior Olympic swimming pool, two children’s pools, 10 lighted tennis courts, shaded tables and areas just perfect for relaxing, sipping a drink and lounging in the sun.

 For those members who live for golf…they can enjoy the  Calabasas Country Club—the  sister club of the Beverly Hills Country Club.  The course is set in the dramatic and rolling natural beauty of the Calabasas        hills and offers golfers of all skills ongoing challenges each time they play the 18-hole championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones Senior and Junior.  Golf activities are year-round for the entire family and also include golf clinics.  The superb golf practice facilities offer 4 chipping/ pitching greens, 2 putting greens and 3 practice bunkers.

The Beverly Hills Country Club offers members premium sports privileges, an array of dining experiences from Sunday Champagne Brunch to  movie night and wine tasting parties. 

 

Beverly Hills Country Club

3084 Motor Avenue, Los Angeles, CA.

310.836.4400

 

www.beverlyhillscc.com

Membership Director 310.558.6420

membership@beverlyhillscc.com

ASK: Dr. Joseph Goodman • New Developments In Dentistry

 

Our “New Developments In Dentistry” article in our last issue successfully launched our—ASK Dr. Goodman  column that will appear each month to help you get the inside scoop on achieving and maintaining beautiful and healthy teeth.  And when it comes to turning back the aging clock… a dazzling, white smile is #1 to revamp your look and rejuvenate your face. 

Choosing A Cosmetic Dentist

Elizabeth C: I have a dentist who claims because he is a professor at a school, he’s better than other dentists in private practice. Is he right? 

Dr. Goodman: It’s an interesting statement—like asking if you had the choice to be taught by Gunter Ghartrich, a mathematics teacher or Albert Einstein—who would you choose?  Ghartrich was Einstein’s teacher, but never taught more than simple mathematics.  

•  Extensive ‘hands-on’ experience in cosmetic dentistry is a must.  Just having knowledge is not enough. 

•  A dentist must be a clinician: able to avoid problems, but if a problematic case arises, know how to fix it.

•  Ask to see before and after photos of patients and inquire as to how many “cosmetic cases” he/she does a month.

• Ask to look at lab cases ready to be delivered to patients.  It may sound a bit intrusive, but before you put your trust and money in a dentist’s hands, see the quality of his/her work.  A qualified dentist will proudly show you his/her work.

I participated in a program in which the lecturer was an expert in theoretical and literature dentistry and knowledgeable in past and present research and dental literature.  However, it was evident that his “clinical skills” were not equivalent to his intellectual knowledge.  In fact, his clinical skills were poor.  Dentists have but make sure they are spending most of their time as a clinician with hands-on know how and skills to get the job done correctly.

Metal In Your Old Crowns Could Be Making You Sick

John B: My porcelain crowns contain metal and I’m allergic to nickel.  My insurance only covers the standard porcelain fused to metal crowns.  Are there any crowns without nickel?  

DR. Goodman: Three categories of crowns are distinguished by what is inside each. Left: Porcelain outside fused to metal inside; metal is precious or non precious and gray. Middle: Porcelain fused to gold with the highest amount of gold, therefore, more yellow, more biocompatible.  Right: Zirconium Crown, white inside and outside, no alloy; the most esthetic crown.

It is possible to have a metal crown that has no nickel: nickel allergy can manifest itself with red, puffy, blotchy gums that are swollen and bleed easily.  Women find they are allergic to nickel when they wear fake jewelry next to their skin.

Your Choices: Porcelain fused to gold crown (such as BIO 2000, contains 99% gold, or Captek) or an all porcelain crown such as zirconium crowns which are white inside and outside, contain no alloy and are very strong.  I’ve done numerous 3, 4, and 5-unit bridges with this material and it withstands the stress of biting and chewing. Porcelain fused to metal crowns, made by a high quality lab, come with a certificate of authenticity.  A label lists percentages of alloys used so the dentist knows the exact composition of the crown.  Full gold and zirconium crowns are usually a little more expensive.  If you don’t mind a full gold crown in the far upper back area of your mouth, you could keep your crown for decades!  I treat dentists in my practice who choose gold crowns.  That tells you something. 

My Porcelain Filling Chipped

Tracy Q: A dentist said my porcelain filling would last a lifetime.  After seven years it chipped.  Did he do something wrong? 

Dr. Goodman:  Claiming dental work will last a lifetime is nothing more than a slogan.  Dentists do their best, but some dental work can unfortunately give in.

•  Eating hard candies or biting a fruit pit.

•  Opening a bottle of beer with your teeth (no joke, people use their teeth to do this).

• Just plain fatigue from eating and chewing over the years. 

Porcelain fillings (inlays) are better than bondings or composites (white fillings), which might not last a desired 10+ years. It’s frustrating for dentists and patients when dental work fails, but so far no unbreakable porcelain has been invented. However, laboratory fabricated porcelain is the strongest material and aesthetically pleasing because it is tooth colored.  I’ve had great experiences with porcelain made from the porcelain of Lumineers (by Cerinate).  After 9 years, the porcelain looks like it was just placed yesterday. Your dentist did nothing wrong.

Amalgam Fillings Are Poison?

Peter M: I know dental amalgam has mercury and mercury is a poison.  But my dentist said some amalgam fillings are absolutely not toxic.  My gut feeling tells me he is wrong.  How many amalgam fillings in a mouth can cause a heath risk?  

