Ahoy dear book readers and enthusiasts in the San Diego area! No – you don’t have to travel to an island for this amazing upcoming Treasure Island Book Festival! Now featuring over 70 authors! Plus, it’s FREE! For the entire Family too! Well, shiver me timbers!
Poster for the Treasure Island Book Festival
On Saturday, October 12, from 10 am – 5 pm (Pacific Time) at the San Marcos Community Center, (3 Civic Center Drive, San Marcos, CA), join in the fun at the “Treasure Island Book Festival”. Led by local CEO and young adult Author, Tanya Ross of “Once Upon a Book Fair” (“Where stories for all ages come to life”) and a variety of authors and other team members. Get ready for a fun-filled day!
Once Upon a Book Fair 2024 is a literary celebration that immerses authors and readers in the adventures found at the turn of every page. Meet new authors, discover new books, get autographs.
UPDATED 10/10/2024:
Here is a podcast interview on the Spotlight on the Community Podcast with Guests “Once Upon a Book Fair” CEO Tanya Ross and Author Jolie Tunnell interviewed by Host Drew Schlosberg and Co-host Kristen Fogle:
Once Upon a Book Fair…
…encourages literacy …showcases multiple genres, something for everyone …inspires youth …shines a spotlight on local writers …provides a rare meet and greet with published authors …draws people together and celebrates diversity …validates San Diego’s public library programs …creates a unique cultural community event …supports small business …has education, inspiration, and imagination all in one fabulous place!
More about the Treasure Island Book Fair:
The festival itself is free. There will be food vendor(s) at the event, including a taco truck (outside), a non-alcoholic “Bar” with Mocktails and soft drinks (inside), and a coffee/pancake/ice cream vendor (inside).
A festival might not be complete without a Cosplay contest too!- It’s a community dress-up party! Whether one dresses in character garb or even as a pirate – let your Cosplay character chime in!
Are you saying “ARRRR” to yourself yet? The theme of this year’s event is Treasure Island, where pirates and scavenger hunts abound!
There will be prizes given away such as books, merchandise, art and more! Plus author panels!
Q & A with Tanya Ross, Young Adult Author and Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Left to right: Tanya Ross, Author and Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
SJF: How did Once Upon a Book Fair get started?
TR: An author friend of mine and I put our heads together one day a couple of years ago because there were no book fairs up in the North County of San Diego. We wanted to give local authors a chance to come together in a place outside of San Diego proper where the fees for a table would be affordable. We launched our brainchild the first year (2022) in Grape Day Park with 25 authors and the assistance of the Escondido Public Library. Once we saw we could do it, we went forward.
SJF: Is Once Upon a Book Fair a non-profit?
TR: On its own–not yet. It’s possible it will be eventually. This year for the first time it is a certified business with the city of Escondido. Right now it’s not fiscally possible to launch it as a non-profit. That being said, it is not a money-making venture for me. We will most likely break even with the expenses. It’s more of a passion project than a capital raising venture. I don’t want to make money on the backs of other authors.
SJF: Do you do this alone?
TR: No. Even though I am the CEO, I have a wonderful committee of ten other authors who help me with ideas and implementation. We meet monthly to discuss how we’re doing with the progress of each unique assignment. I wouldn’t be able to do this without them.
SJF: Why should people attend?
TR: You should attend if you love books! We’ll have over 70 authors to discover, chat with, and celebrate. We’ll have activities for kids, a scavenger hunt, prizes, and author panels. Everyone who attends can come in costume (cosplay), and we’ll have a couple of contests for the best outfits. There will be food and beverages! Our theme is Treasure Island, so pirates will be about.
SJF: How do I find it?
TR: The fair will be at the San Marcos Community Center, right where the library and city hall are: 3 Civic Center Drive in San Marcos. It’s an all day event, from 10 until 5.
SJF: Is there a cost?
TR: The fair is FREE.
SJF: Will you be there with your own books?
TR: Yes! I can’t wait to share my award-winning dystopian Tranquility Series with those who attend. My characters are waiting in the wings for you!
SJF: How can people get involved?
TR: We are under the non-profit umbrella of a group called Fractured Atlas, so you may donate to us through that organization. The best part is that donating to them benefits us and allows you to write off your donation while advertising your products. Write to me at tanyarossauthor@gmail.com for more information.
SPEAKERS include:
Bryan Cantrell, an award-winning writer of novels, screenplays, and comics as well as being and executive producer of feature films is our 12:00 speaker. Bryan also is an entrepreneur owning brands in fashion, beauty and the outdoor industry. He was on ABC’s Shark Tank in 2018 with his business partner pitching their Radiate Portable Campfire securing a deal with Shark, Robert Herjavec. He now resides in California with his family pursuing a love of writing, surfing and skateboarding. He’ll be sharing amazing pirate lore and all the good stuff about his latest novel, Pirates of the Wild West, A Time Travel Sea Adventure with a Western Twist, all about the infamous pirates of the Caribbean who meet secretly on Blackbeard’s prized ship. A time vortex whisks them away to the year 1873.
and…
Bestselling author Cathy Scott, a Los Angeles Times and New York Times bestselling author, veteran crime writer, investigative journalist, will be in person for our 1 p.m. slot. She will discuss her career as a reporter for local San Diego newspapers to writing true crime books such as: The Murder of Biggie Smalls,The Killing of Tupac Shakur, Murder of a Mafia Daughter,Freeway Rick Ross, and The Millionaire’s Wife.
Update! As of September 27, 2024, the proposed Author line-up includes:
I am so honored and thrilled to announce a new poetry book that I am a part of (Editing, Formatting, Publishing w/ SJF Communications) ~ It has truly been a pleasure as I gained insight into my late “cousin” Janine’s gift of writing poetry and illustrating.
It is called “THE CRY OF THE SEAGULL: JANINE’S SEA OF EMOTIONS”.
Janine Hamel Lettera was a NJ Kindergarten teacher who sadly passed away in 1999 at the age of 40. Janine was a talented poet and created visual art. Her first book “My First Day of School” was published posthumously in 2012.
Throughout the years, Janine’s Mom Carol discovered Janine’s emotional and poignant poetry and art and recently forwarded it to her Goddaughter Susan J. Farese. Susan edited, formatted and published THE CRY OF THE SEAGULL: JANINE’S SEA OF EMOTIONS in 2023 to celebrate and honor Janine and her body of work.
Themes include Love; Breaking Up; Nature; Loss, Death & Grief; Hope; People; and Mom. There is also a beautiful tribute poem at the end from Janine’s best friend Barbara.
A great gift idea for anyone!
It is available as an ebook on Amazon now and soon will be as a paperback. Stay tuned for more information. Please spread the word about Janine’s talent and her poignant words and visual pieces.
LINKS:
Here’s the paperback link for THE CRY OF THE SEAGULL: JANINE’S SEA OF EMOTIONS https://amzn.to/3X0hjnT
Here is the ebook link for THE CRY OF THE SEAGULL: JANINE’S SEA OF EMOTIONS https://amzn.to/3XmL0zP
Time has flown since the late 1970’s when I proudly received my Nursing “cap” and “pin” at the Nightingale Ceremony at Widener University and graduating as an RN with my BSN – flashing forward eight years later when I received my Masters in Nursing at Seton Hall University! A lifetime ago, but still in my heart.
Since it is National Nurses Week May 6-12, 2022, I would like to recognize nurses and applaud them for all they do!!!
