The First Chapter -how did this all start?

Most simply ask - how did this all start? while others knowing my business jump to conclusions about the potential contradictory nature of being the owner of a jewelry business that depends on mining, and organizing an fundraiser for "anti-mining" actions in Alaska.

Initially - let me say that life is full of contradictions, some beautiful, some simply human nature and none that evade judgment. However, I am one to embrace the process and learn from the journey.

SATELite is a foundation supporting a different cause yearly. The cause is determined by the "Pay it Forward" Board of Directors and our membership. This year is the protection of Bristol Bay - the land, the water, the air, the fisheries, the community, a history, and a native way of life. Next year - it may be the Pacific Trash Heap, or North American redwood forests, it could be anything that suggests a need. (for more on this please see: the cause.)

Regarding this years cause, we are not anti-mining, we are however considerate of the reprocutions of irresponsible mining, thus our paramount interest in this cause is enabling ethical mining. (more at SATELite's Stance)

The Foundation has been created from the desire to reach more people. I am a business owner who operates with a very small fraction of the market share. The business was founded with ethical mining principles, the use of recycled gold, and an affiliation to 1% for the Planet. The heart and soul of Blair Lauren Brown- fine jewelry is conservation and consideration. Being so passionate about my conservation efforts I wanted to share my knowledge with a wider audience.

I thought I could do a presentation about the proposed Pebble Mine in Bristol Bay for a 100 or so people at a local bar - maybe a small raffle, and send some money in support. At the mention of the cause, combined with the passion in my voice for such I was met with tremendous support. This was in the beginning of Feb. 2010. So, I find myself, a month later, with more support and interest than I could have dreamed. The concept has grown and melded to the interests and needs of our community and the newly developed partnerships reflect that. I am already seeing one of the key components of the SATELite concept come to life - communities supporting each other and other communities. I couldn't be happier. The network of people coming together to support us, the cause, and one another is truly a wonderful thing.