Harvey Mackay - Employees Advise How To Be A Better Boss

Feedback is a gift. Every now and the one of my columns gets a response that tells me that I have really hit a nerve. In this case, I wrote about managing your boss. The feedback I reviewed was that bosses need plenty of managing, and readers weren’t skimpy with their advice!

Each employee you supervise has different strengths and weaknesses, as well as different work styles… Be prepared to give employees as much information as the need to succeed.

So I’ll sit on the other side of the dest and send some pointers to the bosses out there. If you asked employees what they would do if they ran the zoo, their answers would sound like these

• Adapt to individuals. Each employees you supervise has different strengths and weaknesses, as well as different work styles. The “my way or the highway” approach rarely works. If you can’t quite figure out how to accomplish this, think back to the best boss you ever had and follow that example.

• Check your attitude. What example are you setting? Are you enthusiastic about the work you do, or do you view it as a burden? Eliminate stereotypes, both positive and negative. Recognize that talent may be hiding where you least expect it.

Dr. Garth Fisher - A Father’s Day Tribute

Each month of the year is known for a special occasion. And without a doubt June in one of the most important as it carries Father’s Day, a day to recognize men whose loving concern and ongoing contributions make a difference in our lives. But it’s not just our own fathers and husbands who deserve our appreciation. Each of us know men outside our families who step in to save the day when life gets tough to take on our burdens to make our lives easier. The take time out of their busy schedules to offer advice when things get complicated and stand watchful when we need a strong shoulder to lean on. It is the ripple effect of these men and their heartfelt generosity that helps us, people in our city, country and throughout the world - have better lives. Father’s Day celebrates each man, who despite the personal heartbreaks he has endured, negative circumstances and obstacles he has had to overcome and fears he has had to face and survive, does his very best to not only live a life that he can be proud of, but a life that we can look up to and aspire to emulate. Men are fathers to the world and the caretakers of humanity.

Garth Fisher happens to be one of my favorite people. I’ve known him for years -way back when he started his practice here in Beverly HiIIs. Years of hard work, motivation to be the best surgeon possible, incredible skill in the operating room, an eye for the smallest detail, an iron man will to overcome obstacles and negativity, sympathetic bedside manner and generous giving nature have put and kept him at the top. Fisher is a concerned humanitarian who gives of his time and is willing to use his extraordinary surgical talent to help others. And he does it without fanfare or expecting recognition.

Our Favorite Billionaire Donald Trump

The Donald is at it again, this time the billionaire real estate and entertainment mogul is catapulting himself full tilt into the world of nutrition multi-level marketing.

While the term multi-level marketing, or MLM as it’s commonly known, may not be immediately familiar, you are probably familiar with the process.

Odds are you have either purchased products from, or at least heard someone tell you about, NuSkin, Amway, Sunrider, Herbalife and many other highly successful lines in which individuals buy products at wholesale prices and then sell them to friends, family and interested parties for rates well below retail. The entrepreneurs make money not only from the sales they make, but also from the money that is generated by people they find to get involved in the business. Plus, they also have access to these products - many have tremendous reputations for being the best on the market.

In his latest endeavor, Trump has jumped into the multi-level marketing game with his products QuickStik weight loss as well as a nutritional line.

According to the Trump Network, “QuickStiks” rely on botanicals and bionutrients - known to support energy levels and mood - to give you just what you need to get going in the morning, pick you up in the afternoon, and help you relax in the evening.

Trump’s latest venture, while similar in style to few MLM companies out there, stands out because it has its focus exclusively on the world of health and beauty.

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

Simin Hashemizadeh Owner of South Pacific Surgery Centers

Beverly Hills, California—without a doubt the biggest ‘little’ city on earth which sets standards through- out the world for everything from beauty and style, to glamour and most certainly can determine success for a business.  Because if you can make it in Beverly Hills…you can make it any where.  Reality is harsh.  People are jaded.   Friends are few.  And competition is stiff.  Only the strong and smart survive!  Double that outlook if you are a woman; triple it if you are a woman who owns her own business.  