BRAVO!!!!! A heartfelt THANK YOU!
My nursing career is quite diversified. In nursing, I have worked in a variety of military and civilian clinical nursing roles (med-surg, intensive care, emergency room, recovery room, orthopedic surgery, cardiothoracic surgery step- down) as well as in nursing education/staff development, administration, research and consulting and coaching/mentoring roles.
Although I am in public relations now, I stay licensed as an RN and update my license every two years with mandatory continuing education.
I also still utilize my “nursing process” when working with my PR clients – I assess, plan, implement and evaluate. I use my keen intuition and “knowing”. I make “rounds” whether in person, in the media, on the internet, etc. I am vigilant with each client to provide personalized “care” for their publicity plan and needs.
Nursing, though, remains in my heart!
The pandemic certainly has made nurses very stressed, overworked, anxious, depressed, suffering burnout, PTSD and more. Nurses give (and give) and yet are human as well and have a major need for validation, respect, encouragement and they also need to spend time on their own self care.
Nurses also need credible focused media attention – to educate the media, politicians, health care interdisciplinary colleagues and the general public! (This is one of my passions – to recognize as well as strengthen the inclusion of and positive image of nursing in the media)!
That’s one of the reasons why I published the 2nd edition of Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring in 2021. Pouring my heart out in poetry is just one creative, therapeutic, cathartic avenue to share my stories as a seasoned nurse.
I sincerely also hope that nurses find their creative passion – whether it is a visual art, writing/journaling, cooking, exercise, comedy, photography, theatre, filmmaking, crafting, etc. – get the picture???
If you are a nurse or know a nurse in your family, circle of friends or community etc., please THANK them especially this day, week, month (and forever).
As I mention in my poem “A Formula for Success” –
“When it’s all said and done, there’s no profession as diverse,
as the ART and the SCIENCE of being a NURSE”!
Feel free to leave a comment, share this post, subscribe, and/or get in touch!
Nurses Unite! Let's show the world in all its entirety Our uniqueness, our strength
Let's proclaim our vision And lifetime mission; To foster health and wellness on the reality continuum
Let's boast that it is us who can reform health! With our own Body of knowledge, Identity, Empowerment and self-governance ...
We are not the Handmaidens Battle-axes Angels of mercy or Playthings as portrayed on the latest greeting card or daytime soap opera or evening sitcom...
I dare us to show the world the unparalleled significant differences we've made in leaps and bounds... For years and years
Let's share our compassion, empathy, humor, innovation, how we love life and support each other
Nurses, I dare us to unite!!!
by
Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN in Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring (2021)
SHARING THE CARING
Let's open up our hearts and share the caring
Merge visions, ink and syllables so daring...
Life's fragile, short and sweet,
Grasp rhythm, pace, and beat
Catharsis of emotions we've been wearing.
We've seen it all, the panic, pain, and fears
Of newborns to centenarians in years
From birth to life's demise
Our "knowing" makes us wise
Yet…Prose as catalyst releases tears...
Brave and famous poets we need not be
but writing from the heart, that sets us free
Through poems we tell our stories
Share pain, grief, caring, glories
Regardless of our nursing specialty.
No need to build the walls to hide
The memories we've buried deep inside
It's good to let it go, allowing words to flow
Stand back and let the power be your guide.
by
Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN
in
Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring (2021)
Over the past year, since the book was published I have been having such a wonderful time doing interviews and author events and thank everyone for their support, including purchases and reviews!
NOTE: Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, SJF Communications had a great discussion about Nursing, Poetry, Intuition, Creativity and more on the The Nurse Keith Show Podcast with Keith Carlson, BSN, RN, NC-BC https://nursekeith.com/episode337/.
Keith is a Nurse Career Coach | Podcaster | Freelance Writer | Speaker | Blogger | Influencer – He helps nurses and healthcare professionals create inspired lives and careers!
Here is the information along with the podcast link and show notes:
On episode 337 of The Nurse Keith Show nursing and healthcare career podcast, Keith interviews nurse poet Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, SJF Communications regarding her original book of poetry, “Poetic Expressions in Nursing…Sharing the Caring”, and how poetry and nursing are a natural and inspiring combination for the sharing of stories, feelings, memories, and experiences.
Poetic Expressions in Nursing | The Nurse Keith Show, EPS 337
Susan J. Farese and Jeff Zevely; Photo by Scott Hall
It’s not every day that you (or your book) are featured in a segment with Jeff Zevely of the Zevely Zone on CBS 8 and the CW San Diego (KFMB)!
That’s right! Many thanks to Feature Reporter Jeff Zevely and Photojournalist Scott Hall. Jeff interviewed me about “Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring” (and the hour flew by)!
We discussed my time (eons ago) as a military nurse, glimpsed at several of my ‘vintage’ photos and I had a chance to read some of my poetry from the book.
Here is the clip:
To purchase Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring as an eBook, paperback or Audiobook, here are the links:
Promo for “Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring”
“When it’s all said and done, there’s no profession as diverse, as the art and the science of being a nurse” -Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN
“Nursing is an incredibly enriching yet stressful profession and besides being a science, it is truly an art. This second edition of Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring is dedicated to all nurses – past, present, and future. It is a celebration of nursing and a tribute to nurses, especially during this unexpected, unprecedented pandemic. Covid-19 took its toll on nurses during 2020 and hopefully the impact of stress and burnout will be lessened with time and the arts. Poetry can be a therapeutic and cathartic tool for nurses and other caring professions to deal with the angst, stressors or joys that accompany the profession“. – Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN
Originally published in 1993, Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring now has a 2nd edition and is available online (eBook and paperback, and audiobook).
Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring (2nd Edition) by Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, SJF Communications
Here is the description of the book:
This exciting collection of freeform poetry with over 40 poems by Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, is a sharing of both professional and personal thoughts and feelings. Susan is a strong advocate of the creative use of poetry to express the wonderment, frustration, dedication, and the love of nurses for their profession and their patients.
Included is a tribute poem to nurses by Mohan Chilukuri, MD and a bonus section of several of Susan’s Haiku Poems with her nature photography.
Susan invites you to share the passion and the traditions of nursing, and to explore the heart of the professional practice of nursing…sharing and caring.
Susan J. (Felice) Farese, MSN, RN, a native of NJ, received her Bachelor of Science (BSN) degree from Widener University and Masters of Science (MSN) from Seton Hall University. Her diversified nursing career includes military and civilian nursing within inpatient outpatient and academic settings- including experience as a clinician, educator, administrator, consultant, and nurse entrepreneur.
E-Book – extended DISCOUNTED price on Kindle eBook: $0.99!
Paperback is also available ($10.99):
Audiobook (narrated by Susan):
Ask me about discounts and giveaways! Please feel free to like, comment and share. Help me to get the word out to nursing community! Nurse have been stressed out and burned out since the pandemic.
Happy Nurses Week 2021 to Nurses: past, present, future and those who support them!
“When it’s all said and done, there’s no profession as diverse, as the art and the science of being a nurse” -Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN
One week of celebration, however is not enough! It has indeed been a ‘different’ year. Who would have thought that a pandemic was looming? The stress and burnout for nurses has seemed unsurmountable at times this past year. I am hopeful for nurses to feel resilient and thrive as people receive vaccinations and stay vigilant in social distancing, handwashing, being sensible, etc. We are all too important to take life (and nurses) for granted.
