Doreen Virtue Magazine

EARTH STAR DEC / JAN 2011

CONSCIOUS LIVING IN THE 21ST CENTURY

DOREEN VIRTUE

ANGEL WORDS A CONVERSATION WITH

DR. JUDITH ORLOFF THE SECRET HISTORY OF CONSCIOUSNESS

DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS UNDER ATTACK

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CONTENTS

DECEMBER / JANUARY 2011

ON THE COVER 22 Angel Words by Doreen Virtue and Grant Virtue

33 The Secret History of Consciousness by Meg Blackburn Losey, Ph.D.

36 A Conversation with Judith Orloff, M.D. 42 Dietary Supplements Under Attack by William Faloon

FEATURES Page 22

12 Down To Earth Astrology by Tim Gunns

24 What the TSA is NOT Telling You about

Full Body Scans by Dr Joseph Mercola

31 Pre-Crime Technology to be Used in Washington D.C. by Steve Watson

34 The Movie Mystic Bringing Back the Old Hollywood by Stephen Simon

49 In Memoriam - Zecharia Sitchin by Tim Gunns

55 The Hundred Years Starship by Niall Firth Page 59

57 Quadruple-Dose “Super” Flu Vaccine by Mike Adams

59 Future Cars Hybrids and Electrics in 2010 and Beyond

62 Look Out! Your Medicine is Watching You by Ben Hirschler

63 Big Pharma to Begin Microchipping Drugs by Mike Adams

Cover Art If I Were a Mermaid and Your Were a Unicorn by Jim Warren From the wild & whimsical to the sweet & sensuous, for over 30 years Jim Warren has been painting his way into the hearts and minds of people the world over. Already considered a "living legend of the art world", Jim is ever-growing & ever-changing. His versatility ranges from his unique portraits for celebrities, CEO's and families, to his illustrations for books, movies and album covers. Most notably Jim won a Grammy award for his artwork on Bob Seger's 1981 album "Against the Wind". His fine art oil paintings are featured in some of the top galleries in the world. Jim's latest paintings and classics are now being produced as high quality, limited edition Giclee canvas print. You can visit his website at: www.jimwarren.com

DEPARTMENTS Up Front 18 Book Reviews 40 Calendar of Events 50 Green Living 5

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Jim Warren

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Earth Star Up Front Biosynthetic Corneas Restore Vision in Humans new study from researchers in Canada and Sweden has shown that biosynthetic corneas can help regenerate and repair damaged eye tissue and improve vision in humans. The results, from an early phase clinical trial with ten patients, are published in the August 25th, 2010 issue of Science Translational Medicine. “This study is important because it is the first to show that an artificially fabricated cornea can integrate with the human eye and stimulate regeneration,” said senior author Dr. May Griffith of the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, the University of Ottawa and Linköping University. “With further research, this approach could help restore sight to millions of people who are waiting for a donated human cornea for transplantation.” The cornea is a thin transparent layer of collagen and cells that acts as a window into the eyeball. It must be completely transparent to allow the light to enter and it also helps with focus. Globally, diseases that lead to clouding of the cornea represent the most common cause of blindness. More than a

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decade ago, Dr. Griffith and her colleagues began developing biosynthetic corneas in Ottawa, Canada, using collagen produced in the laboratory and moulded into the shape of a cornea. After extensive laboratory testing, Dr. Griffith began collaborating with Dr. Per Fagerholm, an eye surgeon at Linköping University in Sweden, to provide the first-in-human experience with biosynthetic cornea implantation. Together, they initiated a clinical trial in ten Swedish patients with advanced keratoconus or central corneal scarring. Each patient underwent surgery on one eye to remove damaged corneal tissue and replace it with the biosynthetic cornea, made from synthetically crosslinked recombinant human collagen. Over two years of follow-up, the researchers observed that cells and nerves from the patients' own corneas had grown into the implant, resulting in a “regenerated” cornea that resembled

normal, healthy tissue. Patients did not experience any rejection reaction or require long-term immune suppression, which are serious side effects associated with the use of human donor tissue. The biosynthetic corneas also became sensitive to touch and began producing normal tears to keep the eye oxygenated. Vision improved in six of the ten patients, and after contact lens fitting, vision was comparable to conventional corneal transplantation with human donor tissue. —Science Daily

B Vitamins and the Aging Brain Examined vitamins--B-6, B-12 and folate-all nourish the brain. But much remains to be discovered about the relation between these essential nutrients and our brainpower. U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) nutritionist Lindsay H. Allen has collaborated in ongoing research that has taken a closer look at the role these nutrients may play in preventing decline in brain function. The investigations, led by Mary N. Haan of the University of CaliforniaS a n Francisco, are part of the multiy e a r Sacramento (Calif.) Area Latino Study on Aging, or SALSA.

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Begun in 1996, the study attracted nearly 1,800 Hispanic seniors, ages 60 to 101, as volunteers. According to Allen, the research is needed because many studies of B vitamins and brain function have given inconsistent or conflicting results. Allen is director of the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Western Human Nutrition Research Center in Davis, Calif. ARS is the chief intramural scientific research agency of USDA. Scientists from the University of California-Davis (UCD) and the UCD Medical Center also are collaborating in the research. An analysis of volunteers blood samples showed that lower levels of one B vitamin, folate, were associated with symptoms of dementia and poor brain function, also called “cognitive decline,” as determined by standard tests of memory and other factors. The impairments were detectable even

though less than one percent of the volunteers were actually deficient in folate. In women, but not men, low levels of folate were associated with symptoms of depression. In fact, female volunteers whose plasma folate levels were in the lowest third were more than twice as likely to have symptoms of depression as volunteers in the highest third. That finding provided new evidence of an association between lower blood folate and depression. Depression is already known to affect brain function. In research with vitamin B-12, the SALSA team determined that a protein known as holoTC, short for holotranscobalamin, might be key to a new approach for detecting cognitive decline earlier and more accurately. —Life Extension

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Earth Star Magazine, Copyright © 2011 by Earth Star Magazine Incorporated, All Rights Reserved. No articles may be used without written permission of the publisher Volume XXXlII, No. 197 — December 2010 / January 2011

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Earth Star Up Front U.S. Scientists Create Cloth That Can Listen his could give a whole new meaning to the phrase “power dressing”. Scientists at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology have created a cloth that can hear and emit noise. The team, led by MIT professor Yoel Fink, has reached “a new milestone on the path to functional fibers: fibers that can detect and produce sound,” MIT said in a statement. The development, described in the August issue of Nature Materials, transforms the usual passive nature of textiles into a virtually all-singing, all-dancing version. According to MIT, “applications could include clothes that are themselves sensitive microphones, for capturing speech or monitoring bodily functions, and tiny filaments that could measure blood flow in capillaries or pressure in the brain.” The decade-old research project aims to “develop fibers with ever more

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sophisticated properties, to enable fabrics that can interact with their environment,” MIT said. The new space-age cloth, it said, can not only listen, but make sound. “You can actually hear them, these fibers,” Noemie Chocat, part of the lab team, said. “If you connected them to a power supply and applied a sinusoidal current, then it would vibrate. And if you make it vibrate at audible frequencies and put it close to your ear, you could actually hear different notes or sounds coming out of it.” The new fibers are based on a similar plastic to that used in microphones. However, researchers manipulated the fluorine content to ensure its molecules stayed lopsided. That imbalance makes the plastic piezoelectric, meaning it changes shape when an electric field is applied. “In addition to wearable microphones and biological sensors, applica-

tions of the fibers could include loose nets that monitor the flow of water in the ocean and large-area sonar imaging systems with much higher resolutions,” MIT said. “A fabric woven from acoustic fibers would provide the equivalent of millions of tiny acoustic sensors.” —JakartaGlobe

New Body Scanners to Store Biometrics

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ore and more people now realize naked body scanners are not about protection from terrorists, as the government claims, but is in fact a technology designed for control and data collection. If the government is going to be successful implementing its control grid, it will have to introduce technology that can be touted as physically non-threatening. The largest independent union of airline pilots in the world earlier this week urged its members to

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boycott body imaging machines, citing dangers of excessive exposure to harmful levels of radiation during the screening process. A Massachusetts company, Iscon Video Imaging, has stepped into the fray and is offering body scanning technology minus harmful radiation. “The Iscon 1000D is the only whole body imaging portal that can be integrated with state of the art technologies to detect virtually any object, without radiation or privacy issues and confirm that the person is indeed who they claim to be,” a press release issued on October 29th states. The “enhanced” version of Iscon’s 1000D whole body scanner is equipped with optional biometric technologies and identity verification techniques, according to the company. The machine “uses thermoconductive infrared technology that completes a

360°scan in thirty seconds, reveals a multitude of objects, but doesn’t penetrate clothing, so there’s no privacy or radiation issues,” explains Iscon. “Facilities are facing significant privacy and health issues using scanners that expose a persons body parts that can be stored and shared digitally,” Iscon founder and president Izrail Gorian explains in the press release. “Using existing databases available today, or using a proprietary system of employees or inmates, security will ultimately be enhanced for everyone and at the same time ease verification for those who are not suspect.” Iscon says the new system utilizes facial recognition, fingerprint, and iris recognition technology. It is capable of comparing a person’s facial attributes to existing databases and cross matching with other systems, can access large law enforcement databases, and is also capable of scanning a person’s iris and cross-matching the collected information with databases. —Activist Post

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Earth Star Up Front Scientists Discover That Radiation Causes Breast Cancer (duh!) irls who undergo chest radiation as a cancer treatment are significantly more likely to develop breast cancer as little as eight years later, according to a study conducted by researchers from Memorial SloanKettering Cancer Center in New York and published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. “Risk in women treated before puberty is not lower than that in those treated during adolescence, as suggested by some early studies,” they wrote. The researchers reviewed the results of twelve prior studies that had looked at breast cancer risk in female survivors of childhood cancers. They found that patients who have undergone chest radiation as children suffer from an increased risk of breast cancer as little as eight years later. “This incidence is similar to that in women with a BRCA gene mutation,” the researchers wrote. The risk does not plateau over time but only continues to increase, so that by age forty or forty-five as many as one in five childhood cancer survivors has contracted breast cancer. The more radiation a woman

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was exposed to as a child, the higher her cancer risk. The Children’s Oncology Group, of which the researchers are a part, recommends that because of this risk, female survivors of childhood cancers get annual mammograms starting at age twenty-five or eight years after the end of their radiation therapy — whichever comes later. Yet the researchers cautioned that more research is needed before this can be emphatically recommended, since mammograms also expose women to radiation and can increase their cancer risk. A woman who begins getting yearly mammograms at age twenty-five would end up getting fifteen more mammograms in her lifetime than a woman who began at age forty. In addition, it is unknown if cancer survivors react differently to radiation than other women do. Due to concern over false positives and radiation risk, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force no longer recommends annual mammograms. It recommends biannual tests for women over the age of forty-nine. —Natural News

THE GREAT CHOLESTEROL HOAX he #1 prescription drug in America is a cholesterol drug. It rakes in about $8 billion a year. And three of the top fifteen drugs are in the same category. They’re called statin drugs, but some experts call them a hoax. Did you know that... Cholesterol-reducing statin drugs are just patented knockoffs of a simple food that Asians have eaten for centuries. You can buy it in pill form in any health food store—yet drug companies charge $1,740 a year for it! And, for those who choose to stick with their statins, that they’re all pretty much the same? If you must take a prescription statin, ask for the cheapest one. There’s no proof the statin that’s #1 is any better than the generics. —Daily Health News

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Lo w-Carb Diets ow-carbohydrate/high-protein diets are past their peak in popularity, but researchers are still attempting to see if they have benefits or detriments. A new analysis of five previous studies, in the Archives of Internal Medicine, suggests it may be a little of both. Ultimately, the key to weight loss is to reduce calories, since calories still matter most. The safest way to lose weight, however, is to get a balance of “good” carbs (whole grains, beans, fruits, vegetables), “good” fats (in olive or canol a oil, nuts, seeds, avocados), and lean proteinand to exercise. —U.C. Berkeley Wellness Letter

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JAPAN DEVELOPS ‘TOUCHABLE’ 3D TV TECHNOLOGY Japanese research team said in November that it had developed the world’s first 3D television system that allows users to touch, pinch or poke images floating in front of them. “It is the first time that you can feel images in the air,” said Norio Nakamura, senior scientist with the research team at the National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology. “You can have the sense of touch like poking a rubber ball or stretching a sticky rice cake” when manipulating images, he told AFP by telephone. The technology changes the shape of three-dimensional images in response to “touches”, aided by cameras that monitor how the fingers move, Nakamura said. It is not known when the technology will be put to practical use but its creators see it being used to simulate surgical operations and in video game software allowing players to experience the sensation of holding weapons or sports

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equipment. It could even use scanned images to supplement existing realities, said Nakamura. “This technology could create a virtual museum where visitors, including vision-impaired people, can put their hands on valuable sculptures that are usually untouchable,” Nakamura said. —Breitbart.com

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Earth Star Up Front F l y i n g A C e s n a i s E a s i e r t h a n A Google T V R e m o t e t’s no secret that Google TV is having a rougher launch then some might have envisioned. (Some users have even said that it's the first Google product that needs the “beta” label but doesn't have it.) Mark Cuban has even blogged about how Google TV could hand Netflix the entire streaming universe. In November, it was reported that Hulu, ABC, NBC, and CBS were blocking content from Google TV, which makes absolutely no sense at all in my opinion. Now some users are calling out the peripherals of Google TV devices, more specifically the Sony remote. (If you’re unfamiliar with the remote, you can see an image below.) A week later, former Google employee, suspected pilot, and current BuzzFeed President Jon Steinberg tweeted his frustration over Sony’s new TV remote. Jon Steinberg tried Google TV recently and exclaimed, “Flying a Cessna is easier and has fewer controls than the Sony remote.”

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Mr. Steinberg isn’t alone with his feelings on the Sony remote; the Boy Genius Report stated the following while doing their hands-on demonstration... “The size is definitely intriguing as it is way smaller in person than we expected it to be. Also, the feel is right—pretty light without feeling inexpensively cheap. However, the myriad of buttons sort of confuses us, especially when a bunch of them don’t serve a purpose ninety percent of the time in what we’d imagine would be your daily use.” With any new product there are bumps in the road; it’s all about how they respond to the criticism and how much they truly care about the UX of their software and devices. It’s now being rumored that Apple

is vying to acquire Sony, the consumer electronics giant. Apple reportedly has fifty billion dollars in cash reserves, while Sony has a market cap of thirtyfour billion dollars. So, financially speaking, Sony is a strong possibility for Apple. It’s unclear at this time what impact this has for Sony’s new Internet TV with Google TV, since Apple already has a digital multimedia receiver with Apple TV. —WebProNews

The Government Can Use GPS to Track Your Moves overnment agents can sneak onto your property in the middle of the night, put a GPS device on the bottom of your car and keep track of everywhere you go. This doesn’t violate your Fourth Amendment rights, because you do not have any reasonable expectation of privacy in your own driveway— and no reasonable expectation that the government isn’t tracking your movements. That is the bizarre—and scary—rule that now applies in California and eight other Western states. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit, which covers this vast jurisdiction, recently decided the government can monitor you in this way virtually anytime it wants—with no need for a search warrant. —Time.com

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ore than thirty years after the famous Star Wars movie scene in which a hologram of Princess Leia appealed for help from ObiWan Kenobi, US researchers at the Univ. of AZ have unveiled holographic technol-

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ogy to transmit and view moving threedimensional images. The prototype “holographic three-dimensional telepresence” is the world’s first practical 3D transmission system that works without requiring viewers to wear special glasses or other devices.

The research is published in the journal Nature.

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Earth Star Up Front orried about catching a cold or the flu? Just slather on some hand sanitizer and you will be fine, say experts. But a new report has some different things to say. According to “germ experts”, alcoholbased hand sanitizers only kill certain germs for up to two minutes before drying up and becoming useless. And a recent study out of the University of Virginia (UV) revealed that alcohol-based hand sanitizers do not reduce the overall number of cold and flu cases, either, suggesting they are ineffective. NaturalNews covered the UV study back in September but a new survey conducted by Healthpoint found that most Americans still believe hand sanitizers are effective anyway, and that they work for long periods of time than they actually do. “Alcohol sanitizers last only a

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Are Hand Sanitizers Effective? minute or two and must be reapplied when recontamination occurs,” explained Dr. Philip Tierno Jr., Ph.D., director of clinical microbiology and immunology at NYU Langone Medical Center. But more than fifty percent of Americans think hand sanitizers last about thirty times longer than this in a single application. Even the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) admits that that hand sanitizers “will not kill all germs”, but the agency still recommends that people use them. But in the UV study, there was little difference in the number of rhinovirus and influenza infections between people who use hand sanitizers and people that do not. Many hand sanitizers are also loaded with toxic chemicals that get absorbed in the skin and cause other

health problems. And they ultimately will not protect you from getting sick. So a more preferable way to stay healthy and avoid viral and bacterial infections is to take plenty of natural vitamin C and vitamin D, eat powerful superfoods like garlic and astragalus, and drink plenty of clean water. —NaturalNews

12 New Ancient Sphinx Statues Uncovered in Egypt rchaeologists in the southern temple city of Luxor have unearthed twelve new sphinx statues and a road from the reign of ancient Egyptian pharaoh Nectanebo I (380-362 BC), Egypt’s culture minister Farouk Hosny announced in November. The sphinx statues are inscribed with Nectanebo I’s name and were found in the last sector of the Avenue of the Sphinxes, one of the most important archaeological and religious paths in Luxor, the site of the Ancient Egyptian city of Thebes. The mythological creatures with human faces and reclining feline bodies were typically used to decorate the tombs of ancient Egyptian rulers. The Avenue of the Sphinxes, built by Nectanebo I, runs from Luxor to

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nearby Karnak, where it connects to the temple of the goddess Mut. Karnak and contains a vast conglomeration of ruined temples, chapels, monumental gateways to temples, and other buildings. The archaeologists discovered the new sphinxes at the end of the newly unearthed road of Nectanebo I, said Zahi Hawass, head of Egypt’s Supreme Council of Antiquities. The archaeologists have excavated twenty metres of the 600-metre ancient road. The first newly uncovered road which runs from east to west towards the Nile river, it is mentioned in many ancient texts, according to Hawass. “Along this way, the sacred boat of Amun, king of the gods, travelled on the gods’ annual trip to visit his wife, Mut, at the Luxor temple. The king also used it for religious processions,” Hawass said. One of the road’s most interesting features it that it is built from sandstone from

the quarries at Gebel Silsila, north of Aswan, said Mansour Boraik, Luxor Antiquities supervisor. The excavation team also recovered Roman period objects, including an oil press and pottery, and the digs are continuing. Nectanebo I, a 30th Dynasty king was known as a great builder who erected many monuments and temples throughout his long and stable 18-year reign. The pharaoh restored many dilapidated temples throughout Egypt and erected a small kiosk on the sacred island of Philae which would become one of the most important religious sites in ancient Egypt. From about 365 BC onwards, Nectanebo was a co-regent with his son Teos, who succeeded him upon his death in 362 BC. —AKI, Egypt www.earthstarmag.com

L A U G H YOUR WAY TO BETTER HEALTH ave you ever laughed and then said, “Thanks, I needed that”? You were so right—because the very act of laughing promotes good health in numerous ways. And in fact, you can maximize these health benefits for yourself by doing fun and simple “laughter exercises.” Want evidence of how laughter helps? Consider a recent study at Loma Linda University, which involved diabetic patients who had high cholesterol and high blood pressure. One group of participants received standard pharmaceutical treatment for these conditions... a second group received the same medications but also were instructed to “view self-selected humor” (for instance, watch sitcoms or videos that they considered funny) for thirty minutes daily. After one year: In the laughter group, HDL (good) cholesterol increased by twenty-six percent and blood levels of C-reactive protein (a marker of inflammation) decreased by sixty-six percent, on average... in the other group, HDL increased by just three percentand C-reactive protein declined by just twenty-six percent, on average. Additional research from Loma Linda University suggests that laughter also can boost immunity... relax tense muscles... reduce levels of stress hormones... and raise levels of mood-elevating hormones called endorphins (the same hormones released during orgasm!). It is easy to bring more laughter to your life. “The average adult laughs sev-

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enteen times daily. Keep track for a few days—and if you’re not laughing at least that often, make a conscious effort to increase your opportunities to laugh,” suggested Katherine Puckett, PhD, national director of mind-body medicine at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America facility in Zion, Illinois, who has extensive experience applying therapeutic laughter. “Since we laugh most frequently during social interactions with others, spend time with people who enjoy laughing and being playful. Also try watching children and pets playing... enjoying funny videos... deliberately smiling more often (it’s contagious!)... and observing the world through a ‘comic lens’ as you look for humor around you even in difficult situations.” Another option is to consciously do laughter exercises with friends, family or coworkers. If you feel self-conscious at first, remind yourselves that you’re laughing with each other, not at each other, and that your intention is to have goodnatured fun. “At first, the laughter is simulated—but in short order, it becomes real,” Dr. Puckett said. As often as you like, try... Laughter chant. As you clap in rhythm, repeatedly say, “Ho-ho ha-ha-ha, ho-ho ha-ha-ha.” Roller coaster. Lift your arms, sway, jiggle and scream as if you were on a

Earth Star Up Front

coaster. (This is easiest while seated.) Snowball fight. Lean over and scoop up some imaginary snow, pack it into a snowball and throw it at another person. Everyone naturally laughs while throwing or being “hit.” Try putting some pretend snow down someone’s back, which may make you both laugh even harder. Sing with laughter. Even if no one is having a birthday, sing Happy Birthday to You to each other, substituting “hee hee” or “ha ha” or “ho ho” for each word. You can swap this laughter vocabulary for the words in many songs -- and before you even finish singing, you’ll be feeling happier and more energized. —Healthy Woman

Fish Oil Facts

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ould you ever even consider eating rotten fish?

