Inside Stories Overview

The place is called Reps. But Maggie Rumber refers to it as "My Dream." She always wanted to open a community center for the neighborhood, full of the things the kids could do. The space she located at a local strip mall was just what she needed. It was once a fitness center/spa that went out of business, leaving behind all the furnishings, including its fitness equipment and some tanning booths. Maggie thought that she could use those resources to attract customers who would essentially pay the rent so the kids could play. After all, there was a ton of extra space in the building where she could offer different classes. There was even an ancient juice bar. With a little elbow grease, it all looked almost brand new. Maggie knew no one in the neighborhood could resist coming.

Back in Barbados, this kind of thing would never have happened. But here in America, Maggie thought, dreams do come true. Reps was becoming the center for all kinds of activities in the neighborhood. This made Maggie especially happy. She was even able to hire some people from the neighborhood, making her feel like she was paying it forward in a big way. Even the kids got into the act, working at odd jobs in exchange for discounts on classes and the like.

It all seemed perfect… until now.

Maggie’s Story
Environmental Health Question: Lead exposure and lead abatement

Maggie has to choose between an expensive lead abatement project and laying off staff, while dealing with her grandson’s mysterious illness.

Frankie’s Story
Environmental Health Question: Food-borne illnesses

Everyone at Reps loves Frankie’s Smoothies. But are his food-handling techniques up to snuff? When people in the area have been hit by a mysterious ailment, Frankie must make some hard choices.

Amie’s Story
Environmental Health Question: Tanning and skin cancer

Amie has had an episode with skin cancer. Now she has to decide whether to tell her friend about the dangers of tanning and risk losing a needed Reps customer.

Thomas’ Story
Environmental Health Question: Exercise-induced asthma

One of Thomas’ Kung Fu students repeatedly acts out and is disrespectful. Is asthma actually the cause of the misbehavior? Thomas has to figure out how best to deal with the student.

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