I wrote “Night Shift” as a result of working many nights as an RN.
The poem was published in my book “Poetic Expressions in Nursing…Sharing the Caring” in 1991.
Dedicated to Night Shift Nurses: Past, Present, Future!.
I first met Dr. Alyssa Goodman in Lexington, Massachusetts in 2008, when our daughters, now 16 & 17, were in the same 4th grade Girl Scout troop and then continued as fifth grade classmates. Besides being “Girl Scout and Classroom Moms”, our families spent time together socially.
Alyssa has always intrigued me. I admire her deep intelligence, humor and authenticity. She is easy to connect with and is truly “down to earth” vs. “up in the clouds”, considering she’s a tenured Astronomy Professor at Harvard! There’s no arrogance about her, she is not a diva, has a great sense of humor, and she does not intimidate others. She has a keen sense of awareness of her environment and the state of the world to include the skies, and loves making sense out of patterns of all kinds. As an aside, she also always wore the coolest colorful earrings!
Although my family and I moved to San Diego in 2010, we have kept in touch periodically. Dr. Goodman travels extensively and always lets me know when she is in my neck of the woods and vice versa. It’s my pleasure to interview Dr. Goodman as an “Extraordinary Person Sharing Her Story”
Alyssa Goodman is Professor of Astronomy at Harvard University and a Research Associate of the Smithsonian Institution. Goodman’s research and teaching interests span astronomy, data visualization, and online systems for research and education. Goodman received her undergraduate degree in Physics from MIT in 1984 and a Ph.D. in Physics from Harvard in 1989. She became full professor at Harvard in 1999, and was named a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science in 2009. Goodman recently served as Chair of the Astronomy Section of the American Association for the Advancement of Science and on the National Academy’s Board on Research Data and Information, and she currently serves on the both the IAU and AAS Working Groups on Astroinformatics and Astrostatistics. Goodman’s personal research presently focuses primarily on new ways to visualize and analyze the tremendous data volumes created by large and/or diverse astronomical surveys, like COMPLETE. She is working closely with colleagues at Microsoft Research, helping to expand the use of the WorldWide Telescope program in both research and in education.
SJF: You are extremely intriguing to me! Tell us a bit about yourself…
AG: Sure. Wow, this goes back awhile! I was born in NYC grew up on Long Island. When I was 8 years old, I was captivated by and in awe of marine biologist oceanographer Jacques Cousteau. Oh how I really wanted to be a marine biologist at Woods Hole someday.
My eventual plan was to go to college first and study marine biology, but as time passed, I changed my mind. My new plan was to become a Physician, but a family member was very sick at the time and passed away. I soon decided that dealing with illness and death wasn’t for me either.
I was a good student and always had a love for science. I applied to the undergraduate program at Harvard (but ironically was not accepted)! About the same time, my younger sister discovered (while reading stack of college application material) that MIT only “early accepted” or “deferred” applicants but didn’t “reject” any. I was accepted into MIT and majored in physics.
My Dad helped me to find a summer Internship at an engineering company, where I subsequently interned for two summers, after high school graduation and after my freshman year at MIT. When it was time to plan an internship after my sophomore year at MIT there were two possibilities: An “underwater archeological dig” and NASA! I was one of 60 applicants for a scholarship to an underwater archeological “dig” that one had to pay for and missed out on the scholarship by one spot. I also boldly called NASA (no Google then…I merely looked the number up in the “yellow pages”) and accepted and was paid for a NASA internship.
After graduating from MIT in 1984, I was offered a job at the Bank of Boston, but said no and decided to delay working by going to Graduate School.
I was accepted to Harvard for graduate school and received my Ph.D. in Physics 1989. I did my post doctoral at University of California at Berkeley for three years. My first post-graduate assignment was teaching Astronomy in 1992, (which was ironic, since I had only taken one Undergraduate and one Graduate Astronomy course and didn’t believe that I had the “credentials”)!
Harvard Professor of Astronomy, Alyssa Goodman, speaks about the new capabilities of Microsoft WorldWide Telescope 5.0 at the 223rd meeting of the American Astronomical Society in Washington D.C. (Photo: Microsoft Corporation)
SJF: Very interesting that your awe of the ocean led you to your gazing at and studying the stars & galaxies! What have been your life hurdles? successes?
AG: While it wasn’t a “hurdle” I did have uncertainty as to when I would become a tenured professor at Harvard. In academia, all those years of education weren’t enough, even with a Ph.D. I was initially an Assistant Professor 1992-1995 and was considered Junior Faculty, then became an Associate Professor from 1995-1999. Normally Associate Professors are tenured, but that was not the case at Harvard. I taught for seven years and balanced an uncertain future, worrying that I would need to relocate, wondering if I could have a family, etc. before I was tenured as a full professor in 1999.
SJF: Your “uncertainly” has certainly led you to a highly valued tenured position at Harvard and many amazing opportunities to educate and inspire us! Which leads me to the next question: Who are three people that you admire?
AG: Jacques Cousteau, for his lifelong work as an exceptionally bright marine biologist, Albert Einstein for his views of Judaism as a ” philosophy” vs. a “religion” and Meryl Streep for her versatility as an actress.
SJF: What have been three significant/pivotal events in your life?
AG: My first memory of a pivotal event? Well, when I was in 9th school, I gave my National Honor Society speech. One of my friend’s moms was there and heard my speech. She told me way back then that I had a “natural talent” for public speaking. I didn’t realize what she meant at the time! Incidentally, that friend’s mom is actually now the mother of an undergraduate student studying violin at Harvard today! Another pivotal event was when I became tenured at Harvard. And of course, becoming a Mom to my daughter Abby was a very special pivotal event and remains so.
SJF: What are your fears?
AG: I fear that our beautiful planet Earth will be ruined due to climate change (as well as how some people treat it).
SJF: What are some of your strongest assets?
AG: I learn things well. I stop talking, listen and pay attention. As an observer, I see patterns and connections. I also remember things that don’t connect. I stay fit.
SJF: Those assets are definitely words of wisdom! What do you usually dream about?
AG: Some dreams are vivid and memorable, some that are bad, I instantly forget!
