1955 - 12/17/2008 -- Marti Ann Schwartz, age 53, passed away after a lengthy illness.  Marti attended UCLA, then spent many years in the entertainment industry in a variety of capacities.  She was a published consumer advocate whose books combined practical advice with compassion to help those in need.  Her articles were published in national publications and newspapers such as The Wall Street Journal.  She spent many years as a regular contributor to syndicated talk shows, national news programs, as well as a multi-year engagement as a consumer advocate on local television in Portland, OR.  Marti was an accomplished musician and gifted song writer.  She devoted her life to others through her charity work, volunteering in local schools, as well as thousands of selfless acts of kindness for friends and strangers alike which was her hallmark.  Marti's quick wit, enthusiasm for life, boundless energy, and caring nature will be missed.  She is survived by her loving husband Ken Kaufman, and daughter Erin Kaufman.