With businesses closing their doors right and left, what’s emerging from the rubble are the true movers and shakers of the City.  Those who not only manage to keep their businesses up and going, but manage to stay on top, and thrive despite a less than booming economy.  These are the true entrepreneurs who now more than ever are establishing themselves as cornerstones of our Beverly Hills community and the business triangle.  Some say it’s a ‘Man’s World’ —well as we look around and head into 2010, I have to say—not so much any more.  Incredibly it is the emerging group of talented, business savvy female entrepreneurs who are stepping up as today’s business success stories and flourishing in their roles as corporate leaders and business owners.  

One woman is Simin Hashemizadeh, owner and founder of South Pacific Surgery Centers.  With medical offices  and surgery center locations in the San Fernando Valley, San Pedro and a new facility in Beverly Hills, Hashemizadeh  has her hands full 24/7 with a daily roll call of physicians, patient consultations,   overseeing surgery schedules, business expansion and day-to-day of decision making, marketing/public relations, special events and her on-hands support and sponsoring of numerous non-profit charity organizations in Los Angeles.  I want to say that this is definitely a job for a SuperWoman—and she is.   

In order to understand the level of stress, perfection and zero room for error Hashemizadeh works under, one must recognize that her business employs more than 25 board-certified physicians from all medical specialties who consult with patients and perform surgeries at her fully accredited, out-patient medical facilities.  Ultimately, she carries the responsibility of making certain that patients receive the best, safest, and most state-of-the-art care available.  Their lives are in her hands. 

For more than 18 years, Hashemizadeh has not only succeeded in a business built around a roster of thousands of satisfied patient referrals—many of them celebrities—but has excelled in bringing together under one medical  facility umbrella some of the most well recognized, board-certified surgeons in Los Angeles from specialty fields  including, Plastic & Reconstructive  Surgery; Gynecology; Podiatry; Urology; Orthopedics; Ophthalmology; Ears, Nose & Throat, Gastroenterology, Pain Management and more.  Many of the surgeons are pioneers in their  respective fields and highly recognized  for their contributions to the medical world.  What makes Hashemizadeh more than just a businessowner, however, is her dedication to helping those who can’t afford surgery, but desperately need it as in the case of  LapBand patients who are morbidly obese and suffering with life-threatening heart conditions and  diseases like Diabetes, Hypertension, and Sleep Apnea.  Since opening her first facility in Encino, in 1994, she has made available the services of the surgeons who work for her to non-profit and charity organizations who know of people who need medical assistance.  Generally, at the end of the day she picks up the tab, paying not only the surgeon’s fee but operating room costs as well.  In June 2009, Hashemizadeh hosted a spectacular invitation-only, A-list fundraising dinner for Larry King and the Larry King Cardiac Foundation. She graciously opened her gorgeous hilltop mansion to Larry and Shawn Southwick-King for the good cause evening that brought together an Iranian and American Who’s Who from the medical, social and entertainment communities to support King’s ongoing mission to provide funding for life-saving heart surgery for individuals with limited funds, no insurance and otherwise not get treat- ment.  The evening was a tremendous success with Hashemizadeh and her guests raising more than $40,000.00.  It was a bitter sweet moment for her as she lost her father to heart failure; her mother had open heart surgery, and her brother needs ongoing cardiac care.  What made the evening even more special was that King, spoke in great detail about his own quintuple bypass heart surgery in 1987, offering an intimate look at what could have been disaster if he had not gotten the treatment and surgery that saved his life.  He founded the Larry King Cardiac Foundation in 1988 and his son Larry King, Jr, sits as president and Shawn Southwick-King is Foundation Chair.  Larry King Jr. had this to say about Hashemizadeh to the Canyon News: “We were honored when Simin approached us to help the Foundation by donating proceeds from a party at her beautiful home. Early this year we decided not to do an annual gala with hopes that individuals would help us by having their own parties and help save a life. When Simin heard about this at, larrykingandfriends.org, she took on the challenge and in turn has directly saved 16-20 people in her community. What better way to spend an evening!”  