“Nursing is an incredibly enriching yet stressful profession and besides being a science, it is truly an art. This second edition of Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring is dedicated to all nurses – past, present, and future. It is a celebration of nursing and a tribute to nurses, especially during this unexpected, unprecedented pandemic. Covid-19 took its toll on nurses during 2020 and hopefully the impact of stress and burnout will be lessened with time and the arts. Poetry can be a therapeutic and cathartic tool for nurses and other caring professions to deal with the angst, stressors or joys that accompany the profession.” – Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN
Nurses should be celebrated for all they have done for patients and their families.
Originally published in 1993, my book Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring now has a 2nd edition and is available online (eBook and paperback, and soon to be available as an audiobook).
Special promotion for Nurses Week: the eBook of Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring (2nd Edition) by Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, SJF Communications ~ has a DISCOUNTED price on Kindle eBook: $0.99 for Nurses Week and might be extended!
This exciting collection of freeform poetry with over 40 poems by Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, is a sharing of both professional and personal thoughts and feelings. Susan is a strong advocate of the creative use of poetry to express the wonderment, frustration, dedication, and the love of nurses for their profession and their patients.
Included is a tribute poem to nurses by Mohan Chilukuri, MD and a bonus section of several of Susan’s Haiku Poems with her nature photography.
Susan invites you to share the passion and the traditions of nursing, and to explore the heart of the professional practice of nursing…sharing and caring.
Susan J. (Felice) Farese, MSN, RN, a native of NJ, received her Bachelor of Science (BSN) degree from Widener University and Masters of Science (MSN) from Seton Hall University. Her diversified nursing career includes military and civilian nursing within inpatient outpatient and academic settings- including experience as a clinician, educator, administrator, consultant, and nurse entrepreneur.
SJF: Why/How did you decide to write Journeys with Jimmy Carter and Other Adventures in Media?
BJ: People kept asking me, after I mentioned that I was retired, “what do you do or what did you?” I always answered, “I’m a writer”. Many would follow with “What have you written?”
I had been toying with a few paragraphs, so then I started saying, “I’m semi-retired, working on a memoir.”
Here is an example of letting imagination be partly driven by external forces. These fans of Jimmy Carter and Walter Cronkite, though dying off, provided a platform for my story. I didn’t mean to be at the center of American political and cultural life but a journalist can have that serendipity.
If you have modern information technology and talented colleagues, a first draft of your story can be whipped up in about two years including finding a solid publisher with a stable of intelligent editors and designers. Subsequent drafts will benefit from trusted advance readers, including some who think the completed final first draft needs more substance, except for the brilliant energy-oriented lawyer who noted a lack of rigor—He said the book could be divided into three parts: an analysis of the Carter Presidency, a study of modern telecommunications policy & the Presidency and my friends and others I had encountered. Though not denying my right to name names, he was quite obviously miffed at being left out. Go back to the drawing board!, he counseled.
SJF: Did you make any personal discoveries (or aha! moments) while writing your memoir? If so, please explain.
BJ: While writing, the concept of “flow” seemed to kick in as I was very comfortable remembering earlier life-episodes. In fact, one post-publication reader asked if I had used a “diary” with notes because details seemed to flow as I wrote. This discovery of useful memory was a pleasant surprise.
SJF: How did you decide on the title and decide to find a publishing company vs. self-publishing??
BJ: As loyal readers will attest, here is the book and I take full responsibility for factual errors. The solid publisher, John Koehler, wanted to use the Carter cover in part for marketing. I had no better idea.
SJF: Tell us about your background in the media and in politics
BJ: After graduate school (M.S., Journalism, Graduate School, Columbia University), I was hired as an Intern/Writer at NBC News and after a few months in the Newsroom at NYC Headquarters was assigned as Writer/Editor in Washington, DC. Their top stars, such as David Brinkley and Nancy Dickerson would present their copy for radio news (“hourlies) and television inserts. Left their own styles but occasionally did find factual errors which they were always glad to correct. During this period was often assigned as field producer at Capitol Hill gallery and back-up at other news making locations in DC. After accepting an overnight assignment monitoring audio feeds from NASA early Apollo Program came to attention of CBS news team covering moon landing effort and was hired as Associate Producer there. Subsequently became Producer (for Walter Cronkite) in coverage of Apollo 11. After ten years in broadcast journalism was asked by Jimmy Carter to help as Television Advisor in his nascent presidential campaign.
Barry Jagoda with President Jimmy Carter in the Oval Office – Courtesy Photo – Barry Jagoda
SJF: Tell us about your role in politics as Presidential media advisor
BJ: Carter wanted help understanding role of TV in presidential nominating politics and general election, though he was not interested in someone who would change his style and manner of presentation. After I said I would only advise him of effect of his words on news coverage, by networks and major print publications, he said I could be helpful and told senior media advisor, Jody Powell, to invite me aboard the campaign. After the successful election of 1976 I was named Special Assistant to the President, serving in the White House focusing on media and cultural relations. Eventually I had a philosophical difference with top campaign advisors (including powerful candidate spouse, Rosalynn Carter) who thought my work was giving Carter “overexposure” instead of focusing on a few cardinal issues. Moving to the National Security Council, I served there for seven months, but did not participate in Carter’s 1980 unsuccessful re-election campaign.
SJF: Tell us about your upbringing, geographically, personally etc.
BJ: My parents, both immigrants from Eastern Europe (part of the massive inflow between 1880 and 1920) were hard working and successful. Mother, who spoke no English upon arrival in USA from Ukraine, quickly mastered elementary and secondary education and went on to receive a medical degree (pediatric chiropody) from Case/Western Reserve University. Father, a serial entrepreneur, had a grocery business in affluent part of otherwise industrial Youngstown, Ohio. After being forced to move to warmer climes (first Phoenix, then Houston) he started small markets catering to shift workers from emerging petrochemical plants. They settled in post-WWII GI bungalows near stores. Eventually parents moved to districts of Houston where schooling was an improvement. This had a profound effect on me, as I moved forward with classmates in journalism and debate at one of Houston’s top high schools, Bellaire. For college, though accepted at some top private universities, enrolled at cost-effective University of Texas.
Karen and Barry Jagoda – Courtesy Photo
SJF: If you had to write the book over again, would you change anything?
BJ: A re-written book might include more information on differences between legitimate media and fake expressions, particularly in an election year. Thus, I would try to provide more analysis of difference between legitimate media and fake social media, especially from my experience and perspective from years of work in journalism and, more recently, in use of legitimate social media.
SJF: A brief history of your education, media and political positions/teaching appointments published articles, etc.
BJ: After graduate school, I was hired by NBC News, then CBS News to cover science and politics of moon landing. This evolved into coverage of the Watergate scandals for which I shared in an Emmy Award.
SJF: What are your personal pastimes/hobbies/interests/passions?
BJ: When I have a chance to relax, I enjoy the sports of golf and squash racquets.
SJF: Anything you’d like to mention about Watergate? Kennedy in Texas? Apollo? Emmy award?
BJ: From my memoir one can see a photo of the Emmy Award, press credentials for President Kennedy’s fatal trip to Texas in 1963 and photos signed by Apollo astronauts reflecting on my coverage of those events.
SJF: Where can we find you on the web? Website, social media etc.
BJ: I maintain a website (BarryJagoda.com) where those photos are easily accessible. Less useful for my expression is the Twitter account and the Linked-In that are available in my name. The best way I communicate with others is through email, where I am readily available via <Barry@barryjagoda.com>.
