Chamber hosts Erin Brockovich

By John Loesing Acorn Staff Writer

Erin Brockovich

Erin Brockovich, a formerly unemployed single mother of three who used her moxie to help to help win the biggest environmental lawsuit in United States history, knows more than anybody what it means to fight for the underdog.

Speaking Tuesday at the Agoura/Oak Park/Las Virgenes Chamber of Commerce reorganization luncheon in Agoura Hills, Brockovich said her dogged determination in the 1996 Pacific Gas and Electric case was proof that one person can make a difference.

"She never stopped fighting for the people who don’t have a voice," said Alex Soteras, chamber president.

A movie about the Hinkley, Calif. toxic pollution case became a Hollywood hit that reaped big rewards for Brockovich. She developed into a star of her own and even hosts a new television series on Lifetime called "Final Justice."

VIPs--Participating during a chamber luncheion on Tuesday were (from left to right) Caryn and Lance Sterling; Alex Soteras, president of the Agoura/Oak Park/Las Virgenes Chamber of Commerce; and guest speaker Erin Brockovich. Lance Sterling owns The Canyon and was named to the chamber's board of directors at the meeting. Brockovich's speech emhasized the importance of individuals.

"It’s about everyday women who challenged the system and in the end made a difference for us all," Brockovich told the 200 chamber members and their guests.

"I’m a huge advocate for the people," she said. "We as individuals have the ability to make a change. I hope you never stop believing that you can."

Brockovich, who’s now a resident of Agoura Hills, applauded the chamber’s decision to host a Women’s Health Expo this fall.

"Chicks rule," she said. "It’s a great opportunity for the female business owner."

Brockovich said she continues to work on environmental cases for Masry & Vititoe, the Westlake Village law firm where she’s been employed for the past 12 years.

The firm spearheaded another chromium 6 case against PG&E for alleged groundwater contamination in Kettleman, Calif.

"My goal is not to destroy corporate America," she said. "But Ed [Masry] and I believe corporate America has the technology, power and money to be protective of human life and the environment."

Brockovich also applauded the chamber’s involvement with local schools. She revealed that she’s a dyslexic who overcame great odds to reach her goals.

Each year the chamber hosts an awards ceremony for local Educators of the Year and Brockovich said, "I have an incredible appreciation for what our teachers do."

Soteras begins his third year as chamber president. Other 2003 board officers include Don Dusablon of Warner Financial, first vice president; Corinne Anderson of Calamigos Ranch, second vice president; and Sandi Gorup of the Renaissance Hotel, third vice president.

The secretary is Al Hopton and the treasurer is Howard Lauterbach.

The chamber’s next event is a Feb. 13 Valentine’s Day mixer at Cisco’s Restaurant.