SJF: That’s brilliant and concise way of describing your dreams! Speaking of dreams, how do you support dreams of others? Do you “give back”? if so with which groups?
AG: I give back with my time, efforts and donations. I donate to several charities, including KIVA which gives out micro loans, Women for Women and Habitat for Humanity. I am a Worldwide Telescope Ambassador, I’ve participated as a science fair judge, and I do community outreach as well. I’m also a a former Girl Scout Mom volunteer.
SJF: Do you have any regrets in life?
AG: Not being fluent in another language. Although I have studied French, I feel I could have studied a bit more.
SJF: Who are your role models? Male or female, in or out of your profession?
AG: This is very interesting, because they are both serendipitous friendships. A female role model I admire is Astronomer Vera Rubin (Dark Matter) and a male role model would be Bob Kirshner , a Clowes Professor of Science at Harvard University who studied dark energy, and was a Wolf Medal Recipient.
SJF: What qualities should the younger generation aspire to have that you think are important in this day and age?
AG: There should be less emphasis on grades and more on actual curiosity and learning.
SJF: Agreed! How do you feel about the enourmous use of technology is being used today? Do you think we should connect more in person?
AG: I definitely use tech a lot, but have a love-hate relationship with it. I like it when it is associated with learning. I don’t like it as a time waster!
SJF: Any funny anecdotes about astronomy?
AG: I occasionally take a look at xkcd.com; It’s what I call “nerd humor” and it’s such a hoot!
SJF: I took a gander at it! Cool! What’s been happening lately and what is up next for you???
AG: I just taught a one day advanced workshop in San Francisco in February, 2015 called “See Think Design Produce” with Jonathan Corum, Mike Bostock and Edward Tufte: world-class design architectures for information, data, images, videos, diagrams, interfaces, presentations. We spoke about how to convey information graphically. In March I will be presenting at and attending “Tools for Astronomical Big Data” speaking about “Wide Data vs. Big Data” in Tucson, Arizona.
SJF: Those sounds like interesting workshops! Speaking of San Francisco, and Tucson, where have you traveled? Where is your favorite place in the world??
AG: My job has taken me many places in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres! My favorite place is Martha’s Vineyard.
SJF: Thank you so much, it’s been such a pleasure interviewing you and getting to know you even more!
AG: My pleasure too!
About the World Wide Telescope: http://www.worldwidetelescope.org/
Astronomer on a Mission (Scroll) : http://alumni.harvard.edu/stories/making-magic-happen
World Wide Telescope News: https://www.cfa.harvard.edu/~agoodman/wwtnews.html
https://www.youtube.com/embed/WKYCdn_t1K8” target=”_blank”>
https://www.youtube.com/embed/aL9aOM74dmg” target=”_blank”>
Video: Visualizing the Universe – An interview with Prof. Alyssa Goodman:
This morning I enjoyed a wonderful hike with my friend Ninon at Torrey Pines State Reserve. We walked up the hill from the parking lot. (Usually $12/day, but for locals like us, it pays to buy a “California Explorer” Annual Pass which gives access to California State Parks).
A lone Torrey Pines tree at Torrey PInes State Reserve
We spotted a “Scrub Jay” blue bird
We both admired the beautiful Pacific Ocean views from atop the cliffs
We admired several rock formations
And savored the gorgeous ocean views from atop the cliffs
We finally made it to the view of Flat Rock!
We took the beach trail and observed several wild yellow, and orange flowers blooming.
The trail led us to gorgeous majestic views of the blue-green hued Pacific Ocean. Then we took the steps down to Torrey Pines State Beach below.
Then lo and behold…all of a sudden, as we ventured down the steps to Torrey Pines State Beach, we spotted a DRONE in the sky!
Here’s a short video of the drone landing!
Which led us to meet “Droner” Jim Gleason, a freelance videographer, originally from San Diego but visiting from Austria with his wife Camille, who is a Scientist with Novartis Pharmaceuticals.
Jim told us about his drone, a DJI Phantom 2 H3-3d combo which costs approximately $1000, along with his Go-Pro (approximately $300),
plus an installed video downlink system all through Aerial Media Pros.
Jim and Camille Gleason
All in all, a fun morning hiking at Torrey Pines State Reserve and Torrey PInes State Beach!
Here’s a gallery of more photos from today!
I took a lovely walk with my husband in Encinitas today at the Self Realization Meditation Garden. Here’s what I captured!
Feel free to scroll/click on each photo, (and like, comment, and/or subscribe)! Beauty abounds in nature!
San Diego Musical Theatre (SDMT) “The LOCAL way to see Broadway”, announces the first production of their 2015 season, WEST SIDE STORY, February 13 – March 1, 2015 (press opening on Saturday, February 14) at their new home, the Spreckels Theatre on Broadway in downtown San Diego.
The world’s greatest love story takes to the streets in this landmark Broadway musical that is one of the theatre’s finest accomplishments. Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is transported to modern-day New York City, as two young idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs, the “American” Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence and prejudice is one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching and relevant musical dramas of our time.
Music by Leonard Bernstein, Lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, and Book by Arthur Laurents.
PRODUCTION TEAM: Director: James Vasquez; Choreography: Randy Slovacek; Musical Director: Don LeMaster; Lighting Designer: Amanda Zieve; Costume Coordinator: Janet Pitcher; Production Manager: Bret Young; Stage Manager: Stanley Cohen.
JAMES VASQUEZ (Director) ) is happy to return to San Diego Musical Theatre after directing last year’s CATS at the North Park Theatre. He has directed Dr. Seuss’ How The Grinch Stole Christmas at the Old Globe Theatre for the last 5 years, while restaging the original choreography for the last 12 years. Also at the Globe, he directed Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show, served as Associate Director of Jane Austen’s Emma – A Musical Romantic Comedy, and provided musical staging for Boeing-Boeing and the 2013 Shakespeare Festival production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. He received San Diego Theatre Critics Circle Award nominations for Outstanding Direction of a Musical for the world premiere of Harmony, Kansas and the West Coast premiere of [title of show] (Diversionary Theatre) and won the award in 2010 for Sweeney Todd (Cygnet Theatre Company). His other recent directing/choreography credits include Marry Me a Little, Birds of a Feather, Pippin, and Next Fall (Diversionary), and Pageant, Hedwig and the Angry Inch, and Little Shop of Horrors (Cygnet), as well as developmental workshops at La Jolla Playhouse and Goodspeed Musicals. Mr. Vásquez is co-founder of Daisy 3 Pictures. His film, Ready? OK!, won the Best Film award at Seattle, North Carolina, and San Diego film festivals. Daisy 3’s latest feature film, That’s What She Said, made its world premiere at the 2012 Sundance Film Festival. He is a graduate of The Juilliard School of Drama.