Of course not. What if you discovered that your omega-3 was spoiled? Taking rancid oil is dangerous because oxidized fats actually raise your risk of heart disease and blood clots, according to Rufus Turner, leading expert on oils at the University of Reading in the U.K. The problem is that fish oil is so unstable it begins to oxidize as soon as it’s extracted from fish and exposed to air, which is typically long before some

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company actually puts it into a capsule. So how do you ensure that your fish oil is stable and fresh? And that you really get its many useful benefits. Two things you can do, to move up to fresher omega-3 and be sure yours makes the grade: 1. Be sure your fish oil contains antioxidants, which help prevent oxidation. Using krill oil instead of fish oil is an option that provides the natural antioxidants vitamins A and E plus astaxanthin and canthaxanthin—right within the oil. 2. To protect the stability of your krill,

opt for a ‘caplique’ instead of a softgel. A ‘caplique’ is far more effective than a gel cap at sealing out oxygen, which makes the oil go bad. It stands to reason—a softgel is semi-permeable, and it allows oxygen to cross that barrier. —Mercola.com

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DECEMBER 2010 - JANUARY 2011 wo planetary aspects highly conducive to social networking get December underway. On the 1st, a light-hearted sextile between Mercury and Venus promotes harmony between mind and feelings, favoring communications, and trips. Attend a concert, or participate in your favorite artistic activities.

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Then, on the 2nd, Mars and Neptune form a similar alignment, when one’s intuition could inspire constructive action and activities. A spiritual gathering with like-minded souls might also bring satisfaction. However, a jarring square on the 3rd between Mars and Uranus can quickly get the unwary into hot water. Avoid acting on impulse. Be aware and in the moment, and take the time to consider the consequences of your actions. Drive with extra care. It would be prudent to back-up important computer files, as system or mechanical malfunctions are possible around this unstable juncture. December’s new moon arrives on the 5th, in 14° Sagittarius. Upgrade educational objectives, and expand your occupational horizons, then move forward with renewed confidence. Connect with progressive people or groups with whom you share common goals or beliefs over the next four weeks. Bold new beginnings and sweeping changes are in the wind!

A triple conjunction of Mercury, Mars and Pluto occurs on December 13th, in 05° Capricorn. Look to see what you can re-use or breathe new life into over the next few weeks. Be aware of all you say and do now, as thoughts and words have much more power than usual. Be enterprising as Mercury and Mars align... seize the initiative, make connections. There’s certainly no beating about the bush now, as communications are likely to be direct and to the point. A momentous and extremely volatile conjunction between Mars and Pluto perfects on the 13th, so avoid confrontations, attempts to control others, or placing yourself in precarious situations. Think before you act! To make the most of this combination of dynamic energies, do work requiring sustained effort and focus. The sun moves into a precise square to Jupiter on the 16th, a cosmic augury to avoid impulsive behavior. Act only after careful deliberation (and ideally after Mercury turns direct on the 29th), as you may be inspired to tackle projects that you normally wouldn’t consider. This aspect seldom bodes well for property and real estate interests, or for the stock market.

After five months in retrograde, Uranus, planet of innovation, stations direct later on the 5th, in 27° Pisces. Ambition is powerfully kindled at this time, and goal setting is favored. The revolutionary spirit abounds!

Next, the sun sextiles Neptune and forms a jarring square to Uranus on the 18th, propagating two widely divergent cosmic influences. With the former, imagination is inspired. Experiment with telepathy or lucid dreaming. But the latter aspect, our sun’s square to unpredictable Uranus, is potentially a real shaker! By all means flow with any changes in circumstances beyond your control, but this is not the time to initiate change based solely upon a desire for greater personal freedom.

Mars enters Capricorn on the 7th for a six-week sojourn, conferring greater self-control and self discipline. Constructive progress can be made toward professional objectives during this motivating transit. Plan career strategy.

Under normal circumstances, the conjunction of the sun and Mercury on the 19th, in 29° Sagittarius, would be a clarion call to act on your bright ideas. But because the messenger of the gods is now in retrograde, some careful

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thought and fact checking might be called for before communicating your thoughts and views. Nevertheless, this is a good time to attend to backlogged paperwork, correspondence, and messages. Be alert to educational opportunities. Important announcements or decisions could also be forthcoming. Mercury squares Uranus and sextiles Neptune on the 20th, when mechanical or systems failures are possible. Therefore, be sure to back-up computer files or get your vehicle checked out prior to this date, Postpone important decisions or signings, ideally till the end of the month, as mental processes may tend to be somewhat erratic. Under the Mercury-Neptune alignment, a moment of awareness could provide the solution to a problem, while spiritual or metaphysical study can be enlightening. A lunar eclipse occurs as the full moon culminates on the 21st, in 30° Gemini, in the waning hours of fall. One’s everyday physical circumstances may in some way come into focus in the days surrounding this lunation. If you’ve been contemplating a change of surroundings, now may be the time to do it...it could even be forced upon some. Release whatever or whoever no longer serves you, particularly in regard to partnerships or associations. Observe how you communicate around this juncture for ways in which you may improve interpersonal relations. The winter solstice arrives later on the 21st, as the sun enters the cool, calculating domain of Capricorn, where its creative energies are constrained, disciplined and focused on achievement in this Saturn-ruled sign. Try to get a handle on where you’re going, career-wise, over the next four weeks. The sun conjuncts Pluto on the 26th, in 06° Capricorn. Willpower and assertiveness intensify, so watch out for ego clashes, and avoid any attempts at coercion. A glimpse of the darker www.earthstarmag.com

Down To Earth Astrology side of life, or of oneself, could be revealed. A strong sexual stimulus also pervades the ethers. When Mars squares Saturn on the 29th, its customary vigor and vitality is temporarily constrained by Saturn, so don’t push too hard now. Keep your assertiveness in check. Cultivate patience. If possible, get plenty of rest. After three tongue twisting, logically challenged weeks, Mercury stations direct late on the 29th (PST, early 30th, EST). Communications are now gradually getting back on track, while mental processes are accelerating. Move ahead with plans now but with caution. Avoid making snap decisions, as there’ll be a tendency towards impatience for a few days. The first few days of January are fairly quiet in the heavens, until the 4th, when a total solar eclipse occurs at the new moon, in 14° Capricorn. With the lunation book-ended between Mars and Pluto, both also in successoriented Capricorn, much creative impetus exists for planning practical, ambitious new business ventures now, and in the weeks ahead. However, as the lunation is in square to Saturn, Capricorn's ruling planet, you’ll need to be prepared to put in a great deal of effort, surmount considerable challenges, and be the epitome of propriety in order to attain your lofty objectives. Less than four hours after the lunation/eclipse, Jupiter and Uranus align in a precise conjunction, at 27°02' Pisces, reprising a similar alignment from last June. This is a planetary pairing that can inspire true genius, a great asset to any progressive enterprise, when intuition and judgement combine well. It suggests that the collective higher mind is now opening to advanced trends in thought, so any new venture would do well to include a public educational element, and to take full advantage of the power of the Internet. New friendships and progressive connections are also possible now. Reports of otherworldly visitations, past or present, may be in the news around this time. It will be interesting to see what transpires concerning the issue of UFO disclosure. A revolution in conscious awareness is most definitely in the wind. With Venus in an almost exact trine to both planets, there could be an outpouring of love, and possibly money, to a worthy or charitable cause, or for the loss of someone special. Venus moves on into Sagittarius on the 7th (till Feb 4th), ushering in a four-week period in which to be more sociable and outgoing. Outdoor activities can be most enjoyable now, while a yen for travel could prove rewarding. Just take care not to overextend your resources. www.earthstarmag.com

The sun squares Saturn also on the 7th, when the flow of vitality we receive from the sun can be restricted by Saturn, bringing temporary frustrations and impatience, so you may need to exercise a greater measure of self-discipline around this juncture. This somewhat heavy aspect can illuminate personality flaws, perhaps to show where work needs to be done. Duties and responsibilities can seem onerous now, particularly as Venus is inclining one to have fun. Don't expect any favors from your boss, teacher, or other authority figure just now, either. However, do persevere, as achievement will come through hard work and disciplined effort—is it ever any different? To lift your spirits, meditate on something cheerful or inspiring Mercury, now gathering forward momentum through the zodiac after three weeks in retrograde, reprises its connections with Neptune, Uranus, and Jupiter from December. On the 10th, Mercury's sextile to Neptune could elicit a moment of awareness that may provide the solution to a problem. Mercury’s square to Uranus, also on the 10th, is often a harbinger of mechanical or systems failures so be sure to back-up important computer files beforehand, and take extra care while driving. It may be wise to postpone important decisions or signings for a few days, as mental processes might tend to be somewhat erratic. A great time to brainstorm, though! Communications could prove frustrating as Mercury squares Jupiter on the 11th. Make sure you have all the facts before offering advice or information. The wise will remain skeptical of proposals or offers that come their way today. Try not to promise more than you can deliver. Action planet, Mars, sextiles Uranus on the 12th, then makes a similar aspect to Jupiter on the 13th, a favorable planetary auspices under which to initiate new activities or ventures. Progressive career opportunities may present themselves; however, be discerning. After Mercury enters Capricorn on the 13th (till Feb 3rd) thoughts turn toward more frequently towards business, career and practical considerations, and ambition is fueled. Patience and mental discipline are easier to come by with Mercury here, and one’s powers of concentration are enhanced. Mars enters Aquarius on the 15th for the next six weeks, encouraging us to organize and clarify our goals and objectives. An inclination to want to improve the existing order of things, perhaps in unconventional ways, may take hold, Pursuits requiring teamwork are favored.

The sun sextiles Uranus on the 17th, while Mercury aligns in conjunction with Pluto, in 06° Capricorn. A progressive new project on the drawing board could benefit from a blast of creative ingenuity. Seek new ways of financing a pet project. Begin a program of metaphysical, scientific, or astrological studies. The first full moon of the year culminates on the 19th, in 30° Cancer, and domestic responsibilities may be pressing, but the need to take care of business will also be strong. Strike a healthy balance between home and business or career needs. With the sun in an almost precise sextile to Jupiter, see where you can expand your intellectual and occupational horizons. Journeys for business, foreign investments, and legal affairs are all supported now. The sun enters Aquarius on the 20th, signaling a time to reassess your goals and ambitions during the next four weeks. Are you on target, or up to speed with the techniques or technologies that can keep you at the head of the pack? Align with organizations, groups or friends who share your objectives. Jupiter enters tropical Aries on the 22nd for its second visit to this ardent, fiery sign in less than a year; it was also in Aries from June 6th through September 9th, 2010. Beliefs and philosophies are more enthusiastically expressed with Jupiter here and zealous behavior will likely abound. The inclination to take action for what you believe in is strong, as personal confidence levels soar. Be sure that you can comfortably handle all that you take on during this transit, when optimism and enthusiasm are greatly heightened. Seek financial investors for a business venture when Venus sextiles Saturn on the 23rd, or reorganize your business affairs and finances to increase stability. Constructive artistic work is also supported now. The reestablishment of a past personal or professional connection now may have karmic implications. After Saturn stations Retrograde on January 25th, in 18° Libra, for the next five months, review your professional or educational ambitions and, if necessary, seek vocational guidance. Sensitive issues from the past could resurface for resolution. Restructure personal finances to afford both a greater degree of control and a stronger sense of security. Following is a general overview of how the planetary trends for December 2010/ January, 2011 apply to each sun sign. If you know your rising sign (Ascendant), read that, too, for additional insights. DECEMBER / JANUARY 2011

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Down To Earth Astrology

Aries

(March 20—April 19)

Your ambitious, pioneering nature comes to the fore in December, as Mars, your sign’s ruling planet, travels through the upper reaches of your solar chart. Let those in a position to help you know your aims, particularly during the first ten days of the month, while Mercury is strong in your solar chart. After the 10th, Mercury will be retrograde through the 29th, which is a time better suited to reviewing your career or educational objectives, and reassessing your game plan. Nonetheless, the winter months, in general, hold promise for professional advancement. Indeed, January’s new moon on the 4th in your solar tenth house of worldly attainment could provide the motive force necessary to launch you into a more elevated professional orbit, from which you can gain new perspectives of your potential. However, there may be challenges to overcome involving a partner or close associate, requiring tact and diplomacy on your part.

Taurus

(April 19—May 20)

In preparation for enhancing your potential and expanding your professional horizons, look carefully to see what may need to be eliminated from your life, so that you feel more free to pursue your objectives, unencumbered by elements from your past that may hold you back. A partner, associate, or significant other could be most supportive of your quest, so remain open to their input or guidance. As you contemplate the possibilities for your future, think twice before severing what may have been an important alliance in your haste to blaze new trails. Keep the ‘big picture’ in mind, lest you lose the plot and, along with it, a helpful ally. In January you feel more adventurous, and you’re ready to pursue enticing new goals and experiences. Passions run deep now, and may cloud your better judgement. Nonetheless, you’ve got the bit between your teeth, feeling encouraged and empowered to open up your life in bold new ways.

Gemini

(May 20—June 21)

As the holidays approach, you’re more concerned with transforming your career prospects in new, more progressive ways, than in participating in frivolous festive frolics. To this end, you may consider a new professional alliance, that would enable you to draw from and build upon your past experience, while considerably expanding your sphere of influence. There’s the possibility of adding to your income too, as your stock in trade increases in value. Seek clarity of purpose and direction, as activities around you quicken. You may encounter individuals with great wealth or power, with the resources to support you in your quest. However, with your ruling planet, Mercury, in retrograde from December 10th - 29th, don’t count your chickens before they’re hatched, as circumstances may be subject to change. Trends in January favor eliminating the unnecessary from your life, as you prepare the groundwork for a bold new venture in the weeks ahead.

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Cancer

(June 21—July22)

At last, your work prospects begin to look more promising, after what may have been a rather barren patch. Your past good work or experience could now begin to pay dividends, as your stock in trade rises in value. An individual with a great deal of influence and powerful connections may offer you some form of partnership alliance. Take your time in considering such an arrangement, as you may not have all the facts. With Mercury, planet of deals and contracts, in retrograde from December 10th - 29th, more information could come to light that might have a bearing on your decision—or theirs. Domestic constraints or family responsibilities may also impact this situation, requiring you to think outside of the proverbial box for resolution, while maintaining your emotional equilibrium. However, lady luck could be your ally now, so take heart and keep your eyes on the prize!

Leo

(July 22—August 23)

Your creative juices are flowing again, after a period of inactivity. You’re more inspired to reach out to others, who can provide the emotional support you feel you need. Don’t let pride—or prejudice—stand in your way now if there are fences yet to mend, as much healing can come from your outreach, which would eliminate some of the ‘weight’ you may carry. Indeed, this is a time to lighten up, on yourself as well as with others, if you seek greater harmony and flow in your life. Sometimes it becomes necessary to get out of your own way in order to make progress. In January, you may encounter challenges that threaten to upset your plans. And yet the possibility exists to make ground with your vocational activities, if you remain steadfast in your efforts and sincerity.

Virgo

(August 23—September 23)

Libra

(September 23—October 23)

Constructive changes within your domestic environment could occur during December, and not before time, too, as you may have grown increasingly unsettled, of late. Financial tensions will ease a little, as you bring your creative energies to bear on the matter, while some welcome news could be cause for celebration as the holiday season approaches. You may not have everything your way, however, so be patient with any delays or changes in plans, as your ruling planet, Mercury, will be retrograde from December 10th - 29th, while timing may also be a factor in determining the eventual outcome of events. Nonetheless, you are close to a significant breakthrough, in terms of your personal affairs, so continue to be upbeat and more hopeful about your future prospects.

If you’ve managed to translate your thoughts and bright ideas into actions in recent weeks you can rest assured that you’re in the flow and in sync with the cosmic influences acting through your solar chart. Your challenge now will be to maintain the momentum you've developed throughout December, when

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Down To Earth Astrology emotional triggers from past experiences conspire to undermine your confidence and good progress. Mercury’s retrograde, from December 10th - 29th, back through your solar third house of the mind could make you question the wisdom of recent decisions, yet you somehow know that you are on the right path and feel inspired to continue on your quest. When Venus, your sign’s ruling planet, joins Mercury in your solar third house on January 7th, you’ll feel more reassured and hopeful about your prospects, while lady luck could bring extra money your way.

Scorpio

(October 23—November 22)

Your activities for some time now have been focused mainly on adding to your income, and you may, indeed, have met with a measure of success. December’s expansive Sagittarius new moon in your solar second house of income on the 5th encourages you to strengthen your resolve, and to build upon the progress you’ve made. With lucky Venus on your solar ascendant, favorably aligned with Pluto, your sign’s ruler, a measure of good fortune may attend your endeavors in the weeks ahead. Your principle challenge now will be to overcome nagging doubts and fears that conspire to undermine your best efforts. Mercury’s retrograde, however, from December 10th 29th, back through your solar second house, could actually work to your advantage, inclining you to revisit a financial strategy that you hadn't fully thought out, but that in January, after revising your approach, may finally begin to bear fruit.

Sagittarius

(November 21—December 21)

You’re primed for action and keen to move forward with projects and activities already underway, and in December this trend continues, as you keep your goals for the future in your sights. While your determination and drive may bring you additional income, so too can your expenditures increase. Fortunately, you see the value in adhering to a practical budget, and maintain a tight grip on your purse strings as the holiday season approaches. While Mercury is in retrograde (Dec 10th 29th) and moving back through your solar first house, you might pause to reconsider a personal objective or endeavor, perhaps in light of recent developments. During January, though, you’re back in the saddle and riding hard towards your goal, and when Venus crosses your solar ascendant into your sign and solar first house on the 7th, the element of luck travels at your side.

Capricorn

(December 21—January 19)

Converting a dream into a tangible reality could consume much of your energy these days, as your vision of a professional objective becomes an overriding quest. With Mars on your solar ascendant, (Dec 7th) and traveling through your sign till January 15th, your ambition may know no bounds, and you’ll move heaven and earth to reach your goal. You may feel that it’s your fate to succeed in this endeavor, and are determined to give it your best shot, yet you must measure your progress carefully, because with Mercury retrograde from December 10th - 29th, you could

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overlook some important details or facts. January’s powerful new moon/solar eclipse in your sign on the 4th fuels the fire in your belly, increasing your desire for personal and professional attainment. However, try not to get caught up in the myriad details, lest you lose sight of the all-important big picture.

Aquarius

(January 19—February 18)

Luck is with you now as you pursue career goals, with Venus riding high through your solar chart. Don’t be shy about tooting your own horn, because you never know who might like the tune! Goal setting is favored in December, fueled by an optimistic Sagittarius new moon in your solar eleventh house (5th). Your outgoing, progressive nature can thrive now, while your self-confidence could be in overdrive. However, when Mars begins a six-week journey through your dreamy solar twelfth house on December 7th, and with Mercury in retrograde from Dec 10th - 29th, consider easing back on the throttle a little, in anticipation of potential roadblocks or detours. During January, spend some time fine-tuning your grand vision, and don’t be too keen to charge ahead. Seek the feedback or advice of friends. And be watchful of expenditures, as a penny saved could be a penny earned right now.

Pisces

(February 18—March 20)

Your ambition drives you forward, following December’s expansive Sagittarius new moon (5th) in your solar tenth house of worldly attainment, when you're keen to make tangible progress towards a cherished professional or educational objective. There’s a very progressive side to your nature that is often overlooked, except in quiet moments when the revolutionary within you seeks expression. Pay attention to your inner prompts, for they could inspire remarkable ingenuity that could open up new horizons of possibility to you, from which you may also profit. It’s possible that a new career objective could take priority during January, when a colleague or associate may recommend you for a position, or brings news of an opportunity. Just be sure you have all the facts before making your decision; don't allow over-optimism to cloud your better judgement.

Tim Gunns is an astrological consultant, conference coordinator and producer, and formerly program director of the L.A. Conscious Life Expo, and the national Whole Life Expos. Tim prepares personalized no-nonsense interpretations of Natal Horoscopes ($40), Future Forecast Transit Reports ($75 for 1 full year), and Relationship Compatibility Reports ($45). Shipping is free. Send: Name (as you'd like it to appear on the chart), Date of Birth, Time (as close as possible), Place of Birth (city/country, etc.) for each person, and your return address, phone# and check to: Tim Gunns, c/o110 Hilltop Drive,

Waynesville NC 28786. (828) 452-7885. Consultations by phone may also be scheduled. DECEMBER / JANUARY 2011 EARTH STAR

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Winter Reading The Solomon Secret 7 Principles of Financial Success from King Solomon, History's Wealthiest Man By Bruce Fleet In the bestselling tradition of The Richest Man in Babylon, The Solomon Secret follows King Solomon as he mentors his young protégé, Abidan, on the seven basic principles of life and their influence on financial success. Each of these parables illustrates a key principle that Abidan must discover before he can garner more wealth and happiness, and is then followed by Fleet’s masterful application of these principles to the reader’s life and to the most urgent and essential financial questions of our time. Fleet, a successful financial adviser and owner of a large investment firm, draws from the time-honored and historically proven wisdom of the life of the ancient king to offer-through the siphon of his own talent and perspective-the very best in financial strategies for today’s challenging economic climate. Tarcher/Penguin. Paperback, $13.95.

The Subtle Energy Body The Complete Guide By Maureen Lockhart, Ph.D. Ancient traditions of both the East and West have long maintained that the human being is a complex of material and nonmaterial systems, or energy bodies. In many traditions, the component parts of the subtle body serve as a map of the different levels of consciousness. The energetic bodies provide a coherent system of life-affirming principles and practices for the diagnosis and treatment of the whole person that is not only part of many traditional healing systems, such as Acupuncture and Ayurveda, but also is forming the basis for a synthesis of traditional and contemporary healing practices that could lay the foundation for the medicine of the future. This lavishly illustrated and well-researched book belongs on the shelf of any aspiring healer. Inner Traditions. Paperback, $29.95.

The Secret Language of Your Body The Essential Guide to Health and Wellness By Inna Segal Foreword by: Bernie S. Siegel, M.D. In The Secret Language of Your Body, author Inna Segal unveils the secrets to understanding the messages of your body and reveals the underlying mental, emotional, and energetic causes of physical symptoms and medical conditions. This inspiring handbook delves deeply into the possible reasons for health issues in all areas of your body. Inna offers a unique, step-by-step method to assist your body in returning to its natural state of health. By encouraging you to connect with your innate healing intelligence and calling on your body’s builtin ability to heal itself, Inna gently guides you on a journey of lifechanging transformation and empowerment . Atria Books. Paperback, $18.00.

