VITAMIN SUPPLEMENTS FOR LIFE! - by Michael Mooney

Michael Mooney has worked in the field of health and nutrition for over 30 years. He served eight terms as Political Committee Chairperson and Co-Chairperson of the Northern California Chapter of the National Nutritional Foods Association and has appeared in Sports Illustrated and on ABC, NBC, FOX, KPFK, and the Discovery Channel.

Hair Loss & Healthy Hair Regrowth
Q. I’m a woman who is losing hair. Is there anything that really can help stop hair loss, or even re-grow it?

A.In 1997, in my Muscle Media magazine column I hypothesized that Nizoral shampoo, a dandruff shampoo, could slow hair loss and even help it grow back. Two years later, a couple of studies proved it. Use the shampoo no more than three times a week or you’ll get red bumps on your head. It takes 4-8 months to work. Massage it into the scalp; as massage also helps hair grow because it improves circulation.

When I was losing hair a few years ago, I interviewed several top hair loss doctors, including Beverly Hills physician Gary Perrault, whom I felt was the most well-informed. Dr. Perrault told me the first thing that he does when someone is losing his/her hair is a blood test called ferritin to look at how much iron is stored in their body.

“If ferritin measures below 40 ng/mL then that person will likely lose hair,” Perrault said, “but hair does best at around 70 ng/mL.” My ferritin always measured in the 20’s — good because it meant I’d never have iron overload. Wrong! I added extra iron to my supplements, got my ferritin up to 51 and months later noticed my hair was healthier; later it rose to 70. I’ve heard well- meaning experts like Dr. Mercola and Dr. Andrew Weil say “Don’t take iron, it’s toxic”…but they are bald! Iron is an essential nutrient, required for heart health, brain health, immune strength, energy production and healthy hair. My research finds that more people need to take iron than don’t. Studies of healthy postmenopausal women show that as much as half are deficient in iron. I suggest getting a ferritin blood test, then work with your physician to find a dose of iron that gets your ferritin above 40 ng/mL.

Also ask your doctor about a drug called dutasteride— (Avodart) it does wonders to block DHT (dihydrotestosterone) involved in the destruction of hair follicles that cause hair loss. Other supplements with quality published data showing help for hair include 5,000 mcg of biotin per day and tocotrienols, potent antioxidant cousins of vitamin E shown to increase hair count by 41% after only eight months. The best tocotrienol product for hair health is Toco Sorb by Jarrow Formulas.

Rheumatoid Arthritis
Q. I read an issue or so back how you are helping Suzanne Takowsky with her rheumatoid arthritis. How is she doing and what is she taking?

A. When Suzanne came to my house to talk about me writing for BHTM she complained about swollen arthritic fingers, so I gave her three supplements to feel better, and have more energy: SuperNutrition Opti- Energy Pack multivitamins, the world’s most potent anti-aging vitamin formula; SuperNutrition Glucosamine + MSM, a strong formula for joint health and joint pain relief, and Jarrow brand MaxDHA omega-3 fish oil capsules (she took five capsules twice a day for optimal anti-inflammatory effects). It’s important for people with arthritis to take a lot of fish oil. One/two capsules a day won’t crack it. The combination of these three potent formulas dramatically reduces inflammation in the body; a core problem in rheumatoid arthritis.

I had no idea how well it would work, so I was ecstatically surprised when three weeks later Suzanne told me the swelling in her finger joints was reduced by 70%. (Another benefit of taking this combination is healthier, more radiant skin and Suzanne literally glowed when I saw her). However, she still could not get a favorite ring off her finger. Even though swelling decreased …it wasn’t enough. I then gave her one of the most potent molecules on the planet and one of the best remedies for arthritis and a dozen other health problems, DMSO (dimethylsulfoxide). I also told her to rub DMSO on her finger joints about two or three times a day and 10 days later that ring came off her finger easily. She still had swelling in two knuckle joints and since she wants to avoid using toxic arthritis drugs, I recommended to her an amazing alternative medicine doctor, Dr. Joseph Sciabbarrasi. DMSO is difficult to find in stores, but it is easy to buy it over the internet. Go to: www.DMSO.net.  I use the DMSO gel, which is 70 % DMSO and 30% Aloe Vera. DMSO has other valuable applications; it healed my torn Achilles tendon without surgery. If only David Beckham knew!

Heavy Exercise and Sports Injury
Take Care of Your Ankles
by. Robert Joseph DPM

Q. What is the most common injury you see in your practice?

A. Ankle sprains, mistreated or ignored, are easily the most common injuries we see in our practice. Many of our patients have additional continuing foot, knee and back pain because of untreated past ankle sprains that, because the patient did not get professional treatment, were mismanaged. Of course, this means they also had no MRI or X-Ray to determine what the original cause was.

Q. So people treat themselves somehow, and it causes more problems in the long run?

A.    Exactly. People usually treat themselves with rest, ice and elevation of the foot. This doesn’t really treat the problem effectively, so when they begin activities a few weeks later they notice that their gait pattern, the way they walk, is compromised. Maybe their ankle or foot swells up and then they find that they can’t wear those great new shoes they just bought.

Q. Does this lead to a cycle of other problems?

A. Yes. Three ligaments make up the ankle: the anterior talofibular (ATF), calcanealfibular (CFL) and posterior talofibular (PTF). Front, middle and back ligaments, respectively. These are the supporting ligaments that    control    foot posture and move- ment. If these ligaments are somehow compromised, what was just a simple sprained ankle can lead to more serious problems, including    foot deformities, hammer toes and bunions, or a much more serious problem, osteoarthritis arthritis, which is the breakdown of cartilage due to opposing bones rubbing together and wearing the cartilage away .

