Now after the fact, we find out that for $1,000,000, BP could have put in place an emergency backup and what…chose not to? That seems like a lot of money to us, but for BP—it’s chump change. Why would they have taken such a monumental risk? It is also shocking that in the early stages of the disaster the public was kept in the dark as to the real developments and even now it seems that ideas to help address the mess are being met with resistance.

Let’s be honest…lack of a contingency plan is not just the fault of BP, but the government that the company operates from and government that the company operates in. Every country is strapped for cash and resources, but how much is “much too little” when it comes to loss of life? Cost for creating a contingency plan although huge is peanuts compared to what BP now has to pay and what the earth will pay indefinitely. It might be somewhat impractical for every company to create a worst case scenario plan (although that would be ideal) but for a ‘might’ or ‘probable’ leak at 5,000 feet below the surface of the ocean— is a backup plan even a question for a billion dollar oil company?

And where say are the U.S. environmental and government watchdogs? Shouldn’t they have a “list” of companies engaging in practices that could cause mass damage AND FORCE those companies to have a contingency plan for a worst case scenario BEFORE they do business?

A small team of regulators can populate a list of relevant companies in months. We’re not talking about millions of companies; more like hundreds. Identifying risky operations that companies engage in is worth it; worth avoiding an economic, environmental and loss of life disaster for all beings who live on earth. A handful of qualified people at each risky company could easily ddress risky practices and develop backup contingency plans. PERIOD! And just creating expensive backup plans that sit waiting to be used is not my plan. I’m talking about creating “workable” solutions so that a company knows exactly what to do if a worst case scenarios occurs. The fact that BP is scrambling for solutions after the fact is not acceptable. BP should have known exactly how to address this problem as soon as there was a problem—regardless of what it is or don’t start drilling. This is the responsibility of every company in similar positions.

As shocked as we are right now—get ready there will be more. There will be more sad and devastating and unconscionable events until governments and companies are forced to walk the talk and own up to their global responsibility. It comes down to the reality of what we are willing to take for granted. Of what we are willing to let slide. Of how blind we are willing to stay. We take for granted that a disaster won’t occur. We take for granted that people in charge know everything about what they are doing. We take for granted that qualified people are sitting around waiting with answers to address problems that come up. But when it comes to what is important we can’t take anything for granted. Just as soon as we fail to pay appropriate attention to the things that matter most—to things that we believe others are watching out for—we find that a chain of events has begun that is no longer in our power to control. It’s a scary and deadly outcome for everyone.

Stephen Takowsky
Publisher@bhtmag.com
Publisher

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.

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.

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.

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)

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

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

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

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

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