Archangels 101 How to Connect Closely with Archangels Michael, Raphael, Uriel, Gabriel and Others for Healing, Protection, and Guidance By Doreen Virtue Legions of loving and trustworthy archangels watch over us, and you can develop an even closer relationship with them by learning their names and specialties. In this uplifting nondenominational book, Doreen Virtue guides you in connecting with her 15 favorite archangels; and you’ll read true stories from people who received protection, miraculous healings, and amazing guidance from these beloved heavenly beings. Whether you’re new to working with angels, or someone who has believed in angels all your life, you’ll want to refer to Archangels 101 again and again. Hay House. Hardcover, $15.95

Be Love Now Beginner's Grace Bringing Prayer to Life By Kate Braestrup Writing in the beautiful, funny, honest narrative style that moved and inspired readers of her first book, Here If You Need Me, Kate Braestrup explains what prayer is and the many ways we can pray. With an approach that is both personal and inclusive, Beginner’s Grace is a new kind of prayer book. Even if you don’t pray and don't consider yourself religious, there’s room in this book for you. In these pages, Braestrup explains how and why the practice of prayer can open a space in our busy lives for mindfulness, gratitude, contentment, and a wider compassion toward others. Free Press. Hardcover, $25.00

The Path of the Heart By Ram Dass, with Rameshwar Das In Be Love Now, Ram Dass, one of America’s most beloved spiritual teachers, shares what he has learned in his remarkable fourdecade-long spiritual journey. Through timeless teaching stories, compelling and often humorous personal anecdotes, and soul-stirring insights, Ram Dass tracks the stages of his own awakening in his trademark downto-earth style. Starting with his days as Harvard psychologist and psychedelic “inventurer”, continuing through his profound encounters with his guru, Neem Karoli Baba, and moving beyond the reawakening brought on by his near-fatal stroke, Ram Dass shares his life experiences while offering a timeless teaching on love and the path of the heart. HarperOne. Hardcover, $27.99.

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Winter Reading The Order of Melchizedek Love, Willing Service, & Fulfillment By Dan Chesbro with James Erickson

The teachings of Melchizedek—a totally balanced, authoritative incarnation of Christ prior to that of Jesus—on topics such as reincarnation, spiritual development, and free will, are presented in this manual that relates a positive approach to the current transitional stage of spiritual evolution. Promoting a harmonious view of religion—where there is one God, understood and worshiped in a variety of different ways, each serving a purpose to those worshiping and to the overall understanding of spirituality—this testament to the Order is both downto-earth and profound. Findhorn Press. Paperback, $16.95.

How to Be Rich By Napoleon Hill Joseph Murphy, PhD, D.D. Wallace D. Wattles Robert Collier In How to Be Rich, the accumulated wisdom of the most celebrated motivational writers and positive-thinking guides of all time is distilled into one concise volume for unlocking the prosperity-power of your mind. Why not you? This is the guiding question of How to Be Rich. To answer it, this compact book gleans must-read passages, powerful meditations, and tantalizing wealth-building techniques from the collected work of the greatest motivational writers ever. Each chapter is short enough to read in a grocery store checkout line-yet powerful enough to challenge years of ingrained, self-limiting thinking.

Llewellyn’s 2011 Sun Sign Book Horoscopes for Everyone By Llewellyn Don’t be without this annual classic sun sign guide! Find out what to expect in the year ahead, get answers to life’s most important questions, and feel inspired every day with Llewellyn’s Sun Sign Book. In addition to horoscopes for every sign by popular astrologer Kris Brandt Riske, you’ll find rewarding and challenging days for each month, as well as guidance for love and relationships, your career path, and living a healthy and fulfilling life. It also includes ideal dates to begin a romance, take a vacation, look for a job, and plan other important endeavors. This edition also features insightful articles by renowned astrologers that contain practical planetary wisdom, which you can use to enrich your life. Llewellyn. Paperbook, $10.99.5

How to Rule the World from Your Couch By Laura Day You don’t have to be full of ‘get up and go’ to have success, find love, or even earn a living. There are tools, innate tools, which permit you to do much of the heavy lifting without your feet ever touching the floor. Internationally renowned teacher and intuitive Laura Day shows you how to create success in any area by using your brain in unique and compelling ways so that your innate intuition can propel you ahead to successful solutions. Includes step-by-step exercises—many of which can be done from the comfort of your couch!

Atria. Paperback, $15.00.

Tarcher/Penguin. Paperback, $11.95.

Sun Signs & Past Lives Your Soul’s Evolutionary Path By Bernie Ashman In Sun Signs & Past Lives, internationally known astrologer Bernie Ashman offers ways to reach your full potential with an instant past-life reading, based on your sun sign. Ashman’s method is an easy, foolproof way to pinpoint behaviors that may be holding you back from a rewarding life of peace and fulfillment. You don’t have to know any specialized astrology terms or concepts to use this book. All you need is your birthday. Each sun sign into three energy zones. Simply look up the zone in which your birthday falls and find out your innate strengths and the spiritual lessons you need to learn for this lifetime. Most importantly, you’ll discover how to transform these precious insights into action. Llewellyn. paperback, $16.95.

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Lost Knowledge of the Ancients A Graham Hancock Reader Edited by Glenn Kreisberg Representing the latest findings in scientific and historical research, this anthology of essays commissioned by Graham Hancock, covers the forefront in alternative theories on history, the origins of civilization, technology, and consciousness with topics ranging from quantum philosophy and paranormal phenomena to the ancient use of electromagnetism, the effect of cosmic rays on human evolution, and NASA’s cover-up of ancient Martian civilizations. Recognizing that many recent discoveries are actually rediscoveries of lost knowledge from past civilizations, these authors seek to understand where, within the bigger picture of human knowledge, our present time fits into the cycle of human existence.

Bear & Company. Paper, $18.00.

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Common Wealth Our Legacy of Places Of Power and the Transfiguration of the Human Soul By Freddy Silva In Common Wealth, bestselling author Freddy Silva examines the origins of sacred places and what makes them so, from pre-diluvial mansions of the gods to the resurgence of ancient knowledge in the modern era. Following a global catastrophe in 9703 B.C., groups of sages embarked on a mission to rebuild a worldwide network of temples that would maintain indefinitely a society in balance with itself and with the cosmos. These places of power, Silva explains, were constructed at magnetically sensitive locations and according to prescribed laws that are capable of altering states of consciousness. But not only did temples become repositories of an incredible ancient science, they would also serve as an insurance policy in times when people lost sight of the fact that they too are gods.

The Pot Book A Complete Guide to Cannabis Edited by Julie Holland, M.D. Exploring the role of cannabis in medicine, politics, history, and society, The Pot Book offers a compendium of the most up-to-date information and scientific research on marijuana from leading experts, including Lester Grinspoon, M.D., Rick Doblin, Ph.D., Allen St. Pierre (NORML), and Raphael Mechoulam. Also included are interviews with Michael Pollan, Andrew Weil, M.D., and Tommy Chong as well as a pot dealer and a farmer who grows for the U.S. Government. Encompassing the broad spectrum of marijuana knowledge from stoner customs to scientific research, this book investigates the top ten myths of marijuana—from its physiological and psychological effects, to the complicated world of pot and parenting. As legalization becomes a reality, this book candidly offers necessary facts and authoritative opinions in a society full of marijuana myths, misconceptions, and stereotypes. Park Street Press. Paperback, $19.95.

Invisible Temple. Paperback, $25.00.

The Secret History of Consciousness Ancient Keys to Our Future Survival By Meg Blackburn Losey, Ph.D. In this new book, Dr. Meg Losey reveals the secrets that were known to the ancients but lost to the modern world. Secrets about consciousness and the relevance of sacred sites from around the globe. She uncovers the true meaning of the Mayan Calendar and links sacred geometry, the Kaballah, the Flower of Life, the Pyramids, Atlantis, Lemuria, and more to reveal that these ancient secrets show us that we are all unlimited beings of creation. Dr. Meg invites us to open our minds and hearts to the meaning of our shared and hidden history and offers simple meditations that will allow each and every one of us to become conscious of the change we are creating together. Weiser Books. Paperback, $16.95.

Tao II The Way of Healing, Rejuvenation, Longevity, and Immortality By Zhi Gang Sha Tao II, the successor to Tao I: The Way of All Life, reveals the highest secrets and most powerful practical techniques for the Tao journey, which includes one’s physical healing and rejuvenation journey and one’s entire spiritual journey. In Tao II, Master Sha explains the significance of this highest secret and exactly how to do it. It provides the sacred key for your whole life’s practice and shares two hundred and twenty sacred phrases that include not only profound sacred wisdom but also additional simple and practical techniques. The final goal is to reach immortality to be a better servant for humanity, Mother Earth, and all universes. Atria Books. Hardcover, $27.95. 20

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The Secrets of People Who Never Get Sick By Gene Stone Gene Stone has investigated, firsthand, virtually every form of regimen, diagnostic test, therapy, and fad. This fascinating and original book of science tells the stories of 25 people who each possess a different secret of excellent health— and shows how we can all use these insights to change our lives for the better. The stories make it personal; then comes the science, the authority, and the nuts and bolts—how to bring each secret into your own life. From probiotics to veganism to a daily dose of garlic, from yoga to cold showers, it’s an invaluable collection of secrets to a healthy life. Workman Publishing. Hardcover, $23.95.

Wonders in the Sky Unexplained Aerial Objects from Antiquity to Modern Times By Jacques Vallee and Chris Aubeck In Wonders in the Sky, respected researchers Jacques Vallee and Chris Aubeck examine more than 500 selected reports of sightings from biblical-age antiquity through the year 1879—the point at which the Industrial Revolution deeply changed the nature of human society, and the skies began to open to airplanes, dirigibles, rockets, and other opportunities for misinterpretation represented by military prototypes. Using vivid and engaging case studies, and more than seventy-five illustrations, they reveal that unidentified flying objects have had a major impact not only on popular culture but on our history, on our religion, and on the models of the world humanity has formed from deepest antiquity. This book is sure to become a classic among UFO enthusiasts. Tarcher/Penguin. Paperback, $22.95. www.earthstarmag.com

The 2012 Story The Myths, Fallacies, and Truth Behind the Most Intriguing Date in History By John Major Jenkins From the pioneering author who helped introduce the question of 2012 into the global spiritual community comes an epic exploration of the authentic origins and meaning of this portentous date. Drawing from his own groundbreaking research (including his involvement in the modern reconstruction of Mayan 2012 cosmology), John Major Jenkins has created the crucial guide to 2012, surveying its roots in Mayan cosmology, modern astronomy, ancient prophecy, and metaphysical philosophy and exploring why it has become a focal point for millions today. Tarcher/Penguin. Paperback, $16.95.

Man-Made Monsters A Field Guide to Golems, Patchwork Soldiers, Homunculi, and Other Created Creatures By Bob Curran Life exists all around us, in forms that we can readily and easily identify. But what if there were, lurking in the shadows, other forms of life that are not so familiar, creatures created not by Nature, but by Man? They exist in our stories and myths. But just what are these mysterious creatures, and do they have some basis in reality? In his fascinating and wide-ranging new book, essential reading for anyone who wants to explore artificial beings and peer into the dark recesses of the human mind, Dr. Bob Curran explores man-made monsters and the truth behind the myths. New Page Books. Paperback, $14.99.

Angel Words Visual Evidence of How Words Can Be Angels in Your Life By Doreen Virtue and Grant Virtue When Doreen and her son Grant Virtue were recording podcasts, they noticed that whenever she said the word “angel”, the recording graphics were shaped like angel wings! So they studied the other words she said and realized that those with a spiritual or loving basis had large graphs. So they experimented with saying negative words and found that their appearance was completely different: tight and small. Similar to Masaru Emoto’s work with water crystals, Angel Words gives visual proof of the power and impact of speaking in a loving way. You’ll come to understand why positive words express the most energy and therefore have the most power to manifest your dreams. You’ll also see how negative words have low energy and read how they can actually draw negative experiences to you. This unforgettable book will immediately motivate you to choose positive words! Hay House. Paperback, $14.95. www.earthstarmag.com

The Divine Seed The Esoteric Teachings of Jesus By Pekka Ervast Foreword by Richard Smoley The Divine Seed, Ervast’s lasting gift to Christian seekers, is the esoteric decoding of Jesus’ teachings, including the parables, the Sermon on the Mount, and The Lord’s Prayer. In order to uncover the Holy Bible’s hidden knowledge, Ervast argues that the seeker must first adopt the theosophical perspective, which endeavors to reveal science behind religion. Ervast carefully takes into account the existing two-fold theological critique of the New Testament: that which argues Jesus and his disciples as mythical symbols rather than true historical figures; and that which argues Jesus as a real-life character, entirely human rather than divine. In this way, Ervast’s The Divine Seed explores the Bible through three lenses of interpretation: feeling, intelligence and will, concluding that revelation occurs only when it is read via the third lens—”will”, established in practical life experience. Quest Books. Paperback, $14.95.

Heart Wisdom Your Transformational Guide to Joyful Living and Loving By Russell Feingold Utilizing his extensive experience in the fields of healing, teaching, and coaching, and the power of guided visualization and meditation, Russell Feingold lights up an unerring pathway that moves you from the limitations of operating from your head, where every thought, action and decision is unconsciously dictated by past conditioning to the exquisite liberation of being fully reconnected to the wellspring of wisdom that resides within your heart. Serving as your personal guide, he gently steers you back to your authentic self, excavating all past hurts and suffering, and unwinding all the stress, tension and fear that have been preventing you from living the life you truly desire. Reconnected with your heart and its inherent wisdom, you will feel, think and respond differently to every experience that unfolds in your life. Findhorn Press. Paperback, $14.95.

Llewellyn’s 2011 Moon Sign Book Conscious Living by the Cycles of the Moon By Llewellyn A popular companion guide for over a century, Llewellyn’s 2011 Moon Sign Book is jam-packed with lunar essentials. Plan vacations and get a jump on the year ahead with weekly weather predictions and full moon forecasts. It’s filled with ways to enrich your life and boost your health with lunar energy. Consult the handy weekly planner for the best times to fertilize, cultivate, and harvest your crops. With the monthly lunar aspectarian, you’ll always know the best times to launch new projects and schedule important events. Llewellyn. Paperback, $10.99.

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ANGEL WORDS By Doreen Virtue and Grant Virtue

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The following excerpt is taken from the book ANGEL WORDS: Visual Evidence of How Words Can Be Angels in Your Life by Doreen Virtue and Grant Virtue. It is published by Hay House (November 2010) and is available at all bookstores or online at: www.hayhouse.com. hen my son Grant and I were recording a podcast about archangels, he stopped and pointed to his computer screen, exclaiming, “Look! When you said the word angel, the graph made angel wings!” Sure enough, his computer program showed all sorts of shapes representing each word I’d used. And when I said “angel,” the graph looked like a celestial being soaring from heaven.

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Grant and I began experimenting with other words to find literal graphic representations of their meanings. What we discovered was remarkable: the words we consider positive and feel-good were significantly larger than those considered negative. We were astounded by this visual representation of positive and negative utterances! Here was tangible evidence of high and low vibrations within speech. The positive words exhibited a much bigger impact, like light shining radiantly. Meanwhile, the negative ones looked tight and constricted. The word admiration shows evidence of big radiant energy, while jealousy shows the opposite. This makes sense, since when you admire someone, you’re affirming that there’s abundance in the world. You’re saying, “Wow, isn’t it wonderful that this person is enjoying success, health, love, and happiness. If he or she can do this, then so can I!” Doesn’t that feel expansive and generous? Contrast this with the word jealousy, which is based upon a belief in lack and limitation. Jealousy says, “Hey! How come that person gets to have fun? How come I can’t have what he or she has?” and “This isn’t fair!” Can you feel the underlying fear within jealousy? No wonder it shows up as a small graph! This very message was demonstrated during one of my appearances on the Oprah television show. My book Losing Your Pounds of Pain had just

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been released; and Oprah, her guests (including me), and the audience were discussing the psychology of weight loss and gain. This was in the early 1990s, when the talk-show host had lost a great deal of weight while working with a personal trainer and a personal chef. Oprah’s staff had collected and divided letters she’d received into two categories: (1) those from viewers who admired her weight loss and said that it inspired them to take up this goal themselves, and (2) those expressing jealousy about her accomplishment. A sampling of the letter writers from both viewpoints had been flown in to the studio. What Oprah discovered was remarkable: those who admired her weight loss had all been subsequently successful with a fitness, exercise, and weight-loss plan. Conversely, those who were jealous reported that they hadn’t been able to lose even one pound! Clearly, this negative emotion blocked them from emulating Oprah’s healthy habits. Their negative mind-sets wouldn’t allow them to follow her positive example. Similarly, a woman named Sharon Gartner (a reader of my books who contacted me) found that her smoldering jealousy of her neighbors blocked her from living the lifestyle that she desperately wanted. She’d look at others’ nice houses and cars and say, “It’s not fair! I never have enough of anything!” Sharon felt as if she were living in a dark hole of despair and worry. She told me, “My thoughts and words were the shovel digging my way deeper into darkness.” Sharon was so consumed with jealousy and loathing for those who had more than she did that she hadn’t noticed that her husband had become withdrawn and moody and her children were unhappy. Nothing seemed to be going right in her family’s life. One night, Sharon had a dream of sitting on a park bench under a tree. A man who looked like a hobo sat beside her and handed her a piece of paper,

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which simply read: “Let it go.” Sharon awoke with the knowledge that everything would be okay. She started affirming, “I give love and I receive love,” and “I am open to receiving prosperity from expected and unexpected sources.” Sharon now describes her life as wonderful. She and her husband have fallen back in love and feel that they are living their dreams together. Wonderful opportunities come to them daily, and their children are now happy. Why? Sharon says: “It’s because I changed my thinking pattern, guided by those three simple words: Let it go. I now realize that the reason my life wasn’t going well was because my dark, jealous belief was that I wouldn’t have ‘nice things,’ since I thought I wasn’t worthy of having such things. I now live in a constant state of love and joy, with the knowledge that I am only open to receiving all that is good in my world.” When you see someone who seems to have more than you do, you can either say, “Wow, I can do that, too!” or “Why don’t I have that?” Hopefully, the graphs, stories, and discussions in this book will help you choose the former instead of the latter. Angel Words Positive words, like guardian angels, can help you soar into new horizons. The mere act of altering your vocabulary and using life-affirming words can quickly and dramatically change your life in magical ways! I’d always noticed my unpleasant reactions whenever I or others around me engaged in negative discussions. No matter how juicy the gossip, I could feel my stomach tightening in response to talking about others. The same went for fear-based speculations about the earth’s environment or humankind’s future. Looking at the constricted, negative word graphs, it was no wonder why my body feels tense around negative words! Low-vibrational discussions are palpable! In addition to stomach tightening, I notice that my energy and enthusiasm becomes drained. I’m tired and no longer smiling after a negative discussion. I remember a saying that someone wise taught me as a child: “Small 24

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people talk about other people, average people talk about material things, and great people talk about ideas.” The adage is a bit blunt, but you get the idea. In my books and workshops, I frequently discuss how our positive thoughts attract and create positive life experiences. Most people understand this concept. Putting it into practice is another thing, and is a big part of personal growth. Positive living involves choosing corresponding words, a lesson I learned firsthand many years ago. As a busy mother of two young sons, I rarely had time to think about my own wants or feelings. Mostly I was focused upon keeping my husband happy and attending to my children’s needs. Like many young families, we had financial challenges, and some days I didn’t know how we’d afford our electricity and food. So my mental atmosphere was filled with stress and fear. Somewhere along the line, I was given a book by Norman Vincent Peale called Positive Imaging, about the power of positive thinking. Peale explained how our affirmations need to be filled with gratitude, as if our wishes have already come true. So I created my own affirmations tape filled with my desires, such as “I am a best-selling author,” “I am confident,” “I have a healthy, physically fit body,” “I have wonderful friends,” and so forth. Although these statements initially felt fictitious and false, I faithfully listened to them three times a day. I’d be vacuuming the rug with my earphones on, listening to the affirmations. And somewhere along the line, they sank in! I clearly remember the day when the positive words “clicked”: I was standing in line at the store, patiently waiting to buy food for my family. A man cut in front of me. Previously, I would have silently done nothing, and probably resented the man for usurping my place in line. But the affirmations tape shifted something deep inside of me, and I simply said, “Excuse me, but I was next.” The man turned to look at me as if seeing me for the first time. He apologized, and I took my turn— a huge victory for me personally, in that I stood up for myself, which I hadn’t ever done before. The words on the tape helped me honor and value myself and my time. www.earthstarmag.com

From there, magic happened. Everything I’d affirmed came true, in almost miraculous ways. Of course, I had to put human effort into writing the books that eventually became bestsellers, and into the daily exercise and healthy eating that enabled me to have a fit body. But I credit the positive words on those tapes for giving me the confidence and courage to do the work! *** The number one question I’m asked during my workshops, on my radio show, and in my readers’ letters is: “What is my life purpose?” I can heartily say that the graphs within this book hold the answer: your purpose is to speak, think, and write the powerfully positive words that are so abundantly available to you. As a writer, I’ve always found that there’s a positive and a negative way to say the same message. For instance: “You shouldn’t say negative words, as they’ll make you feel bad.” “Saying positive words can help you to feel happy.” Although both sentences convey the same meaning, their energies are completely different. As you read the above two phrases, how did they affect you? Did you notice any muscles tightening or relaxing in response to each? Which sentence feels better to you? Before I submit a new book to my editor at Hay House, I scan for any sentences that can be rewritten in a more positive way. Each time I do so, I can feel the entire manuscript’s energy level being uplifted. When the book consists of sentences that are written in affirmative tenses, its energy practically floats in the clouds! It’s like the old adage about people who view the same glass of water as being half-full or halfempty. Sure, they’re saying the same thing, but who’s having more fun?

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Judgment vs. Discernment When I say that a word is negative, I’m not implying that it’s “bad” or “wrong.” That is judgment, which is the ego’s way of labeling and pigeonholing everything. Instead, the word negative is a synonym for low-vibrating. While the ego relies on up-in-the-head judgment to decide whether something is good or bad, the higher self uses discernment, which is a feelingbased way of either being attracted to or repelled by something. Ego uses labels. The higher self employs feelings and the Law of Attraction. As an example, the ego would say that cigarette smoking is bad. The higher self would say that it’s not attracted to cigarette smoking. Which feels better, the ego’s judgment or the higher self’s discernment? As Grant says: “The purpose of this book isn’t to create some sort of verbal tyranny where you have to closely guard your speech. We simply would like to illustrate, in the plainest possible way, that what you say and how you say it can and does have an effect upon you and your environment. The vibrations of your voice go out and have the potential to subtly change everything they come in contact with. “Once you have that critical piece of information, it then becomes your choice to use your words as you see fit. What I’ve learned from the research we’ve conducted in this book is that what I say can directly affect the outcome of any endeavor I am currently working on. I, for one, will certainly strive to ensure my speech is much more positive in the future.”