Dr. Goodman: No one knows how many amalgam fillings are “too many” for the body.  The American Dental Association considers them safe.  Many in the dental community say they should be avoided.  In the world of medicine and dentistry, “absolutely” does not exist because the truth is nobody knows absolutely for sure. Einstein said, “Everything is Relative” and called his thesis “The Theory of Relativity”, not “The Absolute Theory of Relativity.”  I like your statement about your gut feeling because

in the end doctors often believe they know the facts and years later revise them.  Nobody knows absolutely if amalgam fillings are safe, but in the dental community it is widely accepted that high noble gold, ceramics and certain biocompatible composites are potentially less toxic.  

New Fillings Have Made My Teeth More Sensitive

Melody A:  I had old fillings replaced because of decay.  Now my teeth are sensitive and just don’t feel the same.  I am very upset!  Did he drill too deep?

Dr. Goodman: A tooth with “no problem” before could have preexisting damage from decay or an undetectable crack without showing symptoms.  When a dentist drills in the tooth, the nerve can get irritated, but if your dentist doesn’t drill out the decay, your tooth might need a root canal.  Decay doesn’t just disappear. You are far better taking care of the tooth earlier rather than later, risking more pain and infection.  Teeth can react to dental treatments but can be fine after initial sensitivity. The notion that dentists “drill too deep” and cause  root canal complications is a misconception. Dentists drill as deep as the decay goes in order to remove all decay.  No dentist drills deeper than needed since we are aware of the consequences.  You might need a simple adjustment of your bite. Your fillings might be too high and could be touching the opposite tooth each time you chew, causing pain and cold sensitivity.

Editor’s Pick: Dr. Lin Speer • Herbs • Acupuncture • Your Health

Diagnosed with a chronic illness the side effects of the prescription drugs I was to take were as bad as the illness.  I put my health in the healing hands of Dr. Lin Cheng Speer instead.  Through her unique acupuncture treatments—some unheard of here in the States, the miracle Chinese herbs she specifically hand-mixes for me and her integrative approach to Eastern and Western medicine, she reversed my symptoms, has me in remission and is restoring my stressed out, over-worked body and organs to health.  I am her patient forever.   I recommend her to anyone faced with illness or interested in preventative care.     —Suzanne Takowsky, Editor Beverly Hills Times Magazine     

Dr. Lin Speer has worked in Clinical Therapeutics of Integrated Traditional Chinese medicine for over 20 years.  With a background in Western medicine she uses Eastern diagnosis philosophy and treatment to provide the highest standard of health enhancement.  Her success with women diagnosed with infertility, men with erectile dysfunction, chronic pain, auto-immune disease, cancer, diabetes, organ deficiencies, fatigue, stress-related disease is unsurpassed.  She has been a member of the Chinese Medical Research Institute, in China for 18 years working with hospitals to investigate, research and provide the latest, state-of-the-art health technologies and treatments.  Since 1995 Dr. Lin has been appointed five times to sit on the California Acupuncture Board as a Licensing Examiner. 

CHRONIC ILLNESS

In Eastern philosophy/diagnosis auto- immune disease is caused by weakening of kidney and spleen which is caused by stress and depletion of the body.  Spleen health in acupuncture philosophy is most important.  The spleen doesn’t function well in cold or dampness.  Cold drinks or cold food aren’t desirable as the spleen functions best with warmth and dryness.  People go for years not knowing that their spleen is damaged until diagnosed with an auto-immune disease.  I put patients suffering from auto-immune diseases on warm food therapy and herbs I mix to bring their spleen back to health and treat their specific illness.  Patients improve in days.

DETOX, CLEANSES, DIETS, FOOD

Acupuncture Chinese medicine goes back thousands of years.  The philosophy is based on balance.   I don’t say drink eight  glasses of water a day for everyone;  people with spleen damage—dampness get bloated and can’t get rid of the water        and their condition gets even worse.  In acupuncture philosophy drinking a lot of water can further damage the spleen in people with auto-immune disease.  If the body is balanced, it takes care of itself. Diets and detox deplete the body.  It may not show right away, but as we age.  Depending on the illness I have a cleanse I give to patients and a treatment for those who do not have a spleen intact.

INFERTILITY & ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION

Many women concentrated on careers and put off having children.  Now in their late 30’s and 40’s want a child but can’t get pregnant.  My patients exhausted other means of getting pregnant including In Vitro Fertilization.  In the past 10 years I’ve helped bring 172 babies into this world.  My success with infertility is very high for older women.  Also 30% of infertility is from men and I help them.  If it’s  weak- ness in the spleen, kidneys or liver it takes about four months to conceive.  If they have an illness, it generally takes eight months before they can conceive.  Even young men are experiencing low libido.  Most don’t realize that prostate problems cause erectile dysfunction.  

PROSTATE PROBLEMS

Men with enlarged or chronic  inflammation prostate don’t always have symptoms.  Warning signs are difficulty in urinating      or desire to urinate often. Untreated it can lead to impotency or prostate cancer.  

 

NEXT MONTH 
Cancer, Diabetes & Pain

 

Acupuncture & Chinese Herbs 

Dr. Lin Cheng Speer

1003 Santa Monica Blvd., #203

Santa Monica, CA.  90401

310.395.1952     www.drlinspeer.com

Aesthetic Everything: Dr. Garth Fisher co-founder of CellCeuticals

 

Aesthetic Everything
Plastic Surgery • Aesthetics • Skin Care Products 

By Vanessa Florez
Contact Vanessa:
vanessa@bhtmag.com

 

Doctor Garth Fisher has an enviable appreciation for beauty.  He has honed this gift into what many consider the finest plastic surgery practice in the world.  His selection of patients is predicated on a remarkable passion for honesty, integrity, and incredible balance of surgical artistry. 