Hashemizadeh is a survivor.  She has faced her own struggles, one being when she left Iran and came to the United States to start a new life for herself.  With hard work, a sense of pride and dutiful determination she has made her businesses successful.  In turn, she is using that success to give her time, effort and money to help others.  She serves an inspiration that success doesn’t have to isolate you, but can if you allow it—give you an opportunity to enrich the lives and well being of others.   Simin’s interest in pursuing a career around medicine began in Iran where her father founded more than 300 medical clinics.  Each offered patients an opportunity to consult with  physicians from many medical fields—the same as her multi-specialty clinics in Encino and Beverly Hills.  When Simin and her family came  to the U.S. it was her father (who since passed away) that encouraged her to follow her dreams and never give up.  

ST:  How difficult was it to leave your home country of Iran and what’s life like for a single, successful woman in L.A?

SH: Leaving a country where I was born and raised; leaving behind a culture and people that I love was the hardest thing I’ve done.  When I came to the U.S. it was difficult learning a new language and way of life.  I went through periods of self-doubt, but I believe in God and his goodness and I believe in Karma.  Life is what you make it.  If you put out goodness it will come back to you.  We all have struggles to face.  For women to become successful in business they must put their heart and soul into their work.  My motivation is not just money —I have a passion for what I do.  Many people depend on me and my decisions have to be well thought out and move in a direction that will benefit others.  I never feel alone.  I have many people around me.  As far as love is concerned, right now I’m making the sacrifice to put my energy into work to ensure that in the future I will have something I can be proud of.  I hope to be married someday and if it is meant to be then it will happen.  Until then, my life is full, exciting and changes every day.  So far I haven’t met my soul mate, but I’m dating and enjoying my life. For me to be with a man I must have a heart feeling for him.

ST:  With the upheaval in your country it must be sad to hear about.

SH: It’s heartbreaking for me and the people of my country who want nothing but to live in peace.  Iranians living outside of Iran are sad at what their country, family and friends go through on a daily basis.  We pray that somehow, this brutality will stop   and return to a peaceful place to live. 

Heading up a group of California’s  premier surgical facilities is no walk in the park.  It takes dedication and a lot of stamina not only to make it success- ful, but keep it running smoothly.  It’s not a job everyone can handle, but clearly Hashemizadeh has things under control.  From early morning until late at night; six, and seven days a week; this woman works about 70-80 hours a week.  If she is not physically at one of her offices, then she is in the car driving to one of her facilities and doing business on her cell phone.  Her daily work load is staggering and her’s no business for a light-weight.  It takes a combination of brains and personality to handle patients, juggle inner office staff and deal with the individual personalities of the surgeons.  An impossible feat for most which brings up the subject of jealously among her peers. 

ST:  Let’s talk about the jealously that  surely comes with business success.

SH:  Jealously always comes when you reach a certain level of success. Successful women feel jealously from women around them, but also difficulty when men work for a woman in a high position; a woman who is their boss.  In my business I work with many physicians and I try to make sure   that both men and women are comfortable in the environment that I provide. 

Hashemizadeh’s generosity and good-hearted nature doesn’t just go toward helping co-workers, she is a staunch animal rights advocate and supporter, who recently adopted a precious bundle of joy (a white poodle) from a Valley shelter.  One such animal organization is C.A.R.E: Cat/Canine Assistance, Referral and Education.  The No-Kill/ Cage Free shelter recently held an event to help place animals needing homes and update the public on its services.  Another she supports is ACI—Animal Cruelty Investigation, chaired by CNN’s news reporter / talk show host Jane Valez-Mitchell.  ACI is a registered Society for the  prevention of cruelty to all animals.

Hashemizadeh’s philanthropic support includes organizations such as Red Eye, Inc., an affiliate of the DreamCenter Downtown which recently held a fund- raiser complete with celebrity fashion show, at the Peninsula Hotel, Beverly Hills.  Hosted by music legend Smokey Robinson, Red Eye Inc., keeps L.A. teenagers and young adults sober, off drugs and headed toward productive lives using education and support from mentors and members.

ST:  What do you say to women trying to find a career path to follow?

SH:  Never to give up.  Never stop trying.  We all have times in our lives when we get depressed, or feel our lives have become unmanageable.   The key to success is facing problems, finding ways to overcome them and then moving on as fast as possible.   I always choose not to live my life in the past.  It does no good to go back to something that you can’t change.  The past shows us what we need to change to move forward and improve.