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What the TSA is NOT Telling You About Full Body Scans

By Dr. Joseph Mercola he Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC), a leading privacy group, has asked a federal appeals court to suspend the U.S. government’s program of introducing fullbody imaging machines at airports. According to the group, the imaging machines constitute a suspicionless search of all airport travelers in an extremely invasive way—so invasive that it violates the reasonable standard contained in the Fourth Amendment. Wired reports:

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“The constitutional challenge aside, EPIC also charges that the Department of Homeland Security, in rolling out the devices, violated a host of bureaucratic policies requiring public review, including the Administrative Procedures Act. What’s more, the group claims the machines, among other things, violate the federal Video Voyeurism Prevent Act, which protects against capturing improper images that violate one’s privacy.” Further, scientists at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) sent a letter to the White House Office of Science and Technology in April warning of potential health risks—including skin cancer—from the scanners, which distribute a dose of radiation to the skin and underlying tissue. Dr. Mercola’s Comments There are about 350 full-body scanners being used in close to 70 U.S. airports, and that number is expected to increase to 1,000 scanners by the end of 2011. Dubbed “naked” scanners because they give a 26

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graphic image of your body, including genitalia and other personal effects like sanitary napkins, the devices are raising privacy and health concerns among frequent travelers and pilots groups alike. The alternative is also causing outrage. Those who opt out of being scanned must now submit to a far more intrusive form of pat-down, and a large number of horror stories have already surfaced, where people of all ages have been humiliated, or worse, during these ‘enhanced’ pat-downs. Are Full-Body Scanners an Invasion of Privacy? Increasing numbers of people are expressing their outrage over being submitted to full-body scanning. Already the U.S. Travel Association has received hundreds of e-mails and phone calls from angry travelers who say they will stop flying until the scanners are no longer in force. The Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC) has also sought a court order to stop the use of the scanners, citing privacy and health risks and calling for the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to conduct a public rule-making to assess the safety and security issues. Marc Rotenberg, president of EPIC, wrote on CNN.com: “The courts give the government a great deal of latitude in airports, but it is not unbounded, and the current screening procedures—the digital X-ray cameras called “body scanners” and the genital-groping searches called “pat-downs”—have never been reviewed by a court. Is a court really prepared to say that in the absence www.earthstarmag.com

of suspicion, these search procedures—which the law would otherwise treat as sexual battery—are “reasonable”? … No other country in the world subjects its air travelers to the combination of screening procedures that Americans are being asked to endure.”

vivor whose urostomy bag was ruptured by an unconcerned TSA agent, leaving him covered in his own urine. In an interview with MSNBC.com, Sawyer said: “I am a good American and I want safety for all passengers as much as the next person. But if this country is going to sacrifice treating people like human beings in the name of safety, then we have already lost the war.”

Pilots’ unions for US Airways and American Airlines have also urged their pilots not to submit to Advanced Imaging Technology (AIT) screening due to potential health risks and privacy issues. Grassroots efforts are also underway, with one online group at the Web site WeWontFly.com likening the scanners to a strip search. They say:

According to Jeffrey Goldberg, a national correspondent for The Atlantic, these ‘enhanced’ tactics are purposely designed and intended to be intimidating and humiliating, in order to stop you from opting out of the scanner!

“We are opposed to the full-body backscatter X-ray airport scanners on grounds of health and privacy. We do not consent to strip searches, virtual or otherwise. We do not wish to be guinea pigs for new, and possibly dangerous, technology. We are not criminals. We are your customers. We will not beg the government anymore. We will simply stop flying until the porno-scanners are history.”

Need to Fly? Submit to Humiliation or Face $11,000 Fine Making matters even worse, not to mention bizarre, once you’re at the security check, there’s no turning back; you have no choice but to submit to either, or both, of the new and enhanced security techniques, according to the TSA.

There are also concerns that the images from the scanners could be saved, an assertion the TSA denies. However, reports have already surfaced of workers saving such images and using them to humiliate colleagues.

“The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is warning that any would-be commercial airline passenger who enters an airport checkpoint and then refuses to undergo the method of inspection designated by TSA will not be allowed to fly and also will not be permitted to simply leave the airport,” the Sun Sentinel reports. “That person will have to remain on the premises to be questioned by the TSA and possibly by local law enforcement. Anyone refusing faces fines up to $11,000 and possible arrest.”

Should TSA Agents Be Allowed to Sexually Violate Passengers? You can opt out of the full-body scans at this time, but doing so means you will be subjected to an “enhanced physical pat-down” during which TSA agents use open hands and fingers to search your body physically, including your breasts and genital area. Previously, agents would use only the backs of their hands during pat-downs. Some of the horror stories now emerging are causing a fury, and rightfully so. Is there no limit to how far TSA agents can go when frisking passengers? Take the case of a female flight attendant who was forced to pull out her prosthetic breast, for example. Several other women have reported feeling shocked by what they call “sexual violations,” including having their labia groped without warning. TSA agents have even been accused of treating young children in such a way that they’d be brought up on child molestation charges had it not occurred in an airport. There are stories of all sorts of inhumane treatment, such as the one from Tom Sawyer, a bladder cancer sur-

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Airports Can Opt Out of TSA Screenings It’s a little-known fact that airports are not required to use TSA screenings at all. They can opt-out of such programs altogether—including the body scanners and “enhanced pat-downs” —and hire private screening agencies instead. As Byron York, chief political correspondent with the Washington Examiner, recently wrote: “… With the TSA engulfed in controversy and hated by millions of weary and sometimes humiliated travelers, Rep. John Mica, the Republican who will soon be chairman of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, is reminding airports that they have a choice. Mica, one of the authors of the original TSA bill, has

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recently written to the heads of more than 150 airports nationwide suggesting they opt out of TSA screening. “When the TSA was established, it was never envisioned that it would become a huge, unwieldy bureaucracy which was soon to grow to 67,000 employees,” Mica writes. “As TSA has grown larger, more impersonal, and administratively top-heavy, I believe it is important that airports across the country consider utilizing the opt-out provision provided by law.” Many airports choose not to hire private screeners out of liability concerns if a terrorist managed to get through, and there’s no way to know right now whether such changes would make airport screening any safer or less intrusive. Still, it’s an option that many do not realize exist. Some airports in Florida may ditch TSA. According to Larry Dale, president of the Sanford Airport Authority in Orlando, says the change to a private screening company was approved on Oct. 5, CNN reports. However, security contractors must still follow TSA security guidelines. According to TSA spokesman Greg Soule: “All commercial airports are regulated by TSA whether the actual screening is performed by the TSA officers or private companies. The TSA sets the security standards that must be followed and includes the use of enhanced pat-downs and imaging technology, if installed at the airport.” Private contractors may, however, be more careful about the professionalism and courtesy of their employees, compared to TSA. According to Larry Dale, “research shows that using a private security screening company would be more efficient and more enjoyable to the public.” Airport Scanners May Cause Cancer The other glaring issue posed by the TSA scanners has to do with your health and their use of controversial backscatter technology, which projects an X-ray beam onto your body. As WeWontFly.com stated: “Backscatter X-ray uses ionizing radiation, a known cumulative health hazard, to produce images of passengers’ bodies. Children, pregnant women, the elderly, and those with defective DNA repair mechanisms are considered to be especially susceptible to the type of DNA damage caused by ionizing radiation. Also at high risk

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are those who have had, or currently have, skin cancer. Ionizing radiation’s effects are cumulative, meaning that each time you are exposed you are adding to your risk of developing cancer. Since the dosage of radiation from the backscatter X-ray machines is absorbed almost entirely by the skin and tissue directly under the skin, averaging the dose over the whole body gives an inaccurate picture of the actual harm.” Scientists from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) sent a letter to the White House Office of Science and Technology echoing the concern that radiation from the scanners could damage skin and underlying tissue, potentially leading to skin cancer. The White House Office responded that the technology had been tested extensively for safety, but the scientists noted numerous flaws in the response and are currently preparing a rebuttal. Because the radiation beam from the scanners concentrates on your skin, researchers believe the dose may be up to twenty times higher than is being estimated. As Mail Online reported, Dr. David Brenner, head of Columbia University’s center for radiological research, also noted that about one in twenty people, including children and people with gene mutations, may be at increased risk as they are less able to repair the DNA damage caused by the x-ray scan. Even the U.S. Airline Pilots Association (USAPA) recognized the potential risks, especially from frequent exposure. As CNN reported, Capt. Mike Cleary, president of the USAPA wrote: “Based on currently available medical information, USAPA has determined that frequent exposure to TSAoperated scanner devices may subject pilots to significant health risks.” Scanners Use Harmful Ionizing Radiation Some of the TSA’s full-body scanners subject your body to small doses of ionizing radiation. Ionizing radiation creates charged ions by displacing electrons in atoms, even without heat. Examples are radiation emitted from radioactive substances in rocks and soil, cosmic rays of the sun, and radiation from man-made technology such as x-ray machines, power stations, and nuclear reactors. A host of epidemiological studies have strongly suggested that x-rays and other ionizing radiation are a cause of most types of human cancer. X-rays may even be responsible for most of the deaths from cancer and ischemic heart disease, according to John Gofman, MD, PhD, a professor at U. C. Berkeley and one of the lead-

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ing experts in the world. Ionizing radiation is a uniquely potent mutagen due to its ability to wreak havoc upon your cells and their genetic code. Your cells are unable to repair the very complex genetic damage done by x-rays. Some of the mutated cells die, but others do not, and the cells that go on living have a proliferative advantage—giving rise to the most aggressive cancers. Unlike some other mutagens, x-rays have access to the genetic molecules of every one of your internal organs, if the organ is within range of the x-ray beam. Even a single high-speed, high-energy electron, set into motion by an x-ray photon, can bounce around and cause you irreparable damage. That is why there is no safe dose of x-rays. Further, the effects of radiation are cumulative, which means that every time you walk through an airport scanner, you’re adding to your dose. If you fly frequently or you’re exposed to other forms of radiation through CT scans, mammograms and other medical procedures, you could easily be on radiation overload. Fears of Radiation Exposure May Be Overblown It is important to place this radiation exposure risk in its proper perspective. Let’s look at the reported numbers. Screening at an airport x-ray scanner produces .02 microsieverts of radiation. But REMEMBER you are only getting them because you are going on a flight. Nearly everyone forgets that when you fly there is also ionizing radiation exposure. In fact on a typical transcontinental flight at 30,000 feet you will be exposed to 20 microsieverts of radiation. That is one THOUSAND times the dose you receive from the scanner. So if you are willing to accept the risk of air travel radiation how could you possibly justify concern about these scanners? However, having said that this past year I became aware that the way to reduce your air travel radiation by ninety-nine percent is to fly at night. Just as it is impossible to get a suntan at night, you will avoid virtually all of the radiation when you fly at night. That is why I nearly fly exclusively at night now, or as far away from noon as practically possible. I also take 2 mg of astaxanthin every day, which is believed to radically limit damage from ionizing radiation. But please understand the main point of this article: the REAL health danger is from CT scans, which is FIFTY THOUSAND times the radiation dose of one of

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these scans. You would have to have one scan every day for 136 years to equal the radiation of one CT scan. The issue of whether or not the alternative—being groped and potentially humiliated during an ‘enhanced’ pat-down—is warranted, or even legal, is another issue altogether. Analysis Only Works if We Aren’t Being Lied to Please understand that this calculation and risk proposal is based on the reported radiation levels. If we are being lied to then all bets are off and we need to reanalyze, but if the numbers are accurate you would have to have to have one hundred scans to equal the radiation exposure of one daytime flight. Radiation is NOT the Only Health Hazard of Full-Body Scanners That said, “the radiation dose is likely the least of the problems with airport screening,” according to Dr. Jane M. Orient, M.D. In her article for the Association of American Physicians and Surgeons (AAPS), she details what the medical community considers to be the REAL health hazard of full-body scanners, namely the use of low-energy backscatter technology. Dr. Orient explains: “They use an ingenious low-energy backscatter technique, which is apparently wonderful for identifying explosives in cargo. Since the radiation doesn’t penetrate far, it wouldn’t affect an unborn baby. But it does concentrate the dose in the skin. Some scientists warn that this effect has not been properly studied, and one nuclear medicine expert told me that he is going to opt out of the scan. I think this much is clear: if you had a deadly disease, and the scanner were an FDA-regulated device that might save your life, your doctor wouldn’t be allowed to use it, because of inadequate study.” Likewise, two scientists who recently spoke with CNN point out the potential for backscatter technology to cause fatal skin cancer. CNN reports: “The risk of harmful radiation exposure from backscatter scans is very small, according to David Brenner, director of the Center for Radiological Research at Columbia University and a professor of radiation biophysics. But he said he is concerned about how widely the scanners will be used. “If you think of the entire population of, shall we say a billion people per year going through these scanners,

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it’s very likely that some number of those will develop cancer from the radiation from these scanners,” Brenner said. Skin cancer would likely be the primary concern, he said. Each time the same person receives a backscatter scan, the small risk associated with the low dose of radiation is multiplied by the number of exposures. ... The TSA says each backscatter scan emits radiation equivalent to just two minutes of cosmic radiation at altitude. Peter Rez, a professor of physics at Arizona State University, disagrees. Rez has independently calculated the radiation doses of backscatter scanners using the images produced by the machines. “I came to the conclusion that although low, the dose was higher than they said,” he said. Based on his analysis, Rez estimates each scan produces radiation equivalent to 10 to 20 minutes of flight. ... The probability of dying from radiation from a body scanner and that of being killed in a terror attack are roughly the same, he said. About one in 30 million. “They’re both incredibly unlikely events. These are still a factor of ten lower than the probability of dying in any one year from being struck by lightning in the United States.”

actually flying at 35,000 feet. We were never meant to be living this high above the ground So what can you do? The simplest solution is to fly at night or at least avoid flying from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with noon being the worst. If you fly at night you can reduce your radiation risk by ninety-nine percent because nearly all of the radiation from the sun is being blocked by the earth. If you are unable to fly at night for whatever reason the next best solution I have found is to use the most potent lipid-soluble free radical antioxidant I know of, which has been shown to virtually eliminate the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. It also helps prevent sunburn. And just what antioxidant would that be? It is astaxanthin, which is carotenoid extracted from a marine algae. The typical dose is 2 mg, but the key is that it needs to be taken for about three weeks before your radiation exposure. This is not only helpful for exposure to high-altitude radiation but any radiation from the airport scanner or even CT scans, which are 10,000 times stronger. If you opt for the pat-down, keep hygiene in mind. Dr. Orient also brought this issue up in her AAPS article:

Who Stands to Gain Financially from Full-Body Scanners? As in so many other instances, our legal and civil rights system is being willfully manipulated and trampled for the sake of private and corporate profits. In this case, the former homeland security chief and co-author of the PATRIOT act, Michael Chertoff, is now the primary promoter of full-body scanners, and is a paid consultant for the companies that sell them! As Dr. Orient said in her AAPS article:

“… what about the transmission of scabies, crab lice, bedbug larvae, and all manner of germs by TSA gropers? Do they change gloves and wash their hands between subjects, as hospital personnel must do?”

“… if your doctor had an ownership interest in the scanner, he might go to federal prison for referring you for a scan. These anti-kickback laws, however, do not apply to the influential government cronies who stand to make a fortune from the scanners.” It’s just the latest in a very long line of blatant conflicts of interest and corporate agendas that have, and continue to, erode our personal freedoms in the name of “security.” What Can You do if You’re Planning to Fly? As for the level of health hazard, I sincerely believe the most significant risk you have when flying is due to ionizing radiation but NOT from these scanners; it is from

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According to eye-witnesses, TSA agents do not routinely change gloves between each passenger… So, the obvious remedy would be to insist the agent puts on a fresh pair of gloves before touching you and your child. As for the humiliation factor that these enhanced TSA security checks present, I would encourage you to contact your local government officials and state representatives, or join the “We Won’t Fly” campaign. The campaign site also lists 24 additional ways you can make your voice heard on this issue.

Dr. Mercola is the founder of the world’s most visited natural health web site, www.Mercola.com. You can learn the hazardous side effects of OTC Remedies by getting a FREE copy of his latest special report The Dangers of Over the Counter Remedies by going to his Report Page.

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Pr e-Crime Tec hnolo g y To Be Used In Washington D.C. Computers predict what crime will be committed where, by whom and when By Steve Watson aw enforcement agencies in Washington D.C. have begun to use technology that they say can predict when crimes will be committed and who will commit them, before they actually happen. The Minority Report like pre-crime software has been developed by Richard Berk, a professor at the University of Pennsylvania. Previous incarnations of the software, already being used in Baltimore and Philadelphia were limited to predictions of murders by and among parolees and offenders on probation. According to a report by ABC News, however, the latest version, to be implemented in Washington D.C., can predict other future crimes as well. “When a person goes on probation or parole they are supervised by an officer. The question that officer has to answer is ‘what level of supervision do you provide?’” Berk told ABC News, intimating that the program could have a bearing on the length of sentences and/or bail amounts. The technology sifts through a database of thousands of crimes and uses algorithms and different variables, such as geographical location, criminal records and ages of previous offenders, to come up with predictions of where, when, and how a crime could possibly be committed and by who. The program operates without any direct evidence that a crime will be committed, it simply takes datasets and computes possibilities.

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“People assume that if someone murdered then they will murder in the future,” Berk also states, “But what really matters is what that person did as a young individual. If they committed armed robbery at age fourteen that’s a good predictor. If they committed the same crime at age thirty, that doesn’t predict very much.” Critics have urged that the program encourages categorizing individuals on a risk scale via computer mathematics, rather than on real life, and that monitoring those people based on such a premise is antithetic to a justice system founded on the premise of the presumption of innocence. Other police departments and law agencies across the country have begun to look into and use similar predictive technologies. The Memphis Police Department, for example uses a program called Operation Blue CRUSH, which uses predictive analytics developed by IBM. Other forms of pre-crime technology in use or under

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development include surveillance cameras that can predict when a crime is about to occur and alert police, and even neurological brain scanners that can read people’s intentions before they act, thus detecting whether or not a person has “hostile intent”. It is not too far fetched to imagine all these forms of the technology being used together in the future by law enforcement bodies. The British government has previously debated introducing pre-crime laws in the name of fighting terrorism. The idea was that suspects would be put on trial using MI5 or MI6 intelligence of an expected terror attack. This would be enough to convict if found to be true “on the balance of probabilities”, rather than “beyond reasonable doubt”. The government even has plans to collect lifelong records on all residents starting at the age of five, in order to screen for those who might be more likely to commit crimes in the future. Another disturbing possibility for such technology comes in the form of a financial alliance of sorts between Internet search engine giant Google and the investment arm of the CIA and the wider U.S. intelligence network. Google and In-Q-Tel have recently injected a sum of up to $10 million each into a company called Recorded

Future, which uses analytics to scour Twitter accounts, blogs and websites for all sorts of information, which is used to “assemble actual real-time dossiers on people.” The company describes its analytics as “the ultimate tool for open-source intelligence” and says it can also “predict the future”. Recorded Future takes in vast amounts of personal information such as employment changes, personal education and family relations. Promotional material also shows categories covering pretty much everything else, including entertainment, music and movie releases, as well as other innocuous things like patent filings and product recalls. Those detached from any kind of moral reality will say “If you’ve got nothing to hide then what is the problem with being scanned for pre-crime? If it keeps us all safe from murderers, rapists and terrorists I’m all for it”. How far towards a literal technological big brother police state will we slip before people wake up to the fact? Steve Watson is the London based writer and editor at Alex Jones’ Infowars.net, and regular contributor to Prisonplanet.com. He has a Masters Degree in International Relations from the School of Politics at The University of Nottingham in England.