As a board certified plastic surgeon with more than 20 years experience, Fisher is included on America’s Best Doctors and Top Doctors lists.  He is known for his meticulously detailed and natural-looking facelifts with almost invisible scars and is acclaimed as one of America’s best facelift surgeons.  Fisher was also bestowed the title, “The Enhancer” by Tom Ford, in Vanity Fair’s Hollywood issue for his extraordinary reputation as the top breast surgeon in Hollywood. 

In all my many years of experience in this field, I have never seen a more impressive collection of before and after patient photographs—all available on his website.  Over the years, Fisher has been interviewed countless times by television and print media. He is  recognized throughout the world as the original plastic surgeon with the compassionate bedside manner on ABC’s Extreme Makeover.  His prestigious and sophisticated inter- national practice is perhaps the most extensive in the world. 

In 2007, Dr. Garth Fisher and beauty industry veteran Paul Scott Premo combined their extensive expertise and experience to create CellCeuticals® Skin Care, Inc.  CellCeuticals® Biomedical Skin Treatments are the culmination of more than 15 years of protein and DNA research.  These revolutionary treatments integrate the latest advances in biotechnology and medical science into extraordinary bio-treatments that target skin aging at the cellular level.  Results show visibly younger skin prompting success and  overwhelming popularity for the high-performing products.  Easy to use, the skin care line is affordable and proven to be ultra-effective by  independent scientific studies.  This year 

CellCeuticals® won the prestigious “Cosmetic Innovator of the Year Award” and two Telly Awards for Excellence in Commercial Advertising.

On the topic of face- lifts and the reason for developing CellCeuticals, Fisher said, “Think of your skin as a type of fabric.  Is that fabric thin, worn-out, or sagging? If I’m going to re-drape your skin, then, like cloth, it should be the best quality; thick, supple and healthy for the best results. People are surprised to hear that I turn away 40% of those who walk into my office because  they are not a candidate for procedures, they have unrealistic expectations, or because their skin is not in optimal condition for procedures. Now, with CellCeuticals®, I’m able to offer a clinically effective skin treatment system for those who are not yet ready for plastic surgery.  These revolutionary products can deliver prescription performance, without a prescription.”

I’ve tried numerous skin care lines, and am convinced that CellCeuticals are the only products I will continue to use personally.  The nighttime product, CellGenesis™ Regenerative Skin Treat- ment is exceptional.  While sleeping, I know the product is renewing my skin from the inside out.  In the morning, my skin actually looks different— more youthful, glowing, and healthy. I’ve used the products for three weeks and my skin is soft and smooth, with a more radiant appearance.  CellCeuticals is a truly amazing!

In 2008, Dr. Fisher created the Biomedical Skin Treatment Institute®, which offers clients a variety of comprehensive medical and aesthetic services.  The Institute also provides customized complexion analysis, targeted laser procedures, injectible skin treatments, nutritional analysis, and CellCeuticals® Biomedical Skin Treatments.  Surgery is not for every- one, but non-invasive skin rejuvenation and advanced skin enhancement is available for you at the Institute.

 

CellCeuticals® skin care products can be purchased at: www.cellceuticalskincare.com or 
Dr. Fisher’s Beverly Hills office.
Information and product purchase also available at: 888.695.0335

Visit www.garthfisher.com

Garth Fisher M.D., F.A.C.S.
120 S. Spalding Dr. Suite 222 
Beverly Hills, CA  90210
310-273-5995

Dawn Christie: Be Alive…

 

Be Alive…

Why is it when people die they are adored and missed, but when they’re alive, we don’t show them love?  We have lost many legends—Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley and now Michael Jackson.  I wish I could have known them.  Each needed spiritual love to breathe in a connection with themselves.  It’s very hard to be in the media where every nuance of your life is judged.  We have to look at ourselves honestly, and ask, “Why are we so judgmental?”  

DON’T JUDGE.  It’s not our job.  God sees all.  We live, and are born for a reason.  Live your path.  Do every- thing you want with your natural-born gifts.  Everyone is selected to bring spiritual power within, to an explosion.  Detox.  Go within.  Life here is a journey, then we pass on.

People are more lonely than we think. That’s why it’s so vital to detox your mind, body and soul.  I feel Michael Jackson was judged wrongly.  He had a spiritual talent that no one can ever begin to replace.  He could not erase his childhood pain.  He could not accept himself.  Even as a grown man  and superstar, his childlike qualities were ever-present.  It seems that all he ever wanted was love and peace in the world.  His soul was extremely delicate and the talent he possessed made him a spiritual genius.  People showed him more love when he died than when he was alive, especially where accusations are concerned. 

The bottom line was and is about payoff.  We may believe that we have to be physically beautiful to be loved, but that means then that we buy the lie that you can’t love yourself the way you are.  The truth is…yes you can! The earth automatically becomes a higher place when our souls stop holding back love and living from past rejections.  Be the best you can and start with your soul.  Do you like who you are?  If not —work on your soul, and give of yourself to everyone.

With my gift, I can see everyone’s pain: why they’re born, what they’re here to do and what they’re holding from the past.  People think the grass is greener on the other side, and it isn’t.

We are here for a reason.  Each one of us is unique.  I teach people how to love themselves, how to connect to themselves.  I show them emotion; if it is negative it will create disease in their body.  My programs are astonishing and people leave completely revitalized. They understand why they are born, and what they are here on Earth to do.

