Retired Superior Court Judge and Wife Celebrate Upcoming Book Release “Tripping – 1975 – Falling in Love One Country at a Time”

(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 16^th 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 Time is 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!

HASHTAGS: #tripping1975 #vanlife #travel #vanliving #vantravel #vantraveling #vintagevan #travel #traveling #yellowvan #vwvan #vwyellowvan #romantictravels #romanceabroad #romanticgetaways #bananavan #retirement #retirementtraveling #travelingjudge #travelsabroad #europeantravel

Book information: Tripping – 1975 – Falling in Love One Country at a Time

ISBN: 978-1-7331445-0-6 (Trade Paperback)

Marshall and Debbie Hockett are available for in-person television, radio or podcast appearances/interviews and print/online features/interviews.

Follow on Social Media: Facebook: @Tripping1975

https://www.facebook.com/Tripping1975-121776075879193/

For more information contact:

Publicist:

Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications 408-398-5940 sjfcommunications@gmail.com

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Actor, Author, Coach & Speaker Debra Wanger Announces “The Resilient Actor” Audiobook & Workbook/Planner

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

ABOUT THE RESILIENT ACTOR:

From The Resilient Actor: How to Kick Ass In the Business Without It Kicking Your Ass

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 19^th through November 17^th. 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!”

-Marc Breithaupt

BOOK INFORMATION:

The Resilient Actor: How to Kick Ass In the Business (Without It Kicking Your Ass)

ISBN paperback: 978-1-61961-830-5 ISBN eBook: 978-1-61961-831-2

Audiobook: The Resilient Actor: How to Kick Ass In the Business (Without It Kicking Your Ass)

https://www.audible.com/pd/B07ZTPBWMH?qid=1572559504&sr=1-1&pf_rd_p=e81b7c27-6880-467a-b5a7-13cef5d729fe&pf_rd_r=VZ7R3H

ISBN: pending.

Upcoming: The Resilient Actor’s Workbook: How to Kick Ass In the Business (Without It Kicking Your Ass) ISBN: pending.

Debra is available to speak to groups about The Resilient Actor.

Debra Wanger’s Website: http://debrawanger.com/

Q & A with Debra Wanger and SJF Communications

Like, Follow and Interact with Debra on Social Media:

Facebook: @resilientactor https://www.facebook.com/resilientactor/

Twitter: @debrawanger https://twitter.com/debrawanger

Instagram: @debradiva https://www.instagram.com/debradiva/

For more information or to book Debra for interviews, speaking engagements or coaching Contact:

Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications 408-398-5940 sjfcommunications@gmail.com

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Q & A with Debra Wanger ~ The Resilient Actor & Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications

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.

SJF: Describe your book The Resilient Actor

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.

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.

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.

SJF: Many thanks, Debra!

Debra Wanger’s Website: http://debrawanger.com/

Like, Follow and Interact with Debra on Social Media:

Facebook: @resilientactor https://www.facebook.com/resilientactor/

Twitter: @debrawanger https://twitter.com/debrawanger

Instagram: @debradiva https://www.instagram.com/debradiva/

For more information or to book Debra for interviews, speaking engagements or coaching contact

Publicist: Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications 408-398-5940 sjfcommunications@gmail.com

Thanks for stopping by!

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Q & A with Former Astronaut Wife, JoAnn Petrie Carr ~ Author of “Keeper of the Flame” and Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications

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?

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.

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

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.

SJF: Many thanks, JoAnn!

Read our previous SJF Communications blog post about JoAnn Petrie Carr here : https://sjfcommunications.com/2019/08/26/joann-petrie-carr-author-keeper-of-the-flame/

“Keeper of the Flame”

By JoAnn Petrie Carr

About the Author

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.

To book JoAnn Petrie Carr for media interviews

or speaking engagements please contact her publicist:

Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications 408-398-5940

sjfcommunications@gmail.com Web: https://sjfcommunications.com

Visit Jo Ann Carr at her website: https://www.joannpetriecarr.com

Follow JoAnn Petrie Carr on Facebook

Follow JoAnn Petire Carr on Instagram (@keeperoftheflamenovel)

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Introducing JoAnn Petrie Carr, Author of “Keeper of the Flame”

Our SJF Communications client, former Astronaut wife, Author Jo Ann Petrie Carr, recently re-released her 2013 fiction novel “Keeper of the Flame” with XLibris Publishers.