SEASONAL FLU DEATH ESTIMATES GROSSLY OVERESTIMATED very year as flu season approaches, health authorities begin their chorus of warnings about the dangers of getting the flu. As part of their campaign to drum up support for the annual flu vaccine, it is common to hear about the 36,000 people who die every year from flu-related illness. But is this statistic even accurate? According to a recent announcement from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), no. According to the CDC, there is no average number of people who die from the flu because the actual count varies significantly from year to year. Published in its Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, the CDC announcement explains that the actual death count from flurelated illness has been as low as 3,300 in some years, which is far

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lower than the statistics used in media talking points. The vast majority of flu-related deaths occur in people over the age of 65. Typically it is not even the flu that kills them, but other illnesses that result at some point after having the flu. But this fact has not stopped the CDC from now recommending that every person over the age of six months get a flu vaccine. But do flu vaccines even work in the first place? According to two reviews recently published by the Cochrane Foundation, flu vaccinations are not effective at preventing the flu. In fact, they do virtually nothing to prevent the flu-related illnesses that are actually responsible for causing death primarily in the elderly. According to Dr. Tom Jefferson from the Cochrane Vaccines Field, flu vaccines “show

only modest or no effect against influenza and hospitalization from pneumonia.” He goes on to say in a podcast that “we have no reliable evidence on the effects of influenza vaccines on the elderly and health care workers who work with the elderly. What we do have evidence of is widespread manipulation of conclusions and spurious notoriety of the studies.” So in summary, all the hoopla over flu deaths and the need for a flu vaccine are grounded in junk science and faulty statistics. —NaturalNews

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The Secret History of

Consciousness

By Meg Blackburn Losey ne night at group, after I was finished channeling and returned to my chair, I looked over at the young man who was sitting across from me. His kidneys were failing, and the dialysis he was having wasn’t working. He was on a transplant list. As I looked at him, my vision switched to his insides—not just to his internal organs, but also to the tiniest inner workings of his physical being. It was beautiful and fascinating. Spontaneously, I began to read his body to him, somehow explaining that the sodium content and some other things having to do with his dialysis weren’t in the right balance for him. I saw it all, and told him everything. Around the room, everyone stopped in their tracks. The information turned out to be right on. When the young man’s dialysis was adjusted to the new protocol, he felt much better. This new ability was exciting to me. As time went on, I found that the reads would happen spontaneously if someone asked a health question. This gift seems to be a natural ability, and since then my first experience, it has expanded. Many medical doctors have taken my classes on inter-dimensional healing. One of them actually stood up in front of a class of about thirty people and told them I was better than an MRI. I had worked with his sister who had metastatic breast cancer, and I had read tiny lesions in her brain, exactly where they were later found. In conjunction to the new sight I had gained, the intense energy in my body was relentless. I couldn’t seem to find a trigger switch to let the energy out of me. I was losing weight and couldn’t sleep. It was as if I were plugged into an invisible force that never stopped. In an effort to get more comfortable, I began to play with the energy. I’d put on music that had no real melody, and I’d begin to move, allowing the energy to flow through

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me, out of my hands, around me, inside of me. One day, as I spread my hands, my sight opened again, and I saw a rainbow- colored arc flowing from my right hand over my head to my left hand. I was in awe. And then I got aggravated. I started talking out loud. “Okay, this is beautiful, but I have no idea what to do with it. So now what?” I had no clue, so I kept moving and kept working with the energy. Every morning, I did the same thing, and out of desperation, I would say aloud to no one I could see, “Someone show me what to do!” One morning someone showed up. An absolutely magnificent holographic being stood right there in front of me, in the middle of my living room. I was so startled I jumped straight up and straight back. He disappeared. Quickly, I centered myself and found the sacred place within me. I opened my eyes, and there he stood again, patiently waiting for me. He was grandly and extraordinarily tall, with very defined features. His hair was nearly black, and it flowed over his shoulders. He literally glowed in his crimson robes. In fact, he glowed seemingly from the inside out. He was almost transparent, but he felt huge and solid. Dear God, what was happening? I didn’t know for sure, but I did know that all of those times I had begged for clarity, for help, for understanding, really had been heard. The being started to move like I had been doing, but with some very subtle changes. As I watched him, the energy he manipulated changed color and shape. In my body, I could feel what was happening in his hands. I started to move, too, mimicking him. As I did, the energy within my hands began to change shape and change color. Every morning, as if by cosmic appointment, I met with this being, whom I had lovingly begun to refer to as “Master,” because his presence felt like an expanded DECEMBER / JANUARY 2011 EARTH STAR

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part of that holy place inside of me. His presence to me felt like sacredness embodied and oh, how humble I felt! Calling him Master seemed insufficient, almost trite, but yet there were no other words to describe him. Being with this Master reminded me of what it must be like to be in the presence of enlightened beings such as the group of Ascended Masters that included Jesus, Metatron, Enoch, and others. I grew to love these moments, when he and I would move together. Instead of feeling insane, I felt calmer and more centered than I ever had in my life. My inner vision had changed again and again, growing in its scope and abilities. And all I kept saying was, “Show me.” Never why, what, or who—just “Show me.” One day, as we were moving together, my entire sense of reality changed. It was as if I had leaped into another dimension or into some- one else’s dream. I found myself walking down a path, away from my cosmic teacher. As I walked down the path, a young boy came to me and said I had to go with him. “No!” I firmly told him. I had to keep practicing. The kid wouldn’t take no for an answer. He looked like a peasant from nineteenth-century Europe. His blond hair was tousled, and his pants torn at the knees. His white shirt was at least two sizes too big and well worn, like a hand-me-down. Yet he spoke with such a confidence and authority that I couldn’t ignore him. So I followed. Up the narrow path we climbed until we came to a large opening in the native rock. It was the entrance to a grotto, a shallow cave. In it were about twenty or so men, all in white. They were silent, as if

keeping vigil for something. Another man there held a sword, tip down, in the position of peace. He silently beckoned me with his liquid brown eyes. “Listen,” I said, “I have work to do, and I don’t have time for distractions.” He remained silent, yet I heard in my body that I was supposed to go to him. I did. There was a ceremony, and he gave me a gift, although I didn’t understand it at the time. At the moment the ceremony culminated, my sense of reality shifted again, and I was at the entrance to a courtyard. There was a gate in the arched entrance, but I couldn’t go through it. My feet felt glued to the floor. I could see people in the courtyard beyond, milling about. I wondered what this place was. It felt like a university of some kind, but I wasn’t sure. Meg Blackburn Losey, Ph.D. is the author of The Secret History of Consciousness, Weiser Books, September 2010, www.redwheelweiser.com

Study Advances Link Between Weight Loss And Acupuncture ould a few pinpricks make someone thinner? Evidence weighs heavily in favor of that proposition, according to the results of a new study to

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be presented at the Pacific Symposium in San Diego recently. The groundbreaking study, “The Effects of Acupuncture on WeightLoss in Over-Weight and Obese Adults Over 24 Years Old,” reports that ninety-five percent of its subjects lost weight in a sixweek period after receiving regular acupuncture treatments. Of those subjects, another fifty percent continued to lose

weight after treatments stopped. Dr. Edward Lamadrid, a doctor of acupuncture and oriental medicine (DAOM), conducted the study and authored its findings. As one of the country’s approximately one hundred DAOMs, Lamadrid has treated thousands of patients with a variety of problems and health conditions, and he has long suspected that acupuncture assists in weight loss. However, it wasn’t until this controlled, scientific study that the Chicago-based expert could positively confirm a more formal hypothesis and the positive conclusions. —Life Extension Daily News

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The Movie Mystic

By Stephen Simon

BRINGING BACK THE OLD HOLLYWOOD Fade In. We’re in a family room in the year 2023. A couple in their early fifties are watching one of their favorite films on Turner Classic Movies as their teenage daughter walks in, sits next to them for a moment, and speaks. “You guys are so cute with your old movies.” “Thanks, sweetheart,” Mom laughs. “Can I ask you something?” the daughter responds. Putting the film on pause, Dad says “Sure. What’s up?” “It must have been so cool for you guys to have lived during a time when they still actually made new movies every year. What was that like?” Fade Out. Or Not. It’s up to us.

illustrates, unless something dramatic is done, new movies will soon become extinct. In the book, I talk about how The New Hollywood temporarily pushed The Old Hollywood out of the way. Bringing Back The Old Hollywood is a passionate declaration that The Old Hollywood is most definitely not gone forever. Like Brigadoon, it has only been cocooned, soon to emerge in a newer and more dazzling form. We miss The Old Hollywood even more when today we see the eighth sequel to some mindless action film, or the same formulaic story told over and over again, or comedy so crass that it embarrasses us, or violence so graphic that it numbs our senses, or the seemingly endless parade of dark, cynical, nihilistic films that masquerade as “deep” but in actuality make us feel ashamed even to be human.

So begins my new book, Bringing Back The Old Hollywood. The spirit of The Old Hollywood is engrained in my soul and in the souls of hundreds of millions of people around the world. I grew up in the Old Hollywood. Frank Sinatra was my “godfather”. My father was a producer and director who made movies with stars like Lucille Ball, Lana Turner, Abbott and Costello, and Dad’s best friend, Red Skelton In my own career, I have produced movies with Christopher Reeve, Tom Cruise, Robin Williams, and Madonna, who gave me lessons in honesty. Yes, truly, she did. I also hired and then fired Nancy Meyers who went on to become the most successful woman director (The Holiday, What Woman Want, It’s Complicated) in the history of the film business. Oh, and I said “no” to Steven Spielberg. Obviously, a genius I’m not. As the excerpt at the beginning of this column

For more information about Bringing Back The Old Hollywood, please connect to www.TheOldHollywood.com (note to publishers: if you become an affiliate, please use your own link here to www.theoldhollywood.com) Bringing Back The Old Hollywood is not just a book that I hope will both amuse and entertain you. It’s also not just a metaphor. It is a call to action and involvement so that we can truly bring back The Old Hollywood.

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Stephen Simon co-founded www. Spiritualcinemacircle.com. He also produced such films as Somewhere In Time and What Dreams May Come, and both directed and produced Indigo and the film version of Conversations With God.

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A Conversation with Intuitive Physician and UCLA Psychiatrist

Dr. Judith Orloff udith Orloff MD, physician, psychiatrist, intuitive and New York Times bestselling author, synthesizes the pearls of traditional medicine with cutting-edge knowledge of intuition, energy and spirituality to create a new blend of healing wisdom. She believes that the future of medicine depends upon integrating all these elements to achieve emotional freedom and total wellness. Her new book, Emotional Freedom: Liberate Yourself from Negative Emotions and Transform Your Life, is now available..

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What is emotional freedom? Emotional freedom is your ability to love by cultivating positive emotions and being able to compassionately witness and transform negative ones, whether they’re yours or another’s. This skill liberates you from fear and lets you navigate adversity without attacking someone, losing your cool or being derailed by negativity. With emotional freedom, you can choose to react constructively, rather than relinquishing command of the situation when your buttons get pushed. If you get mired in the muck of negativity, you can’t lead a liberated, happy life. Why is compassion crucial to emotional freedom? Unless you have self-compassion, it’s hard to heal difficult emotional states. When a loved one is going through a trying time, being compassionate without judging them is essential. My spiritual teacher says we make progress on the spiritual path by beating ourselves up a little bit less each day. I believe that. It’s about baby steps. Why do individuals respond to situations in such radically different ways? I’ve defined four emotional types: the intellectual, the empath, the gusher and the rock. These are the filters through which you see the world—the default setting of 36

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your personality to which you revert, especially under stress. Each type is determined by inborn temperament, upbringing and perhaps, karma. Because emotional freedom means being able to remain sensitive, but centered, in an overwhelming world, it’s essential to know your emotional type. Without this knowledge, many people dysfunctionally hunker down in their type for decades without examining which aspects do and don’t serve them. How can we stay free from absorbing others’ negative emotions? Many sensitive people come to me, as patients and in workshops, who have been labeled “overly sensitive.” Like me, these people are what I call emotional empaths. Because we are so sensitive, we absorb the energy of others. We sense their fear, anxiety and stress and sometimes take them into our bodies. Then, we get exhausted or feel ill. People on a spiritual path tend to gain more sensitivity as they develop. They need to learn how to stay centered and be compassionate without becoming an emotional sponge. How can we calmly refrain from retaliating when attacked by a difficult personality? “Emotional vampires” is my term for many difficult people such as criticizers, victims, narcissists or controllers. I say, let them be our teachers, rather than tormentors. We must ask ourselves: “How do they teach us to communicate with more heart and better boundaries? How can we deal differently with feeling irritated, controlled or insulted?” The old way is to get nasty or withdraw. The new way is to not simply react when your buttons get pushed—a behavior that perpetuates war. Practice what I call the namaste effect, which is; “I respect the spirit within you, even if I don’t like what you’re doing.” Your victories over emotional vampires are not www.earthstarmag.com

small—they’re huge. With every success, you are creating more hope for the world. From an intuitive standpoint, we are all interconnected; my emotional freedom affects your emotional freedom and everyone in the world. Can emotions serve as a path to spiritual awakenings? It’s necessary to understand these four basic components of emotion; their biology, spirituality, energy and psychology. My book teaches the tools you need to proactively shift your biochemistry, as well as your energy, and to see the spiritual and psychological meaning of what you’re going through. I see difficult emotions as a laboratory for spiritual growth, whereas traditional psychiatry often views them more as tormentors; something to get rid of. I believe that emotions come to us—even wrenching ones—to spiritually awaken us. Each emotion is a prompt for you to get more in touch with your heart and expand your light. This perspective changes how you deal with all emotional challenges.

What does it take to overcome fear in times of terrorism, economic turmoil and natural disasters? Part of emotional freedom is making a vow not to lead a fear-driven life. That must be a deep desire in your heart. Then, do everything possible to overcome fear and worry with faith in goodness, trying to stay in the moment, rather than catastrophizing the future. Courage or fear is a choice. It’s not something that just happens to you. You say emotional freedom offers us opportunities to be heroes in our own lives. Would you elaborate? You become a hero in your own life as you learn to use emotions as a chance to become stronger, brighter and more. This is critical on a personal level, because it frees you from suffering. But, it’s just as important on a collective level, because if we don’t face the fear and anger in ourselves, then we risk projecting it onto a global sphere. This creates war and massive suffering to our human family. We must find inner peace before we can have outer peace. That’s why I consider emotional freedom an inner peace movement.

5 Intuitions About Love and Sex You Shouldn’t Ignore hen we’re looking for love (or under its intoxicating influence), we often miss seeing extraordinary signs and messages that pop up in our daily life to give us clues as to whether we’re on the right track. However, if you can slow down enough to recognize and listen to your intuitive intelligence, it can reveal truth, warn you of danger, or help you understand people and relationship situations in new ways.

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From my book Emotional Freedom, here are five types of intuitive experiences you may encounter, and what they can teach you about your love relationships. Body signals. Your body has many ways of getting your attention. It could be goosebumps when a date feels just right or says something about you that rings “true.” Or it might be your hair standing up on the back of your neck when a creep replies to your online dating profile. How to use it in romantic relationships. Most commonly referred to as a “gut reaction,” your body’s response to the world around you is often instant— quicker, in fact, than your conscious thought. Next time you sense your body is trying to alert you to something, check in with it. Are your shoulders tense? Is there a knot in your stomach? Or do you feel energized and www.earthstarmag.com

excited? When you learn to read your body signals, a whole new type of information will be available to you. What’s more, you may be able to avoid getting involved with destructive, unhealthy lovers, or be curious to pursue a really good guy who, at first blush, doesn’t seem to be your “type.” Déjà vu. This is when you feel as though you’ve had this exact conversation before with someone—even if it’s someone you’ve just met—or you’ve been to this place before and know what’s around the corner and up ahead, even though that’s impossible. How to use it in romantic relationships: Instead of thinking it’s strange and then moving on, don’t let the experience go unremarked. Discuss it with a trusted friend, or write it down. Bringing a déjà vu experience that happens in the context of a relationship into the open energizes it, acknowledges its significance, and enables you to find out what it’s trying to tell you or where it’s trying to lead you. When it comes to romance, déjà vu can be a powerful affirmation that you’re doing just what you’re supposed to be doing in the moment. Or conversely, it may be a way of telling you to pause, think, and reflect on where you are right now, before proceeding ahead willy-nilly into a relationship you’ll regret. DECEMBER / JANUARY 2011 EARTH STAR

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Synchronicity. This is the experience of perfect timing, such as when you’re thinking about a song right when you hear it on the radio, or the computer guy you found in the yellow pages turns out to be someone you had a mad crush on in college. How to use it in romantic relationships: Stay aware and look for synchronicity everywhere. Such moments let you know that you’re in the flow—in the right place, at the right time. See if you can uncover its hidden significance. Were you meant to bump into this old love? Is the song “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” trying to tell you something about that “bad boy” you’re crazy in lust with at the moment? Seeing beyond. This is when you’re tuned in to an event that’s happening right now, but in a different place. For example, you think of a long-lost boyfriend, and then he sends you an email in that instant. Or, you call your guy at work and ask him to pick up a pizza. Turns out there was a deadly accident on his regular route home. How to use it in romantic relationships: Your entire body—not just your brain—acts as an intuitive receiver, so the more conscious you become of your whole body, perhaps through a discipline like yoga, the more likely you are to tap into realities outside of your immediate

setting. They will come to you in snapshot-life flashes— a taste, smell, sound, or a feeling in your body. Jot down your impressions. The better you get at tuning in, the clearer the messages will become. When two people are really “clicking,” such experiences become even more commonplace, such as having intuitive flashes about your lover’s health, or about where you two might be living in five years. Intuitive empathy. This is when you “pick up a vibe” from another person. For no apparent reason, you suddenly sense a person’s deep loneliness, or you feel hostility coming from a person who is smiling at you. How to use it in romantic relationships: Being sensitive to other people’s nature is a valuable skill—but it comes with perils. If you feel drained after meeting someone at a party, for example, pay attention so you can avoid giving him your phone number. Learning to “read” other people’s feelings will improve your romantic relationships, as long as you don’t “take on” others’ moods and emotions. For example, when you can sense your boyfriend had a bad day, or is tense after talking on the phone to his mom, you can ask him questions to get him emoting. Such empathetic communication deepens and enhances love partnerships.

Secrets For Sensitive People To Find Relationships That Work oneliness gets to some more than others. But why it hangs on isn’t always apparent when read by traditional medical eyes. In my psychiatric practice in Los Angeles and in my workshops I’ve been struck by how many sensitive, empathic people who I call “emotional empaths” come to me, lonely, wanting a romantic partner, yet remaining single for years. Or else they’re in relationships but feel constantly fatigued and overwhelmed. The reason isn’t simply that “there aren’t enough emotionally available people ‘out there,’” nor is their burnout “neurotic.” Personally and professionally, I’ve discovered that something more is going on. Emotional empaths are a species unto themselves. Whereas others may thrive on the togetherness of being a couple, for empaths like me, too much togetherness can be difficult, may cause us to bolt. Why? We tend to intuit and absorb our partner’s energy, and become overloaded, anxious, or exhausted when we don’t have time to decompress in our own space. We’re super-responders; our sensory experience of relationship is the equiv-

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alent of feeling objects with fifty fingers instead of five. Energetically sensitive people unknowingly avoid romantic partnership because deep down they’re afraid of getting engulfed. Or else, they feel engulfed when coupled, a nerve-wracking, constrictive way to live. If this isn’t understood, empaths can stay perpetually lonely; we want companionship, but, paradoxically, it doesn’t feel safe. One empath-patient told me, “It helps explain why at thirty-two I’ve only had two serious relationships, each lasting less than a year.” Once we empaths learn to set boundaries and negotiate our energetic preferences, intimacy becomes possible. For emotional empaths to be at ease in a relationship, the traditional paradigm for coupling must be redefined. Most of all, this means asserting your personal space needs—the physical and time limits you set with someone so you don’t feel they’re on top of you. Empaths can’t fully experience emotional freedom with another until they do this. Your space needs can vary with your situation, upbringing, and culture. My ideal www.earthstarmag.com

distance to keep in public is at least an arm’s length. In doctors’ waiting rooms I’ll pile my purse and folders on the seats beside me to keep others away. With friends it’s about half that. With a mate it’s variable. Sometimes it’s rapture being wrapped in his arms; later I may need to be in a room of my own, shut away. One boyfriend who truly grasped the concept got me a “Keep Out” sign for my study door! For me, this was a sign of true love. All of us have an invisible energetic border that sets a comfort level. Identifying and communicating yours will prevent you from being bled dry by others. Then intimacy can flourish, even if you’ve felt suffocated before. Prospective mates or family members may seem like emotional vampires when you don’t know how to broach the issue of personal space. You may need to educate others—make clear that this isn’t about not loving them—but get the discussion going. Once you can, you’re able to build progressive relationships. If you’re an empath or if the ordinary expectations of coupledom don’t jibe with you practice the following tips. DEFINE YOUR PERSONAL SPACE NEEDS Tips for empaths to feel at ease in a relationship Tip 1. What to say to a potential mate As you’re getting to know someone, share that you’re a sensitive person, that you periodically need quiet time. The right partner will be understanding; the wrong person will put you down for being “overly sensitive,” won’t respect your need. Tip 2. Clarify your preferred sleep style Traditionally, partners sleep in the same bed. However, some empaths never get used to this, no matter how caring a mate. Nothing personal; they just like their own sleep space. Speak up about your preferences. Feeling trapped in bed with someone, not getting a good night’s rest, is torture. Energy fields blend during sleep, which can overstimulate empaths. So, discuss options with your mate. Separate beds. Separate rooms. Sleeping together a few nights a week. Because non-empaths may feel lonely sleeping alone, make compromises when possible.

able. Here’s why: conversations, scents, coughing, movement can feel intrusive. Even if my partner’s vibes are sublime, sometimes I’d rather not sense them even if they’re only hovering near me. I’m not just being finicky; it’s about maintaining well-being if I live with someone. Tip 4. Travel wisely Traveling with someone, you may want to have separate space too. Whether my companion is romantic or not, I’ll always have adjoining rooms with my own bathroom. If sharing a room is the only option, hanging a sheet as a room divider will help. “Out of sight” may make the heart grow fonder. Tip 5. Take regular mini-breaks Empaths require private downtime to regroup. Even a brief escape prevents emotional overload. Retreat for five minutes into the bathroom with the door shut. Take a stroll around the block. Read in a separate room. One patient told her boyfriend, “I need to disappear into a quiet room for ten minutes at a party, even if I’m having fun,” a form of self-care that he supports. In my medical practice, I’ve seen this creative approach to relationships save marriages and make ongoing intimacies feel safe, even for emotional empaths (of all ages) who’ve been lonely and haven’t had a long-term partner before. Once you’re able to articulate your needs, emotional freedom in your relationships is possible. Judith Orloff MD is author of the New York Times bestseller Emotional Freedom: Liberate Yourself From Negative Emotions and Transform Your Life (Three Rivers Press, 2010), upon which the preceeding excerpts are based. An Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry UCLA, Dr. Orloff synthesizes the pearls of traditional medicine with cutting edge knowledge of intuition, subtle energy, and spirituality. For Judith’s workshop schedule, free articles, videos and more inspiration visit www.drjudithorloff.com

Tip 3. Negotiate your square footage needs You may be thrilled about your beloved until you live together. Experiment with creative living conditions so your home isn’t a prison. Breathing room is mandatory. Ask yourself, “What space arrangements are optimal?” Having an area to retreat to, even if it’s a closet? A room divider? Separate bathrooms? Separate houses? I prefer having my own bedroom/office to retreat to. I also can see the beauty of separate wings or adjacent houses if afford-

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CALENDAR

events workshops festivals classes

Top Photo 12/2: Singing This Song for You: The Leon Russell Story, 8:00pm, at the Knickbocker Cafe, 35 Railroad Ave, Westerly, RI, 02891. Tickets: $60. (401) 596-4225.

JANUARY

ONGOING

Visa/MC accepted. CEU's. Call 1-888REIKI-4-U or (603) 654-2787.

1/10: January 10th, 11:30am – 1:30pm, Free Introductory Talk to The Gathering - A Women’s Transormational Group, www.centeratwestwoods.com, Westwood. The Gathering is an educational, experiential and supportive group. The intention of the group is to support each member in transforming fear based belief systems and reactive habits into conscious empowered choices. Contact Patricia Howard [email protected].

Food As Medicine Workshop, Sharon A. Kane, Instructor. Live Superfoods can repair the intestinal damage associated with celiac, gluten intolerance, candida, IBS, leaky gut and food allergies. This 8-session course teaches simple techniques to create low cost live food at home. Kombucha, kefir, gluten free bread, lacto-fermented pickles. For complete info call Sharon A. Kane, (508) 881-5678 or email [email protected].