Q. What’s the best way to remedy this situation?

A. The best conservative treatment is immobilization with a prescribed walking boot or ankle brace for two David Beckham weeks, depending on Orthotics with a deep heel cup to support the ankle can also do wonders. Physical therapy is then prescribed to help strengthen and stabilize the ankle. One to two months later, if this conservative treatment fails, surgical repair of the ligaments might be required. In the past we were taught to surgically split a major tendon in half, and anchor it to the bone, which is rather drastic. Recent advances in techniques favor taking the ankle capsule, which holds the fluid in the ankle, and suturing it to the bone. This way recovery is quicker.  After three weeks of non-weight bearing status, the capsule heals nicely and we follow it with physical therapy.

Q. So do you explore the best non-surgical therapy before con- sidering surgery?

A. Yes. Conservative care must be attempted before surgery is con- sidered. With the latest techniques available via physical therapy, core training and chiropractic we can often times recover full function without surgery, so you’re back playing tennis or favorite pastimes in short order.

Read more Michael Mooney’s nutrition science research at: www.michaelmooney.net

Celebrity Astrologer - Nicolas Aujula

2010 FORECAST

Tips for Love & Seduction

Hollywood Sex Symbols.  Are they really as HOT as they look?

Megan Fox:  With her Venus in Gemini Megan is no stranger to flirting and charming other’s with her infectious wit. Also, this indicates a choice between two lover’s at various intervals throughout her life. Mars in Capricorn suggests an attraction to successful hardworking men and Megan could easily opt for relationships that enhance her career rather than for love. Mars adds a rather conservative sexual nature.

Johnny Depp: Mars-Uranus-Pluto conjunction; Johnny is abound with an explosive sex-drive; someone who loves to be in control between the sheets and could indulge in bondage fantasies. However, an erratic sex life is indicated; it can either be very hot or very old. Venus in Taurus adds to his sensual nature that is likely to be quite possessive when in love.

Your Zodiac Seduction Guide

Aries
March 21 - April 19
The Ram is a lover of sport and competition; seducing them through an outdoor adventure is the key. Simulate their adrenaline and love of danger with high-speed racing (on a track of course) or a bungee jump, they’ll be excited by the thrill. Not one for beating around the bush, expect a direct sexual approach leading to fireworks in the bedroom.

Taurus
April 20 - May 20
Renowned for their sensual natures and taste for the finer things in life, a trip to the day spa is the ideal indulgence as they just love being massaged, touched and made beautiful. With fine dining and champagne in the evening to enhance the senses, the finale has to take place in a hot tub where you can let your imagination go wild.

Gemini
May 21 - June 20
Gemini’s love to talk, so show off your debating skills on all topics under the sun, from frivolous conversation to more serious topics is bound to win their respect. They love being stimulated mentally so are always up for playing games, quizzes etc., or maybe visit an exhibition/museum that expands their mind. Tell them a sexual fantasy and, they’ll be in heaven.

Cancer
June 21-July 22
The easy way to a Cancerians heart is through their stomachs, but be sure to delight all of their senses with some home-cooked delicacies. Above all else be a good listener and very attentive; they will soon retrieve out of their shell and show you their tender caring side. Cancer’s love the home, so a cosy night in on the sofa will be one of sensual lovemaking.

Leo
July 23 - Aug 22
Win this lions heart by stoking their ego’s as they love being told how wonderful they are; knowing they are loved and admired propels them to show you great affection. Leos love to be seen, so make a grand entrance in designer fashion to the hottest clubs and restaurants in town; they need to feel like royalty.

Virgo
Aug 23 - Sept 22
Capturing a Virgo heart is done through appealing to their intellect; good conversation will truly impress them and throw in a few wacky ideas to stimulate their analytical side. An intellectual talk or lecture followed by a delightful dinner will please their mind. End the night with a sensual massage and you will stimulate an earthy passionate sexuality.

Libra
Sept 23 - Oct 22
Librans are one of the most artistic signs of the zodiac; appeal to them by wearing designer fashion and having an interest in the arts. A trip to the theater or art gallery will capture their urges. Lovers of luxury, champagne and a luxurious hotel room is all you need for the night to be engulfed with sensuality.

Scorpio
Oct 23 - Nov 23
The most mysterious of all signs, it will take time before you discover the real soft persona that they hide; instead expect to be quizzed. Their inquisitive mind can be stimulated by a murder mystery weekend or coded letters of where to meet will keep them on their toes. Dress in a sexually alluring manner; a fiery night will certainly be on the menu especially if you allow them to take charge.

Sagittarius
Nov 22 - Dec 21
The freedom loving Archer is easily taken by far away lands and cultures; try an exotic restaurant to really impress their tastes for international cuisine and if you can match that by talking about world events and various spiritual philosophies…they’ll be putty in your hands. A lover of the outdoors, a kiss and fondle in public will fire their imagination.

Capricorn
Dec 22 - Jan 19
The goat is most impressed by successful and hard-working individuals; if your not a coveted CEO, then talk about your ambitions; they will be full of ideas and support on how to turn them into reality. A lover of the past, stimulate their interest by taking them to an historical site; a museum is ideal; then watch them absorb the sights as they hold your hand.

Aquarius
Jan 20- Feb 18
Aquarians quite simply love anything unique and different so forget about dinner; instead take them to a sci-fi movie or maybe to a ghost-hunt where they can really explore new avenues and delight their minds with new-age philosophies and ideas. A true lover of technology, send them a flirty SMS that will get them warmed up for the actual experience. The Kama Sutra will prove to a very useful accessory in the bedroom.

Pisces
Feb 19 - March 20
The sensitive and dreamy nature of Pisces is best stimulated by spending time on a beach or in a pool as they feel at home being around water. A simple picnic and a laze around under the sun; as evening approaches your cocktail for the night is bound to be sex on the beach. Lay under the stars as you discuss your ideas, dreams and fantasies.