SJF: Any recommendations for us to journal or document what we are going through with Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic? Stress management tools?
BJ: When I anticipate a sense of stress or anxiety upcoming (mainly due to the Covid-19 Pandemic) I find “breathing exercise” to be a regular source of relief.
SJF: How has the Covid-19 affected you personally/professionally?
BJ: The Pandemic has forced me to be very careful about meeting with or encountering others without following the recommended tools of mask wearing, social distancing and trying to stay at home as much as possible.
SJF: Role models or persons that inspire you in your life?
BJ: I am reminded about these safety measures—and other common-sense applications—by my spouse, Karen Jagoda, who is a role model and an inspiration.
SJF: Favorite quotes?
BJ: At some point I favored the expression “practice makes perfect,” but in maturity I have chosen a variation, “practice makes improvement.” A short way of pointing to the inspiration I’ve had from Karen is by attention to the words in dedication to her of this book: “If you want to go quickly, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
SJF: Who would you like to have lunch or dinner with to discuss your book?
BJ: In addition to a long lunch to discuss the memoir with President and Mrs. Carter, it would be useful to compare notes with Professor Douglas Brinkley and other scholars who have given serious thought to their lives, including accomplishments and shortcomings.
SJF: Life hurdles? Successes?
BJ: After formal education I realized my shortcomings in mathematics and computational sciences, but was gratified to have gained skills in public speaking and general social interaction.
SJF: Three significant/pivotal moments in your life?
BJ: My parents favored extreme “left-wing” social change and when I realized that often brought more trouble than success, I became more moderate in political opinion. After choosing journalism as a career approach I left behind advocacy but later, pivotally, realized one could combine fact seeking with moderate political expression.
SJF: Fears?
BJ: I fear unchecked governmental power and, simultaneously I worry about a failure to use the levers of government to seek improvement in the general human condition.
SJF: Recurring dreams/ Usual dreams?
BJ: From time-to-time I worry about human catastrophes, such as earth quakes, and a general failure to act in ways that will modify the harmful effects of climate change. The weakness of humanity to observe and address problems sometimes leads me to have nightmares, mostly overcome in a startling awaking.
SJF: Strongest asset? What would you like to work on/improve?
BJ: I am a good listener but would like to improve on that trait. And, moving too fast—simulating the speed of light—makes one see less brightly!
SJF: Where/How do you ‘give back’ to your community/communities?
BJ: Though I try to see how I can give back to my fellows, and to the general community, this is an area that requires concentration and improvement.
SJF: Any regrets in life?
BJ: Being readily more selfless by focusing on helping my fellow man is a real shortcoming that, I try to remind myself, needs focus and hard work.
SJF: What qualities should the younger generations aspire to that you think are important in this day and age?
BJ: The younger generation seems even more self-oriented that my own group of “baby boomers” and pre-boomers.
SJF: Funny/humorous (appropriate) stories in media or politics?
BJ: The book, Presidential Campaigns, by Professor Paul F. Boller cites hundreds of laugh-filled moments in politics, including several where I am the butt of the situation. I heartily recommend this volume for many hours of humor.
SJF: How do you handle loss?
BJ: Loss is often the result of misfortune and, therefore, should not be taken personally, though this awareness may only mitigate the pain.
SJF: Where have you traveled and where would you like to travel once Covid-19 is OVER???
BJ: I have traveled the world as a journalist and political assistant, including having more than just a passing stop or two. Longer stays, of course, always been more informative and rewarding. These days, while desk bound by the Pandemic, I think of going back to some places I’ve enjoyed the most—particularly the Hawaiian Islands and the Adriatic coast and islands—but to more intriguing locations including Madagascar and New Zealand. Having the responsibility to share in the caring of a very active canine, a Mini Schnauzer named Timothy, is probably as much of a snag for travel as anything else.
SJF: What has been the most valuable lesson in your life?
BJ: The most valuable lesson I’ve had would be learning to appreciate the many qualities that others can bring when and where I frequently fall short.
SJF: Many thanks Barry, such a pleasure to learn more about you.
Book Details: Journeys With Jimmy Carter and Other Adventures in Media
The book is available at Amazon and wherever books are sold:
The poem ‘A Light Dimmed’ by Susan J. Farese is included in the 2019-2020 San Diego Poetry Annual which is now available for purchase at a discounted rate of $15 plus shipping.
Excited to announce that my poem (in Haiku format), ‘A Light Dimmed’ about my Aunt Pam, who sadly passed away 6 months ago, is published in the Veterans section of the 2019-2020 San Diego Poetry Annual (page 294).
This is the second year that my poetry has appeared in the San Diego Poetry Annual anthology. Last year my poem ‘Flashbacked Life’ was included and I thoroughly enjoyed being a part of the many live poetry readings and presentations around the San Diego area. Unfortunately, all public readings for the 2019-2020 anthology are now on hold due to the current situation with Coronavirus/Covid-19.
As we are all probably aware, the recent situation and news is all about preventing and dealing with the devastating effects of the novel Coronavirus and Covid-19 and positive thoughts and concern for the front line health care workers working with infected patients.
How are we all doing? Staying healthy? Are we helping to ‘flatten the curve’? Washing hands more frequently? Being cognizant of and seriously practicing ‘social distancing’ or ‘physical distancing’? Shaking our heads every once in awhile when we hear the news reports and numbers of positive coronavirus tests, Covid-19 cases and unfortunately sad accounts of death numbers rising?
I’m thinking about you!
Is this truly a paradigm shift for us?
If you’re parents of young, middle grade, high school or college-aged kids…how are you coping with things? You know, lesson plans, zoom learning, kids and young adults struggling to be non-social despite their affinity to others? Us too? Come on, be truthful. I’m thinking about you!
If you’re a creative (visual, performing, literary artist), how is it going for you? Any new ideas percolating? Do you have online presence? Have you been tweaking your website or social media or branding campaigns? Are you actively promoting or selling your work? Are you watching shows or movies while isolating? Working with an online coach or mentor?
What about those of you who usually work in an office or other outside establshment? How are you coping?
Has the financial change of late affected you? Have you taken steps to notify billing (household payments, utilities, assocations, healthcare etc.)?
Is anyone actually thriving? I hope so! Let’s try together. We can get through this.
For me, since I’ve worked from home for many years, it hasn’t been too bad of an adjustment. Well, it comes and goes..Truthfully, I miss my FREEDOM to come and go as I pleased. (Gee, I took that for granted)! But ‘staying put’ with social distancing, avoidng crowds, etc. is hopefully going to be worth it in the long run…right?
Here’s a list of my 10 things I have been doing to ‘survive’ the ‘self-isolation’ ‘shelter in place’ etc. Send me your ideas as well!
Spring cleaning – have cleaned out several bathroom, bedroom, office and ‘junk’ drawers and have discovered a few great finds!
Taking walks (and deep breaths) in the neighborhood and in nature (as rules allow) – getting those steps! Noticing that Spring upon us despite the gloom of this pandemic.
Cooking more (and eating a bit healthier)! For the past few years, I’ll admit I wasn’t cooking as much. It’s actually been fun and sort of a puzzle to plan meals lately depending on how the stores stocked (or as we now it…unstocked).
Online learning: Have taken several courses online for my obtaining continuing education credits. Have you thought of online courses?
Reading manuscripts and books of my client authors and other new books.