When you come to my Retreat & Spa, I immediately do a spiritual bath and afterwards, people say that they feel God!  I pamper them and treat them like the wondrous beings God created them to be.  My unique programs give undeniable results of weight loss, youth and a deep understanding of the next move you need to make.

It’s important to detox your mind, body, and soul.  Give love freely to yourself and to others.  Don’t hold regret for what youohave done.  We have had many powerful souls that have gone to God recently.  I love you Michael! Let’s love each other and show it now while people are alive as we may not have the opportunity later.  Be grate- ful to be alive and find ways to love people and give back to this planet.  

By Dawn Christie 

Garth & Jessica Fisher: Building a Beverly Hills Beauty Empire

 

What a difference a day makes.  You think you know someone because of what you’ve heard or seen, especially with high-profile people, but their public persona is just that; for the public.  I had the pleasure of spending an entire day with Garth and Jessica Fisher for our interview/photo shoot.  Both lead very public lives.  He as the celebrity plastic surgeon who got the ball rolling with the first ever plastic surgery TV reality makeover show, Extreme Makeover. And, with arguably the most successful plastic surgery practice on planet earth, a day job that landed him the title, Surgeon to the Stars.  Jessica is an ex-baseball wife, mother, and former model who was firmly established in the healthcare profession as a licensed aesthetician specializing in micro-pigmentation and cosmetic tattooing before moving to LA.  She works four days a week in Garth’s Beverly Hills medical office where she sees her own patients.  In addition, Jessica is a beauty image consultant and laser coordinator for Dr. Fisher’s Biomedical Skin Treatment Institute.  In that capacity, she helps integrate CellCeuticals® biomedical skin care treatments to optimize skin nutrition and health.  CellCeuticals, a premier skin care line, was co-founded by Garth and beauty industry veteran Paul Scott Premo.  Fifteen years in the making, CellCeuticals jumped its competition by becoming what doctors and skin experts consider the most advanced and ground-breaking skin product line technology on the market to restore skin to a youthful look.  I spoke with this dynamic duo at their beautiful home in Los Angeles.  High above the city, the sprawling gated estate offers brea­thtaking views and quiet comfort of a get-a-way retreat.  It’s a most excellent place for this busy couple to call home, enjoy down time with their three children,  two gigantic dogs, one hairless cat and slew of fury little critters of which Jessica has become “mommy” to.    Cute couple.  Business team.  Doting parents.  A surprising day. Certainly not what I expected.  

As far as plastic surgeons go, Fisher has made a name for himself as big as any plastic surgeon alive.  He has an international reputation and over the years has given a plethora of television interviews on ABC’s “Good Morning America,” “Oprah,” NBC’s “Today,” CBS’ evening news, NBC’s evening news, CNN, “Entertainment Tonight,” “Access Hollywood,” “Extra,” “E!,” Discovery Channel and a leg long list of others.  His words of plastic surgery wisdom have graced the pages of prestigious magazines as  Elle, Allure, GQ, People, Details, In Touch Magazine, Los Angeles Magazine, Town and Country, Longevity, TV Guide and USA Today. 

In 2004, Fisher ventured out on a short limb and stirred up the plastic surgery community when he researched, wrote, produced, and appeared in—complete with 250 before and after photos of his own patients—a five-part DVD series entitled, The Naked Truth About Plastic Surgery: A Home Consultation with a Prominent Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon.  The resource detailed the good, bad and ugly on the plastic surgery profession, offering an honest view of what works, what doesn’t and why.   Fisher’s ‘insiders take’ went so far as telling how one should go about choosing a qualified plastic surgeon to get the job done right. The series was an immediate hit with an international audience who learned the truth and wisdom of what Fisher had to say.  Vital information he felt the public should know before going under the knife.  He left no stone unturned.  From procedure, to benefits, risks and surgical alternatives, it’s an honest look into a profession that many doctors have made more about making money than providing quality surgery and patient care.

Plastic surgery associations were not happy campers over Fisher’s media success, independence, and the fact that he was supplying information that they were not.  Fisher says he wanted to provide accurate information about plastic surgery, educating the public on what they needed to know and without the medical terminology that so often accompanies procedure and surgery.  To this day, the series is highly sought after and relied upon and he considers it one of his finest professional accomplishments.  It’s most definitely a not-to-miss for anyone who is considering plastic surgery and it’s available to everyone for free viewing at www.garthfisher.com.

Speaking with him at length it’s clear that Fisher cares more about the health and well-being of his patients than keeping his appointment book filled.  Above financial gain and PR success is a desire to keep integrity as a physician.  It’s his skill as a surgeon, eye for detail and dedication to achieve  surgical perfection that keeps him at the top of his profession.  Fisher’s rise to the ranks of world-renowned plastic and reconstructive surgeon; having been selected “one of the top plastic surgeons in the United States”; and ultimately one of the “Best Doctors 

in America,” is no accident.  Fisher has achieved a level of success very few in his profession ever will.  Yet for him it’s just the tip of the iceberg on what he hopes to accomplish in his medical career.