Nicolas Aujula is a popular and well known celebrity astrologer and past-life regressionist who was featured on the television series, “Our Psychic Family” on the Biography Channel. Aujula’s horoscope columns have regularly appeared in the Hollywood Weekly, Malibu Magazine, New York Moves and also Wedding TV. His Hollywood Celebrity Style-scopes at: http://celebrity-stylescopes.blogspot.com (www.inspired-artisan.com)

Straight Talk With - Congressman Ron Paul

Healthcare and Economic Realities

With the passage of a recent bill, the American people are now the unhappy recipients of Washington’s disastrous prescription for healthcare “reform.” Congressional leaders relied on highly dubious budget predictions, faulty market assumptions, and outright fantasy to convince a slim majority that this major expansion of government somehow will reduce federal spending. This legislation is just the next step towards universal, single payer healthcare, which many see as a human right. Of course, this “right” must be produced by the labor of other people, meaning theft and coercion by government is necessary to produce and distribute it.

Those who understand Austrian economic theory know that this new model of healthcare will cause major problems down the road, as it has in every nation that ignores economic realities. The more that government involves itself in medicine, the worse healthcare will get: quality of care will diminish as the system struggles to contain rising costs, while shortages and long waiting times for treatment become more commonplace.

Consider what would happen if car insurance worked the way health insurance does. What if it was determined that gasoline was a right, and should be covered by your car insurance policy? Perhaps every gas station would have to hire a small army of bureaucrats to file reimbursement claims to insurance companies for every tank of gas sold! What would that kind of system do to the costs of running a gas station? How would that affect the prices of both gasoline and car insurance? Yet, this is exactly the type of system Congress is now expanding in health insurance. In a free market system, health insurance would serve as true insurance against serious injuries or illness, not as a convoluted system of third party payments for routine doctor visits and every minor illness.

While proponents of this reform continue to defy all logic and reason by claiming it will save money, I worry about cataclysmic economic events. Already investors are more reluctant to buy U.S. Treasuries, fearing that the healthcare bill, along with other spending, will cause government debt to explode to default levels. I had the opportunity to address my concerns with both Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner and Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke, especially about the potential for the coming serious inflation. I am not optimistic that these important decision makers truly understand what is coming, why it is coming, and how best to deal with it.

The Federal Reserve finds itself in an unprecedented, and unenviable position. To keep up with government spending, and corporate irresponsibility, it has increased the monetary base by nearly $1.5 trillion since September of 2008. Excess bank reserves remain at historically high levels, and the Fed’s balance sheet has ballooned to over $2 trillion. If the Fed pulls this excess liquidity out of the system, it risks collapsing banks that rely on the newly created money. However, if the Fed fails to pull this excess liquidity out of the system we then risk tipping into hyperinflation. This is where central banking inevitably has led us.

The idea that a handful of brilliant minds can somehow steer an economy is fatal to economic growth and stability. The Soviet Union’s economy failed because of its central economic planning, and the U.S. economy will suffer the same fate if we continue down the path toward more centralized control. We need to bring back sound money and free markets— yes, even in healthcare—if we hope to soften the economic blows that are coming our way.

by Ron Paul
U.S. Congressman

Ralph Nader- Talks Bottom Line

The Filibuster Flim Flam

The usually mild House Democratic Caucus Chairman, John Larson (CT) showed his irritation recently when he said that people are tired of the House passing legislation that stalls in the Senate.

Some of the bills passed by the House include the financial reform bill regarding Wall Street’s abuses, the omnibus energy bill, a long over- due adjustment of Postal Service pension payments, vision care for children, job security act for wounded veterans, a paycheck fairness bill, an elder abuse victims bill, a water use efficiency and conservation research bill, an act to prohibit the importation of certain low-level radioactive waste into the U.S., an imposition of additional taxes on executive bonuses awarded by financial companies under bailout salvation, a mortgage reform and anti- predatory lending bill, food safety legislation, stronger enforcement authority for the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), a student aid and fiscal responsibility bill.

These are some of the 290 bills already passed in the House— many of them minor to be sure— that House Speaker, Nancy Pelosi (Dem. CA.) has noted. (See: http://thehill.com/homenews/se nate/83057-290-bills)

Granted the major House bills are not as strong as some citizen groups would like, which is why they try to get them strengthened in the Senate. Fat chance, as long as Rule 22—the notorious filibuster mechanism— exists, and as long as the Senators remain marinated in corporate campaign cash and prospective jobs for them or their relatives. The filibuster is now virtual, unlike the traditional filibuster where its practitioners would have to go on the Senate floor for hours straining their bladders and patience of the public.

Presently, all Minority Leader Senator Mitch McConnell (Rep. KY) has to do is merely notify Majority Leader, Senator Harry Reid (Dem. NV) of the intent to extend debate and, voila, a minority of forty-one Senators defeats the majority rule of fifty-nine Senators. So Senator Reid bewails that: “We had to file cloture some seventy times last year, seventy times. That’s remarkably bad. Let’s change that.”

So why don’t the Democrats “change that?” In 1975, Vice President Nelson Rockefeller, in his role as president of the Senate, ruled that fifty-one Senators could amend Senate rules. Senator Tom Udall has a resolution to do just that—predictably languishing in the Senate without even a hearing.

Moreover, Senator Tom Harkin proposed a resolution that would require a series of votes to cut off a filibuster. The first stage would need sixty votes, the second would need fifty-seven, then fifty-four and finally a simple majority over a period of weeks. That proposal is going nowhere.

Obviously, the Democrats could end the filibuster with a majority vote but choose not to because they may wish to use this tool of obstruction should they be in the minority. In fact, Harry Reid has ruled out any filibuster reform. Well then, why not end the “virtual” filibuster and make the Republicans hit the floor with round-the-clock debate televised around the nation. People are waiting and suffering from corporate-desired inaction.

Chicago lawyer and scholar, Thomas Geoghegan wrote an open letter to Senator Reid (See it at: http://www.thenation.com/doc/ 20100222/geoghegan_editors) urging that he make the Republicans actually filibuster. Either make them stall the Senate on a minor bill to gen- erate public ire or generate public outrage by making them filibuster a popular bill aimed at curbing corporate crime, waste and abuse or one that would save people money or their health. Still, no response, other than debilitating talk by the Democrats about seeking bipartisan support for their bills.