Calling/Connecting with important family members or others in your life via calls, emails, texts, social media, etc. (you wouldn’t believe how gratifying it is to reconnect with friends from the past or to stay in touch with family across the miles)!
Cherishing family (near or far) and our time together… Maintaining physical distancing while cherishing our families!
Adoring pets…we love our cat (you wouldn’t believe how calming it is to spend time with our 21 year old lovable, tuxedocat – such a social comforting feline)!
Writing! I have been submitting my poetry online, adding some blog posts, interacting online, looking for podcast and blog interviews for clients as well as for SJF Communications.
Reflecting and making choices for being: more grateful..kinder…and patient.
How about you? What are your ‘go-to’s’? Let’s hang in there and check in with each other. We’re all worth it!
Meet Chi Varnado – Author of ‘The Dance Centre Presents Giselle’
We had a great time last week with our client Chi Varnado, Author of the newly released middle grade novel The Dance Centre Presents Giselle. Chi gave two excellent presentations at the Pine Valley Library – one with several charter school students from Pine Valley and the other combined with members of the Pine Valley community including dance teacher, Katy Gradillas and several of her dance students performing ballet and gymnastics.
But first, a little about Chi Varnado:
Ramona resident Chi Varnado is passionate about helping children view their own creativity as valuable. As a writer, former dance studio owner/teacher, choreographer, and educator, she advocates art for the sake of art – the reward being intrinsic and untethered from extrinsic reward. Varnado saw a lack in the literary market for books about dance which did not focus on competitiveness and high drama. Children want to read about what they love, so she took on the task to help fill the void to keep the story of “dance as art” alive—so began the first novel in her new series, The Dance Centre Presents Giselle, which is now available online at Amazon and Barnes & Noble and can be ordered at book stores.
Chi Varnado – Photo by SJF Communications
Varnado is currently a substitute teacher, a tutor, and an Airbnb host. She offers half-hour school and library presentations for second through sixth grade (including middle school for libraries) featuring an engaging power point followed by a short creative writing workshop. Students become highly motivated to write when Chi, as an author, uses her books and impromptu “popcorn stories” to foster their own spontaneous writing. She is also available to sell her books at books fairs or dance studios as a fundraiser.
Books by Chi Varnado Photo courtesy of Chi Varnado
Miss
Chi, as the kids refer to her, holds a bachelor’s degree in dance from San Diego
State University, and both an elementary multiple subjects and secondary
credentials. Her writing has appeared in The
San Diego Reader, Patch.com and several newspapers and she’s been
interviewed on television and radio. Her memoir, A CANYON TRILOGY: Life
Before, During and After the Cedar Fire, was a finalist in the San Diego
Book Awards and has garnered many accolades. The Tale of Broken Tail, a
children’s picture book, is also available where books are sold.
Varnado knows, firsthand, that active kids need a venue to channel their energy and interests in a positive and wholesome way that they can feel good about. These issues are folded into her presentations so that everyone can feel included.
Since there was some time between Miss Chi’s presentations, we had the chance to do quick Q & A. interview:
Q & A
Author Chi Varnado & Susan J. Farese
Photos from Chi Varnado’s Presentations at the Pine Valley Library
SF: Why did you choose to write about the ballet, Giselle,
in this first book of the series The
Dance Centre Presents?
CV: Giselle is one of my favorite ballets of all time.
SJF: Tell us the purpose of why you wrote a book series
for middle graders?
CV: I didn’t think
there were enough books for kids who want to read about dance, especially a
series focusing on the art and camaraderie of dance. So, I thought – why not
write one myself, since I had a dance studio and taught for thirty-seven years.
SJF: How did you come up with the idea of
‘Dancespirations’ on Instagram and Facebook?
CV: It just hit me
one day out of the blue. I thought it would be a fun way to offer bite-sized
quips about dance.
SJF: Why did you start dancing in the first place?
CV: I had ‘ants in my pants’ so I started to dance! Well –
actually, I was in constant motion as a child and, fortunately, both my Mom and
Grandmother recognized this and enrolled me in ballet.
SJF: What’s different about your approach to dance?
CV: I like the idea of dance for the sake of art and
expression, without the need for awards from competitions.
SJF: And the book?
CV: In The Dance
Centre Presents Giselle, readers will find friends they can relate to and
feel at home with, whether or not they are dancers themselves.
SJF: So, can you give us the storyline?
CV: When the
prima ballerina at The Dance Centre mysteriously vanishes, Randi unexpectedly
lands the lead and learns that the world of ballet is not always as glamorous
as it appears onstage. She harbors severe self-doubts about her abilities to
rise to the honor of her new role. And when she begins her pas de deux training
with a boy, new and conflicting feelings and emotions surface which send her
spiraling into panic mode. All the while, Deanne seizes opportunities to
undermine her at every pirouette. Randi struggles to maintain her crucial
focus, but what will happen if she doesn’t?
SJF: Where can we find you on the web and social media?
(SAN DIEGO, October 9, 2019) – Retired Judge Marshall Hockett and wife/traveling partner, Debbie Hockett of Encinitas are pleased to announce the publication of their book Tripping – 1975 – Falling in Love One Country at a Time.It is a love story set amidst a year of adventures on their year-long journey in a yellow Volkswagen van they lovingly dubbed the “Banana”. The book will be launched on November 16th at the Winn Room of the Coronado Library.
In 1968, Marshall attended
Stanford’s study program in England. During that year, he traveled the
European continent and got a “taste” of what was to be a life-long
love affair with travel. He knew he hadn’t seen the last of Europe.
Returning stateside, he finished
his undergraduate study at Stanford University and spent three years of law
school at the University of San Diego from which he graduated in 1972.
He started his law career at The
Legal Aid Society of San Diego, and met his wife, Debbie in court one day (she
was a court clerk). They have been inseparable for forty-five
years.
They formulated a plan to travel
in Europe for one year, and in 1975 made good on that plan.
A few days before they left for
Europe, they had dinner with their friends, Jim and Marian Malkus (Marian is
unfortunately now deceased). Marian gave Marshall a completely blank red
bound book with two wishes: 1. Fill it up and be completely honest,
and 2. Marian would be the first to read it. Marshall agreed and took her up on the offer. He gave Marian the journal upon their return.
Marian loved it and said others would as well.
Marshall began his law career in 1976 after returning from that year in Europe and worked for many years. The red journal sat and sat, until recently when a court clerk and Marshall discussed travel and the clerk suggested that Marshall write a book. Something clicked in Marshall and he said, “I did”. The clerk read and loved the book. They passed it around the court and the rest is history with Tripping 1975 being published!
Tripping – 1975 – Falling in Love One Country at a Timeis full of anecdotal stories and “vintage” 1975 photos from their
traveling in the “Banana” as well as in hotels along the way.
Tripping –
1975 – Falling in Love One Country at a Time takes the reader through several countries
and cities: Germany (Baumholder, Luxenbourg, Munich, Nuremberg), France (Paris,
Avignon, Narbone, Carcassonne, Casteljaloux, Perigueux, Montreuil-Bellay, St.