ST: Today men and women share financial responsibilities.  No longer can a woman depend on a man to “save” her; she must find ways to save herself.

SH:  I never ask anything from any- one.  What I need I make for myself.  I feel that women have to be prepared to take care of themselves no matter what.  And when two people love one another and are committed to one another, then it doesn’t matter who provides the most financially.  It  then becomes teamwork to make the best life possible and be happy.

Another division of her business is the extensive Forbelle Luxury Caviar beauty and skin care product line. Formulated by Hashemizadeh more than 8-years ago, the luscious products have a high-profile following due to the fabulous nature of ingredients—Russian Beluga Caviar.  For last year’s Golden Globe and Oscar Gifting Suites celebrities were treated to Forbelle products in their gift bags.  Hashemizadeh felt that more people should enjoy the benefits of using it for skin rejuvenation and developed a caviar product line that is the same high quality, but affordable.  

 “I have sensitive skin and it’s hard  to find products that don’t irritate my skin.  Caviar is the secret of those who can afford the luxury of using it on their skin. It works miracles erasing fine lines and wrinkles.  I wanted to use those ingredients to make skin care products women could afford.

This past September, Hashemizadeh was awarded an honorary Doctorate Degree from Dubna University, internationally known for its focus on higher education and for educating its students in humanities and natural sciences.  She was recognized for her efforts in bringing together diverse cultures in Los Angeles to ensure that young people can flourish in a world filled with hope and possibility.

ST:  Can money buy happiness?

SH:  Never.  Some people ruin their lives and that of those they love searching for material things that in the end never give them happiness.  Sometimes we look at people who have a lot of money and think that they have the perfect life just because they have money.  But if we go into their house and we see them in their relationships, will we will see the same thing?  Most times not.  Women and men marry all the time believing that money will make their lives happy, but find they are with someone they don’t love.  When it comes to matters of the heart only love matters, only love truly makes a relationship last.

ST:  What would your perfect man be? 

SH:  In the healthcare profession on some level because it would provide a mutual interest for him to understand my world and me to understand his.  It would be difficult for a man outside of my business to understand the commit- ment I carry to make my business work.  And though I live in L.A. I still respect many customs of my culture where relationships are concerned.  When I am with a man…then he is the only man that I am with, and of course I expect the same from him.     

It’s more than a brain for business and  winning smile that keep Hashemizadeh on top.  Those who know her—know that she gives her all to whatever she does.  As we head into 2010 we can look to a woman like Hashemizadeh as a role model to follow—who will open doors for women from all cultures and every walk of life.  It is through her survival and success she proves there is no stopping a woman on a mission to be the best that she can be.

ST:  Where do you see yourself in five or ten years?

SH:  Right now I am working on my future.  Every day I am building on a business that I feel will be a success for years to come.  I never give up no matter how difficult things get…I always have a plan in place that I follow.  I am very serious in whatever I do right now because I know that it will affect me for years to come.

By Suzanne Takowsky

Antonio Sabato Jr.—Cover Story

“My Antonio”, —certainly not! 
Antonio Sabato Jr. belongs to millions of women. 

It’s difficult to even imagine that Antonio Sabato Jr. has to rely on his VH1 fab reality hit television show, “My Antonio” (airs Sunday nights at 10:00 PM) to meet women and find true love.  But hey, come on.  Do any of the millions of women watching Sabato each week REALLY want him to meet his Ms. Right?  I think NOT.  In fact, I’m certain that 99% of viewers tune in ONLY to hope that he sends ALL those women home, and that it still leaves the door open for them!

Born in Rome, Italy, his family moved to the United States when he was 12 years old, settled in Los Angeles, and then made their home in Beverly Hills.  The world first caught sight of the Sexiness-of-Sabato when he casually appeared on a sky-high billboard in Times Square and in every other city on the planet—in his underwear and sporting six-pack abs—as a model for Calvin Klein.  Since then, his Hollywood star has risen from super male model to television star on popular soap operas including General Hospital and The Bold and The Beautiful.  He seemed to effortlessly cross over into prime-time with roles on uber-hits such as Melrose Place, Ally McBeal, Charmed and Ugly Betty.  Then hit the big screen where he’s appeared in a long list of movies; one of his favorite, The Big Hit, where he worked with his close friend (and former fellow Calvin Klein underwear model) Mark Wahlberg and Lou Diamond Phillips.