Is there a formula for success?  Why are some so determined to make it, while others settle for second best? Generally, answers are buried then found in one’s past; never more true than in Fisher’s life-long need to excel, work hard, take care of his family, and make his father proud.  Our interview was reflective and heart-wrenching as Fisher spoke candidly about his childhood.  A look back at the horrific loss of his father, a Major in the United States Air Force, the devastating effect it had on him, his sister and mother as they struggled to keep their lives together in the face of uncertainty and straining financial limitations.  And worse, years later, the discovery that while they had been mourning his death, Fisher’s father was reported alive and held as a prisoner of war by numerous sources.  Information the United States government refused to publicly acknowledge existed or release to the families of the men captured.  This was especially true of serviceman lost over Laos, a country that we never were officially at war with and one where no service man ever came home from. The last words that Fisher’s father said to him before he left for military duty in Vietnam; “You’re the man now, take care of the family.”  He never saw his father again.  He was 10 years old.  

What emerged was a man with a strong work ethic, who even in the face of hardship and challenge has the determination to never give up. A most excellent profile befitting the most creative and cutting-edge surgeon in the field of plastic surgery today. Board-certified in plastic surgery by the American Board of Medical Specialties, Fisher went the general surgery route to into plastic surgery.  One stop along the way: working in the trauma unit of a hospital.  Something he says brought him pride as a physician.  Also, the opportunity he had before starting his own practice to learn and  do surgery along side two of the most well-known and respected plastic surgeons in the world; John Williams and Bruce Connell.  Both he credits for instilling in him an intense desire to provide unparallel patient care and a no-fear approach striving for and mastering innovative procedure and surgery technique.

ST: What happened to your father?        

GF: I was born in California, but my family moved to New York State when my father, a Major in the Air Force accepted a teaching position at Cornell University. Then, he was asked to go to Vietnam.  I was 10-years old and didn’t understand the meaning behind him taking me to the basement of the house and telling me he was going to war and in case he didn’t come back take care of my mom and sister.  He left, and we moved to Mississippi and lived with my grandparents, a temporary situation until my father returned.  We lived there for years because 10 months into his mission he was shot down over Laos and the government claimed that the entire crew of 11 was missing with only one survivor; Sergeant Fields.  They told us there was no evidence that anyone survived the crash.  They were flying an AC-130A Gunship, at the time considered a premier reconnaissance plane on a highly classified mission.  Everything about the plane and the crash was classified!  My father was listed as MIA.  Losing him devastated my mother, sister and me and on a deep level, it ruined our lives.  Because we had no real evidence that he had died, my sister, in college and president of Girls State in Mississippi had all the schools writing letters to the U.S. and Vietnamese government requesting that they bring prisoners of war home and provide information on those listed as MIA.  My mother was distraught over what really happened to him.  Two years later (1972) my family was watching a propaganda news reel on the network evening news showing prisoners walking through camps in Vietnam when my mom suddenly screamed, “That’s my husband. That’s him!” We had the TV station bring the film to our home and our family, after viewing it, confirmed it was him!  We wrote to the Department of Defense and told them that this was proof that he was alive and indeed a prisoner!  They claimed this was impossible because the film was made in 1969 (one year prior to him being shot down) yet it was just aired three years later!  Families who had loved ones who were missing in action felt the government was at fault for allowing our missing servicemen to languish in enemy prison camps.  If our government acknowledged that prisoners of war were in fact, alive, they were obligated to take these sightings seriously and leave no stone unturned in bringing our soldiers home.  Our country could not desert its missing military on foreign soil.  To not mount such a sustained effort would open the government to critical inquiry.  It seemed much easier to avoid the issue and classify most of the MIA’s as KIA to eliminate the obligation to find them, bring them home or pay their salaries.  In 1985, while I was a surgical resident in LA., I began reviewing records I acquired through the Freedom of Information Act, which had subsequently been declassified.  In actual airplane transcripts of his ill fated flight, I found statements made by my dad: “We’ve just been hit, but I’m OK’, and later using his unique call sign and stating “I’m on the ground and the enemy is closing in”!  In addition, escort fighter planes which had been trailing the Gunship saw crew members parachuting from the burning plan before it crashed. All this was previously denied by the government.  They also claimed that the only survivor, Sgt. Fields erroneously gave the wrong call sign and was really the one communicating on the ground rather than my dad. I knew this was wrong!  I found a way to uncover the truth.  While working in the Emergency room at 2 A.M. one morning, I called the Air Force base where military personnel data ia stored which indicated where Sergeant Fields had last worked. I woke up a dazed physician at the base and urgently requested Sergeant Fields family information based on a medical emergency.  Although his file was classified, he reluctantly released the information to me.  I was at Fields house within 24 hours!  When Fields opened the door, it was the most emotional moment of my life to witness the last man to see my father and unlock a secret of 15 years!  I said, I’m Garth Fisher and we both started to cry!  He said he was sorry that the Air Force had not allowed him to talk to my family.  I told him I wanted the truth about what happened to my father.  He told me that my father bailed out before him and it was my father who correctly used his call sign and was transmitting on the ground.  To this day, I’m not sure what became of my father, however, I presume he died in captivity.  The long ordeal punctuated my future me.

 

ST: What has been the hardest for you to come to terms with?

GF: Several issues evolved from my father’s disappearance.  Trust for one.  My mother, sister and I were lied to by the U.S. government and told that when my father’s plane went down that he died.  Then years later, I found out that this was not the case.  It’s one thing if your father dies and you are allowed to mourn appropriately. It stays with you, but you have the opportunity to move on.  But for so long there was substantial conflicting information stating he was alive, then dead, then alive for over 15 years!  It was like being stuck with a knife over and over.  What came out of the situation is that I require absolute trust in personal relationships as well as relation- ships with patients.  I’m very honest with patients about what surgical results can and can not, be achieved or expected.  Subsequently I probably turn away 40% of patients requesting my services for plastic surgery.  Additionally, I am uncomfortable with things that are unresolved.  It’s yes or its no, nothing in the middle because I’ve been there all my life.  I learned to provide for my family because I was made a provider so early in my life.  I felt responsible without the  skills or stability to be responsible, so I did what I could.  I shared a 10 by 12 foot room with my mom and sister for 10 years and thus wanted to make a newer, more optimistic life.