Exquisite Energysm for Women. Center, ground, and open to the flow. A nourishing, feel-good event. Cerridwen guides easy movements from qigong and hands-on healing. Second Thursdays 7:30pm-9:30pm, Aquarius Sanctuary, Littleton, MA. (978) 486-0248. $20. Call ahead.

1/12: Free Introductory Talks to MBSR Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction 11:30am, www.centeratwestwoods.com in Westwood, and at 7:00pm in Wellesley, www.visionsmedical.com. The MBSR program was developed by Jon Kabat-Zinn for the prevention and treatment of stress related disorders and chronic pain. This talk is also offered on Sunday, 1/16, 2:00pm at www.centeratwestwoods.com. Confirm attendance: [email protected].

Exquisite Energysm for Healers. Relax and get a dose of the good stuff for yourself. Easy movements from qigong and hands-on healing with Cerridwen. Third Saturdays 7:00pm10:00pm. Aquarius Sanctuary, Littleton, MA. (978) 486-0248. $20. Call ahead.

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Reiki Certification, Boston and Wilton, NH. Libby Barnett, MSW. 26 years experience. Reiki Energy Medicine co-author. Notebook, pin, certificate awarded.

Buddhist Meditation Group with Peg Travers, Ordained Priest, Buddha Heart USA, Sunday evenings, Haverhill, MA, 5:00pm-6:00pm. Learn and practice the ancient arts of meditation, chanting, QiGong, Buddhist Yoga & Reiki. Call the Center for Spiritual Development, Haverhill MA, (978)-372-5173 or online at www.uuhaverhill.org/happenings. Drumming Circle with Kristine Malpica (of Imagine Studios) on third Friday of each month. 7:00pm-8:30pm. Center for Spiritual Development, 15 Kenoza Ave, Haverhill, MA. (978)-372-5173.

Earth Star Calendar

12/17-12/19: Esoguru.com broadcasts Internet workshop Open Your Heart in Paradise Retreat with Ram Dass, Krishna Das and Sharon Salzberg. To register please visit www.EsoGuru.com.

12/5: Chorus pro Musica is honored to appear with operatic superstar Andrea Bocelli, “the world's most beloved tenor,” on December 5th, at 7:00pm, at the 19,600 seat TD Garden. For Tickets call: 1-(800)-745-3000, or at www.ticketmaster.com.

Shamanic Drumming Circle, founded 1993. Usually Second and Fourth Fridays of every month, 7:00pm. Quaker meeting-house, Cambridge. Open to all, but please call first for full details and directions. Terrence (978)-952-2704 or Emily (781)-641-3980. Workshops for Pain Management and Improved Wellness. Offerings for Bodyworkers, athletes, Personal Trainers, Coaches and general painsufferers. Please visit our website: web.maynard.ma.us/biz/bmassage, or call Barry Bailey at (978)-897-0110 for information and brochure of current offerings.

12/6: Mayor Thomas M. Menino invites you to A Dorchester Christmas at the Strand Theater, on Monday, December 6, at 7:00pm. Music for Christmas & the Season with the Boston Classical Orchestra, Steven Lipsitt, conductor. Tickets $5 & $10. Call: (617) 423-3883.

The Labyrinth Ladies Spiritual Empowerment Workshops, go to www.thelabyrinthladies.com for our latest programs and walks or call (401)847-6551 for more information. Facilitator Trainings, site consultations, workshops for schools, hospitals and businesses. Christ Church Unity - Experience the healing power of music, prayer and meditation, every Wednesday at 7:00pm. Daily Word Discusion

Sundays at 10:00am. Sunday Service, 11:00am. Corner of Colchester & Chapel Streets, Brookline, MA 02466. Call (617) 232-4548 for more information or visit: www.unityboston.org. Free Energy Healing in Arlington. Johrei healing is available each Wednesday evening from 7:00pm-9:00pm at 81 Cleveland St. in Arlington, MA. Johrei purifies the spirit through the channeling of divine light, restores inner spiritual balance and eases physical, mental, & emotional distress. There is no charge for Johrei. Please call (781) 646-0614 for directions or information on other area locations. Stress Management, Imagery, and a range of Reiki programs, with CEUs for nurses, led by holistic nurse educators. Centered in Amesbury, MA with other locations in Maine, New Hampshire, and Massachusetts. Visit www.LymanCenter.com or call: 1(888)-TLC-8485.

The Deadline for listings in the February/March 2011 issue is January 26th

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Dietary Supplements Under Attac k

By William Faloon

N

ear the end of 2008, the media ran headline news stories claiming that vitamins C, D, and E do not prevent heart attack, stroke, or breast cancer. Within five days, we posted a rebuttal on the home page of

our website. When these biased stories are launched, the media never gives us prior notice to prepare a response. That means the public only hears conventional medicine’s distorted side of the story. What follows is a slightly modified version of how we responded to these unfounded attacks: In the early 1990s, several large population studies showed significant reductions in cardiovascular disease in those who consumed vitamin C or vitamin E. The most widely reported study emanated from UCLA, where it was announced that men who took 800 mg a day of vitamin C lived six years longer than those who consumed the recommended daily allowance of 60 mg a day. The study, which evaluated 11,348 participants over a ten-year period of time, showed that higher vitamin C intake reduced cardiovascular disease mortality by forty-two percent. These kinds of findings did not go unnoticed by the federal government, who subsequently invested hundreds of millions of dollars in an attempt to ascertain if relatively modest vitamin doses could prevent common agerelated diseases. In a recent study used by the media to attack dietary supplements, four groups of male doctors were given various combinations of vitamin C and/or vitamin E or placebo. After eight years, there was no

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reported difference in heart attack or stroke incidence among the groups. This led the media to state that consumers should not buy these supplements. As you will read, there were so many flaws in this study that the findings are rendered meaningless. Regrettably, consumers who trust their lives to the mainstream media may fall victim to this latest charade to discredit validated methods to reduce cardiovascular disease risk. Do You Take Your Vitamins Every Other Day? In the study involving four groups of male doctors, subjects in the vitamin E groups were told to take one 400 IU capsule of synthetic alpha tocopherol every other day. This design flaw raises several issues that are rather obvious to serious supplement takers. First of all, we don’t take our vitamins every other day. Free radicals are constantly being generated in our bodies, and supplement users today seek to take their antioxidants with most meals, as oxidative damage is generally the greatest after eating. It is ludicrous to think that these study subjects would reduce their vascular risk by taking a modest dose, every other day, of a form of vitamin E with inferior antioxidant capacity. If one were to rely only on synthetic alpha tocopherol, the minimum daily dose needed has been shown to exceed 800 IU, far greater than the 400 IU ingested every other www.earthstarmag.com

day by the subjects in this poorly designed study. Serious supplement users normally take 400 IU every day of natural vitamin E along with a plethora of complementary nutrients. We would not expect 400 IU of synthetic vitamin E taken every other day to produce much of an effect. Yet that is the dose given to these study subjects with the expectation that this would produce a reduction in cardiovascular disease. This is not the only flaw of this study. Natural Versus Synthetic Vitamin E There was a longstanding debate as to whether natural or synthetic vitamin E is better. For most vitamins, there is no difference between natural and synthetic. In fact, for most vitamins, the only forms available are synthetic. With vitamin E, however, the natural form has proven to be far superior. Natural vitamin E is distributed through the body much better than the synthetic form. The reason is that specific carrier proteins in the liver selectively bind to natural vitamin E and transport it through the blood to our cells. These carrier proteins only recognize a portion of synthetic vitamin E and ignore the remainder. Japanese researchers gave natural or synthetic vitamin E to young women to measure how much vitamin E actually made it into their blood. It took only 100 mg (149 IU) of natural vitamin E to produce blood levels that required 300 mg (448 IU) of synthetic vitamin E to achieve. How to Check Vitamin E Labels When checking vitamin labels, natural vitamin E is usually stated as the “d” form or RRR- [for example d-alpha tocopheryl acetate or RRR-alpha-tocopheryl acetate, dalpha tocopherol, and d-alpha tocopheryl succinate]. Synthetic vitamin E will have an “l” after the “d” or allrac- [for example, dl-alpha tocopheryl acetate or all-racalpha-tocopheryl acetate, dl-alpha tocopheryl succinate, and dl-alpha tocopherol]. Remember – “dl” or “all rac-” signifies synthetic vitamin E, whereas “d” or “RRR-” signifies natural vitamin E. If you are getting 400 IU of natural d-alpha tocopherol (d-alpha tocopheryl succinate or acetate), it is equal to about 800 IU of synthetic dltocopherol (dl-alpha tocopheryl succinate or acetate). Most studies show that synthetic vitamin E is only half as active in the body as the natural form. As it relates to the flawed study claiming that vitamin E does not prevent heart attack, the 400 IU of synthetic alpha tocopherol given every other day equates to only 100 IU a day of the natural form.

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We would not expect 100 IU of natural vitamin E a day by itself to reduce vascular disease risk. As you will continue to read, however, there are many other flaws in this study that render its conclusions useless. Vitamin C Potencies Too Low If all you are going to take to protect against free radical damage is vitamin E and/or vitamin C, then you will need far greater potencies than were given to the study subjects in this flawed study. Published studies that document vascular benefits in response to vitamin C typically use doses of 1,000-6,000 mg each day. The authors of the flawed study alluded to this when they stated: “In a pooled analysis of nine cohorts, vitamin C supplement use exceeding 700 mg/day was significantly associated with a twenty-five percent reduction in coronary heart disease risk.” Since the doctors who designed this flawed study knew that vitamin C intakes exceeding 700 mg a day significantly reduce heart attack rates, we cannot figure out why they limited their subject’s daily dose to only 500 mg. Two-time Nobel Prize laureate Linus Pauling and his associates advocated daily doses of vitamin C ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 mg to protect against heart attack. Linus Pauling’s theory was that atherosclerosis is primarily caused by insufficient vitamin C intake. Dr. Pauling compared the high amount of vitamin C naturally synthesized in the bodies of animals that don’t typically die of heart attacks. A one hundred-and-fiftypound goat, for example will maintain an ascorbate blood concentration equivalent to ingesting 13,000 mg of vitamin C. Unlike most animals, humans lack an internal enzyme needed to manufacture vitamin C in their body. If humans don’t obtain enough vitamin C from external sources, they die acutely from scurvy, or according to Linus Pauling…slowly suffer atherosclerotic occlusion. Dr. Pauling crusaded to educate humans about the need

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to take mega-doses of vitamin C. Dr. Pauling and his associates published papers stating that when vitamin C levels are insufficient, the body uses cholesterol to repair the inner lining of arteries. Dr. Pauling believed that cholesterol’s involvement in atherosclerosis was a direct result of insufficient vitamin C. Life Extension has long recommended that its members take at least 2,000 mg a day of vitamin C, along with potent plant extracts to enhance the biological benefits of ascorbate inside the body. The 500 mg daily dose of vitamin C given to the subjects of this flawed study was clearly inadequate. This did not stop the headlinehungry media and many conventional doctors from recommending that aging humans avoid these supplements altogether. Alpha Tocopherol Users Need CoQ10 A number of studies document the ability of ubiquinol CoQ10 to protect against LDL oxidation better than alpha tocopherol (and other lipid-soluble antioxidants). Some of these studies show that alpha tocopherol vitamin E can turn into an LDL pro-oxidant unless ubiquinol is also present. These studies help explain the inability of the alpha form of vitamin E by itself to significantly reduce heart attack rates in certain populations. The good news is that most members have been taking CoQ10 supplements since around 1983 (when Life Extension introduced it to the American public) and have thus protected their alpha tocopherol from converting into a pro-oxidant. The subjects given synthetic alpha tocopherol in this flawed study were not given CoQ10 supplements, which further explains why there were no reductions in heart attack and stroke risk. As we noted already, the dose of vitamin E used in this study was also too low to expect a reduction in vascular disease events. While alpha tocopherol vitamin E is a classic antioxidant, its free radical-quenching efficacy pales in comparison to polyphenol extracts from green tea, pomegranate, grape seed, and blueberry. Based on the superior anti-oxidant properties of plant extracts such as pomegranate, health-conscious people today are able to obtain greater protection against free radicals and enhance the efficacy of the vitamin C without necessarily having to take the mega-doses recommended by Linus Pauling. On the flip side, to attack the value of vitamin C based on a group of doctors who took only 500 mg a day does not make sense, since this amount does not correspond to the doses that scientific studies show are needed to prevent heart attack.

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Alpha Tocopherol Displaces Gamma Tocopherol An increasing number of scientists are questioning the wisdom of administering alpha tocopherol vitamin E by itself. The reason is that alpha tocopherol displaces critically important gamma tocopherol in the body. The authors of the flawed study admitted that the failure to include gamma tocopherol may have been a reason that no effect was seen in the alpha tocopherol groups. Here is a quote directly from the flawed study: “Moreover, PHS II and other prevention trials have used alpha-tocopherol, whereas the gamma-tocopherol isomer also may have a role in cardiovascular disease prevention because it has greater efficacy than alphatocopherol to inhibit lipid peroxidation and it may be suppressed in the presence of alpha-tocopherol.” The above admission understates the critical importance that gamma tocopherol plays in maintaining arterial health. While alpha tocopherol helps protect against lipid peroxidation, gamma tocopherol is required to neutralize the dangerous peroxynitrite free radical. Peroxynitrite damages arteries because: 1. Peroxynitrite promotes the degradation of alpha tocopherol, thereby depleting the body of the vitamin E needed to protect the lipid (fat) part of LDL against oxidation. LDL is composed of both lipid and protein parts (moieties), and oxidation associated with both moieties has been implicated in atherosclerosis. In a fascinating paradox, when alpha tocopherol is given without gamma tocopherol, the result is that alpha tocopherol itself can be neutralized in the body by the peroxynitrite free radical. This in turn promotes oxidation of the lipid moiety of LDL, a major step on the path towards atherosclerosis. 2. Peroxynitrite promotes LDL protein oxidation. While alpha tocopherol inhibits LDL lipid peroxidation, gamma tocopherol is needed to protect against oxidation of the protein moiety of LDL. In the absence of gamma tocopherol, which can occur when alpha tocopherol is given without gamma tocopherol, both LDL lipid and protein oxidation is increased, which reveals the egregious mistake of trying to prevent vascular disease by administering only alpha tocopherol. Health-conscious individuals should be assured that other nutrients such as lipoic acid and polyphenol plant extracts also block protein and lipid LDL oxidation. Some studies suggest that only gamma tocopherol prevents heart attacks. As it relates to atherosclerosis,

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gamma tocopherol blood concentrations have been reported to be significantly lower in coronary heart disease patients than in healthy control subjects. While alpha and gamma tocopherols each perform life-sustaining functions, only gamma tocopherol increases endothelial nitric oxide protein expression. As I will describe next, a deficit of nitric oxide in the endothelium is a primary cause of arterial disease. Vitamin E Basics Alpha tocopherol and gamma tocopherol are the two major forms of vitamin E in human plasma. The dietary intake of gamma toco-pherol is generally two- to fourfold higher than that of alpha tocopherol. Alpha tocopherol plasma levels, however, are about four-fold higher than those of gamma tocopherol. One reason is that there is a preferential cellular uptake of gamma tocopherol over alpha tocopherol, meaning that more gamma tocopherol is removed from the blood and assimilated into cells. Scientific studies consistently show that gamma tocopherol plays a significant role in modulating intracellular antioxidant defense mechanisms. Interestingly, the presence of gamma tocopherol dramatically increases the cellular accumulation of alpha tocopherol.

blocking the oxidation of tetrahydrobiopterin. Indeed, clinical studies show that supplemental gamma tocopherol enhances platelet endothelial nitric oxide synthase activity. Furthermore, a diet high in gamma tocopherol-rich walnuts improves endotheliumdependent vasodilation in those with high cholesterol. By administering only alpha tocopherol as was done in the flawed study, one would expect gamma tocopherol to be suppressed, peroxynitrite levels to increase, and precious tetrahydrobiopterin to be oxidized, thus depriving the endothelium of the nitric oxide it needs to protect against heart attack and stroke. Is it any wonder that this study failed to show vascular disease reduction in those given only alpha (but not gamma) tocopherol? Failing to Account For All Vascular Risk Factors Numerous independent risk factors are associated with the development of atherosclerosis and subsequent heart attack and stroke risk. A major flaw in this study was expecting low-dose vitamin C and/or E to somehow overcome all of these underlying causes of artery disease. We know it is impossible for vitamins C and E to overcome these many risk factors, but this did not stop the media from recommending that Americans discard their supplements.

A Hidden Cause of Heart Attack and Stroke Even when all conventional risk factors are controlled, the progressive decline of nitric oxide in the arterial wall (the endothelium) too often leads to coronary heart attack and stroke. Seven years ago, Life Extension researchers identified a critical compound (tetrahydrobiopterin) that is an essential cofactor for the enzyme that synthesizes nitric oxide in the endothelium. We spent several hundred thousand dollars trying to develop an affordable way to manufacture this compound as it offered tremendous promise for eradicating atherosclerosis. We failed to find an affordable way to make tetrahydrobiopterin. The good news is that nutrients that suppress peroxynitrite (like gamma tocopherol and pomegranate) i n c r e a s e endothelial nitric oxide by

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The following represents a succinct list of documented vascular disease risk factors: 1. Low testosterone (in men) 2. Excess fibrinogen 3. Low HDL 4. Excess LDL and total cholesterol 5. Excess glucose 6. Excess C-reactive protein 7. Excess homocysteine 8. Hypertension 9. Low blood EPA/DHA 10. Excess triglycerides 11. Excess insulin 12. Excess estrogen (in men) 13. Oxidized LDL 14. Excess platelet activity 15. Nitric oxide deficit (endothelial dysfunction) 16. Insufficient vitamin D 17. Insufficient vitamin K2 The basis for doing this study, as outlined by the study’s authors, was to use vitamins C and/or E to:

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1. Trap organic free radicals… deactivate excited oxygen molecules… inhibit LDL oxidation 2. Modify vascular reactivity… prevent tissue damage 3. Modify platelet activity and thus reduce thrombotic potential. As one can clearly see on the previous page, there are seventeen documented cardiovascular risk factors. Yet only three of these risk factors are what formed the basis for conducting this low-dose vitamin C and/or E clinical trial. The three most important risk factors the authors of the flawed study expected to favorably influence with vitamins C and E were: 1. LDL oxidation 2. Platelet activity and thrombotic potential 3. Vascular reactivity (another term for endothelial dysfunction). Failing to Account For All Vascular Risk Factors For every one mechanism the study’s authors proposed might enable low-dose vitamin C and/or synthetic vitamin E to work, there are five additional risk factors that would not be corrected. For instance, vitamins C and E in these low doses are not going to reduce C-reactive protein, homocysteine, fibrinogen, or glucose. Vitamins C and E in any dose are not going to increase testosterone, decrease estrogen, or provide cardioprotective EPA/DHA and vitamin D. On the contrary, as we have already shown, by giving only alpha but not gamma tocopherol, one might ex p e c t increased LDL oxidation and impaired endothelial function. That’s because alpha tocopherol displaces gamma tocopherol in the body. Gamma tocopherol suppresses the peroxynitrite radical that oxidizes both LDL protein and the tetrahydrobiopterin that is needed to produce endothelial nitric oxide. As far as platelet activity and thrombotic potential (abnormal clotting inside a blood vessel) are concerned, gamma tocopherol is significantly more potent than alpha tocopherol in inhibiting platelet aggregation that 46

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can lead to a heart attack or stroke. By displacing gamma tocopherol, the alpha tocopherol used alone in this study may have increased abnormal platelet aggregation risk. From everything we know today, this study was designed to fail. Not only did it not correct for the major causes of vascular disease, but it may have exacerbated some of the more dangerous ones. None of What I Wrote So Far May Really Matter You have just learned why low-dose vitamin C and/or E supplementation would not be expected to reduce heart attack and stroke risk. I have saved the biggest shocker for last. It turns out that a significant number of the study subjects (who were all medical doctors) who were supposed to take the vitamin C and/or E supplements did not take their pills. Yet when the calculations for heart attack or stroke incidence were made, those who took as little as sixty-six percent of their low-dose vitamin C and/or E supplements were counted as having taken the entire dose. At the end of the study, twenty-eight percent of the study subjects admitted they had not even taken sixty-six percent of their low-dose vitamin C and/or E supplements. Even more troubling is the method used to track who was really taking their supplements. Participants were asked to remember and track supplement usage for over eight years’ time without any verification of actual pill counts, compliance by plasma antioxidant analysis, or in vivo surrogate markers of oxidative stress. Relying upon participants’ memory and recollection over a lengthy time period of many years is a rather pathetic way of ensuring adherence, and renders the authors’ socalled “sensitivity analysis” meaningless. The lack of adherence, i.e., the fact that a significant percentage of the study participants were not even taking their vitamins, may be the most significant flaw to this study. No one in the mainstream media bothered to report this, or any of the other flaws that jumped out at us. Instead, the media’s message was don’t waste your money on vitamin C or E pills. Many supplement users who are taking the right form and dose of their vitamin C and E nutrients may believe the media’s biased reporting. Shocking Deficiencies of Vitamin E The media used this horrifically flawed study as a basis to steer Americans away from vitamin C and E

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supplements. It’s as if all of the previous positive published studies disappeared overnight. What was omitted is the fact that ninety-two percent of American men and ninety-eight percent of American women do not consume the recommended dietary allowance of vitamin E in their diet. The federal government says Americans need 15 milligrams per day of vitamin E, yet even this minute amount is not found in the diets of the vast majority of people. This means that most Americans require a vitamin E supplement to avoid a chronic deficiency, but this important fact was conveniently left out of the news stories. Conventional medicine says that severe vitamin E deficiency results mainly in neuro-logical symptoms such as impaired balance and coordination and muscle weakness. These neurological symptoms do not develop for ten to twenty years, as it takes time for free radicals to inflict nerve damage in the absence of sufficient vitamin E. The reality is that chronic vitamin E deficiency adversely impacts virtually every cell of the body.

biased against dietary supplements is that the journals they read seldom publish the favorable studies. Dietary supplements compete directly against prescription drugs in many disease categories. When dietary supplements are properly used to prevent disease, demand for expensive pharmaceutical agents is diminished. It is thus in the financial interest of pharmaceutical companies to encourage negative studies to be published in influential medical journals. It seems more than a coincidence that mainstream medical journals publish negative editorials against dietary supplements at times of the year that garner the most media coverage. Life Extension has long argued that the billions of advertising dollars spent by pharmaceutical companies influences media bias against dietary supplements. This latest study reveals that drug money may also be corrupting medical journals that have a significant impact on professional and public opinion.