RANDY SLOVACEK (Choreographer) returns to San Diego after choreographing the acclaimed SDMT production of Chicago The Musical (San Diego Theater Critics Award nomination) in 2013. His choreography has been seen across the country, from the 11,000 seat Muny Theater in St. Louis to 99 seat off-Broadway theaters in NYC. Credits include choreographing the National touring company of Hello, Dolly! starring Carol Channing; the world premiere of Plane Crazy off-Broadway at the Beckett Theatre; and regional productions of A Chorus Line, They’re Playing Our Song, Sweet Charity, and Chicago the Musical among others. He has contributed choreography for star-studded benefit performances such as Lerner, Loewe, Lane & Friends for the S.T.A.G.E. benefit in Los Angeles; Donna McKechnie In Concert in NYC; One Singular Sensation celebrating the genius of Michael Bennett in Kansas City; and Olivia Newton-John’s Grace and Gratitude concert based on her celebrated CD of the same name. Thanks to husband Michael for love and support.
DON LE MASTER (Musical Director/Conductor) A native of San Diego, Don has been a working musician in the world of theatre for 30 years. He has been the resident musical director for SDMT, since its inception. He has musically directed and conducted many shows: A Christmas Carol, I Love You You’re Perfect Now Change, Cabaret (San Diego Rep), American Rhythm, Boomers (Lamb’s Players), Superstar, Once On This Island, Ragtime and 1776 – Ovation nomination (Performance Riverside), and many others at Moonlight, Cygnet, Starlight, South Bay Cities, North Coast Rep and McCoy Rigby. The San Diego Theatre Critics Circle, honored Don with an Outstanding Musical Direction Craig Noel award for the Full Monty and just recently The Sound of Music. Don performs at Martini’s Above Fourth with the fabulous Ria Carey and a solo gig at The Imperial House. “Without music my life would be a mistake.”
WEST SIDE STORY CAST –
Jacob Caltrider* (Tony); Jessica Soza (Maria); Kikau Alvaro* (Bernardo);
Natalie Nucci* (Anita); Jeffrey Scott Parsons* (Riff)
*Member of Actors Equity Association
SDMT West Side Story Cast;
Top, Left to Right : Jacob Caltrider, Jessica Soza, Kikau Alvaro; Bottom Center: Natalie Nucci, Bottom Right: Jeffrey Scott Parsons
JACOB CALTRIDER* (Tony) is thankful and proud to be making his debut with San Diego Musical Theatre! Selected Credits include: Spring Awakening, Assassins, Parade, Cabaret, Little Shop of Horrors, Sweeney Todd and The History Boys– Cygnet Theatre; Marry Me A Little, Harmony Kansas, Twist, Yank! and The Daddy Machine – Diversionary Theatre; The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee and A Christmas Carol – North Coast Repertory Theatre; An American Christmas, Les Misérables, Twelfth Night and The Festival of Christmas – Lamb’s Players; How The Grinch Stole Christmas! and The Rocky Horror Show – The Old Globe.
JESSICA SOZA (Maria) “Jessica Soza’s bell-clear Soprano and natural grace manages to win from the first minute to the viewers.” (Iris Moebius, Broadway World Germany). Having toured Europe last year as MARIA in the International Tour of West Side Story, Jessica is grateful to return home to Southern California and make her U.S. Debut in the role with SDMT. She performed to sold-out houses in Germany, Italy, France, Belgium, Israel, Luxembourg, Austria, Switzerland and London where she made her West End debut. Jessica gives thanks to God and her family for their undying love and support. www.jessicasoza.com
NATALIE NUCCI* (Anita) Broadway/National Tour: Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (u/s Christine , Jolene, Muriel); Jesus Christ Superstar (Soul Girl, u/s Mary) Hollywood Bowl: Sondheim 75th Birthday Tribute (West Side Story/Sweeney Todd ), Music Man. Reprise Theatre: Strike Up The Band, Kismet, On The Town, Applause!, The Most Happy Fella, Anything Goes. SDMT: Bye Bye Birdie (Rosie). Welk Resort: West Side Story (Anita), Bye Bye Birdie (Rosie), Man of La Mancha (Aldonza), Chicago (Velma), Anything Goes (Reno). Love to my Family. CSUN’s Peter Grego: you cast me in WSS as Jet and Shark—YOU dared us: “leave our guts on stage”; permanently lighting my fire: thank you.
JEFFREY SCOTT PARSONS* (Riff) “What a pleasure to do one of my favorite musicals with one of my favorite theatre companies.” Jeff is known to San Diego audiences for his portrayals of Phil Davis in White Christmas, Skimbleshanks in Cats (SDMT), Billy Crocker in Anything Goes, Bobby Child in Crazy for You (Moonlight Amphitheatre), as well as his appearances in Romance/Romance and Dames at Sea (NCRT). With Musical Theatre Guild in Los Angeles, he’s been in Triumph of Love, Sweet Smell of Success, and Wonderful Town. He’s a loyal member of AEA and holds a degree from BYU. Follow him on Twitter @jeffreysparsons Love to the fam!
KIKAU ALVARO* (Bernardo) SDMT debut! He is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Musical Theatre at San Diego State University. Favorites: Les Miserables, (Grantaire); Chicago, (The Jury); The Full Monty, (Keno); and the 50th Anniversary production of Flower Drum Song. In addition to performing, Kikau is a director, choreographer, and teacher. Upcoming projects: The Great American Trailer Park Musical (SDSU) and All Shook Up (San Diego Junior Theatre). Proud member of AEA! Thank you to Derrick. Follow Kikau on twitter and instagram: @kikautown.