Face it—the Senate is breaking an already broken Congress into little pieces which are then sold for a mess of pottage. Organize Congress Watch Locals in every state, folks, for nobody will save you but yourselves.

by Ralph Nader

Visit: OnlyTheSuperRich.org and Nader.org

Cooking Well: Beautiful Skin - Elizabeth TenHouten

Antioxidant Rich Recipes for Glowing Skin

Spring Is In The Air…

Spring has arrived, so remember to stop and smell the tulips. With the Spring season upon us, we are still in a period of transitioning from Beverly Hills’ “subtle chill” of winter, before our skin is bathed in the warm embrace of the sunlight gifted to us by the new season. During this seasonal transition, it is important to stay balanced.

Maintaining your own natural beauty balance is reliant upon your own desire to lean inwardly, and appreciate your natural self for all that you are worth. There is an energetic connection that exists to show us the way back to beauty …into    ourselves…naturally .    In the midst of the warmth of Spring holding us, let us return home to beauty. Beauty has virtue in pure, healthy ingredients as a path to wellness, both internally and externally. With my love of food and as a natural cook, I yearn to fuse these loves of mine into some- thing greater. It’s blossomed, beautifully into a greater, hierarchical truth and that is my core understanding of beauty, in its many forms.

“April”
The roofs are shining from the rain, The sparrows twitter as they fly, And with a windy April grace, The little clouds go by. Yet the backyards are bare and brown, With only one unchanging tree– I could not be so sure of Spring, Save that it sings in me. ~Sarah Teasdale

May is a special month, as we celebrate Mother’s Day. Health and beauty is an important part of all females. Good food from mother earth is part of that.
The Beverly Hills Farmer’s Market is on Sundays from 9:00am to 1:00pm and is a wonderful way to buy local produce. Organically grown is good for the environment and healthier for your body, hair, skin, and heart. Let a monstrously beautiful heirloom tomato inspire you to help launch a community garden…let the love, knowledge, and respect for Mother Earth grow!

Internalize health on Earth Day by enjoying edible nature.    Find with- in yourself…an appreciation, respect, and gratitude for Mother Earth. Find your natural beauty.

Luxury Clay Beauty Byte
Celebrate Earth Day by beautifying yourself with the Earth, itself!

Ingredients:
1/2 tablespoon bentonite clay
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar Mix ingredients together with a hygienic tongue depressor, until mixture becomes a creamy paste. Apply mask to face, avoiding eye area. Leave your Earth mask on for 10 minutes and rinse with warm water.

Cooking Well: Beautiful Skin
available on Amazon
www.elizabethtenhouten.com

by Elizabeth TenHouten

The Brockovich Report - What you donʼt know just might kill you…

CURRENT WORK

My work, as all work, can become a real challenge. I have learned that DECEIT becomes one of our biggest challenges and our biggest enemy .

My work is about helping people get the answers that they need and help them find the deceit that ends up jeopardizing them. My job isn’t to try to be the lawyer. I am not the scientist. I am an everyday person who wants to help others in time of need, or a least be a shoulder to lean on.

It is through awareness and information that we can protect ourselves, our families and our health. It is the absence of knowing information that we become vulnerable and stand defenseless to protect ourselves.

So many people write to me because they suddenly become curious as to why all their neighbors or family and friends have been diagnosed with a cancer or illness and their children may be sick, yet they don’t know why or what to do. Often times community members suspect a nearby industry as a possible cause of the problem, but are unsure and will contact me searching for help and answers.

I want to help each and every person the best way I know how. It is through communication with you, applying our common sense, searching for information and documents, finding the right lawyer and standing united that we can fight back against an enemy that we can’t always see, until it is too late.

MY PHILOSOPHY

People ask me all the time what I think and what my opinion is. Well, here are a few of my thoughts and beliefs:

• Everyone believes because of the movie, that I am an environ- mental activist. I am often referred to as the environmentalist with cleavage. I do care a great deal about the environment, but my real work and my greatest challenge is try- ing to overcome deceits that end up jeopardizing public health and safety.

• I am an advocate for awareness, the truth, and a person’s right to know. I believe that in the absence of the truth, all of us stand help- less to defend ourselves, our families and our health, which is the greatest gift that we have. As with everything, some people always go too far, too far to the right, too far to the left, and this is true of environmentalism and now, in many instances, our issues fall on a deaf ear.

• Often times we don’t think about or worry about or understand what is happening to another person until it happens to us. Deceits have no boundaries. Disease doesn’t recognize the color of our skin or our political parties affiliation. When it comes to cover-ups and destruction of our environment, we are all up for grabs.

• A lot of times I am motivated or become very inspired by a cliché. They make me think and more often than not can be true. For example, “an informed citizen is the only true repository of the American will” - Thomas Jefferson. Oh how right he was. I believe that our perception of things become our reality. It is how you choose to see yourself, your char- acter, that can actually determine your fate.

• Most people don’t know that my favorite movie is not “Erin Brockovich” but “Pay It Forward”. All of us should pay it forward but not with the expectation of seeing a reward, that is not why we do it. Pay if forward because it is the right thing to do, reward or not. If you follow your heart, if you listen to your gut, and if you extend your hand to help another, not for any agenda, but for the sake of humanity, you are going to find the truth.

TOXIC WATER

If we had a crystal ball and could see a 60 foot wall of water coming at us, or an F-5 tornado ready to rip our house off its foundation, would we do something to stop it? Of course we would—unless it is an environmental disaster of our own making. Those we tend to ignore. Environmental disasters need no gypsy fortunetellers or wizards to reveal ominous portent. All it takes is a little common sense and people who pay attention. We all need to pay attention because that 60 foot wall of water is on its way. Only in some places it is arsenic, or benzene, or hexavalent chromium, or lead.