Does Drug Money Influence How Medical Journals Report on Dietary Supplements?

The optimal moment of the year to get your message to the masses is the second week of November. This is a time in between holidays, when winter is setting in, and few people are on vacation. The television networks consider this their most important “sweeps week” as it provides the most accurate measurement of their ratings. The timing of the release of this horrendously flawed vitamin C and E study could not have been more perfect for pharmaceutical interests. It came out less than one week after the November elections, when the media was primed to sensationalize any story that would attract viewers for their all important “sweeps week.” On the very same day the m e d i a launched its attack on vitamins C and E, the same news sources reported that very high doses of the statin drug Crestor® reduced heart attack rates by fifty-four percent in healthy people who had high C-reactive protein levels. Just think, uneducated consumers read on the same day that vitamins C and E are worthless and an expensive statin drug performs miracles. Financial analysts predict a windfall for the makers of Crestor® based on this widely distributed report. In

A group of statistical researchers investigated the relationship between pharmaceutical advertising and articles regarding dietary supplements in medical journals. The analysis revealed that: 1. Journals with the most pharmaceutical ads published significantly fewer major articles about dietary supplements per issue than journals with the fewest pharmaceutical ads (P < 0.001). 2. The percentage of major articles concluding that dietary supplements were unsafe was four percent in journals with the fewest pharmaceutical ads and sixtyseven percent among those with the most pharmaceutical ads (P < 0.005). 3. The percentage of articles concluding that dietary supplements were ineffective was almost twice as high (fifty percent) among journals with more pharmaceutical ads than among those with fewer pharmaceutical ads (twenty-seven percent). The researchers concluded that increased pharmaceutical advertising is associated with the publication of fewer articles about dietary supplements and more articles with conclusions that dietary supplements are unsafe. A major reason why many conventional doctors are

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A Media Coup for Pharmaceutical Companies

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retrospect, conducting a study only on people with high C-reactive protein (but not particularly high LDL) was a brilliant marketing strategy. It had a high probability of a successful outcome, and if the study failed, Crestor® was never approved to lower C-reactive protein or be used in this population group, so the pharmaceutical company had nothing to lose. We at Life Extension have long warned about the vascular dangers of elevated C-reactive protein and even recommended statin drugs if natural approaches fail to reduce C-reactive protein. We don’t believe most people have to purchase expensive brand name drugs like Crestor®, as generic simvastatin (name brand Zocor®) or pravastatin (name brand Pravachol®) can provide similar benefit at a fraction of the price.

dered the findings meaningless even if the proper dose had been given. The fact that the media made this study headline news is regrettable because only about twenty percent of the study population achieved a 25-hydroxyvitamin D blood result at the minimum level required to prevent breast cancer (approximately 30 ng/mL or higher). In other words, most participants in the active or placebo group failed to achieve even the minimal blood concentrations of vitamin D that other studies document are needed to protect against breast cancer. So all this study did was help confirm what vitamin D experts have been saying for over five years now, i.e., a minimum of 800 IU to 1,000 IU of vitamin D a day is required… not the 400 IU used in this study.

Media Also Attacks Vitamin D

Don’t Be a Victim of This Flawed Propaganda

Not content to bash only vitamins C and E, the media the very next day in November 2008 ran a headline story stating that “Supplements don’t reduce breast cancer risk.” This story was based on a study of women who received only 400 IU a day of supplemental vitamin D. As has been reported for years in this and other health publications, 400 IU a day of vitamin D is clearly inadequate. To reduce breast cancer risk by around fifty percent, a daily dose of 1,000 IU and higher is required. The major flaw in this study is that participants in the active and placebo group were allowed to take vitamin D outside the study, which ren-

It is in the economic interests of drug companies to steer Americans away from healthier lifestyles and dietary supplements. As more Americans fall ill to degenerative disease, drug company profits increase exponentially. Enormous amounts of pharmaceutical dollars are spent influencing Congress, the FDA, and other federal agencies. The result is the promulgation of policies that cause Americans to be deprived of effective, low-cost means of protecting themselves against age-related disease. Through the Life Extension Foundation, readers can gain access to scientific information that is interpreted in the context of what health-conscious people are really doing to protect themselves against age-related diseases. You also learn how this information is distorted by the government, drug companies, and the media to discourage the public from following healthier lifestyles. Reprinted with permission from Life Extension Magazine, www.lef.org

Vegetables Are Brain Food

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ating vegetables may help keep your brain "young" and may slow down the mental decline that sometimes comes with aging. A study of almost 2,000 men and women, aged sixty-five and up, living in the Chicago area found those who said they ate more than two servings of vegetables each day showed forty percent less mental decline on cognitive tests than those

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who reported eating little or no vegetables. Scores on short term memory and other mental function tests among those who ate more veg-etables were similar to results seen in people five years younger, according to the study in the October 23, 2006 issue of the journal Neurology. However, the study did not look at whether any of the participants developed Alzheimer’s disease. In

the study, a “serving” of vegetables equaled about a half-cup (or one cup if the vegetable was a raw leafy green like spinach or kale). The most beneficial vegetables included green leafy vegetables including spinach, kale and collard greens, possibly because they contain high amounts of antioxi-dant vitamins, including vitamin E, which may combat cell damage. —Food & Fitness Advisor www.earthstarmag.com

In Memoriam Zecharia Sitchin (1920 - 2010) he internationally acclaimed author and researcher, Zecharia Sitchin, whose trailblazing books introduced to readers worldwide the subjects of Nibiru, the Anunnaki, and the ancient evidence for mankind’s origins, passed away on the morning of October 9th, 2010, at the age of 90.

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One of a handful of scholars able to read the Sumerian cuneiform tablets, Sitchin combined archaeology, ancient texts, and the Bible with the latest scientific discoveries, to retell the history and prehistory of mankind. Since 1976, Zecharia Sitchin promoted the idea that a “12th planet” called Nibiru swings past Earth every three thousands years or so. This 12th planet, he said, is the home of a group of aliens, known as Anunnaki in Sumerian scriptures and the Nephilim that were mentioned in the Bible. These aliens crossed their DNA with the native hominids of the time, creating mankind as we know it. He suggested that ancient Yeti and other hairy hominoids are evidence of these unions. Zecharia Sitchin was born in Russia and raised in Palestine, and had a comprehensive knowledge of modern and ancient Hebrew and other Semitic and European languages, the Old Testament, and the history, archaeology, and culture of the Near East. He was distinguished by his ability to read and translate Sumerian and other ancient languages. His trailblazing books that introduced to readers around the world ideas based on the assumption that ancient myths are not myths at all but rather, historical and scientific texts. Sitchin posited that ancient Sumerian clay tablets reveal that gods from another planet—Nibiru, which orbits our Sun every 3,600 years—arrived on Earth some 450,000 years ago and created humans by genetic engineering of female apes. His books have been translated into more than twenty languages; his first one, The 12th Planet, an oft-quoted classic, celebrates the thirtieth anniversary of its publication. A graduate of the University of London and a journalist and editor in Israel for many years, he lived in New York City. Sitchin’s final quest was to find proof positive of the Anunnaki’s existance in antiquity. This excerpt from his last book, Mankind’s Alien Origins—The Evidence, suggests that he may have succeeded: “Ah, if only one of the Anunnaki were still around, a chap or lass whose being one of them Nibiruans would be unquestionable, who would roll up their sleeve and say: Test my DNA, decipher my genome, see that I am not of your planet! Find out the difference, discover the secret of longevity, cure your cancers . . . If only! But, through the grace of Fate and the professionalism of dedicated archaeologists, such evidence—a physical body of an Anunnaki—does exist. It is the skeletal remains of Nin.Puabi. . . . What was it, genetically, that the ‘gods’ deliberately held back from us? Maybe the Creator of All wished the Goddess Who Never Left to stay so that we finally find the answer.”

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GREEN LIVING

natural home and garden

Eco-Glass Fireplace his European-designed fireplace is fueled by Fanola, a renewable biofuel that burns 40% more efficiently than wood and emits only steam and CO2 in proportions similar to our own exhalations—humidity levels actually increase with usage. And there’s no smoke, soot or cleanup. The glass globe sits on a sturdy granite base and contains flames that warm heat-emitting stones in a bed of decorative sand. Fill the aromatherapy glass bowl with included essential oils (fir, orange, rosemary or cinnamon) to enhance relaxation. Fireplace will comfortably heat a small room and augment heating in larger rooms. Germany/Australia/Poland. $160.00 - $899.00. www.gaiam.com

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Alcove Wall Shelf ne frustrating thing about standard shelves is that they don’t often accommodate for items of different heights; It’s often tough to fit a vase or a few records alongside your paperbacks. This steel and sheet metal unit, made by CB2, will allow you to display all your things together (although you might need to invest in some bookends). $159.00. From: www.cb2.com

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HY MINI UNIVERSAL CHARGER he HYmini is a handheld universal charger/adapter device that harnesses renewable wind power / solar power and conventional wall plug power to recharge digital gadgets. It stores energy collected from a wall plug, renewable DC input, wind and sun. $49.99. http://www.dwell.com

T Organic Cotton Tote Bag aper or Plastic? Neither! Use your Mother Earth News tote bag instead! 100-percent all-natural cotton… and completely leadfree. 12" x 14", $9.95. Available online from motherearthnews.com

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GREEN LIVING FUJIYA FLOOR & DESK LAMP are Studio, a new British company, produces small quantities of quality furniture and lighting. The stylish Fujiya Floor and Desk Lamps have a slightly angled stem, tilting the powder-coated steel shade a bit to cast some ever-so-slanted rays on your sofa or desk. Colors: red, white, American Black Walnut, White Oak More info from: www.darestudio.co.uk.

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natural home and garden Make Your Own Suitcase Seat

or the guest bedroom or attic hideaway, this suitcase chair is perfect impromptu seating. Pull it out when you need a place to perch, then fold up the straps and close up the suitcase, and it tucks away in the closet or under a bed. Old suitcases bring back a certain whimsy, charm and character from their long-ago travels. That makes them hard to throw away, even if they don’t cut it for modern air travel. You can recycle your old baggage into innovative and useful seating. Whether they’re used as a casual perch or a chair that’s there where you need it, these old suitcases are heading off to a new life. 1. ATTACH STRAPS: Side straps of patterned webbing keep the back at a comfortable angle. We drilled holes in the suitcase and used barrel nuts to attach the straps. 2. CUSHIONING: Cushion the chair with UltraTouch recycled denim insulation, 100 percent cotton fiber that’s less toxic than foam (BondedLogic.com). Using scissors, cut your pieces 2 or 3 inches wider and taller than your case. You’ll need 2 or 3 layers for the bottom. 3. UPHOLSTERY: Use heavyweight fabric such as cotton, linen, or hemp for the cushions. Wrap the batts in the fabric as though you were wrapping a present. Then secure with safety pins. 4. ATTACH CUSHION: Here’s where cutting your batts slightly oversized starts making sense. Squeeze the wrapped cushions into the suitcase so friction, not glue, will keep them in place. 5. SECURE FABRIC: Because it’s fighting gravity, the back cushion will benefit from upholstery tacks hammered through the fabric into the case every 6 inches or so. 6. OPTIONAL LEGS: If you want to add legs to your chair, buy new ones at TableLegs.com (or use existing materials around the house). Use top plates from the hardware store to attach the legs to the suitcase. For added stability, place 1-by-4-inch boards across the interior of the suitcase at the front and back before attaching the legs. —Natural Home Magazine

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TRAVETTA HUMIDIFIER itch the dowdy, humming, plug-in humidifier for a sultry ceramic model, designed by Patricia Urquiola and made by Il Coccio, that sits on the radiator. Harness the heat to turn the water in the tray into moisture in the air. More info: martinispa.com

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THE D E -I NDUSTRIALIZATION OF

A MERICA

from Common Ground Independent Media

C

hanges Are Coming. Whether these changes are good or bad depends in part on how we adapt to them. But, ready or not, here they come

1. The Post Office. Get ready to imagine a world without the post office. They are so deeply in financial trouble that there is probably no way to sustain it long term. Email, Fed Ex, and UPS have just about wiped out the minimum revenue needed to keep the post office alive. Most of your mail every day is junk mail and bills. 2. The Check. Britain is already laying the groundwork to do away with checks by 2018. It costs the financial system billions of dollars a year to process checks. Plastic cards and online transactions will lead to the eventual demise of the check. This plays right into the death of the post office If you never paid your bills by mail and never received them by mail, the post office would absolutely go out of business. 3. The Newspaper. The younger generation simply doesn’t read the newspaper. They certainly don’t subscribe to a daily delivered print edition. That may go the way of the milkman and the laundry man. As for reading the paper online, get ready to pay for it. The rise in mobile Internet devices and e-readers has caused all the newspaper and magazine publishers to form an alliance. They have met with Apple, Amazon, and the major cell phone companies to develop a model for paid subscription services. 4. The Book. You say you will never give up the physical book that you hold in your hand and turn the literal pages. I said the same thing about downloading music 52

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from iTunes. I wanted my hard copy CD. But I quickly changed my mind when I discovered that I could get albums for half the price without ever leaving home to get the latest music. The same thing will happen with books. You can browse a bookstore online and even read a preview chapter before you buy. And the price is less than half that of a real book. And think of the convenience! Once you start flicking your fingers on the screen instead of the book, you find that you are lost in the story, can’t wait to see what happens next, and you forget that you’re holding a gadget instead of a book. 5. The Land Line Telephone. Unless you have a large family and make a lot of local calls, you don’t need it anymore. Most people keep it simply because they’ve always had it. But you are paying double charges for that extra service. All the cell phone companies will let you call customers using the same cell provider for no charge against your minutes 6. Music. This is one of the saddest parts of the change story. The music industry is dying a slow death. Not just because of illegal downloading. It’s the lack of innovative new music being given a chance to get to the people who would like to hear it. Greed and corruption is the problem. The record labels and the radio conglomerates are simply self-destructing. Over forty percent of the music purchased today is “catalog items,” meaning traditional music that the public is familiar with. Older established artists. This is also true on the live concert circuit. To explore this fascinating and disturbing topic further, check out the book, Appetite for SelfDestruction by Steve Knopper, and the video documentary, Before the Music Dies.

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7. Television. Revenues to the networks are down dramatically. Not just because of the economy. People are watching TV and movies streamed from their computers. And they’re playing games and doing lots of other things that take up the time that used to be spent watching TV. Prime time shows have degenerated down to lower than the lowest common denominator. Cable rates are skyrocketing and commercials run about every four minutes and thirty seconds. I say good riddance to most of it. It’s time for the cable companies to be put out of our misery. Let the people choose what they want to watch online and through Netflix. 8. The “Things” That You Own. Many of the very possessions that we used to own are still in our lives, but we may not actually own them in the future. They may simply reside in “the cloud.” Today your computer has a hard drive and you store your pictures, music, movies, and documents. Your software is on a CD or DVD, and you can always re-install it if need be. But all of that is changing. Apple, Microsoft, and Google are all finishing up their latest “cloud services.” That means that when you turn on a computer, the Internet will be built into the operating system. So, Windows, Google, and the Mac OS will be tied straight into the Internet. If you click an icon, it will open something in the Internet cloud. If you save something, it will be saved to the cloud. And you may pay a monthly subscription fee to the cloud provider. In this virtual world, you can access your music or your books, or your whatever from any laptop or handheld device. That’s the good news. But, will you actually own any of this “stuff” or will it all be able to disappear at any moment in a big “Poof?” Will most of the things in our lives be disposable and whimsical? It makes you want to run to the closet and pull out that photo album, grab a book from the shelf, or open up a CD case and pull out the insert. 9. Privacy. If there ever was a concept that we can look back on nostalgically, it would be privacy. That’s gone. It’s been gone for a long time anyway. There are cameras on the street, in most of the buildings, and even built into your computer and cell phone. But you can be sure that 24/7, “They” know who you are and where you are, right down to the GPS coordinates, and the Google Street View. If you buy something, your habit is put into a zillion profiles, and your ads will change to reflect those habits. And “They” will try to get you to buy something else. Again and again.

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19 Facts About The Deindustrialization of America That Will Blow Your Mind The United States is rapidly becoming the very first “post-industrial” nation on the globe. All great economic empires eventually become fat and lazy and squander the great wealth that their forefathers have left them, but the pace at which America is accomplishing this is absolutely amazing. It was America that was at the forefront of the industrial revolution. It was America that showed the world how to mass produce everything from automobiles to televisions to airplanes. It was the great American manufacturing base that crushed Germany and Japan in World War II. But now we are witnessing the deindustrialization of America. Tens of thousands of factories have left the United States in the past decade alone Millions upon millions of manufacturing jobs have been lost in the same time period. The United States has become a nation that consumes everything in sight and yet produces increasingly little. Do you know what our biggest export is today? Waste paper. Yes, trash is the number one thing that we ship out to the rest of the world as we voraciously blow our money on whatever the rest of the world wants to sell to us The United States has become bloated and spoiled and our economy is now just a shadow of what it once was. Once upon a time America could literally out produce the rest of the world combined. Today that is no longer true, but Americans sure do consume more than anyone else in the world. If the deindustrialization of America continues at this current pace, what possible kind of a future are we going to be leaving to our children? Any great nation throughout history has been great at making things. So if the United States continues to allow its manufacturing base to erode at a staggering pace how in the world can the U.S. continue to consider itself to be a great nation? We have created the biggest debt bubble in the history of the world in an effort to maintain a very high standard of living, but the current state of affairs is not anywhere close to sustainable. Every single month America goes into more debt and every single month America gets poorer. So what happens when the debt bubble pops? The deindustrialization of the United States should be a top concern for every man, woman and child in the country. But sadly, most Americans do not have any idea what is going on around them. For people like that, take this article and print it out and hand it to them. Perhaps what they will read below will shock them badly enough to awaken them from their slumber.

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The following are 19 facts about the deindustrialization of America that will blow your mind....

than twelve million Americans were employed in manufacturing was in 1941.

#1 The United States has lost approximately 42,400 factories since 2001. About 75% of those factories employed over 500 people when they were still in operation.

#12 In the United States today, consumption accounts for 70% of GDP Of this 70%, over half is spent on services.

#2 Dell Inc., one of America’s largest manufacturers of computers, has announced plans to dramatically expand its operations in China with an investment of over $100 billion over the next decade. #3 Dell has announced that it will be closing its last large U.S. manufacturing facility in Winston-Salem, North Carolina in November. Approximately 900 jobs will be lost. #4 In 2008, 1.2 billion cell phones were sold worldwide. So how many of them were manufactured inside the United States? Zero. #5 According to a new study conducted by the Economic Policy Institute, if the U.S. trade deficit with China continues to increase at its current rate, the U.S. economy will lose over half a million jobs this year alone. #6 As of the end of July, the U.S. trade deficit with China had risen 18% compared to the same time period a year ago. #7 The United States has lost a total of about 5.5 million manufacturing jobs since October 2000. #8 According to Tax Notes, between 1999 and 2008 employment at the foreign affiliates of U.S. parent companies increased an astounding 30% to 10.1 million. During that exact same time period, U.S. employment at American multinational corporations declined 8% to 21.1 million. #9 In 1959, manufacturing represented 28 percent of U.S. economic output. In 2008, it represented 11.5%. #10 Ford Motor Company recently announced the closure of a factory that produces the Ford Ranger in St. Paul, Minnesota. Approximately 750 good paying middle class jobs are going to be lost because making Ford Rangers in Minnesota does not fit in with Ford’s new “global” manufacturing strategy.

#13 The United States has lost a whopping 32% of its manufacturing jobs since the year 2000. #14 In 2001, the United States ranked fourth in the world in per capita broadband Internet use. Today it ranks 15th. #15 Manufacturing employment in the U.S. computer industry is actually lower in 2010 than it was in 1975. #16 Printed circuit boards are used in tens of thousands of different products. Asia now produces 84% of them worldwide. #17 The United States spends approximately $3.90 on Chinese goods for every $1 that the Chinese spend on goods from the United States. #18 One prominent economist is projecting that the Chinese economy will be three times larger than the U.S. economy by the year 2040. #19 The U.S. Census Bureau says that 43.6 million Americans are now living in poverty and according to them that is the highest number of poor Americans in the 51 years that records have been kept. So how many tens of thousands more factories do we need to lose before we do something about it? How many millions more Americans are going to become unemployed before we all admit that we have a very, very serious problem on our hands? How many more trillions of dollars are going to leave the country before we realize that we are losing wealth at a pace that is killing our economy? How many once great manufacturing cities are going to become rotting war zones like Detroit before we understand that we are committing national economic suicide? The de-industrialization of America is a national crisis. It needs to be treated like one.

#11 As of the end of 2009, less than twelve million Americans worked in manufacturing. The last time less

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The Hundred Years Starship

TH E NASA

M I S S I O N T H AT W I L L TA K E A S T R O N A U T S T O . . . A N D L E AV E T H E M T H E R E F O R E V E R !