*Member of Actors Equity Association
ADDITIONAL CAST:
Danielle Airey, Kevin Aquino, Max Cadillac, Hanz Enyeart, Manny Fernandes, Meagan Flint, Jay Gamboa, Devon Hadsell, Siri Hafso, Danny Hansen, Jenny Henkel, Krysty Hernandez, Andrew J. Koslow, Danielle Levas, Jacob Narcy, Joy Newbegin, Leah Roth, RC Sands, Ernest Sauceda, Taylor Simmons, Joshua LaMonte Switzer, Diana Vaden, Eric von Metzke, Andrea Williams and Dan Windham.
TICKET INFORMATION:
Single tickets for SDMT’s production of WEST SIDE STORY are $35.00, $45.00, $55.00 and $65.00. Children 16 and under save $10. There are discounts for Seniors and Students. Equity and Actor’s Alliance may purchase up to 2 tickets at half price. Group discounts for parties of 10 or more are available by calling the Administrative Office at 858-560-5740. For individual tickets contact the Administrative Office at 858-560-5740 or visit SDMT online at www.sdmt.org.
SCHEDULE: WEST SIDE STORY show times are Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday at 8:00 p.m., Saturday at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday at 2:00 p.m.
LOCATION: The Spreckels Theatre, 121 Broadway, San Diego, CA 92101. There is parking in the Spreckels garage and the NBC Building. Both are accessed via Broadway Circle.
For more information and tickets call San Diego Musical Theatre’s Administrative Office at 858-560-5740. The San Diego Musical Theatre Administrative Office is located at 4652 Mercury Street, San Diego, CA 92111. Monday-Thursday 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.. Tickets purchased through the Spreckels Box Office are through Ticket Master.
SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:
“Like” SDMT on Facebook – San Diego Musical Theatre;
“Follow” SDMT on Twitter- @SDMTMusicals
or “Follow” SDMT on INSTAGRAM- SDMT_Musicals
San Diego Musical Theatre: The Local Way to See Broadway!
THE SDMT 2015 SEASON at the historic SPRECKELS THEATRE on Broadway
West Side Story – February 13-March 1; Director James Vasquez
Singin’ In The Rain – May 27-June 7; Director Todd Nielsen
La Cage Aux Folles – September 25-October 11; Director Larry Raben
White Christmas – November 27-December 6; Director Todd Nielsen
https://www.youtube.com/embed/llc3OIp6J1E” target=”_blank”>
San Diego Musical Theatre (SDMT) is an award-winning, nonprofit theater company that seeks to bring vibrant musical theatre to the San Diego community. The mission of SDMT is to impact audiences by producing a range of classic and contemporary musical productions that engage and enhance the overall theatre experience. By partnering with professional actors, musicians, and technicians SDMT infuses momentum and energy into one of the only true American art forms. SDMT’s vision is to create an environment where high-quality musical theatre thrives in San Diego for generations to come. San Diego Musical Theatre is a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation.
Torrey Pines Golf Course is magnificently perched on the cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It is truly a gorgeous course. Just spectacular!
San Diego had a foggy start the morning of February 4, 2015, leading to a 2-plus hour delay (even for Tiger Woods’ tee time) for the prestigious PGA Tour Farmers Insurance Open Preview “Pro-Am” (Professional-Amateur) at Torrey Pines, which officially runs February 5-8.
I was invited to attend a Small Business Summit at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines during the morning. As luck would have it, we received a comp ticket for the tournament, so I decided to venture out. It was a spectacular day! After walking nearly 10,000 steps I am hoping to return again this weekend for more!
I arrived a bit after noon and strolled a bit, had lunch at the concession stand and miraculously was just in time to catch Phil Mickelson finishing the 9th hole on the South course.
Phil Mickelson was kind enough to grace the crowd with his autographs after he finished playing for the day.
Oh…if you attend the Farmers Insurance Open, please heed my advice: WEAR COMFY SHOES! Hydrate! Be respectful of the players. Keep noise to a minimum. Finally, have fun!
Susan Lisovicz is a dynamic renowned Journalist (well known for her Business/Financial reporting) and mass communicator with an incredible resume. A 1978 Communications Graduate at William Paterson University in New Jersey, Susan received the President’s Medal in 1999. Ms. Lisovicz is a former Reporter/ Anchor for CNN, CNBC, and during college was a reporter for WOBM-FM.
This Spring, 2015, Susan is a returning Donald W. Reynolds Center visiting professor at Arizona State University’s Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication. Ms. Lisovicz formerly taught at CUNY’s Graduate School of Journalism and William Paterson University.
Susan also consults as a Media Coach/Host and her clients have included Brown-Forman, UPS, Aegis Financial and Eco Ed Council. She has interviewed Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Jack Welch, Barry Diller and Sumner Redstone. Ms. Lisovicz was the emcee for the UPS Executive Retreat in Palm Beach with keynote speaker Condoleezza Rice.
Per her website (www.susanlisovicz.com) Susan was “live on the air when former President George W. Bush made a surprise visit to the NYSE and was the only reporter to get an on-air comment”. Susan has covered breaking general assignment stories such as September 11th, the death of Pope John Paul II and Hurricane Katrina.
Side note: Susan and I were grammar school classmates in the quaint town of Wallington, New Jersey until my family and I moved “down the shore” the summer before 8th grade. We both share a love for and treasure the Jersey Shore and the art of communications. We have continued to keep in touch throughout the years. I admire Susan’s professionalism, dedicated work ethic and enthusiastic zest for life. Susan Lisovicz is a truly a role model. I am proud to interview Susan Lisovicz, (“the other Susan” on the “other side of the interview table”)!
SJF: Please tell us a bit about your upbringing…
SL: I grew up in a small town in suburban New Jersey. One of four children, a middle child. My father’s nickname was Easy Ed. All of our friends liked my parents. Anybody who came over for dinner was entertained with an endless supply of true and embarrassing stories about each of the children. My mother went right back to work as a nurse in the hospital as soon as we all were in school. She worked weekends and weird hours. In return she was able to get off the entire summer. Thus began my lifelong love affair with the Jersey Shore, where we still have a house where we all congregate. Our big Saturday night dinners at the shore with my brothers, sisters-in-law and me cooking for a dozen or more people is one of my favorite things.