Former Astronaut Wife Re-Releases Novel about Moon Landing

In association with the 50^th anniversary of Apollo 11, JoAnn Petrie Carr reflects her personal experience as an astronaut’s wife in her debut novel, ‘Keeper of the Flame’

(San Diego, CA August 16, 2019) – What is it like being married to an astronaut? Author, JoAnn Petrie Carr, offers an inside view of an astronaut family as she draws from her personal experience. A fiction based on fact, “Keeper of the Flame” tells the story of an Apollo astronaut wife as she struggles to establish an identity of her own. She puts her own ambitions aside in favor of supporting her husband’s quest for the moon.

In the book, readers will follow the life of Jennifer Davis. She is a devoted mother of four and wife of an Apollo astronaut, who had dreamed of being a lawyer. Instead, she married and started a family. Her husband, Evan, is a good but neglectful man who is driven by his need to excel at whatever he does. His time and attention are focused exclusively on the moon to the detriment of his family and his relationship with Jennifer.

Jennifer pushes the traditional envelope of her life as far as she is able without jeopardizing Evan’s chances or neglecting her children. An emergency on the lunar surface, endangering the crew, causes her to reexamine her core values. She meets the tough choices that face her head on.

“Keeper of the Flame” is a metaphor for the universal story of every traditional married woman who found herself exposed to the possibilities offered by the changing world of the ‘60s. It will also appeal to those younger women who struggle to combine career and family.

“Keeper of the Flame”

By JoAnn Petrie Carr

Hardcover | 6×9 in | 294 pages | ISBN 9781796031720

Softcover | 6×9 in | 294 pages | ISBN 9781796031713

E-Book | 294 pages | ISBN 9781796031706

About the Author

To book JoAnn Petrie Carr for media interviews

or speaking engagements please contact her publicist:

Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications 408-398-5940

sjfcommunications@gmail.com Web: https://sjfcommunications.com

Visit Jo Ann Carr at her website: https://www.joannpetriecarr.com

Follow JoAnn Petrie Carr on Facebook

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Psychotherapist Vincentia Schroeter, Ph.D., Author/Consultant Announces Speaking Topics & Upcoming Book Events

Courtesy Photo – Vincentia Schroeter, Ph.D.

Vincentia Schroeter, Ph.D. (Dr. Vin) author of Communication Breakthrough: How Using Brain Science and Listening to Body Cues Can Transform Your Relationships (Wolfheart Press) announces several upcoming book signing and speaking events through September 2019. Dr. Schroeter is a 2018 Notable Book Award Winner from the 53^rd Annual Local Author Showcase and is available for contracted speaking engagements and media interviews/appearances.

Communication Breakthrough: How Using Brain Science and Listening to Body Cues Can Transform Your Relationships is a self-help book designed to boost one’s ability to be seen and heard. The book is packed with innovative tools for better listening and handy skills for more effective expression. ($19.99, 199 pages, 5 ½ x 8 1/2, paperback, ISBN: 978-0996324953). Communication Breakthrough is available online at Amazon, Kindle and Barnes and Noble or through bookstores.

Dr. Schroeter is known for her ability to present complex ideas in a clear and entertaining way. Communication Breakthrough shows how the brain reacts under stress and provides powerful body techniques to easily shift moods for successful communication.

Here is a short video of Dr. Vin in action

‘Enlightening & Entertaining’

To book Dr. Vin Schroeter for media interviews

or speaking engagements please contact her publicist:

Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications 408-398-5940

Email: sjfcommunications@gmail.com

Web: https://sjfcommunications.com

Visit Dr. Vin Schroeter at her website:

https://www.vincentiaschroeterphd.com/ and Blog

Follow Dr. Vin on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram

Topics for Speaking Engagements

Vincentia Schroeter, Ph.D.

Twelve listening blocks and how to overcome them
Become more assertive: how to speak up, be heard and get what you want
How to calm down from anger in the middle of an argument
Understanding our hard-wired brain to make communication better
Your voice and a pillow: the cure for stuffing your emotions
The magic power of crafting a whole messages to get your point across
Handling conflict without losing control
Breathing and Grounding tools to regulate emotions under stress
Handling coworkers who rattle your cage
How to talk when you are very stressed out
How to stay open when dealing with angry people
Coming back from hurt and telling your truth
Managing people who are in pain or are a pain
Give and Take: The Art of Good Communication

QUOTE from Dr. Schroeter: “I welcome speaking opportunities to share tools for success in communicating effectively. I am skilled at adapting my material to meet the needs of a variety of audiences, and enjoy presenting in corporate, medical, academic or community settings.