ST: Why a plastic surgeon?  

GF: In sixth grade I did any job I could to support my mother and sister.  I had a paper route, washed dishes, roofing, construction—even attended a Junior college by my house to stay close to help my mom.  I got A’s all through school so in college I thought I’d be an architect. 

Then, I took a job as a janitor at a hospital and everything changed.  I was dating the daughter of a general surgeon and one day he said, “Come in and watch me do a gall bladder operation?”  I put down my mop, put on a pair of scrubs, went in the OR and watched him do the operation.  I decided then that I wanted to be a surgeon. Not only did Fisher become a doctor, but he found as much excitement as any man can.  Fast forward: famous plastic surgeon, celebrity clientele, TV show and while living in the littlest big city on earth —Beverly Hills—he found Jessica—like finding a needle in a haystack in L.A.  Their small town upbringing, the need to break free and determination to find a better life made for an instant attraction.  The couple dated one year, and Fisher proposed.  At the wedding were their children from prior marriages; Jessica’s daughter Josie (10 at the time) and Fisher’s two daughters Neriah, then seven and Sierra, age five. 

Jessica was born in Pennsylvania and grew up in Ohio with two sisters.  From the start she loved and excelled in sports.  In school she was a gymnast.  To this day her workout routine would drag men to the ground.  She also loved the outdoors and animals.  Nothing’s changed.  The Fisher home looks like something out of Wild Kingdom.  They have two dogs the size of buffalo and a prissy, hairless cat with attitude, that looks, well, a bit strange.  Also in the mix…ornate cages and cute tiny beds and an assortment of little furry animals, a few I’ve never seen before and I’m from farmville, in Utah.

ST: Looking around it seems you find enjoyment in the down-to-earth of life.

JF: I grew in a rural area on 42 acre— 25 was reserved for wildlife.  I had every animal possible from dogs and cats to groundhogs, skunks and opossums.  You can take the girl off the farm, but you can’t take the farm out of the girl.   

ST:  Did your upbringing ground you for what was ahead?

JF:  Definitely.  Material things are nice, but I enjoy the simpler things as well.  My family is simple and it’s refreshing to meet people who who care about real things in life; the environment, animals…things that don’t come with designer labels.  I guess it’s all about keeping a balance in your life.  I love to go back to Ohio, but everyone has moved.  My mom and two sisters live in Seattle, but they visit me here and I have other family that still lives there.  My father passed away 10 years ago. 

ST:  What do they think about your Beverly Hills life?

JF:  My mom is happy for me, but has no idea about designer clothes, fancy cars or things like that.  It’s so different from the way we grew up and the world they know.  But my life is not something that I think my mom is surprised at.  I was always flashy, I was a ballerina and a model.  She figured one day I would leave the nest and end up with something like this.  My early goals were to be a ballerina, then I changed my mind and wanted to be a veterinarian.

ST:  Why plastic surgery?

GF: I enjoyed all aspects of surgery and variety of surgical sub-specialties such as: trauma surgery, cardiac surgery and neuro-surgery. I also loved plastic surgery.  In the end, I felt that my meticulous surgical skills, drive for perfection, and my evolved artistic and creative sense best suited me for plastics.  In addition, I have been surrounded by women my entire life and developed a fondness and appreciation for form and beauty.

ST: Why work with Garth?

JF:  I hadn’t planned it.  I stumbled into it.  One of Garth’s office staff was sick so I filled in.  I love the beauty industry and enjoy doing makeovers.  I‘ve always been interested in health; I studied sports  physiology, nutrition and then became a licensed aesthetician, specializing in micropigmentation.  That’s what I was doing before I met Garth.  I share Garth’s philosophy when it comes to people looking too done and going over-board changing their appearance with plastic surgery.  I’ve always thought less is more.  I help patients change smaller things; soften hair color, make-up, change eyebrow shape, help patients whose complexion  is washed out because of too much laser, camouflage any scar you can imagine: facelift, tummy tuck, breast scars—simply by adding pigment— scars fade.  I guide patients to experts who help with their wardrobe.  There are many things Garth and I encourage people to do before having plastic surgery.  We’re up front making certain that surgery is the right option for them.

ST: Is is difficult working together?

JF:  No.  We work great together, but at work I see him differently than at home.  When I’m working—I work.  Most days we rarely see each other in the office.  He is operating or consulting with his patients.  I’m busy with my patients.  But being married accidentally shaped into something we have in common.  I mean we both walk around in scrubs… I love it!  I said to Garth, I’m turning into you!  And he asked me the other day, “Do you look at me as your husband in the office?”  I said, no, you’re my boss.     

GF: Working with Jessica is great. She has a better eye than anyone I’ve ever known to determine what might improve ones looks.  I’ve seen in other medical offices when the wife comes in…office workers resent it.  But in our case, it works with patients and the office staff.  Jessica helps everyone.

ST: What prompted you to shake the rafters with the Naked Truth series?