SJF: Yes, I remember that quaint small town, Wallington, N.J., where we were parochial school classmates. We also mutually treasure the Jersey Shore. My Grandparents owned a bungalow a few streets from your former home (which sadly washed away during Hurricane Sandy) at Ortley Beach. We had fun times at Barnacle Bill’s playing pinball back in the day! Where has the time gone? Moving on…How long have you been a journalist/reporter/professor? (Did you always want to be one)?
SL: I have been a journalist since I was 15. My best friend was a year older and editor in chief of the high school newspaper. She suggested I write about a recent rock concert I attended. I gave it a lot of thought, handed in the article and realized this was my life calling.
SJF: Serendipity! Who knew??? What a great way to take that first step. Speaking of steps…What have been your life hurdles? successes?
SL: It is not easy to stay balanced. It is a constant struggle. For much of my life I’ve worked in a high-octane environment. You are working with people who are smarter, better connected, prettier… you name it. It’s a constant reminder to recite the Serenity Prayer.
SJF: One would never know that you have struggled, you make it all seem so easy! So inspiring! Which brings me to: who is “your” inspiration ?
SL: Nelson Mandela, who forgave. Pope John Paul II, for his courage. Paul Newman, for his integrity. Ted Turner, for his commitment to the environment.
SJF: That is an incredible line up. Can you tell us about three significant/pivotal events in your life?
SL: First heartbreak: Love hurts. My sister’s death at 29: There are no guarantees. My first layoff: The glass is half full, not half empty. It’s a time to check out new frontiers and sometimes it’s destiny.
SJF: Do you have any fears?
SL: Oh, sure. Fear of losing my independence, physically, financially. Fear of not reaching my potential. Fear of getting lazy and tired and worst of all, jaded. But there are a lot of things that I worry about in a larger sense. I worry about a growing lack of civil discourse in this country…I don’t even want to give voice to my worst fears about that. I worry that despite an infinite number of examples about how we abuse our natural resources (air, water, wildlife) that we continue to be lousy stewards of this beautiful planet and I worry about the Middle East. It always seems that when things can’t get any worse…they do.
SJF: What do you usually dream about?
SL: I can’t remember my dreams. Maybe that’s a good thing.
SJF: What is your strongest asset? What do you need to work on??
SL: Everyone comments on my high energy (and I’ve never been known to drink coffee) as well as my enthusiasm and love of adventure. As for what I need to work on: patience, living in the moment, maximizing time efficiency.
SJF: Do you “give back”? if so with which groups?
SL: I am on the board of the Y in my town and I am actively involved in projects, I am a Eucharistic minister at my church, I’ve done volunteer work at a hospital in Bangladesh and a children’s camp in Massachusetts. I am a member of the Sierra Club, Audubon Society and Nature Conservancy. And I teach.
SJF: What’s up next for you??? Teaching at Cronkite, Consulting etc.
SL: I’m still exploring this new career. It’s a lot of fun and I’ve done lectures in Poland and consulted privately all over the country and Europe.
SJF: Do you miss reporting/anchoring?
SL: I’m still a news junkie. I do get totally entranced when reading some news stories. I will stare at a TV monitor at work on a big story. I think sometimes.. that would be fun. But TV news is an all or nothing game. Energy, focus, stress levels, b.s. It will push you. I did it for a long time. I wouldn’t say I’m out of the news business 100%, But I am doing things differently now. And it feels right.
SL: Well, I know what can go wrong in an interview. I know words can get taken out of context. I know that the focus in the piece can be on something completely different than the interview that it was based on. But there’s something called trust and respect.
SJF: Any regrets in life?
SL: I should be fluent in a second language, should have learned how to eat like a lady.
SJF: Big smile after that last comment! Now, onto a more serious topic: How did 9-11 impact you?
SL: It continues to be a sickening reminder of man’s inhumanity to his fellow man. Yet the resilience of man is also extraordinary. One of the most memorable weddings I ever attended was that of a friend who remarried several years after losing her first husband in the South Tower.
SJF: Do you have any particular role models? Male/Female, in and out of your profession?
SL: Derek Jeter, for the combination of clean competition and a quiet dignity. Of course I have an endless number of female role models. My mother, who raised four children and worked full time as a hospital nurse. She teaches by example how to live your life. Christiane Amanpour: brilliant and gutsy. Malala Yousafzai: eloquent and fearless. And countless women I am lucky enough to call friends who are strong, compassionate and fun.
SJF: What qualities should the younger generation aspire to have that you think are important in this day and age?
SL: Tune in. Vote. Care. Do better than the generation before you.
SJF: How do you feel about how much tech people are using all the time? Do you think we should connect more in person?
SL: Yes. Smart phones and tablets can actually be very alienating when used to excess. We need to connect in person.
SJF: Funny stories about anchoring?
SL: Oh, there was the earring that fell off mid sentence. Or Richard Simmons trying to hijack my live shot or getting a call close to midnight to anchor the overnight when I was sipping a beer in a hot tub.
SJF: Funny! But you are so resilient, I have faith that you handled all of those well.
SJF: How do you handle loss????
SL: It makes me appreciate life and love that much more. And it makes me recognize that loss is part of life.
SJF: On that note…thank you, my friend, kindred spirit and “extraordinary person”, Susan Lisovicz for sharing your story!