I had a forty-two-year career as a clinical psychotherapist, focusing on body-mind psychology. I have noticed a common theme in my professional as well as personal life, which is how people suffer when they do not know how to communicate well. My current passion is to help people communicate better. My recent studies in neuroscience (mind) along with my long-term work in somatic psychotherapy (body) allow me to provide original and effective communication tools.”

Vincentia Schroeter, Ph.D. (Dr. Vin)

Upcoming Book Signings/Appearances (subject to change):

Solana Beach Library

Saturday, 06/01/2019 from 2 pm – 3:30 pm

Alpine Library

Saturday, 06/08/2019 from 12- 1pm

Lakeside Library

Monday, 07/08/2019 from 1 pm – 2 pm

Cardiff Library

Saturday, 07/13/2019 from 1 pm – 2 pm

Barnes & Noble Mira Mesa

Saturday, 07/27/2019 from 1 pm – 3 pm (PANEL)

Valley Center Library

Saturday, 8/31/2019 from 1 pm – 2:30 pm

Barnes & Noble Grossmont/La Mesa

Saturday, 09/14/2019 from 11 am – 1 pm (Several authors at tables)

Bonita Library

Saturday, 09/28/2019 from 12:30 pm – 2 pm

Visit Dr. Vin Schroeter at her website:

https://www.vincentiaschroeterphd.com/ and her Blog

Follow on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram

To book Dr. Vin Schroeter for media interviews or speaking engagements

Contact: Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications 408-398-5940

sjfcommunications@gmail.com

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Author J.R. Strayve, Jr. Releases Fiction Novel ‘First Spouse of the United States’

San Diego Author J.R. Strayve Jr. is thrilled to announce his new fiction novel First Spouse of the United States: Star Athlete & War Hero Battles Societal Boundaries and Washington Elite, which is now available at https://jrstrayvejr.com or on Amazon.com.

Book Description: First Spouse of the United States: Star Athlete & War Hero Battles Societal Boundaries and Washington Elite parallels today’s political and social unrest. Politically controversial and pragmatic, witness an unlikely duo in their quest for the White House. Watch both Democrats and Republicans facilitated by a complicit media, maneuver to eat their own.

The first chapter introduces Marine Corps fighter pilot Lt. Ricardo Chambers – ‘Rocky’ – receiving the Medal of Honor in the White House East Room. Most would say this is an achievement, like conquering Mount Everest. Rocky is the man most men would like to be. He is the epitome of what many women would want in a man. But things are not what they appear to be. The First Lady and President callously exploit and discard our hero.

Flashback to Rocky’s idyllic high school years as his life takes a sudden turn, a forbidden turn. Living an inauthentic and tumultuous life, Rocky carefully samples more of what could unmask and destroy. Heroism and prowess do not clear a path for happy-ever-after. It only muddies the water, providing cover for adversaries lying in wait, ready to spring to the surface and decimate what they covet and hate.

**J. R. Strayve, Jr. Photo by** **SJF Communications**

Quote from J.R. Strayve Jr.: “When Hillary Clinton was running in 2016 the idea that we could have a ‘First Spouse’ seemed very real. That reality planted the seed for developing the manuscript featuring a gay couple in the White House. Mayor Pete Buttigieg’s declaring his candidacy for the President of the United States validated the need for such a book. I quickly moved forward with the manuscript for ‘First Spouse of the United States: Star Athlete & War Hero Battles Societal Boundaries and Washington Elite’.”

Bio: J.R. Strayve, Jr. has always been fascinated with history and politics. Those interests coupled with a vivid imagination led to the creation of FSOTUS. The author was raised in a military household and subsequently spent ten years in the Marine Corps. One of his first duty assignments was at HMX-1, the Presidential Helicopter Squadron in Washington D.C. Captain Strayve left the Marine Corps to raise three children. He now has three grandchildren and is a Wealth Management Advisor in San Diego, Ca. Interests include politics, Special Needs and Human Rights. The latter led to the authorship of this inspiring novel.