What some may not know is that Sabato quietly parlayed his acting ambitions into behind-the-scenes Executive Producer credits when he formed his own production company Namtab.  He has brilliantly carved out a long-lasting career that now spans more than two decades.  Upcoming more “My An­tonio” of course, and a role on the ABC comedy, Scrubs.  His recent role on the big screen as serial killer in the Indie feature Drifter: The Henry Lee Lucas Story, brought him Best Actor at The 2009 Beverly Hills Film Festival.  Not too bad for a Hollywood youngin’ 37 years old! 

ST:  Your reality television series on VH1 “My Antonio” is a hit.  In addition to being the star you also played your hand behind the scenes as Executive Producer.  Was this your first go-around off camera with the production duties?  How did it go?

ASJ:  “My Antonio” was not my first time producing, I have produced two other movies.  I’m really happy that production went so well.  My co-producers and partners helped out a lot.  We had 150 people in our crew, and our team was awesome.  There were so many things that they had to take care of, and coordinate (motorcycle, boats, helicopters, etc). I was fortunate to have a great team that worked very well together, and that shows through on camera.

Just a moment…let’s get back to his production company Namtab for just a second.  Strange name—but then again maybe not if you’re a Batman fan, and avid Batman memorabilia collector—which Sabato is.  Namtab is really Batman spelled backwards.  I dig it.  Wait, it gets wilder.  By Hollywood standards Sabato seems to fly under the radar when it comes to avoiding much of the high-tech, drama dude thing in his personal life; no Hollywood bad boy antics, no high speed police arrests no drinking or smoking.  But he is a health food fanatic, exercise maniac (exercises one hour a day at Team Platinum Gynastics in Simi Valley) and most agree a street smart, business savvy and, most definitely a gentleman kid-of-guy who probably helps little old ladies cross the street. Digging deeper the momentum picks up dramatically as his need for speed and thrills rears it ugly head.  In “My Antonio” he runs the women ragged through a maze of every physical sport most women hate.  But it doesn’t all stop when the filming ends.  OH NO.  When not in full-on concentration movie-mode, Sabato, an experienced horse-man with a love for the out- doors is either roaring round town on his custom made Batman Harley, behind the wheel of a race car, or sky diving.  In other words… engaging in an array of dangerous sports that most likely  would keep any mother up at night and worried about.  Suddenly it all makes sense—meaning his appearance on the NBC competition show Celebrity Circus last year where he walked away with the winners trophy performing high-wire, dangerous and intricate circus acts. Afterwards, he announced that winning the competition meant even more to him  because his mother and grandfather both had been in the circus.  His father is Italian film star Antonio Sabato Sr.  After all these years in the public eye to Sabato ‘heartthrob” is just part of the job.  A small part.

ST:  Beautiful women complain all the time that people can’t get past their beauty to the person they truly are.  Is it the same for good-looking men?  Do people get past what you look like to find the person you really are?

ASJ: I try not to pay attention to the way I look, but I take compliments very well.  I don’t concentrate on how people respond to my good looks, I concentrate on my role as a good father.  None of us should determine how we act by looks alone.  We should take the time to know another person.

No doubt, Sabato takes work seriously, but his role as a single, hands-on father to his two children is his priority.  Son Jack Antonio, age 15 is from a years long relationship with actress Virginia Madsen, and daughter Mina Bree, age 6 is by former longtime girlfriend Kristin Rosetti.  Sabato was married once, briefly during the 90s to Alicia Tully Jensen (he was 18 years old) and we are talking briefly—the marriage lasted a matter of months.  But now it seems Jensen didn’t feel that the first time around was enough.  She has showed up on “My Antonio” in full get-my-man-back attitude to compete with the other female contestants to win “the man”.  A Richter scale surprise for Sabato who hadn’t seen Jensen in 20 years.  And not to be left out of the show that is—probably the most important woman in Sabato’s life or any man’s life for than matter—his mother Yvonne, who shows up to give her no-or-go on female contestants. A former mother-in-law and daughter-in-law in the same vicinity?  Now that’s what I call a true reality TV scenario.  