Photos: Courtesy of Susan Lisovicz
Articles:
http://money.cnn.com/2007/01/31/news/newsmakers/markets_bush/index.htm?postversion=2007013115
http://www.wpunj.edu/news/detail.dot?id=343319
http://cronkite.asu.edu/node/1129
http://cronkite.asu.edu/node/2757
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/susan-lisovicz/air-travel-tips_b_2488373.html
Goodbye Friend: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-WBRsUuB3_8
Former CNN financial correspondent Susan Lisovicz: http://vimeo.com/10816188
CNN All Access, NYSE Susan Lisovicz Reporting https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xKG_9Wc8fdE
An especially poignant article: http://www.cnn.com/2009/US/06/05/dday.lisovicz/index.html?eref=onion and video with Susan Lisovicz and her late Uncle Lenny, a D-Day Hero: http://us.cnn.com/video/?/video/us/2009/06/06/lisovicz.dday.hero.cnn
Remember those feisty sisters in the 2010 Award-Winning Film, THE FIGHTER (starring Mark Wahlberg, Christian Bale, Amy Adams and Melissa Leo)? Get off the porch why dontcha!!! ! Meet Scituate, (Pronounced Sit-choo-uit) Massachusetts‘ very own Erica McDermott: actress, celebrity, model, RN, wife of Bob McDermott and mom of 2 tween daughters, Maisy and Kate. Erica’s amazing breakthrough role was portraying “Tar Ecklund”, the “sister” with the BIG HAIR in THE FIGHTER, along with other “Sisters”; Actresses Melissa McMeekin, Bianca Hunter, Dendrie Taylor, Jenna Lamia, Jill Quigg and Kate O’Brien, (sister of late night host Conan O’Brien). Erica also appeared as Carl Elway’s Assistant in “American Hustle” (working with Director David O. Russell on both films) and several other Independent feature films as well as a variety of theatre performances and celebrity hosting events.
Erica has a really interesting story to tell…so…Ladies and Gentlemen, I’m thrilled to introduce you to my “kindred spirit” from New England, Erica McDermott, a.k.a. Erica McD.!
SJF: Let’s start at the very beginning! Please tell us a bit about your early years.
EMcD: Sure. I lived in Somerville Massachusetts until the sixth grade. We moved to Quincy, where I did the majority of my “growing up”. My parents married very young and soon after they welcomed me into their world. They’re still married today!
SJF: Sweet! Do you have any siblings?
EMcD: I am an only child and I LOVE IT!! It was very challenging to play the game Connect Four all by myself – I had to get creative. (Hahhaha I’m only half kidding)!
SJF: I marvel at your solo game playing abilities!! OK moving on… You know you’re a kindred spirit of mine-we’re both Registered Nurses, and we share the zodiac sign “Taurus” (no wonder), which is a premium! Where did you study Nursing and what is your specialty? Do you still practice?
EMcD: Yes, I’m a Registered Nurse. I earned my BSN (Bachelors of Nursing) with a minor in Chemistry & Biology in 1995 at Salem State University. Although I don’t currently practice, it’s important to me to maintain my license. I worked hard to earn it – it’s something that means a great deal to me. My specialty as a nurse was Pediatric Traumatic Brain Injury and Neuropsychiatry. I often look for continuing education classes that focus on these areas.
SJF: Very impressive…and your credentials made me think about another funny nurse who is also an actress, Bonnie Hunt! How did the acting bug bite you? What propelled you?
EMcD: When my children were entering full day school, I decided it was time to get back into nursing. At the same time, I was asked to perform in a One Night Only benefit performance in my home town of Scituate. The show was called MOMologues, a comedy about Motherhood. The director Lisa Rafferty, was looking for funny Moms from my town, and people suggested they ask me to take part. I had been in exactly 1 play in Junior High School, and public speaking really never bothered me. After some thought, I agreed to do the show. When the show was over, I had an overwhelming feeling of happiness. Without question, in 2008 I had found a part of me that I didn’t know existed.
SJF: Incidentally, Lisa Rafferty was kind enough to send me a note about you: “We’ve been so lucky to have Erica be a part of the development of two our MOM shows. Her talent shines through our material – her commitment and fearlessness sparks the comedy every time”‘
SJF: So…MOMologues was extremely serendipitous! And after the MOMologues?
EMcD: A few weeks after the MOMologues show, I received an email from Plymouth Rock Studios. PRS was planning on building huge Hollywood style Studios in Plymouth MA. They invited me down to see the plans. I still don’t know how they found me?? While I was there they offered me free acting classes over several weeks. I decided to go & didn’t share this new activity with any of my friends. I was fearful that they would think I was having some sort of a midlife crisis. I loved the classes, and was strongly encouraged to send a head shot and resume to local casting and modeling agencies. To my surprise, I started working the next week. My first job was a photo shoot for stock photos for a magazine.
http://www.dinakphotography.com/
SJF: Very cool! Such an amazing start to your acting/modeling career! How did they find you??? Talk about mysteries! Free acting classes are usually unheard of! And then a photo shoot to boot! Alright, now for the fun stuff…Come on..Tell us about your breakthrough role in THE FIGHTER and how it came about!
EMcD: Not long after that photo shoot I was called into Boston Casting for a film called The Fighter. They were looking for background actors to be “tough girls”. I was called into a room with about 20 or 30 other people, Casting Director Angela Peri spoke to the group. She walked by each girl assessing if they could get the “job done”. Girls were passed by over and over again because she didn’t think they looked “tough” enough. I had been taught in my acting classes that sometime you need to take a risk. I went for it. When Angela told me I was “too pretty to be tough”, I stepped out of line, got in her face and aggressively told her that she was going to give me part in movie. I may have dropped an F-Bomb…. or two. Little did I know that this was the first of 5 auditions that would ultimately earn me a supporting role in the Oscar Nominated film The Fighter.
SJF: That’s phenomenal! Ahem. I was at that casting call too, (LOL) but on a different day and placed in a different group of women…Angela took one look at me in my get-up: wig, bandanna, in snake pants and snake sandals with my supposedly “tough broad” stance & garb and matter-of-factly said: “Nah ah…Go over and talk to my casting associate, I want you for featured as a nurse in that other film, which was ultimately called “Locked In“. Yep I was one of those “passed over” but it’s all good, and then I was fortunate to be cast featured as a British Reporter in The Fighter anyway!! I really admire how you took the risk! That takes chutspah!
SJF: What are your “secrets” for newbies breaking into “the biz” or for those who aren’t booking roles or just need more opportunities? Any particular tidbits of advice?
EMcD: I acknowledge that what happened to me is ridiculously unusual. It’s almost hard to believe. I wish I had some magical advice to share with other people looking to break into the business. Classes, owning the choices I make during auditions and being prepared are some of the things that I try to do to stay on track.
SJF: Those all make a lot of sense! Can you tell us who your inspiration is as an actress?
EMcD: My family are very supportive. They believe in me and route for me. They all inspire me to work hard and to do my absolute best. We try to sit down for dinner, together, as often as possible. We really connect at this time, and talk about our day. When possible, I book auditions during the day while my girls are at school. I’ve learned how to juggle as so many Moms and Dads do.