ABOUT THE BOOK:

First Spouse of the United States: Star Athlete & War Hero Battles Societal Boundaries and Washington Elite

ISBN#: 9781090261007

Upcoming Book Signings/Appearances (subject to change):

Solana Beach Library

Saturday, June 29, 2019 from 2 pm – 3:30 pm

Cardiff Library

Thursday, July 18, 2019 from 6:30 pm – 7:30 pm

Valley Center Library

Saturday, July 20, 2019 from 1 pm – 2:30 pm

Bonita Library

Saturday, September 21, 2019 from 1 pm – 2:30 pm

UPCOMING BOOKS BY J.R. STRAYVE JR.: Braxton’s Century, Volume 1 & Braxton’s Century, Volume 2 Sequel to First Spouse of the United States

Social Media Links

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jrstrayvejr/

Twitter: @jrstrayvejr – https://twitter.com/jrstrayvejr?lang=en

Instagram: @jrstrayvejr – https://www.instagram.com/jrstrayvejr/

Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-r-strayve-jr-ab6778161/

J.R. Strayve, Jr. is available for book readings, discussions, and signings

Media Contact/Publicist:

Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications

408-398-5940 or sjfcommunications@gmail.com.

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Author Interview with Susan J. Farese for San Diego Writers Festival (Blog)

Below is a link to my interview on the blog of the inaugural San Diego Writers Festival which was held April 13, 2019 at the San Diego Central Library.

CLICK LINK FOR: Author Interview with Susan J. Farese

I also was thrilled to be an integral part of the talented team* that coordinated and interviewed many of the authors involved that day ~ and definitely learned so much from and about each author! Here’s the link to the BLOG with author Q & A’s as well as the San Diego Writers Festival website.

*Special shout out and thanks to the San Diego Memoir Writers Association, Marni Freedman, Tracy Jones, Erin Willard, Laura L. Engel, Kat Endries and Jeniffer Thompson at Monkey C Media.

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A Hike at Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve – Coachella Preserve

We enjoyed an interesting self-guided Spring hike of two oases at the Thousand Palms Oasis – Coachella Preserve (on the San Andreas Fault, no less) in the Southern California Desert (about 10 miles East of Palm Springs).

Here’s a video with photos that captured some of our day hiking at the Thousand Palms Oasis at Coachella Preserve!

A Hike at Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve – Coachella Valley

Here are some photos from our hike at Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve!

Visitors Center at Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve, Coachella Valley
Photo by SJF Communications

Enormous palm fronds at the Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve, Coachella Valley
Photo by SJF Communications

A View of the Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve, Coachella Valley
Photo by SJF Communications

McCallum Pond at Thousand Palms Oasis Preserve, Coachella Valley
Photo by SJF Communications

We started our journey by stopping at the Palm House Visitors Center (the original homestead log cabin, complete with really cool artifacts) and hiking over a few boardwalks (and a bit of sand) on the flat McCallum Trail (round trip 2 miles). The amazingly tall fan palms (Washingtonia filifera – some over 50 feet) are a sight to behold!

Side giggle note: The lengthy fronds resemble ‘Cousin Itt’ from the Addams Family!

In the middle of this desert, there were two magnificent oases, as well as beautiful purple, yellow, blue and white wildflowers, and a few birds.

At the end of the trail was McCallum pond (yes indeed, a pond – with water courtesy of the San Andreas Fault) with an added bonus – the endangered Desert Pup Fish!

All in all, a delightful day!

More info at:

http://coachellavalleypreserve.org/

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Hike ~ Wall Street Mill Trail at Joshua Tree National Park (Video)

We enjoyed a great drive through much of the Joshua Tree National Park, and discovered an interesting ‘flat’ hike with our family ~ the Wall Street Mill Trail (adjacent to the Barker Dam Trail). The trail (approx. 4200 elevation and about 2 miles round trip) houses a historic gold ore crushing mill and stamp mill. The mill is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Here’s a short video with photos from our hike!

The Wall Street Trail is home to many Joshua trees! Walking the trail was a bit sandy in places (the sand in our shoes had to be emptied after our hike). We saw authentic relics like rusty old cars, a windmill and the stamp mill.

Oh, I almost forgot, there’s a grave marker acknowledging a 1943 violent land dispute, where land owner Bill Keys shot and killed Worth Bagley who wanted access to the water. Bill Keys wound up in San Quentin prison for several years, but was pardoned due to self-defense!