GARDASIL VACCINE

Even if I’m concerned about public health issues NO ONE has the all the answers. We just want the power of choice and full disclosure. It’s a matter of logic and personal decision making. If dozens of people in my family had Epstein Barr, I would stay away from Gardasil. But if dozens of women in both sides of my family had cervical cancer, then maybe Gardasil would look a lot different to me. If it is so great, wouldn’t it cause a red- uction in the rate of HPV exposure down the road? Why isn’t it marketed to boys? NO answers here, just more questions. I just want to advo- cate for full disclosure and getting information out there for girls who have been impacted or communities impacted. If we do all we can now to learn and grow from our exper- ience, 50 years from now, we may see Gardasil as a Thalidomide- type disaster or the polio-type miracle of 2010. But that’s a conclusion that only time will tell.

by Erin Brockovich
brockovich.com

Jimmy Delshad - Beverly Hills Mayor

A day in the most famous city on earth. A day with the man who runs the show.

Way too often, we Americans (those of us born in the United States) take our freedoms—life, speech and pursuit of happiness for granted.    We forget that despite any difficulties we face as a nation and a people, America is still the greatest country on earth. We enjoy life-born privileges that billions of people in other countries never get to experience. Sometimes it takes listen- ing to a person who fought through a life of prejudice and poverty, struggled to live in the midst of zero freedom, and survived purely on faith—to remind us just how lucky we truly are.

My interview with Mayor Jimmy Delshad was just such a moment for me. Our time together was filled with moments of pure happiness as he spoke about his family and how his life has taken many twists and turns, evolving in directions he never imagined. There were also recollections of utter sad- ness recalling the hardships he not only endured, but forced himself to overcome to get where he is today. The word that seems to define his life best is…faith. Even as a small child, during his worst of times… he never gave up on himself…never allowed his spirit to be broken by anyone. Growing up, he found the strength deep inside to keep going, and the courage to move forward. Almost as if he knew that to survive meant that one day he would have a life he dreamed of; a life like he has now.

Delshad was re-elected to a second term as Mayor of Beverly Hills, California—only the second person in the history of the city council to be Mayor twice. He has been a resident of Beverly Hills for 21 years and lived in Southern California for more than 50 years. He and his wife, Lonnie have two children: Debra and Daniel. Debra is a graduate of USC and Loyola Law School; Daniel, a computer businessman, also graduated from USC. Delshad and his two brothers immigrated from Iran to the United States in 1959. Still teenagers, they took a gamble coming to a new country. They didn’t speak the language and knew nothing of the culture. But they had faith that what they had heard about America— the promise of freedom and opportunity would become their reality.

“The transition from Iran to America in the beginning was very strange; very hard. There were nights I cried being away from my family and friends. But every time I looked back, I saw it as a challenge to overcome. I wanted to see what I could do in this country—more for the sake of the old country—to elevate people’s perception about those who live in what may be considered a third world country. I made a challenge out of the pain and continue this way of thinking to this day when I run into an obstacle that I must overcome. Looking back, though, I realize that learning to make a challenge out of an obstacle started in my childhood. Being Jewish in a predominately Muslim country wasn’t easy. Jews were considered second-class citizens and that way of thinking was outwardly accepted. But inside, I never accepted it. I wanted to be better, more…I wanted to be equal. Being a minority shaped my life, made me strong and willing to do what it takes to overcome the feeling of not being good enough. I took this determination and used it to become a better person myself and help others do better in their lives.”

Six-years-old, and on his first day of school Delshad’s teacher singled him out because he was the only Jewish child in the class in the front row. She made him stand in the back of the room.    Embarrassed, he took his pain to the books and over time became the smartest kid in the school, a position that offered him a great deal of clout. Students went to him for help with their homework, and teachers put him in charge of their classes when they were away.

“During school I thought: what can I do to become more accepted? The only thing I could think to do was be the best student in the school. I believe to this day that if I hadn’t had that traumatic experience when I was six-years-old…I would not be where I am today. I may not have pushed myself to accomplish what I have to this point in my life. I may have settled for ‘good’ and not pushed myself to be the ‘best’ that I could. ”

In 2000, Delshad was the first Jewish Iranian-American to be elected president of Sinai Temple in L.A—a non-Persian Jewish Temple. In 2003, he became the first and only Iranian- American to date to hold office in the Beverly Hills City Council. And, in addition to being the highest rank- ing Iranian-American citizen in the American political arena he was named one of the “10 Most Influential Jewish Leaders” in America, by Forward Magazine. All of this is fabulous of course, but how many of you know that when the Delshad brothers came to the United States in the late ‘50s (each was accepted to the University of Minnesota) they formed a band The Delshad Trio to help pay their bills? There’s more. They sang at parties, bar mitzvahs, weddings, and holiday events in and around Minnesota. And The Delshad Trio was not small time—OH NO! They became so successful that they recorded their music and played at top venues. Yes people…the Mayor was a Rock Star! This leads me to ask Mr. Delshad the million dollar question: Does he still sing in the band, and if so where do they play? Because me and the rest of the city want to go check it out.

“At first we worked at night as janitors, busboys and waiters. But because we owned our own musical instruments people started asking us to play at parties. The more we played…the better we got and the more popular we became. During the Christmas holidays we were asked to play at all kinds of parties. We were a Persian group playing Persian instruments, performing at Christian venues and singing songs like Jingle Bells, and Silent Night. Our sound was very exotic. We got an agent and started getting so many jobs that we made enough money to pay our way through college. Even after each of us got married we kept playing. We had such a wide audience that we were invited to perform in places like Mexico. We would take our wives with us, have a great time and just enjoy the weekend relaxing. It was so much fun. We still get together and play music for a jam session, but we don’t play professionally. There are many talented Persian music groups here in Los Angeles that get together and play. I love listening to them. “

How great is it to be the Mayor of Beverly Hills? Well, from what I saw following Mr. Delshad around for a day I would say that it’s pretty darn good. And fun. It looks like a totally awesome job and everyone waves and yells “Hi” and “Good Job Mayor” from their cars when they see him.    But I guess the real question is: What does it take to be the Mayor of Beverly Hills? And that is an entirely different dog to chase. Because even though it looks like a stroll down Rodeo Drive it is a 24/7 job that takes a genius at public relations and a rocket scientist at business to make it all work out. Luckily for the city, Delshad fits the bill to a tee.