SJF: Now for a little nitty gritty, how do you “get into” character?
EMcD: If I am being considered for a role in a biopic, I research everyone involved in the story. I look at photos, read books and watch documentaries if they are available. This process helps me see the whole picture before zoning in on one particular person. Kristin Swan from Swan Communications Therapies is my Dialect Coach. If I need to pick up a new accent quickly I can always count on her.
I often visit a coffee shop in Hingham to try out a new accent for the first time. It’s weird to speak to someone in a new voice for the first time. I feel that if I can do it, in front of strangers, and truly pull it off without anyone raising an eyebrow – that I have perfected the accent.
SJF: Erica, Kristin Swan was so kind to send us a note about working with you. Here’s what she had to say: “I will very gladly speak about my work with Erica!”
….”Erica is a talented actress with an acute ear and an excellent handle on accents. She makes my job as her dialect coach very easy as she comes prepared and is easily directed. To prep for a new accent, we research and chat specifics about the target accent and then with some additional pointers from me, Erica typically dives right in and starts practicing. I will check in and phonetically transcribe a paragraph or two from her speech, providing periodic check-ins until it is mastered. It never takes long, as she is a quick study. What is the most impressive about working with Erica is how analytical she is. She wants to understand not only the accent she is prepping for but also her own native Boston accent. Her level of awareness, her preparation and her tenacity leads to an end result that is natural and believable.”
SJF: Kristin really admres your work ethic! Very impressive! “Pahk the cah”, eh? (Can you tell I miss Boston)? Also quite a task, to research all the characters! Monumental!
SJF: Do you “give back” and if so, with which particular groups? Do you feel that it is important for other actors and celebrities do so as well?
EMcD: I support a few local charities and organizations here in Boston. I’ve been a fan of The Ellie Fund for years. They are a non-profit organization that fights breast cancer by easing its effects on patients and their families. I’ve followed The Home for Little Wanderers since I was in Nursing School. They’ve been open for over 200 years and have earned the reputation for doing whatever it takes to strengthen vulnerable families and to keep children safe.
SJF: How often have you hosted events as a celeb, which is a different “role” than acting. Is hosting events difficult? How do u prep?
EMcD: I’ve hosted quite a few events – sometimes I’m a solo emcee and sometimes I’m part of a group. Most recently I hosted the Imagine Magazine Awards Show at the Boston Hard Rock. It was fun because the room was filled with peers, colleagues and friends from the New England Entertainment Industry. I was able to poke fun at my friends and tell a few jokes – it was easy to prep for this event. What I loved about this specific party was that I truly celebrated the success of some pretty special people in my region who work in the film & television business. To hear exactly why they were given awards was inspiring to me.
SJF: Here is another recent interview link featuring you in IMAGINE MAGAZINE by Publisher Carol Patton: http://imaginenews.com/getting-know-erica-mcdermott/
SJF: How about that physical transformation of you (hair/makeup etc.) in THE FIGHTER and AMERICAN HUSTLE? (
Side note, folks…Below are a few photos of Erica’s metamorphosis as very different characters in those two films!
Erica McDermott as Tar Ecklund in The Fighter with Mark Wahlberg and Amy Adams and her other “Sisters”
EMcD: – It took over 2 years to grow my hair out after filming The Fighter. Not a complaint, just an observation. I’d bleach my hair again in a second if a character called for it. I also had to keep the pounds on during filming. I can’t say that part was hard. Hahhaaa!
I ate a few bagels to get my curves on for American Hustle. We wanted my characters look to have a hint of Tippi Hedren’s style from Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds. The hair was spot on!
SJF: WOW! I think that your hair in THE FIGHTER (and that porch scene) is unmatched and will always be historic as was your cleavage (ahem) in American Hustle! Bagels or prosthestics???
SJF: I have a little surprise for you…One of your Sisters in “The Fighter”, another sassy, silly, serious actor, Melissa McMeekin has a little to say about you: “I just am so honored to know Erica. I have said so many times that being part of The Fighter was an amazing gift, but truly the best gifts were the friendships I formed with the amazing women that played my sisters. And Erica and I have become so close that I honestly can’t even believe that I didn’t know her 5 years ago. She is an incredibly talented and fearless actress. She is a complete natural, it’s like she just knows exactly what to do, her instincts are incredible. I really think she can do anything and she is probably one of the absolute funniest people I know. Her comedic timing is off the charts. She is one in a million and as beautiful as she is the most stunning thing about her is how truly amazing of a person she is”.
SJF: That was so nice of Melissa and so true about you, Erica! Keep on shining!
So, what’s next for you on the big screen?
EMcD: I recently worked on the Warner Brothers Pictures’ biopic, directed by Scott Cooper, about Whitey Bulger called Black Mass. My character is Mary Bulger, wife of ex-state senator Billy Bulger (Benedict Cumberbatch). It was an incredible and memorable experience. The movie is set to hit theaters on September 18th.
SJF: I am sure we’ll stay tuned for that film! Benedict is nominated for several awards for his portrayal of Alan Turing in this year’s “The Imitation Game” at the top of his game as well!
SJF: Thanks so much Erica, for sharing your extraordinary story and for all of your photos!!
You can follow Erica McDermott on TWITTER!
Here is another recent article about Erica from IMAGINE MAGAZINE http://imaginenews.com/getting-know-erica-mcdermott/
In my opinion, an absolute gem in the San Diego area is Torrey Pines State Beach! Every time I visit, I notice different aspects of nature, such as spectacular rock formations, pelicans flying overhead solo or in groups, the magnificent waves crashing, high and low tides, people strolling & jogging, children playing with pails and shovels, sand castles being built, etc.
It always invigorates me to walk to my special “rock” and back which is about 5000 steps!
I have an annual California State Park Visitors Pass.
(It’s a terrific value if you frequent California State Parks).
Today I ventured out to grab some sunshine and walk briskly before an evening meeting.
As always, I was captivated by the sights, sounds, & scents surrounding me.
I snapped several photos and invite you to revisit my wonderful time!