ST: “MY Antonio” life looks pretty easy, but what’s it really like working on a weekly television series, then off to movie sets, and being a single parent.  Any time for R & R?  What do you do and where do you do it?

ASJ: My career and being a dad really take up most of my time.  I wouldn’t call it R&R, but I take working out and staying healthy very seriously.  I also like to play with my favorite toy, the motorcycle.  During the time I have off I like to take my family some where tropical, and we recently went to Hawaii.  And because I’m from Italy we try to visit once a year. 

With all the making of a Hollywood movie set it’s surreal that this stay-at-home and watch-TV-with-the-kids kinda guy is a hotter than hell bonafide movie star with what else; a dating show?  And when taping ends he does indeed go home, watch TV with the kids and is bed by 9 PM most nights.  Why not just follow this guy around with a camera and film his real, real life?  Sabato has managed to forgo the Hollywood crazy life for a slice of the good life.  No entourage that is unless you count kids, horses, dogs and a lot of very expensive, high voltage toys.

ST: Ordinary people see stardom as an amazing life.  Money, fame, fans and perks.  Is being a “star” all it’s cracked up to be?  Ever thought of a life not in the public eye?  What would you do?  

ASJ: You have to love your job for the most part and have to be humble.  You have to be positive within yourself.  I focus on what I have today, how blessed I am and try to be a better person the next day.  It’s important to love what you do, but I try not to be in the limelight if it’s not for work.  My life and home are very private.  I keep my kids, family, and friends private and away from the limelight. If I wasn’t an actor I would work with kids and teenagers. Whether it was physical training, or guiding them spiritually and mentally.  I love kids and love being around them.   

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

BAI LING

CSI MIAMI STAR: SOFIA MILOS

Sure making it in Hollywood is about being in the right place at the right time.  But then again, it is also about studying and perfecting your craft, marketing your image and doing an amazing job once you land the role of a life- time.  There is little  doubt that Sofia Milos is riding high on pro- fessional success…the hit CSI Miami and the much anticipated show The Border, which revolves around homeland national security and will air on the USA channel later this year.  But life for Milos is about more than a script and a role…it’s about making each moment count. 

Milos was born and raised in Zurich, Switzerland.  Later in years, she moved to Rome where she studied business and economics.  The passion she carries to both her on and off screen life can be credited to her Greek mother and Italian father heritage.  Combining the best of both old world cultures she developed a serious crush on the thrill of fine watches and the taste of good chocolate.  She is fluent in four languages: French, Italian and German and can stir up a decent conversation in Spanish and Greek and says she learned English from her first American boyfriend.  When she landed in L.A. she set out to conquer English and began working with some of the best dialect coaches in the business.  These days she speaks perfect English with- out an accent for acting purposes only.  The charm of her native language is something she never wants to lose or forget.  Talking about her zest for life and learning she says that she has the persistence and tenacity of a warrior, with the sensitivity and sensibility of a child when it comes to appreciating all that is spiritual and beautiful. 

“One of the things I enjoy besides bringing a film or television character to life that moves the audience is cooking and painting.  Mostly I paint women and faces,” she states.  “I love representing and painting women because women are smart and beautiful.  Like a fascinating, resilient, never dying flower women never cease to amaze me as we have endless amounts of courage and potential, intelligence and strength not only for ourselves, but for all the men around us who seek our unpretentious strength through them.  Women are men’s greatest validation.  I admire my mother, my grandmother and beautiful girlfriends because of it.  Every time I represent a woman in a film or role, I get to explore and communicate her world, culture and heart through my passion, my eyes, and I hope my breath between the words spoken.  I used to freelance in fashion design for women’s clothing, which I did in my late teens while modeling for 10 years across the world for every top magazine you can name and every designer you can think of.  Hence, my flair for clothes, though I would live in my birthday suit all day long if I could.”