Vaast-la-Hougue, Bayeux,), Amsterdam, Spain (Barcelona, Cambrils, Granada,
Malaga, Estepona, Sevilla, Toledo, Madrid, Aranda de Duero, Santander,
Pamploma), Great Britain (Dover, London, Lincoln, Hexam, Bath, South Molton,
Woodstock), Scotland (Edinburgh, Ballater, Lochness, Lake Windermere, Fort Augustus
– Loch Ness), Wales (Rhyl, Chepstow), Switzerland (Delemont, Geneva, Zermatt,
Lauterbrunnen, Lucerne), Austria (Innsbruck, Hallein, Salzburg, Vienna),
Yugoslavia (Rijeka, Split, Dubrovnik, ), Bulgaria (Sofia, Plovdiv), Turkey
(Edirne, Istanbul, Alanya, Antalya, Pamukkale, Ankara, Izmir, near Edremit,
Ipsala), Greece (Kavala, Athens, Agios Nikolaos, Thera, Paros, Siros, Nafplio,
Sparta, Olympia), Israel (Jerusalem), Egypt (Cairo, Luxor), Crete (Iraklion),
Italy (Rome, Florence, Venice).
QUOTE FROM DEBBIE HOCKETT
“All through my life,
I’ve come across friends and acquaintances who have expressed a desire to
travel the world and wish they could do it. THEY
CAN! In the beginning, I was doubtful myself, but look what came
of it! We would never trade our year of travel for anything. It
gave us a different viewpoint of the world and the people in it. We found
that almost universally, people of all countries are nice and are anxious to
share conversation with you. This tell-all journal will show you how to
travel the world and love it!”
-Deborah (Debbie) Hockett
REVIEWS:
“The book grabs the
reader, I believe, because of the personal touches that flow throughout the
entire (book). You share the good and the bad, you address the wise and
not so wise decisions and simply lay things out as you found them. This
really appeals to me, and I think most readers would concur. This wasn’t
a fairyland tour where everything worked out perfectly.
When you described
Zermatt, Pamukkale and Egypt, I thought I was actually with you on the
trip! These are places that we’ve been to, and you really strike a chord
with readers who have been to the places that you describe. Your trip was
truly an “adventure”, An adventure is something that we all long for.
When you described places that we have not been to (the Dordogne Valley in
particular), I instinctively reached for the phone to call the travel
agent! Your one sentence description of Lochness was hysterical.”
-Attorney C.
“They say all good things
must come to an end and with a measured degree of reluctance I reached the
conclusion of Tripping 1975. From Atlantis, the Roman Empire, Greek
gods, and the Enlightenment, all journeys trace back to roads leading home I
suppose (although not in that order), The ending is truth and I’m keeping
my fingers crossed for it to play out. Thanks for the trip!”
– A. (Superior Court secretary)
In January 2020, Marshall
and Debbie will embark on a whirlwind cruising adventure: Around the world in
180 days aboard the Oceania Insignia!
Debra Wanger – The Resilient Actor – Photo Credit – Ken Jacques
(SAN DIEGO, September 23, 2019) – Actor, Author, Coach and Public Speaker, Debra Wanger is an often-sought-after professional actor, well known in the San Diego region. She published her debut book The Resilient Actor: How to Kick Ass In the Business Without It Kicking Your Ass in 2017 and is thrilled to announce the upcoming The Resilient Actor Audiobook and The Resilient Actor Workbook & Planner: How to Kick Ass in the Business Without It Kicking Your Ass.
“I’ve worked with Hollywood stars and actors currently working on Broadway. I have been able to utilize the secrets of their behind-the-scenes success along with my skills as a wellness coach and my own personal experience. I’ve worked mostly in live regional theatre, but also some television, film, and radio. When I left my BFA program and started working professionally, I had to learn the hard way all the life and balance skills they didn’t teach at the conservatory. There was a lot of focus on being a triple threat, on performance skills, but nothing about how to survive the challenging life of being an actor. I fought depression, loneliness, weight gain, difficulty navigating periods of unemployment, all of it. Like most actors, I had to learn how to get the rest & recovery I needed, how to master my mindset to work with me – not against me, and how to take care of myself like a performing athlete. I had to learn all these life skills beyond my BFA.” – Debra Wanger
Acting can be a crazy
profession, full of uncertainty, insecurity, and unpredictability. While there
are many books about technique, little has been written about how to pursue the
dream without compromising your health and sanity. Pulling from her decades of
experience as an actor, talent manager, and lifestyle coach, Debra Wanger
filled this void in 2016 with a must-read survival guide for the acting
professional.
Debra offers a positive, practical, playful, holistic approach to the art and business of acting that marries mind, body, spirit, and craft. In this essential handbook, which serves as a personal coach in a book, she covers all the bases–from exercise and nutrition to time management and setting goals to staying motivated from audition through performance. Her valuable, tried-and-true insights, gained from client successes, will enable the performing artist to balance and bolster a challenging creative career with a healthy, productive personal life.
At last there’s a clear
path through the madness. The Resilient Actor will lead you to the top
of your game, increase your professional staying power, and help you achieve
equilibrium in all aspects of your life.
ABOUT THE RESILIENT ACTOR’S WORKBOOK AND PLANNER:
Discover some of the secrets from Broadway & Hollywood to supercharge your career and balance your life. Debra Wanger knows how difficult it can be to pursue your dream of acting without compromising your health or your sanity. She drew wisdom from decades of working as an actor, talent manager, and wellness coach to write The Resilient Actor and give emerging and experienced actors a holistic approach to their profession that marries mind, body, spirit, and craft. Sustaining a healthy and satisfying career requires more than just talent- go beyond the skills you learned in your BFA program.
The Resilient Actor’s Workbook and Planner is filled with quick & easy exercises designed to help you plot the direction for your career from the start and avoid the pitfalls that many actors face. You’ll walk through the steps to figure out what kind of actor you want to be and the lifestyle you want to have. You’ll set goals and develop habits for your career and use the specially-designed included actors’ planner to create a step-by-step action and accountability plan for achieving them. The Resilient Actor’s Workbook and Planner will unlock longevity in your career by showing you how to find happiness and health in an industry that challenges both.
Debra Wanger – Photo Credit – Ken Jacques
BIO – DEBRA WANGER
Debra studied acting at
the nationally acclaimed Piven Theatre Workshop with such talents as John
Cusack, Joan Cusack, and Jeremy Piven. Her vocal training began at the
Northwestern University vocal department while still attending high school. She
declined an opera scholarship to Oberlin Conservatory in order to study musical
theatre at University of Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music (CCM.) She
graduated Magna Cum Laude from Tufts University and received a Master of Fine
Arts in musical theatre from San Diego State University, where she graduated
Phi Kappa Phi as a Marion Ross Scholar.
Debra is currently in rehearsals as “Liz”- the younger version of Queen Elizabeth in Handbagged at Moxie Theatre which runs October 19th through November 17th. She has performed in regional theatres and cabaret clubs across the country, most frequently in Los Angeles, San Diego, Boston, and South Florida. In Professionally Speaking at the Off-Broadway, The Miami Herald hailed her “a comic spark plug.” Her role in Triumph of Love won a KPBS-TV Patté award. Her one-woman show My Nights With George, Kurt & Cole, (co-written and directed by comic genius, Phil Johnson) was featured at various venues throughout Southern California and won Best New Play and Best Actress at the 2003 San Diego Actors Festival, and the San Diego Playbill Billie Award for Best Actress in a musical.