First, Delshad is the most gracious, thankful and friendly guy that you could ever meet. From every hand he shakes, to every ‘Hello’ he acknowledges and every wave that he returns—the man loves his job and it shows. Second, he is smart. Like, rocket scientist smart. He is an electrical engineer who graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree from California State University at Northridge. He attended post-grad classes at USC, and participated in a continuing education program of ‘The Executive Committee’ a round table of CEOs, for seven years. He is a successful entrepreneur in the field of computer technology and pioneered his own business in a field few had even heard of at the time (late ‘70s): computer    storage    technology .    His company made a fortune with prod- ucts he invented, manufactured and cleverly marketed throughout the world. When he sold his company in 1999, he stayed on as a management consultant and on the Board of Directors.

As Mayor his focus is on rallying the Beverly Hills business community, keeping residents happy and making visitors feel welcome. Delshad is a master at making his Mayor job look easy. But make no mistake he carries its problems on his shoulders 24/7. His main concern is that it pros- pers and everything runs smoothly.

“It takes persistence and passion to give your best to whatever you do, especially in your job. If you have persistence, but no passion it doesn’t last because it’s not coming from your heart. And if you have passion, but no persistence there comes the time when you can’t do what needs to be done. When I had my com- puter technology company I was so excited with the products that I had invented and I wanted to present them to a very large, five billion dollar company. Someone got me in the door for the interview, but then it was up to me to take it from there and make my presentation work. And I was scared. They had hundreds of employees and I had three. When I walked into the room there were two rows of people sitting around a conference table and there was me. The first question they asked: ‘Mr. Delshad how big is your company?’ I replied, ‘Much smaller than yours, but since we are a smaller company we can do things much faster. Now lets talk about the products.’ I talked about the products, sold the idea and got the contract. When people out- side of the country ask me what it’s like in America, I tell them that we have the freedom and the opport- unity to do whatever we want. But to accomplish what we want it takes passion and persistency—along with freedom of choice. This way of thinking isn’t just for minorities living here. It is for everyone who wants to be a success in life, regard- less of what they choose to do. I use obstacles as a spring board. I say bless the day that you find an obstacle— because that is the day that you learn not only to overcome it—but overshoot it—and then do even more than you ever thought you could.”

Delshad stands for much more than just a beacon of hope and pride for the Iranian-American community. His successes down the paths he has traveled are a spirited calling to each of us to not only go the distance to do the job…but do the job better than we ever imagined that we could. Growing up in a country where he had limited choices then moving to a country where he had unlimited choices, Delshad’s struggle and passion to succeed and overcome obstacles hasn’t decreased over the years…it has grown stronger. Looking at his life the lesson is: When we want something we can’t let up even for a minute. We have to push on through to make things happen, while keep- ing our eye on the end result that we hope to achieve. This is what makes the difference between going the distance —or not.

Delshad’s life has been one per- sonal and professional reinvention after another. With the over- whelming success of his computer technology company came the realization (inspired by his wife Lonnie) that he had to get out and take time to smell the flowers around Beverly Hills. Translation: get    involved    in    the    community .

His adventure began with him volunteering at his children’s school in the Beverly Hills Unified School District to help the educational process of children. He then became president at Sinai Temple, followed by President of Magbit Educational Foundation where he helped students get scholarships and interest free loans for college. Out of the blue came his next challenge. Just after 9/11, Immigration asked about 30 Iranians and some others to show their Visas; 12 Iranians were arrested and held in custody not able to leave, go back to Iran or back to their homes in L.A. There was nobody to help them, nobody to call, no representation. Little did they know that they had Jimmy Delshad on their side.

“I told myself that I wanted to be that person they could turn to for help. Right then, I decided to run for city Council.    I took a year to plan my campaign. I went to every commission and council meeting; I read every book and law, every ordinance. My challenge was one day to become mayor. I wanted to open the door for all minorities who felt it was impossible to get into city politics, especially Iranians. I wanted them to see the importance of getting involved in the community, voting for or against laws that affect them. The platform I ran on my first term was my technology background and I am known as the creator of the SMART initiatives, resulting in a new trademarked tag for Beverly Hills—The Smart City.”

His hope is now a reality. Delshad brought Beverly Hills and its residents into the decade of…sure it’s good to be a beautiful city, but a smart city as well—is unbeatable! Using his computer background he has implemented technology that has secured the safety of the city and all who live and work in it. The Auto- mated License Plate Recognition and UNITE programs have increased the rate of recovering stolen cars by 56%. There are smart cameras watching over the city, smart solar parking meters, smart sprinklers, smart water meters and smart traffic lights. ‘Going Green’ in Beverly Hills now means more than just planting more grass, trees and flowers. It is about helping the environment with positive initiatives such as offering loans to people who install solar panels and utility saving devices in their homes. For the first time, Beverly Hills will make an appearance in the Rose Parade in 2011 with a very Beverly Hills- worthy float. And in keeping with our world wide distinction of 90210 being the top of the heap when it comes to Zip Codes, this coming September we have the opportunity to celebrate 9-02-10 and what a grand party in Beverly Hills it is slated to be.

“As an immigrant, when you first get to America you just don’t believe what you see.    You think that it’s a dream that can be taken away at any moment. That feeling…feeling not good enough or worthy enough to have something good comes from growing up in a country that made you feel fearful that nothing was truly yours, and that at any moment what you have can be taken away from you.”