GF: I always wanted to provide a comprehensive and easy to under- stand source of information regarding plastic surgery. ABC’s Extreme Makeover further convinced me that coming out with these tapes was a great idea.  As the first plastic surgeon to participate in a reality TV series, I can understand comments such as “the show was not real”, since it only showed “excellent results”.  During the four seasons that that show ran, I provided a vehicle or showcase to present the “realities of surgery”.  If people couldn’t get what they wanted from TV, I would provide it to them on my own DVD series while educating consumers about realistic expectations and risks associated with plastic surgery.  Although I knew that the plastic surgical societies are political entities, even I was surprised to receive a call from someone representing the California Plastic Surgery Society, who said that they thought selling these tapes was a violation of their ethics code!  I was incredulous?  I wanted to educate people regarding our profession, the risks, how to choose a surgeon, and what to expect.  I currently give these tapes to all of my patients, and others can watch them on my website for free.  I consider it an invaluable resource! There is enough surgery that is performed in which the results are unacceptable.  What appears to be advancement in technology to the public is many times just a different marketing angle.  I am not a fan of “fad” procedures which have not stood the test of time.  With medical procedures, you often have to wait years to determine whether or not  they are effective.  You can’t just attend a weekend medical meeting and then go out and begin performing novel procedures on people without adequate training and supervision.  I’m a plastic surgeon who has infinite respect for my profession, but I don’t think the specialty is for everyone.  Excellent surgical judgment is required in tandem with an evolved aesthetic sense of form and beauty. There are trends, but the true appreciation and substance of beauty does not change.

By Suzanne Takowsky

Sharyn Wynters Talks Fame, Success & Single Life LA Style

 

Nobody does it better than Sharyn Wynters. With a black day planner the size of the yellow pages filled to the hilt with motivational speaking engagements …it’s amazing that the life she loves and lives is a spiritual journey.

Philadelphia born and bred, Wynters‘ exotic look landed her on the pages of numerous glamour magazines and naturally the next stop for this beauty queen winner was Hollywood and the big screen.  Some where between fame and fortune, Wynters found her calling —inspiring and enlightening people to a higher vibrational world…WHAT?

“Don’t get me wrong…I love all the glitz of the L.A. scene, after all that’s what drew me to Hollywood.  But that life only gets you so far.  At the end of the day it has to be about heart, soul and what your spirit connects with.  I have a fabulous single life, tons of friends that I value and, an incredible career that takes me around the world.  I have so many things to be grateful for.  I believe that we are not human beings having a spiritual experience, but rather spiritual beings having a human experience.”

When not prancing the globe in business mode, Wynters can be found in her beautiful retreat-like home nestled in the hills.  Some days it seems like all roads lead to her house where friends gather to enjoy an array of yummy and healthy food within the serene environment she has created.  The entrance to her home sets the stage.   The minute she opens the ancient front door from India, the first thing to catch your eye is the 10 foot high buddha, surrounded by magnificent amethyst geode crystals and calming music throughout the house.  Nobody wants to leave…EVER!  I’ve had the great fortune to be on the A-list at several of her unique events—each one bringing interesting people from all walks of life; entertainment, social and spiritual.  The gatherings are fun, enlightening and you find people who you feel like you’ve known your whole life.  Did I mention this little powerhouse is an incredible jazz singer?  Yep.  Wynters garnered rave reviews off her jazz CD, Reflections of Love, and when time allows sings with her trio at clubs throughout L.A.      

“To do only one thing in life I think would be boring.  I’ve been fortunate to find my passions on different levels and one just happens to be jazz.   I started singing a few years ago, but it was always a life-long dream.  I love singing the old torch standards…they always tell a story about looking for love, finding love, love gone wrong and, starting all over again.  Kind of like life.”  

Wynters new book, Survive, Family Guide To Thriving In A Toxic World, is a 300-plus page guide to better living, eating and environmental awareness.  

“There is much in this world to enjoy.  But look around.  People all ages seem to be engulfed in weight and health issues.  We forget that the solution to better health and better way of life is found within ourselves if we become aware and make different choices.  And that is the purpose of my book and my life.”  

 

Visit: www.wyntersway.com 

or sharynwynters.com 

ACI: ANIMAL CRUELTY INVESTIGATIONS - Bull Fighting In LA?

 

A Bull Fighting Ring In LA?  It’s No Joke!

Farm animals are living creatures entitled to legal protection and  ethical consideration.  This includes bulls! ACI is a registered Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.  The non-profit 501 (c) (3) group is dedicated to protecting sick, healthy, and injured farm animals.  The investigation arm now has officers in the field handling animal cruelty complaints.   Officers get enforcement via California Corporation Code 14502 with the same powers as a peace officer when investigating animal-related crimes.  Lately they have been busting bull fighting rings in Los Angeles.  In May a bull fighting ring in Artesia, California was busted when ACI Humane Officer “Andrew” discovered bulls being stabbed with hidden spikes.  He went into the ring, broke it up and arrested the participants.  A week later a  bullfight was held in Thornton, California.  ACI now considers bullfighting an ongoing state- wide activity and have increased efforts to stop this illegal and extended abuse taking place to packed audiences.  Although the bull fights are advertised as BLOODLESS, the truth is, bandoleras that are supposed to attach to the animal using Velcro have a razor sharp nail imbedded that stabs the bulls hide through to the flesh.  The bull fighting appears to be an organized practice and constitutes a felony/misdemeanor.  Law enforcement is arresting and prosecuting all involved.