Milos is a breath of fresh air.  Our interview was down to earth and to the point…reflective of her independent, strong and yet vulnerable and spiritual personality.  It is easy to see why this beautiful, talented and evolving young woman is making such a splash in Hollywood.  Her desire to make her life the best and the world better—gives all of us inspiration to do the same.

Her first acting role on TV was in 1992 on the new WKRP In Cincinnati, as a nun.   Soon she was seen across the screen on shows such as Friends, Mad About You, Caroline In The City, Curb Your  Enthusiasm and The Sopranos  among others. Then came CSI Miami.  Milos nabbed the role of Columbian detective Yelina Salas in 2003—an appearance that could have easily been a one shot deal.  But true to her nature the ‘woman warrior’ emerged and by 2006 she had turned an initial guest role into a regular character that not only boosted the already skyrocketing ratings, but created a character that the audience wouldn’t let go.

ST: Starring on one of the top rated shows on prime time television is such a coo. How did the CSI gig come about?

SM: During season one the show was looking for a new female to be matched up with David Caruso—a possible love interest.  They created a new role with- in a three-episode arc.  I went in and read like many others did and got the part that day.  Television is about ratings and how well you communicate with the audience…especially a show with the outreach of CSI—seen in 180 countries.  It comes down to the actors and people in their living rooms watching us.  It’s scary and wonderful.  It’s a blessing to be part of such an incredible show.  Of course, when I went on board the show was already doing amazing with an audience of about 16-17 million viewers.  Then I did my three episodes and the ratings did exceptionally well.  The audience enjoyed the chemistry between my character and David’s.  I have to thank the viewers for making me an integral part of the show because after those three episodes they asked me to stay on. 

ST: We’ve seen actors on successful shows start believing their own press, leave to pursue superstar status and then  fade away.  Why give up something so amazing for uncertainty?

SM: As an actor you take a job not knowing what you are going to be in for.  You hope for the best.  You hope you will do a great job and bring some- thing important to a show and, that the show will bring something important to you.  Some actors don’t calculate a ride of four, five, six, ten—years.  It’s harsh to judge anyone because it’s very hard work.  You have to really want a certain lifestyle.  For me I am very appreciative.  I love being called back season after season.  That’s what is so amazing in television…what power an audience has and how much involvement they play in a show.  The audience literally kept my character alive.  We have an incredible  season finale on May 18th which I’m a part of and it’s exciting.  I’m honored that they keep asking me to return.  

ST: Although your days are busy taping shows, you make time for charity work.  

SM: Being on the show affords me a platform to use my celebrity and voice to help others.  It gives me power and ability to gather a group of people to fundraise for things I really care about.  I just came from New York and did the American Italian Cancer Foundation.  Other foundations I give my all to are Citizens Commission of Human Rights (which is against psychiatric drugging of children).  All this hype about ADD and ADHD.  Of course I understand the problem, but I encourage people to get informed about drugs they give their children so they are in a place to be able to make a more educated choice.  There are side effects to these drugs that are not publicized.  This drugging of children is in my opinion a self-pocketing business.  Is drugging our children the solution?  I don’t think so.  I think finding a solution to the problem is the solution.  I support CRIMINON, a rehabilitation program for prison inmates.  It finds ways  to raise their self-esteem so they choose not to commit crimes.  The belief is that if we invest more time, effort and money on rehabilitation we have a better chance of helping people stay out of prison.  While inmates are in prison we encourage them to do an extension course which changes their lives.  They become better human beings working to the good of their families and their communities. 

ST: Tell us about your life away from Hollywood.  

SM: My mother lives in Rome.  I lost my father three years ago unfortunately.  My mother is my life and my love and we talk every day on the phone.  I have an older brother who is married and at age 23 had his first child.  We really chose different paths in  life.  Now he has a teenager.  It’s really funny between us.  He sometimes envies me and my jet-setting and I envy him and that he has a beautiful family.  Sometimes I work 16, 20 hours a day.  It’s difficult, but the incredible thing is that I get to do what I love to do.  I get to bring words and characters to life.  The rewards are so great.  I am living out my passion.

By Suzanne Takowsky

Photo by Pierre Andre Transunto

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