Not    likely .    Beverly    Hills    is    definitely his    city .    Delshad    talks    about    how lucky he feels to be here. I hope he knows how lucky we all feel to have him. I walk him to the door of his City Council meeting. Thank him for his time. And he’s gone. Another day making sure that the most famous city in    the    world    stays    that    way .

Suzanne Takowsky
Editor In Chief

Harvey Mackay - Job seeking & Business building tips.

Best-selling Author, International Speaker & Business Guru

HARVEY MACKAY

Tips on how to find a job & build a business empire.

My interview with Harvey Mackay teetered between a comedy club gig and two-year stint at Harvard.

The man is totally funny and truly brilliant— an unheard of combination at his level where most tend to take themselves too seriously and lose their edgy wit (if they had any in the first place!).

Born and raised in Saint Paul, Minnesota, Mackay’s parents, Jack and Myrtle, played vital roles in teaching him what turned out to be his uberwinning formula for fulfillment and success.

The Mackay family lived a simple life. His father was a hard worker, who during high school got a part time job at the Associated Press and stayed on after graduating from college. He continued working there for 35 years rising through ranks and ethnic prejudices (there were many) to become a senior AP correspondent. Mackay’s mother went the help-the-world-be-a-better-place route from the ground up and became a teacher.

Mackay’s grandparents (on both sides) were immigrants to the U.S. Their inspiration to better their own lives taught Mackay’s parents about survival and success. They instilled those values in their son. To this day, Harvey Mackay keeps the values his parents taught him alive and burning in every speech he gives, and in every book that he writes.

Throughout four years of college at the University of Minnesota (history major) Mackay worked as a salesman for a mens clothing store before heading to Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business Executive Program. At 26, he started Mackay Envelope Company where he remains as chairman. Today, it is a $100 million company, with 500 employees, manufacturing 25 million envelopes a day.

Following in his father’s footsteps, Mackay also became a newspaper man (among his other “jobs”), and is a columnist for United Feature Syndicate where his weekly business articles appear in 75 newspapers throughout the United States.

“I teach creativity and there is no correlation between IQ and creativity. Every person has the ability to become more creative than they ever thought they could.

Every newspaper column and every book chapter that I write has a ‘Mackay’s Moral’ and I have to come up with thousands of titles out of my head to go with each.

When it comes to titles for my books, I have a brain- storming session with 10 people in a room, look at television, look at magazines—we do all kinds of things to come up with ideas and titles.

For instance Swim with the Sharks; we put up more than 800 titles on a wall. ‘Swim with the Sharks’ was my idea, but I didn’t tell the others; it went up on the wall with the rest. And in the end when everyone voted, they ended up liking my title the best.”

Forget that introverted-type personality that plagues most writers. Mackay is ecstatic about life, and his excitement spills through every word that comes out of his mouth. It’s just plain fun listening to his humorous take on life; at the same time it never leaves your mind for a minute that you are talking with one of the most successful, well- known businessmen on planet earth.

“Practice makes perfect? Not true. Perfect practice makes perfect,” says Mackay. “You can do something time and again and if you don’t know what you’re doing…all you’re doing is perfecting an error and putting a ceiling on how good you can really become.”

The author of six New York Times best-sellers with titles such as, Swim With The Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive; Beware The Naked Man Who Offers You His Shirt; Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty, Pushing The Envelope; We Got Fired!…And It’s The Best Thing That Ever Happened To Us —what Mackay has to say changes lives!

His books have sold 10 million copies worldwide, been translated into 37 languages, distributed in 80 countries, and are found in almost every library ever built.

Here we go! Straight from the horse’s mouth—so listen up.

#1 RULE FOR BUSINESS SUCCESS

“Build a network of contacts. To achieve success people have to under- stand networking. Every person who reads this can be more successful and happier than they are right now, and make more money if they buy Swim with the Sharks and Dig Your Well Before You’re Thirsty, and read my newspaper column.

All you have to do is practice those concepts and your life will dramatically change. Regardless of culture or language…the concepts that I write about do not change.

An example: People may think that networking is going to an event and exchanging business cards, hoping they will meet influential people. Nothing is further from the truth.

My father sat me down at age 18 and taught me Rule #1: the importance of the Rolodex. Every person I’ve met or will meet for as long as I live goes in my Rolodex—if I think they are a person I will want to stay in contact with, I put a little bit about them on the back of the Rolodex card and find a creative way to stay in touch.

From now on, every person you meet and want to see again goes in your Rolodex file. Then, keep in touch.” • Mackay has 12,800 names in his.

#1 RULE HOW TO GET A JOB - EVEN IN THIS ECONOMIC SLUMP

“Get out and volunteer. I spend 25% of my life volunteering. My father said, ‘When you meet someone and extend your hand, in your mind say…how can I help this person? What can I do for this person? Extend that thought into the conversation. What can I do for you? And here is the key; expect nothing in return.’

If you do this you will be financially successful and be much happier. It is just beyond comprehension. I learned that at age 21 and it has changed my entire life.

Find a charitable organization that you believe in and join.    Let me tell you what happens when you are looking for a job and volunteering.    Every non-profit needs money; so you’ll have to raise money for them. You’ll have to make calls, ring door bells and make presentations.

You’re getting rejected all the time, but rejection helps you. Helps you get a job, become a better sales person, become a better speaker (able to speak with anyone, any time), become a communicator, become a better leader. And get this: while you are out there donating your time and raising money for your favorite non-profit and looking for a job you are networking; 67% of all jobs come from networking.

When you’re with an organization where 150-200 people know you are looking, you have help finding a job, because each of those people know people. Plus you feel better about yourself. It’s a god send for every person out there.“

What I love, love, love is Mackay gets to the nitty gritty of “you can do it” fast! It’s …do this and you’ll get these results and that’s the deal. PERIOD. What he teaches isn’t rocket science; it’s very simple and understandable changes we all can make that work. And he knows that what he says works because he’s used them all to achieve the success he has today.

