John Edward Van Vlear is an award-winning writer, Christian, sports enthusiast, and prominent environmental lawyer. A third-generation Californian, Mr. Van Vlear was raised in South Pasadena. Attending the University of California Irvine and Pepperdine University School of Law, he earned extensive academic honors including the distinguished Sorenson Memorial Award for Literary Excellence and West Publishing’s Most Significant Contribution to Overall Legal Scholarship for a ground-breaking published piece on land use aesthetics. In addition to writing numerous articles in local, regional, and national publications, Mr. Van Vlear authored a legal treatise–The Environmental Handbook, 1996 The Environmental Handbook International Precious Metals Industry Emphasis. He has been interviewed on television several times, served as an adjunct law professor, and has presented more than 60 professional speeches and seminars. Among various athletic pursuits, Mr. Van Vlear is a passionate road cyclist who continues to summit some of world’s most challenging and famous hors catégorie “beyond categorization” mountain climbs. He is actively involved in church and supports ministries worldwide. Mr. Van Vlear has traveled extensively, lived in London, and played many of the top golf courses in America and Scotland. He resides with his family in Southern California.