She was just featured as
The Angel in Cygnet Theatre’s critically acclaimed production of Angels in America, as well as A
Little Night Music, On the 20th Century, Spring Awakening, My Fair Lady, Evita,
Sweeney Todd and Dogfight on
the Cygnet stage. At San Diego Musical Theatre has been featured in Hairspray,Billy Elliot, Footloose, Sound of Music, La Cage Aux Folles, and White
Christmas. Other San
Diego theatre highlights include: God of
Vengeance at La Jolla Playhouse, Hamlet (Gertrude)
at Intrepid; Titanic & Sunset Blvd. at Moonlight; Permanent Collection at Mo’olelo; Full Monty (Vicki) at New Village Arts; Sleeping Beauty at North Coast Rep; Anything Goes! (Reno), Oliver! (Nancy) at Lyric Opera San Diego; Carousel and Sound
of Music at Lawrence Welk.
Her CD, Driving My Own Heart is
also available on Amazon and iTunes.
BOOK REVIEWS:
“This book is fantastic.
I’m a professional actor and also teach acting, and will recommend it to all my
students. It’s a topic not discussed enough! Resilience is one of the most
important qualities for any working actor–if not THE most important quality.
Highly recommended!”
-Amy Griffin
“The Resilient Actor by Debra Wanger is a valuable and refreshing resource for anyone in the acting profession who wants to elevate their career while attaining balance in their life. Wanger delivers a motivating, witty, and practical workbook that is bound to bring about positive and healthy change on the road to success.”
-C.K.
“I found The Resilient Actor to be very helpful to me as a musician even though the book was written for actors. It was a great reminder of how to be proactive instead of waiting for the phone to ring and how to keep active always working on your craft. It was a good reminder that even successful creative people never let up on getting their name and face out there and true artists know that their profession is always a work in progress. The book really gave me good solid tips on how to stay healthy mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually; especially when you are in between work projects. I would highly recommend this book to anyone in the business or that is thinking about getting in the business to get a reality check for the persistence needed as well as the care and feeding of the artist in you. Loved it and will continue to use it as a reference!”
We are thrilled to introduce our new SJF Communications client – San Diego Actor, Author and Coach – Debra Wanger. Debra’s book The Resilient Actor: How to Kick Ass in the Business (Without it Kicking Your Ass) brings the behind the scenes secrets of Hollywood & Broadway to supercharge one’s career and balance one’s life. An upcoming Audiobook as well as Workbook/Planner will be available soon.
SJF: In a nutshell…tell us about your life as an actor/performer – highs, lows, ‘aha’ moments- stressors…etc.
DW: I’ve worked mostly in live regional theatre, but also some television, film, and radio. When I left my BFA program and started working professionally, I had to learn the hard way all the life and balance skills they didn’t teach at the conservatory. There was a lot of focus on being a triple threat, on performance skills, but nothing about how to survive the challenging life of being an actor. I fought depression, loneliness, weight gain, difficulty navigating periods of unemployment, all of it. Like most actors, I had to learn how to get the rest & recovery I needed, how to master my mindset to work with me – not against me, and how to take care of myself like a performing athlete. I had to learn all these life skills beyond my BFA.
SJF: What experiences and/or people (parents, role models, etc.) in your life influenced you the most and why?
DW: My
brother used to attend an acting school in Chicago with some young actors – John
Cusack, Joan Cusack and Jeremy Piven among them. They were all clearly phenomenally
talented back then. I tagged along and was impressed. I caught the bug then
& there. My brother gave it up, but I didn’t.
I also had a boss at Creative Artists Agency (CAA) who was somehow able to be an agent, a wife, a mother and a happy human all at the same time. She was able to cut through all the B.S. and find a balance that worked for her. She was an inspiration for me.
DW: Many of my private coaching clients are actors who stumble upon the same road blocks, and that is how The Resilient Actor was born. The Resilient Actor combines my experience as an actor, coach, and Hollywood talent manager. It is part cautionary tale, letting readers know my story and all the ways I did it wrong. It is the actors’ handbook I wish someone had handed me when I left my BFA program. It is the course that was missing from my acting school curriculum.
Debra Wanger – Photo Credit: Ken Jacques
SJF: Describe your work as a health and wellness coach
DW: As a coach, I help my clients discover what their goals are: whether it be to lose 20 pounds, gain energy, make more money, improve relationships, whatever it is they want or need. Then I help them come up with an action plan to achieve those goals, identify and remove any obstacles they have to this action plan and help them with accountability. Every client is different, so I customize it to their needs. Many of my clients are actors who stumble upon the same roadblocks, and that is how The Resilient Actor was born. The Resilient Actor combines my experience as an actor, coach, and Hollywood talent manager.
SJF: Your
time working at CAA and with the Talent Manager? Stresses? Patterns seen? High
points?
DW: Creative Artists Agency in the 90’s was so exciting and crazy. I was there when super-agent Michael Ovitz still ran the place and all of Hollywood. It was like working in an emergency room, everything was high stakes and urgent and high stress, and then Tom Hanks would walk by. It was incredibly stressful, but such a fertile learning ground for how the business of the business worked. It probably took a few years off my life, but the experience was invaluable for learning how film and television work. Managing was some babysitting, some creativity and lot of phone calls, horrible scripts and hours in my car traversing LA for lunch meetings. Taking clients to Sundance or the Golden Globes was as cool as it sounds, but the grind really got to me. Ultimately, I enjoy being on the creative end more than the business side of things.
SJF: Tell us about your past year or so of musicals/shows- Describe your roles and accolades! Angels in America, etc.
DW: This year has been a breakout year for me in San Diego theatre. I was the female authority figure in Hairspray at San Diego Musical Theatre, a collection of John Waters dark-humor characters in a cracker jack cast of a huge musical comedy. I played The Angel (& several other roles) in the acclaimed production of Angels in America at Cygnet Theatre (all 7 hours of it.) It was the most challenging, most exhilarating show I have ever done. Every single element of that show came together, every single person from the director, cast, designers all brought their A game. Next, I play the Queen of England in the West Coast Premiere of the British comedy hit Handbagged at Moxie Theatre. It’s funny – I followed my own advice and had one of the best years of my career.
SJF: Tell us
about the cast of Handbagged and when is the theatrical run at
Moxie?
DW: The Handbagged cast is a ‘who’s who’ of San Diego theatre: Sandy Campbell, Linda Libby, Lisel Gorell-Getz and myself, with Durwood Murray and Max Macke directed by Kim Strassburger. Many of us are often up for the same roles and don’t get to all work together. It will be a diva-fest in the best way possible. So much talent. We play Margaret Thatcher and Queen Elizabeth running October 19-November 17. I can’t wait.
SJF: What
do you dream about?
DW: I dream
about making a difference. I dream about balance. I dream about sunny weather,
hugs from my children and using my all the wisdom I have acquired to help
others. And chocolate.
SJF: What
are your top 3 values in life?
DW: Authenticity,
love and playfulness.
Debra Wanger – Photo Credit: Ken Jacques
SJF: What
are you most proud of?
DW: I am really proud of The Resilient Actor, and upcoming The Resilient Actor Audio Book and The Resilient Actor’s Workbook and Planner, my creative babies, but I’d have to say I am really proud of my 3 kids, my human babies. They are phenomenal, loving, decent human beings.
SJF: Describe
your feelings about balancing motherhood and work
DW: Balancing
motherhood & work is a challenge. Acting tends to be feast or
famine. I don’t take every show I am offered. I have to weigh it against
tucking my kids in for those 3 months. I am pickier about what projects I
do. That is one of the reasons I love writing, coaching, and public
speaking – it allows me to work with actors and be creative without negatively affecting
my kids. They know I love being onstage and want me happy, I just attempt
to balance it as best I can.