Supporters recently came together at a fundraiser to help the ongoing efforts of the ACI.  Jane Garrison, spokesperson for ACI stated, “Animal Cruelty Investigations is committed to taking all possible steps to uncover, expose and prevent further illegal bullfighting in California.  ACI is prepared to make  certain that those who would abuse animals in this fashion are brought to justice.”

Visit: www.acinvestigations.org

Los Angeles Criminal Defense Attorney Peter Knecht

 

Knecht ‘s reputation for  hard-hitting courtroom knowledge and skill are legendary.   CBS, NBC, ABC, Fox Network, The Today Show, Good Morning America…his legal expertise is sought-after whenever a high-profile case hits the headlines.  Whether it’s a celebrity who lands in the slammer after too much partying, a Capital murder case, or someone who has pushed the boundaries of the law and gotten caught—Knecht makes the difference between “not guilty” or serious jail time.  Here he shares some thoughts on procedure, enforcement and why offenders are usually—if not always—presumed guilty rather than innocent.

Born in Vienna, Austria, Knecht’s family lived under persecution of the Nazi regime, before escaping to America where his father, a physician had to re-establish a medical career.  It takes determination and hard work not only to become an attorney, but to stay on top—something that Knecht learned growing up.  His family then moved to California where he attended Black Fox Military School, in Los Angeles then Hollywood High. After graduation he enrolled at USC, then headed to Southwestern Law School where he worked part-time as a law clerk for the L.A. County District Attorney’s office.  Knecht served as District Attorney in charge of the Beverly Hills Judicial District and taught search and seizure at the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department.  It was his early affiliation with famed attorney Harry Weiss (grandfather of all Los Angeles criminal lawyers) that led him to the defense side of the law.   Over the years, Knecht has been called on by more than one headliner when they crossed the line of legal reason.  From Robert Downey Jr., David Crosby, Dennis Hopper and Ryan and Tatum O’Neal to Andy Garcia, Heidi Fleiss, Robert Blake and beyond…there are few attorneys who have been both Prosecutor and Defense Attorney and know the law and how the system works better than Peter Knecht.

 

More than one headline has police or D.A.’s altering the truth or manipulating the law to better a case.  What’s the deal?

“D.A.’s do not lie under oath as they rarely take the stand and cases of those who have been untruthful are quite rare.  There have been cases outside of Los Angeles where prosecutors have been reprimanded for failure to disclose evidence that could have exonerated a  defendant at trial. The LAPD Rampart scandal brought to light and convinced skeptical jurors that ‘their finest’ are not as perfect as once believed.  And the LAPD and D.A.’s office has paid the price ever since.  As for police lying and manipulating the truth: unfortunately it can occur and we as counsel for the defense are able to see it a little more clearly than those who are not involved.   Those who do stretch the truth eventually develop reputations that live with them.” 

Does someone who can’t afford a big time attorney have the same chance as someone who has the big bucks to pay? 

“It depends on what you’re comparing his/her chances to.  Obviously he/she has a better chance in our system than in  third world nations and even in major democratic powers.  There are countries that invoke the death penalty in narcotics cases, cane you for vandalism, have no bail system or rules regarding timely arraignments and trials.  In this country a defendant who can’t afford a lawyer is given a public defender or a court appointed lawyer in a case where his/her life or liberty are at stake.  However, it’s becoming very difficult especially in death penalty cases to get the funding to properly defend these cases.  Our country has a good system of justice, but it’s being chipped away at every year.  Law and order is a political issue and you can only chip away at our system so long before we make our- selves vulnerable.  As far as criminal cases, a good criminal defense  attorney is the only thing between you and your liberty.  There are three things that the State can do to punish you: take away your life, take away your freedom or take away your money and property.  A good criminal defense attorney stands between you and losing what is most precious to you.”

Can a public defender adequately serve and protect the needs of their clients?

“Public Defenders are also  counsel for the defense.  Some are very competent, especially the old timers who have a lot of trial experience.  Some of  our best judges and criminal attorneys used to be public defenders.  But they have a heavy calendar and represent about 90% of the criminal defendants in Los Angeles County—the  majority of those are in custody because they can’t afford to post bail.  Public defenders are overburdened and sometimes do not have the time for all the handholding necessary in private    practice not only of the defendant, but also of his/her family.”

What improvements do you think the justice system could benefit from?

“That peace officers are required to have minimum two years of college; and later a full college degree should be required.  Likewise we need to raise their pay scales accordingly and then make law enforcement a real profession rather than just a job.  We also need to weed out recruits with psychological and personal problems.  In California a brain surgeon or a rocket scientist can’t carry a gun, but a high school graduate who goes to a police academy for a few months can.  Power is an easy thing to abuse and we have to be far more careful who we entrust it to.  Also, police crime labs be taken out of law enforcement’s control and run by the private sector to ensure competence and fairness to the defendant and avoid the fiasco we saw in the Simpson case as well as other cases.  Crime is a function of social and economic conditions.  We should address the causes of crime by developing effective social programs and education, drug abuse treatment and employment.  These things have a track record of effectiveness.  Rather than building more prisons we should invest our criminal justice dollars in rehabilitative programs.”   

Is anyone ever ‘presumed innocent’?  

“Presumed innocence is an idea we would like to believe exists in this country, but in many ways it’s fictional.  If the media does not favor a defendant, it’s difficult to shield that person from bad pre-trial public opinion which  determines ongoing guilt regardless the outcome of a trial.  For purposes of posting bail, you are usually if not always presumed guilty.” 

By Suzanne Takowsky

 

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