“I’ve had the best writing, humor, golf, language, skiing, you name it, coaches to help me. In whatever I want to do, I want a goal with a deadline. I want to focus on that goal. I want to be the best I can be. Whatever my talent, whatever my God-given potential, I can reach it if I have a mentor who teaches me everything that I need to know. And then I go out and spend my life coaching and teaching others to be the best that they can be.“

Mackay even goes so far as putting a ‘money back guarantee’ on the back covers of his books like with his latest, Use Your Head To Get Your Foot In The Door: Job Search Secrets No One Else Will Tell You.

If readers follow his advice, and don’t find a job in six months, he’ll give them their money back! Of course, I had to ask the burning question: had anyone ever wanted their money back?    Yes, he said. Over the years, 18 did, but seven were his best friends playing a joke and trying to keep him humble.

Mackay was named one of the top five speakers in the world by Toastmasters International and speaks every year at different universities such as Harvard, Stanford and Wharton School of Business; at Fortune 500-size companies and at tons of associations.

His own volunteer work and generosity is felt by students, nonprofits and organizations around the globe. He has personally mentored around 500 students and young adults, and served on some 20 nonprofit boards. Since he logs more time in the air than on the ground I asked: Do you ever get tired of all the running around, interviews, book signings and non-stop lecturing.

“I love it. Years ago, my friend Larry King said, ‘Harvey, when you get up in the morning, open your eyes, look at the ceiling and say…It’s a gift. It’s agift.’ I’vedoneiteverydaysincehe told me. I’m a very optimistic person. I have no negative friends. Zip.”

The honors Mackay has received probably number in the hundreds, but standouts are his receiving the Horatio Alger Award in the Supreme Court Chambers, being inducted into the Minnesota Business Hall of Fame in 2002, playing a key role in bringing the 1992 Super Bowl to Minneapolis, and serving as the catalyst in bringing an NBA franchise (Minnesota Timberwolves) to his home state.

Mackay doesn’t float words around a page to take up space. Each word has meaning. He wants us to succeed. Our successes are his and he happily and generously offers words of wisdom, experience and knowledge to get us to the top. Now, the biggest question: what are you going to do about it?

Suzanne Takowsky
Editor In Chief

WHAT?

Former Hole lead singer/Kurt Cobain widow Courtney Love and former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarrist Dave Navarro put on an act of their own on the stage at a Camp Freddy show at Hollywood & Highland.  Onlookers were treated to an over-the-top stomach turning makeout session featuring Love and Navarro at their worst.

Kiefer Sutherland, channeling his 24 anything goes TV character Jack Bauer got in on the performing end of the show at a strip club in London.  Sources say Sutherland stripped and danced and shouted up a storm at Stringfellows, a lap dance club. The party didn’t last, however, apparently the can’t-stay-out- of-trouble-actor got into an altercation with another clubgoer and bouncers had to step in.  A shirtless Sutherland was tossed around 3:30 AM.

Michelle “Bombshell”McGee, one of Jesse James’s mistress has signed on for a real fight and will make her female boxing debut against porn star Gina Lynn.  Originally McGee was set to referee a match between Lynn and Jon Gosselin’s ex, Kate Major, but Major dropped out and McGee jumped in for the rumble set for May 7, 2010.

Ashley Dupre, known for her call girl duties of former New York governor Eliot Spitzer’s is the cover girl on the May issue of Playboy magazine.  Dupre also writes a sex column for the New York Post. Refuting reports that she brought down the gov, Dupre says it was he who did the dirty deed against her…”Some people call me the girl who brought down the governor of New York, but in reality he brought me down. I was an escort. As much as I wish I could make that go away, I can’t.”

It seems that actor Nicolas Cage has come to the conclusion that a nine-foot tall pyramid-shaped super-tomb built in a New Orleans cemetery is the ideal place for him to spend eternity.

New Orleans has above-ground tombs and Cage saw one resembling a pyramid.

Editor’s Note

SPECIAL CONTRIBUTING GUESTS

A Genius at Networking Sheida Delkhah

This issue has so many fabulous contributing guests. Amazing people who took the the ball and ran with it, work hard, stay focused and turned their dreams into a reality.  One such person is Sheida Delkhah Shirazi founder and director of the IranianHotline.

It’s never easy starting your own business, now double that workload when you come to a new country and have to start from scratch on everything from learning the language, to getting your family adjusted, to meeting every business owner you can to add to your business roster and most important, acclimate yourself to a new culture and then find a way to fit in. Sheida did just that and more for the entire Iranian community here in the United States! Not only did she find a way to make new friends and find business acquaintances—she found a way to get an entire city, state and country together to create a business networking that now encompasses millions of people.

The IranianHotline is an advanced “yellow pages” like you’ve never seen before: Photos, web links, numbers, addresses, upcoming entertainment news you name it. At the helm is Sheida. She works hard. Is dedicated to her vision and an incredible and loving human being. Not just a client any more… I have a new friend. Nothing gets my motor running like a woman who starts her own business and makes it a ongoing success. Check out the IranianHotline.  Join and enjoy.

www.IranianHotline.com

The Business of Matchmaking - Sherri Murphy

We all know that love makes the World go around.  Unfortunately, we also know—especially those who own our own businesses that there is ZERO time at the end of the day to even have the energy to go out with our friends or to an event and and meet someone that maybe catches our eye. Thank God for Sherri Murphy.

Some industry sources say that high-end dating agencies such as Elite Connections are relatively new, but lots of Californians have become believers.

Sherri Murphy founded her Los Angeles-based company in 1994 after meeting her husband through a matchmaker. “We spend time getting to know our clients and guide them in who they should meet. People are getting burned out on the internet. Our company screens out the riffraff so that meetings are between single, professional, attractive, educated people, who are who they say they are.” states Murphy. Spring is in the air… so it’s time for love to bloom!

www.EliteConnections.com

Suzanne Takowsky
Editor In Chief

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