SJF: Female
issues with males (harassment) in entertainment?
DW: Ugh.
This is a real thing. It is time that people shed light on bad behavior
in the arts and in business. There have been some individuals abusing and
taking advantage for years, many of whom were common knowledge and no one did
anything. I applaud the brave souls who are willing to speak up for themselves.
Of course, I hope that individuals who are breaking the law are brought to
justice and that attitudes change. The whole system needs to change and
awareness is the first step.
SJF: Any fears? Doubts? ever?
DW: Of
Course! I’m human. Like all actors – I doubt myself. I have
several exercises in the book to help with negativity and doubt so they don’t
get the best of you. I get insecure and doubtful like anyone, but I have
learned how to tame that beast most of the time.
Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications recently interviewed our client, JoAnn Petrie Carr, Author of the fiction novel, “Keeper of the Flame”. JoAnn is a former Astronaut wife and retired Attorney in the Houston area. Her answers were astute, honest and thought provoking.
Q & A with JoAnn Petrie Carr, Author, “Keeper of the Flame”
Courtesy Photo – JoAnn Petrie Carr
The Carr Family Courtesy Photo Top Row – left to right: Jennifer, Jerry, JoAnn and Jamee; Bottom Row – left to right: Jeff, Jessica, Joshua, John
SJF: In a nutshell…tell us about your life as a former Astronauts’ wife – a few tidbits…
JPC: My life as a former astronaut wife was in many respects business as usual with a houseful of six children. The monotony of mopping the floor was broken up with invitations to some of the River Oaks swankiendas (“swanky haciendas”) as well as invitations to the Indy 500, a week at Las Brisas in Acapulco, a week at a fabulous dude ranch in the Rocky Mountains, a trip to Cape Kennedy (now Cape Canaveral) and back in our host’s private 747 – among other less elaborate places.
This
Cinderella always knew that the kitchen floor was waiting along with the other
menial tasks that go with being the mother of six. We went to a lot of fabulous parties
locally. Lucky for me I was an expert
seamstress, so all the fancy outfits I needed were made on my handy dandy
sewing machine. A simple Vogue pattern
with a smashing fabric of some sort and I had a new outfit for every party! It was like being Cinderella, but one who was
only too well aware that the coach was going to turn into a pumpkin sooner or
later. Only the gown stayed the same.
SJF: What
experiences and/or people (parents, role models etc) in your life influenced
you the most and why?
JPC: My
maiden aunt gave me piano lessons and saw that I was involved with the local
church. I was also influenced by the fact that my mother’s cousin was a
designer for Twentieth Century Fox and I always went to the movies where her
wares were displayed. I think I tried to
emulate her. I never got to meet her
though. But she continued to be an
influence on my life. My skills also
came in handy when Halloween came around and my kids always had elaborate
Halloween costumes.
SJF: Describe your work as an Attorney – any fascinating cases? Do you miss it?
Courtesy Photo – JoAnn Petrie Carr
JPC: The
first case I ever worked on was one of the biggest cases Texas had seen for a
while. It involved a Supreme Court
Justice who had gotten elected because he had the same name as a well-known
political family in the State. I didn’t
have my license yet but worked as the lead attorney’s “gofer”. He had been the Attorney General when Kennedy
was killed. After that I had a general
practice and did a lot of family law and managed to have some interesting
divorces along the way. And no, I don’t
miss it.
SJF: Describe
your book “Keeper of the Flame” -why? Any backlash?
JPC: I
decided to write a memoir about my life as an astronaut wife for my kids but it
turned out to be so boring that I decided that I could tell more truth with
fiction. As I was watching my youngest
son play a role in Hello Dolly it just came to me that I would write a
novel and call it Keeper of the Flame.
I think they were singing “Before the Parade Passes By” and I was facing
retirement age. I am unaware of any
backlash. A few of the wives have asked me if certain incidents in the book
really happened. My reply is always
“It’s fiction”. I sent every wife a copy
of the book when it first came out and I got several very nice notes and a few
positive phone calls. Now that I think
of it there were a lot, I didn’t hear from at all. I got a very nice call from Al Bean. He was
quite complimentary. He was the only man
who had the guts to call. And I’m sure
that at least several of the men read it too.
SJF: What do you dream about?
JPC: I dream about this book becoming a movie.
SJF: What
are your top 3 values in life?
JPC: First and foremost is family. They all have each other’s back and are ready to circle the wagons at the first hint of trouble. Another is helping other less fortunate people. Christianity – but not necessarily in that order. But family is always first.
The Carr Family Courtesy Photo Top Row – left to right: Jennifer, JoAnn and Jamee; Bottom Row – left to right: Jeff, Jessica, Joshua, John
SJF: Did you enjoy the celebrity status? Describe…
JPC: I did enjoy the celebrity status. It was sporadic so we didn’t have the kind of attention that the first few groups had. It was just as well. I had too much else to do.
Courtesy Photo – JoAnn Petrie Carr
SJF: What
are you most proud of?
JPC: I’m
most proud that all my kids are good people.
We escaped the teen years with no drugs and no scrapes with the
law. They were active in their church
fellowship groups and I helped lead them.
It was a blast hanging around with those teenagers. They had a musical group and we played and
sang for other churches.
SJF: Describe your feelings about balancing motherhood and work
Courtesy Photo – JoAnn Petrie Carr
JPC: Balancing
motherhood and work is a team effort. My
kids had chores on a rotating basis.
They did their own laundry. They
helped me cook meals.
SJF: Female
issues with males (harassment) in law practice, etc.?
JPC: I
didn’t encounter much in the way of harassment.
The Texas male attorneys separated females into two categories — – lady
lawyers and women lawyers. I never did
figure out what was what but I guess I was whichever one was better because
they all seemed to like me and didn’t harass me at all.
SJF: Any
insight on the process of aging? Has it been a challenge?
JPC: Aging
is a bitch. I can’t play tennis. I can’t hike.
I can’t garden. My eyesight is declining. I can’t sew or do jigsaw puzzles. And if I don’t hurry up and get this book out
there, I am going to lose my short term memory and giving speeches will be a
challenge.
SJF: Any fears?
Doubts? ever?
JPC: The
only fears I had were that my ex-husband Jerry wasn’t going to get a
flight. He was assigned to Apollo 19 but
the last three flights (18, 19, 20) were cancelled. He was named Commander of the third and last
Skylab flight – an 84-day mission in the Skylab workshop. But we sweated it out for several weeks
before we knew about the Skylab flight.
It was a heart-breaking time for both of us. I was just as anxious for
him to get a flight as he was. So I
don’t think I ever had any doubt that he was made for the exploration of
space. It was something that was meant
to happen. And it almost didn’t.
JoAnn Petrie Carr was born and raised in Orange County, California. She graduated from The California State University at Long Beach with a degree in elementary education. She married her high school sweetheart who was later to be named as an Apollo astronaut in the ‘60s. During her life as the wife of a marine fighter pilot, she organized and taught a private kindergarten in North Carolina. She moved to Houston where she raised her six children against the backdrop of Gemini, Apollo and Skylab. She later completed her Doctor of Jurisprudence at the Bates College of Law at the University of Houston with all six children still at home. She divorced and practiced law for 30 years. During this time, she was a sole practitioner, general counsel for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. and counsel for Star Station One, a 501c-3 dedicated to space education for children. She designed a distance-learning program for primary grades.
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