MARS

By Niall Firth

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ASA is planning an audacious mission to send a manned spacecraft on a one-way trip to permanently settle on other planets.

for one-way trips to Mars with Google co-founder Larry Page, telling him such a mission could be done for $10 billion. He said said: ‘His response was, “Can you get it down to $1 [billion] or $2billion?” So now we’re start-

The ambitious idea is known as the Hundred Years Starship and would send astronauts to colonise planets like Mars, knowing they could never come home. NASA Ames Director Pete Worden revealed that one of NASA’s main research centres, Ames Research Centre, has received £1million funding to start work on the project. The research team has also received an additional $100,000 from Nasa. ‘You heard it here,” Worden said at ‘Long Conversation,’ an event in San Francisco. ‘We also hope to inveigle some billionaires to form a Hundred Year Starship fund.’ He added: ‘The human space program is now really aimed at settling other worlds. Twenty years ago you had to whisper that in dark bars and get fired.’ Worden said he has discussed the potential price tag www.earthstarmag.com

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on Mars is a desirable goal, scientifically and politically. The strategy of one-way missions brings this goal within technological and financial feasibility. NASA’s Mars Exploration Rover Spirit work on the planet’s surface. One day humans could be working alongside the robotic probe ‘Nevertheless, to attain it would require not only major international cooperation, but a return to the exploration spirit and risktaking ethos of the great period of Earth exploration, from Columbus to Amundsen, but An artist’s impression of a Mars base manned by astronauts which has nowadays being who would have to learn to be self-sufficient replaced with a culture of safety ing to get a little argument over the price.’ and political correctness.’ Worden also suggested that new technologies such They admit that the mission would come with ‘ethias synthetic biology and alterations to the human cal considerations’ with the general public feeling that genome could also be explored ahead of the mission. the Martian pioneers had been abandoned to their fate or And he said that he believed the mission should visit sacrificed. Mars’ moons first, where scientists can do extensive But they argue that these first inhabitants of Mars telerobotics exploration of the planet. He claims that would be going in much the same spirit as the first white humans could be on Mars’ moons by 2030. settlers of North America—travelling to a distant land, Astronauts would be marooned on the planet’s sur- knowing that they will never return home. face and would never be able to return home due to cost They say: ‘Explorers such as Columbus, Frobisher, News of the Hundred Years Starship comes as new Scott and Amundsen, while not embarking on their voyresearch found that a one-way human mission to Mars is ages with the intention of staying at their destination, technologically feasible and would be a cheaper option nevertheless took huge personal risks to explore new than bringing astronauts back. lands, in the knowledge that there was a significant likeWriting in the Journal of Cosmology, scientists Dirk lihood that they would perish in the attempt.’ Schulze-Makuch and Paul Davies, say that the envision sending four volunteer astronauts on the first mission to permanently colonise Mars. They write: ‘A one-way human mission to Mars would not be a fixed duration project as in the Apollo program, but the first step in establishing a permanent human presence on the planet.’ The astronauts would be sent supplies from Earth on a regular basis but they would be expected to become selfsufficient on the red planet’s surface as soon as possible. They say: There are many reasons why a human colony

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Quadruple-Dose Seasonal Flu “Super” Vaccine Now Being Aggressively Pushed Onto Senior Citizens

by Mike Adams he vaccine industry has now decided that injecting senior citizens with the “standard” vaccine dose just isn’t working. (Gee, really?) So now they’ve decided the way to make it work better is to offer a quadruple viral potency vaccine that packs 400% more viral fragments into one toxic shot. The target for this quadruple vaccine injection? Senior citizens, of course—the very people most likely to suffer the most serious side effects from a vaccine overdose. The FDA reportedly approved the new vaccine in April even though no scientific tests have ever been done to show it reduces flu symptoms. Then again, since when did vaccines have anything to do with real science in the first place?

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Why Do People Need A Quadruple Vaccine All of A Sudden? What’s especially entertaining about all this is that the FDA’s approval of this quadruple potency vaccine is a blatant admission that single-dose vaccines just don’t work! Obviously, if the single-dose vaccine was working as advertised, then it would be 100% effective and there would be no need for a double, triple or quadrupledose vaccine. But all of a sudden, now that the quadruple-dose vaccine is available, the regular single-dose vaccine “isn’t good enough.” So all that propaganda about “get a flu shot and you won’t get the flu” just turns out to be marketing quackery, because what you really need is a quadruple shot now! www.earthstarmag.com

Forget the single dose. It’s no longer strong enough for you. So where does this end? When they realize the quadruple shot isn’t working either (because seasonal flu vaccines just scientifically do not work on at least 99% of the people), are they going to recommend a ten times the potency flu shot? Seriously... at what point do these vaccine pushers ever stop to consider that maybe the vaccine approach just doesn’t work? More Money With Higher Profit Flu Shots Of course, flu shots have never been about what works in the first place. They’re about what makes the most money. This new quadruple flu shot is being sold at about twice the price of a regular flu shot. Meanwhile, there have been absolutely no scientific studies demonstrating that the new quadruple vaccine is any more effective than the single-dose vaccine. Come to think of it, there aren’t any scientific studies that prove this year’s seasonal flu vaccine is effective in any way whatsoever at preventing the flu. The science has simply never been done. It’s all just based on “wishful thinking” combined with massive flu shot propaganda. Taking a flu vaccine is a crap shoot, and taking the quadruple super vaccine is just a quadruple crap shoot. People who enjoy playing Russian Roulette with their health will no doubt line up to be injected. Pseudoscientific Quackery Check out the derision of those pushing this vaccine. DECEMBER / JANUARY 2011

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The LA Times reports that Dr Mobeen Rathore, a vaccinologist at the University of Florida, said, “If you’re somebody who has a reaction from the low-dose vaccine, then I would stick with the low-dose. But if you’ve

VITAMINS GET RID

OF

DARK CIRCLES

lthough the dark circles under the eyes may not cause any serious health problem, they are often a cause of great cosmetic concern, adding years to your appearance or making you look haggard or unhealthy. There are a number of different natural remedies for dark under eye circles—such as vitamins. Vitamins can be used topically or orally to get rid of dark circles The Mayo Clinic recommends getting rid of your dark circles by applying a vitamin-rich cream. A 2004 clinical study conducted by researchers at Tokyo’s Nippon Medical School showed that a topical gel treatment containing vitamins A, C, K and E had moderately effective results in reducing dark circles. The gel, which was applied twice a day, contained 2% vitamin K, 0.1% retinol (Vitamin A), 0.1% vitamin C and 0.1% vitamin E . Several over-the-counter creams contain these vitamins. Tanushree Podder, in her book

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been taking the vaccine for years and have no reaction, get the high-dose vaccine. Or if there’s nothing else available except the high-dose vaccine, get the high dose. The most important thing is: Get the vaccine. It doesn’t matter which one.” And there you have it: They don’t really care which flu shot you take as long as you’re injecting yourself with something. Pay attention to what they’re NOT telling you about the flu: Doctors, FDA officials and CDC quacks will never admit that the best way to prevent the flu is to take vitamin D3 supplements. It has been scientifically shown to be many times more effective than a vaccine shot. So why isn’t there a big push for quadruple-dose vitamin D supplementation for senior citizens? Because, gee whiz, that might reduce flu shot revenues, cancer clinic profits and hospital visits by seniors—and they’re the bread and butter of sick-care industry profits. The very last thing our modern medical racket wants is for senior citizens to figure out how to protect their own health without relying on chemical interventions.

UNDER THE

1000 Plus Household Hints, recommends treating your dark circles with slices of pumpkin. What makes pumpkin effective? Pumpkin contains Vitamins A, C, and K, which help to reverse the effect of the dark circles. Place the pumpkin slices over your under-eye area for a few minutes each day. Amparo Salvador and Alberto Chisvert report that dermatologists have recently discovered that Vitamin K is effective at getting rid of dark circles under the eyes. In their book, Analysis of Cosmetic Products, they explain that this vitamin helps to minimize the appearance of under-eye circles that may result from poor blood flow beneath the eyes In her book, Your Health Is in Your Kitchen, Gwenyfar notes that dark circles are among the more visible symptoms of a Vitamin K deficiency. She writes that you can reverse this deficiency by adding foods rich in vitamin K to your diet. These include brown rice, eggs, oat-

EYES meal, wheat, alfalfa, cornmeal, sweet potatoes, liver, soybeans, and milk. B vitamins help to reduce water retention, explains Lisa Drayer in The Beauty Diet: Looking Great Has Never Been So Delicious. Water retention often causes puffy eyes, which result in dark circles under the eyes. The different B vitamins work together, so you should ensure that you take all of them. Foods rich in the various vitamins are walnuts (Vitamins B1 and B7), yogurt (B2 and B5), wild salmon (B3), spinach (B9), and oysters (B12). Walnuts, salmon, and spinach also contain Vitamin B6. —Natural News

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Future Cars Hybrids and Electrics In 2010 And Beyond

hat’s coming in hybrid and electric vehicles over the next few years? The market for electricity-sippers is expected to boom over the coming 12-24 months, with options ranging from hybrid vehicles (think of the Toyota Prius for an example) to plug-in hybrid vehicles (those that get a little extra “juice” from your wall outlet for more electric range) to pure electric vehicles (like Nissan’s Leaf, running only on electric power with no tailpipe emissions) to range-extender electric vehicles (think of GM’s Chevy Volt, which runs on electric power most of the time until a small gas or diesel engine starts to support long-distance driving).

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Could you be driving an electric or hybrid in the next few years? Chevrolet Volt Release Date: 2011 Powertrain: Plug-in electric with rangeextender fuel engine Why It’s Important: GM’s “moonshot” is the ultra high-mile Chevy Volt plug-in electric vehicle, said to get 230 mpg. If GM pulls this off they could reclaim the green mantle from Toyota. Honda CR-Z hybrid Release Date: 2010 Powertrain: Hybrid www.earthstarmag.com

Why It’s Important: Honda’s well of fun little sports cars runs deep and the CR-Z clearly brings up memories of the light and fantastic (and fuel-sippin’) CRX hatchback. Add a hybrid system and they might have found a new formula for the hatchback crowd. Audi Q5 hybrid Release Date: 2011 Powertrain: Hybrid Why It’s Important: Audi hasn’t been quick to debut hybrid systems in their vehicles, choosing mostly to stick to diesels. This Q5 could be their way of testing the water by putting their toe in the water. BMW 7-series hybrid Release Date: 2010 Powertrain: Hybrid Why It’s Important: Unsatisfied with Lexus (and the forthcoming Fisker Karma) owning the luxury hybrid sedan space, BMW’s new 7-series hybrid should differentiate itself by providing extra oomph (442 lb-ft of torque will be on tap). Buick “Baby Enclave” Release Date: 2011 Powertrain: Plug-in hybrid Why It’s Important: If DECEMBER / JANUARY 2011 EARTH STAR

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Buick is truly going to become a great American brand again, they need to start innovating. This system should use the same running gear as the 230-mpg Chevy Volt, making this new Buick an exciting one to watch. Fisker Karma Release Date: Late 2009 Powertrain: Plug-in electric with rangeextender fuel engine Why It’s Important: Arguably one of the most beautiful new designs on the road, the Karma should do for the nascent Fisker brand what all great cars do: garner maximum attention. That the Karma will be one of the first plug-in electric vehicles available on the market, it should have about a year on its own before the major manufacturers start competing with it head on. Honda Fit hybrid Release Date: 2010 Powertrain: Hybrid Why It’s Important: The Fit could become one of the cheapest hybrids on the market today, creating a wave of new hybrid owners. Right now the cheapest hybrid on the market is the Fit’s older brother, the Honda Insight, but at about $20,000 that is still out of reach for many buyers. Mercedes-Benz ML450 hybrid Release Date: Late 2009

Powertrain: Hybrid Why It’s Important: At 29 miles per gallon combined, the S400 can boast about more than just its MercedesBenz badge on its hood. Of course, luxury vehicles have an easier time being green: their buyers can afford to absorb the costs of their systems. Nissan 370Z hybrid Release Date: Possibly never Powertrain: Hybrid Why It’s Important: A hybrid sports car? Isn’t this blasphemy? Well, in some circles it just might be; in others, not so much. The idea of a 370Z hybrid is something along the lines of pure speculation at this point, but we do know Nissan and Infiniti are working on their own hybrid system and internal plans continue to look into its use on the famous Z sports car. Nissan Leaf Release Date: Late 2010 or early 2011 Powertrain: Plug-in electric Why It’s Important: Nissan claims the Leaf will have a fuel equivalent of 367 miles per gallon. That’s not a typo. For now, though, the Leaf is still just a prototype. Expect it to come to market in a year or so in limited markets, mostly in the west. Porsche Cayenne hybrid Release Date: 2011 Powertrain: Hybrid

Powertrain: Hybrid Why It’s Important: With a 3.5-liter V6 a trusy battery pack, the ML450 hybrid can go 1.8 miles or up to 34 mph on battery power alone (take that, 2010 Prius). Mercedes-Benz S400 hybrid Release Date: 2010 60

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Why It’s Important: Porsche has big plans for its big truck and it’s no secret that many of its buyers have interest in hybrid powertrains (and, no doubt, the money to pay for such a luxury). Expect the Cayenne hybrid to carry a premium price tag and something near 25 MPG.

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Porsche Panamera hybrid Release Date: 2011 Powertrain: Hybrid Why It’s Important: Porsche is now making a sedan called the Panamera; it’s expected to go on sale in October of 2009. Since luxury sedan buyers now expect hybrids as part of an options package, Porsche will feature a parallel hybrid system (meaning it can drive under electric power, gasoline power, or both), meaning it will travel on electric power up to 70 miles per hour. Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid Release Date: 2011

S EVERE W EATHER THREATENS WORLD FOOD SUPPLY xtreme weather conditions across the globe are destroying crops, cattle and land, as nations struggle through things like droughts, floods and other natural phenomena. And while some say that these occurrences are natural, cyclic effects from variations in solar activity, others point to climate change as the culprit. Russian wheat crop failures, Kansas cattle deaths and flooding in Pakistan are among the many struggles currently being faced by nations around the world, but why are these extreme weather conditions occurring in the first place? This is a question many are asking as they work to cope with the destruction and seek a solution.

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Powertrain: Plug-in hybrid Why It’s Important: A Prius is already a hybrid that gets 50 mpg, but Toyota is readying a plug-in hybrid version of the car, making it even more efficient. Toyota says that plug-in hybrid versions of its Prius hatchback are averaging 65 miles per gallon in real-world testing. Volvo V70 hybrid Release Date: 2012 or beyond Powertrain: Plug-in hybrid Why It’s Important: Volvo is expected to launch its hybrid system (a plug-in one, at that) in their famous wagon lineup. The V70 has long been a Volvo classic (think of old 240 Volvo station wagons from the 80s and 90s) and the company’s first hybrid system makes sense to launch here first. There are also rumors that Volvo is launching a hybrid or electric version of its small C30 hatchback, too.

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Weather extremes have put a heavy strain on food production, which could lead to skyrocketing food prices like the ones seen back in 2007 and 2008 when food was in short supply due to similar events. And according to a recent Reuters article, many are calling for further talks and agreements to be made about climate change legislation as a solution to the problem. According to Neville Nicholls, a climate scientist at Monash University in Melbourne, Australia, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from vehicles and human industrial activity is leading to “more and more hot extremes and worse unprecedented extremes.” He and others believe global talks must continue to address practical ways to deal with CO2 emissions, and that the time is now to push for climate legislation. Still others, though, point to the sun’s normal cyclic rise and fall in activity as the instigator of alleged global warming, and say that climate legislation will only serve to further erode personal freedom and national sovereignty. —NaturalNews DECEMBER / JANUARY 2011 EARTH STAR

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Look Out! Your Medicine is Watching You

By Ben Hirschler ovartis AG plans to seek regulatory approval within eighteen months for a pioneering tablet containing an embedded microchip, bringing the concept of “smart-pill” technology a step closer. The initial program will use one of the Swiss firm’s established drugs taken by transplant patients to avoid organ rejection. But Trevor Mundel, global head of development, believes the concept can be applied to many other pills. “We are taking forward this transplant drug with a chip and we hope within the next eighteen months to have something that we will be able to submit to the regulators, at least in Europe,” Mundel told the Reuters Health Summit in New York. “I see the promise as going much beyond that,” he added. Novartis agreed in January to spend $24 million to secure access to chip-in-a-pill technology developed by privately owned Proteus Biomedical of Redwood City, California, putting it ahead of rivals. The biotech start-up’s ingestible chips are activated by stomach acid and send information to a small patch worn on the patient’s which can transmit data to a smartphone or send it over the Internet to a doctor.Mundel

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said the initial project was focused on ensuring that patients took drugs at the right time and got the dose they needed—a key issue for people after kidney and other transplant operations, when treatment frequently needs adjustment. Longer-term, he hopes to expand the “smart pill” concept to other types of medicine and use the wealth of biometric information the Proteus chip can collect, from heart rate and temperature to body movement, to check that drugs are working properly. Because the tiny chips are added to existing drugs, Novartis does not expect to have to conduct full-scale clinical trials to prove the new products work. Instead, it aims to do socalled bioequivalence tests to show they are the same as the original. A bigger issue may be what checks should be put in place to protect patients’ personal medical data as it is transmitted from inside their bodies by wireless and Bluetooth. “The regulators all like the concept and have been very encouraging. But ... they want to understand how we are going to solve the data privacy issues,” Mundel said. A technology that ensures a patient takes his or her medicine and checks that it is working properly should deliver better outcomes and justify a higher price tag.

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B i g P h a r m a to Begin M i c r o c h i p p i n g Drugs by Mike Adams

he age of pharmaceutical microchipping is now upon us. Novartis AG, one of the largest drug companies in the world, has announced a plan to begin embedding microchips in medications to create “smart pill” technology. The microchip technology is being licensed from Proteus Biomedical of Redwood City, California. Once activated by stomach acid, the embedded microchip begins sensing its environment and broadcasting data to a receiver warn by the patient. This receiver is also a transmitter that can send the data over the internet to a doctor. The idea behind all this is to create “smart pills” that can sense what’s happening in the body and deliver that information to the patient’s doctor. Novartis plans to start microchipping its organ transplant anti-rejection drugs and then potentially expand microchipping to other pharmaceuticals in its product lineup. This same technology could soon end up in pills made by other drug companies, too.

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The best laid plans... It all sounds good on the surface, but NaturalNews readers no doubt have lots of skeptical questions about this technology. For starters, Novartis apparently isn’t planning on conducting any clinical trials that might take into account the safety issues of swallowing microchips. “Novartis does not expect to have to conduct full-scale clinical trials to prove the new products work,” reports Reuters. “Instead, it aims to do so-called bioequivalence tests to show they are the same as the original.” But I have a question: What chemicals or heavy metals are contained in the microchip itself? A

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microchip that transmits data obviously must have a power source, meaning it needs to have a very small battery or capacitor of some sort. The materials used in capacitors and batteries, to my knowledge, are toxic to the human body and should never be eaten. Microchips are not food, and to swallow them seems risky to your health, especially if you’re swallowing several microchips per day. Data privacy Another huge concern with microchips that transmit data is data privacy. If these microchips are broadcasting information, then obviously that information can be picked up by anything nearby, including potentially unscrupulous individuals or organizations that might put it to a nefarious use. For example, suppose a local pharmacy store installs a microchip signal detector in their main door entrance in order to track people who are broadcasting medication data. They could then theoretically decode that data and use it to determine what health condition that customer might be suffering and then push competing generic pharmaceuticals as a replacement. Government agents could carry “pharma microchip scanners” that determine what pills you’re taking right now. This could be used to violate your privacy by sharing that data with other government agencies or it could even be sold off to third-party marketing companies. I very much doubt the data being broadcast by the microchips in these pills will be encrypted because encryption requires real processing power, and there isn’t room for much of a CPU or power source inside these tiny microchips. Most likely, they are going to

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broadcast raw signal data that can be detected and decoded quite easily. Remember to take your meds But the really scary part about these microchipped medications is that this technology will be used to make sure people are taking their medication. Drug companies lose billions of dollars a year (in their minds) from patients not remembering to take their pills. Of course, half the reason they can’t remember to take their pills is because many pharmaceuticals damage cognitive function, but that’s another story. So this smart-pill microchip technology will likely be used to track what pills patients have taken so that they can be “gently reminded” to take more pills they may have forgotten. In the marketing business, this is called a “continuity program.” It’s a way to make sure repeat sales happen on a regular basis. In this context, microchipping the pills benefits the drug companies, not necessarily the patients. This is especially true when considering those pharmaceuticals that are harmful to human health—and we all know the pharmaceutical market is full of pills that have later been found to be extremely dangerous or even deadly (Vioxx, anyone?). Coming soon: Police drug scanners and employer drug scanners Now, there may be one interesting side effect to all this: Employers who are interviewing potential job candidates might be able to buy (or make) simple drug scanning devices that detect the presence of a pharmaceutical microchip broadcast signal. (You could probably make one in your garage from electronic parts purchased at Radio Shack.) This might be very useful for employers who don’t want to hire people taking medications. They invite you in for an interview and quietly scan for drug broadcast data. A red light tells them you’re broadcasting medication data, and they calmly tell you the interview is over and “we’ll get back to you.” With employers right now drowning in health insurance costs, this could provide a simple, easy way for corporations to avoid taking on anyone who might create a cost burden on their health insurance plans (from their point of view). I don’t necessarily agree with this use of the technology; I’m just saying this is one way in which it is likely to be used by employers to screen out employees who are on medications. Cops, too, could use a similar scanning device to determine if a driver at the scene of an accident might be medication impaired. Now this is a use I actually do agree with. Today’s roadways are filled with mentally impaired drivers who

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are doped up on medications. The problem is actually far worse than drunk drivers, by the way, and yet virtually nothing is being done to combat this problem of “medicated drivers.” (Most people don’t even know the problem exists.) If people taking medications are broadcasting that fact through all the little microchips they swallow, then scanning for the presence of medications is simple. It’s even easier than a breathalyzer test because it requires no action on the part of the test subject. The cop just presses a button, waits two seconds, and can then determine whether you’re broadcasting medication data. At that point, you might be arrested under suspicion of “driving while medicated.” Another reason not to take meds There are clearly a lot of unanswered questions and even some potential risks involved in taking microchipped pharmaceuticals. For some people, privacy issues may be the biggest factor of all, because who wants to broadcast the fact that they’re taking meds in the first place? I don’t take any pharmaceuticals, obviously, and most NaturalNews readers avoid them, too. The fact that drugs will soon be microchipped is yet another good reason to find more holistic ways to take care of your health. Don’t bet your life (and your privacy) on Big Pharma’s pills. Choose a healthy, holistic lifestyle based on nutritious, organic foods, regular exercise and the avoidance of all man-made (synthetic) chemicals, and you most likely won’t ever need pharmaceuticals for your entire life. The age of microchipping people and microchipping medications is now upon us. Given what the TSA is doing right now with naked body scanners, you can only imagine what Big Brother will do with any medication data you might be broadcasting from inside your body. In fact, the very idea that there is a microchip inside your body that’s broadcasting data might get you flagged as a possible terrorist by the TSA, which would then proceed to finger your genitals and palm your breasts as part of their new “enhanced pat-down” groping technique. The best way to avoid all this risk is to simply eat your veggies and drink your superfoods. Don’t become a trackable, traceable, microchipped subject of the medical industry that wants to turn your body into a chemical profit center.

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