San Diego Musical Theatre’s Irving Berlin’s White Christmas Photo: www.kjphotography.com
Based on the beloved, timeless film, this heartwarming musical adaption features seventeen Irving Berlin songs, played by a live 22 piece orchestra! Veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis have a successful song-and-dance act after World War II. With romance in mind, the two follow a duo of beautiful singing sisters en route to their Christmas show at a Vermont lodge, which just happens to be owned by Bob and Phil’s former Army Commander. The dazzling score features well known standards including Blue Skies, I Love A Piano, How Deep Is the Ocean and the perennial favorite, White Christmas. White Christmas is back! Make it a holiday tradition in your family!
Production Team: Director: Todd Nielsen; Choreography: Lisa Hopkins; Re-Staging of Choreography: Keenon Hooks; Musical Director: Don LeMaster; Lighting Designer: Matt Novotny; Costume Coordinator: Janet Pitcher; Stage Manager: Kendra Stockton* (Equity).
WHITE CHRISTMAS CAST (* Member of Actors Equity Association):
TODD DUBAIL* (Bob Wallace) is excited to be performing in San Diego again, after moving from here to NYC in 1994. A big thank you to SDMT for making that happen! National tours: Joseph … (Pharaoh, with Patrick Cassidy & Jon Secada), Grease (Danny, with Frankie Avalon, Chubby Checker & Fabian), Leader Of The Pack and Jesus Christ Superstar (with Ted Neeley & Carl Anderson). Regional credits include: Starlight Express (Greaseball), Aladdin (Kassim), Cats (Rum Tum Tugger), Little Shop Of Horrors (Orin, et al.), Crazy For You (Lank), All Shook Up (Chad), Guys And Dolls (Sky Masterson), Tarzan (Clayton), Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Hairspray (Corny Collins), The Thing About Men (Sebastian), Damn Yankees (Joe Hardy), Romance, Romance (Alfred/Sam), Into The Woods (Cinderella’s Prince/Wolf), and Cabaret (Cliff). Thanks to his amazing family, friends and JJS for their love and unwavering support. Mr. DuBail is a proud member of Actors’ Equity Association.
ALLISON SPRATT PEARCE* (Betty Haynes) was last seen at SDMT as Maria in The Sound of Music. Credits include: Broadway-Curtains, Cry Baby and Good Vibrations. National tour: Sally Bowles in Cabaret. Recent: Jane in Emma, Phoebe in As You Like It, Viola in Twelfth Night at The Old Globe, Victoria in Sideways at The La Jolla Playhouse and Debbie in Old Jews Telling Jokes at The Lyceum. Allison has a mid-Atlantic AAA commercial running and coaches privately and with MTCA. She also has a duet group, Basso e Voce for special events. This Spring she will be Eliza in My Fair Lady at Cygnet. BFA-Elon University & MFA-USD/Old Globe. www.AllisonSprattPearce.com
JEFFREY SCOTT PARSONS* (Phil Davis) is grateful White Christmas has become a San Diego tradition! SDMT audiences have seen him as Phil Davis for the past two years as well as Skimbleshanks in Cats earlier this season. Other San Diego credits include Romance/Romance and Dames at Sea (North Coast Rep), Billy Crocker in Anything Goes, Bobby Child in Crazy for You (Moonlight Amphitheatre), and Malcolm in The Full Monty (Welk Resort). As a member of Musical Theatre Guild in Los Angeles he was most recently seen as Agis in Triumph of Love. Member of Actors Equity. Love to the fam and Happy Holidays! www.jeffreyscottparsons
TRO SHAW* (Judy Haynes) is thrilled to be making her SDMT debut in this amazing production. Notable credits include Broadway’s West Side Story (Anybodys); Geffen Playhouse’s Rapture, Blister, Burn (u/s Avery); Norris Center’s White Christmas (Judy Haynes); La Mirada’s Seven Brides For Seven Brothers (Sarah); and Utah Shakes’ The Matchmaker (Minnie Fay). Special thanks to Todd, Erin and Gary for making this an amazing experience. Thanks also to Simon for the limitless support. Ms. Shaw hails from Berkeley, CA and holds a BFA in Acting from Carnegie Mellon University. www.troshaw.com
Additional Cast:
Joy Allen, Jeni Baker, Amy Beth Batchelor, Philip Cobb, William Cobb, Crystal Davidson, Janie d’Avignon, Karla Franko, John Gamboa, Max Gidaley, Siri Hafso, Danny Hansen, Kyle Hawk, April Henry, Ed Hollingsworth, Allison Knight, Andrew Koslow, Danielle Levas, Paul Morgavo, Joy Newbegin, Jeremy Shull, Claire Scheper, Doug Schmitt, Debra Wanger and John Wescott.
TICKET INFORMATION:
Single tickets for SDMT’s production of WHITE CHRISTMAS are $42.00, $52.00, $62.00 and $72.00. Children 16 and under save $10. There are discounts for Seniors and Students. Equity and Actor’s Alliance may purchase up to 2 tickets at half price. Group discounts for parties of 10 or more are available by calling the Administrative Office at 858-560-5740. For individual tickets contact the Administrative Office at 858-560-5740 or visit SDMT online at www.sdmt.org.
SCHEDULE: WHITE CHRISTMAS show times are Wednesday and Thursday at 7:30 p.m., Friday at 8:00 p.m., Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. and Sunday at 2:00 p.m.
LOCATION: The North Park Theatre, 2891 University Avenue, San Diego, CA 92104. There is street parking and a parking structure across the street from the theatre.
For more information and tickets call the San Diego Musical Theatre Administrative Office at 858-560-5740. The San Diego Musical Theatre Administrative Office is located at 4652 Mercury Street, San Diego, CA 92111. Box Office hours are 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (closed from 1pm-2pm), Monday through Thursday. Open 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Fridays.
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San Diego Musical Theatre: The Local Way to See Broadway!
SDMT 2015 SEASON
at the historic SPRECKELS THEATRE on Broadway
West Side Story – February 13-March 1; Director James Vasquez
Singin’ In The Rain – May 27-June 7; Director Todd Nielsen
La Cage Aux Folles – September 25-October 11; Director Larry Raben
White Christmas – November 27-December 6; Director Todd Nielsen