The memorial states:

‘Here is where Worth Bagley bit the dust at the hand of W.F.Keys. May 11, 1943’.

More info about

Joshua Tree National Park:
https://www.nps.gov/jotr/index.htm

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A Visit to the Flower Fields in Carlsbad

Spring has indeed sprung!

Susan of SJF Communications enjoying the flower fields!

Susan’s friend Ninon at the Flower Fields!

It was such a fun morning (into the afternoon) enjoying a wagon ride and strolling through the vividly colorful Tecolote Ranunculus flowers (and more) at the Flower Fields in Carlsbad, California.

Here’s a short SJF Communications video to share the delightfully colorful fields that seemed to go on and on!

.
Prices range from $9-$18. YES, we did pay the extra $5 for the fun (and a bit bumpy) wagon ride and YES we also treated ourselves to a strawberry shake!

A special unexpected treat was smiling while observing the adorable caged dove exhibit!

A great children’s area will keep the kids happy with fun activities, gold panning plus workshops for school groups!

There were sweet pea & orchid areas, fresh lemonade, ice cream, the ‘Strawberry Shack’ with yummy drinks and sweets and overall a great way to spend time!

More info at : http://www.theflowerfields.com/

Visitor info:
http://www.theflowerfields.com/visitor-information/

Group Tour Info:
http://www.theflowerfields.com/visitor-information/group-tours/

School Programs:
http://www.theflowerfields.com/school-programs/

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A Hike at Tahquitz Canyon, Palm Springs (Video)

Our family spent a few wonderful hours hiking at Tahquitz Canyon ~ part of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Reservation in Palm Springs.

Take a look at our short video below with photos by Susan J Farese, SJF Communications and music by Ah Nee Mah: ‘Native Visions: A Native American Music Journey’.

We saw a variety of beautiful wildflowers, rock formations and boulders, crossed over two streams, and ultimately reached the gorgeous 60 foot waterfall at the end of the trail. The land was spectacular. The views magnificent. It was a bit steep, but well worth the climbing!

Hours and Prices

Safety & Rules

Links:

http://www.tahquitzcanyon.com/canyon

https://www.facebook.com/TahquitzandIndianCanyons/

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A Glorious Day at Lake Hodges (Video)

What a spectacular day hiking at Lake Hodges in Escondido, CA! Beautiful scenery, wildflowers blooming, birds enjoying the plentiful rain that we’ve had lately, magnificent rainbows (did we mention the larger than life rattlesnake)? Take a look at ‘art in nature’ and ‘nature as art’!

Music: If We Knew All the Laws of Nature’ by Robert Farmer.

Photos/Video by SJF Communications ‘Creative Ideas | Dynamic Results’ sjfcommunications.com

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A Stroll Along the San Elijo Lagoon Near Annie’s Canyon Trail (Solana Beach)

My husband and I enjoyed a walk along the lower trail near Annie’s Canyon the other day. We began at the Northwestern end of Rios Avenue in Solana Beach and heading East towards Highway #5 (Manchester Exit). Note: We didn’t hike into Annie’s Canyon his time…but hopefully next time!.

Here are some photos captured by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications. Take a look at the variety of shorebirds pictured solo or in a flock. An extra treat was spotting the cutest Anna’s Hummingbird building a nest as we exited the trail!

Feel free to click on each photo for a larger view.

California Towhee
Northern Pintail
Green-Winged Teal
American Wigeon
Anna’s Hummingbird
Anna’s Hummingbird
Anna’s Hummingbird
Lesser Goldfinch
Flock Visiting

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Photos: A Visit to Hawk Watch in Ramona, CA

It was mesmerizing to see and photograph several hawks up close and personal on January 5th at Hawk Watch Ramona, thanks to the Wildlife Research Institute !

These free Hawk Watches (donations accepted as well) will continue on Saturdays throughout January and February at 10 a.m. (suggested arrival time 9:30 a.m.). The Hawk Watch lasts about 1.5-2 hours. The location is at the private Begent Ranch, 18528 Highland Valley Rd. Ramona, CA 92065.

More suggestions: Bring binoculars, cameras, wear layered clothing, and sturdy shoes. (It could get muddy and wet there)! There are chairs set up outside but you can also bring your own if you prefer. There is free parking.

There were several varieties of hawks to see up close and personal,
including the Red-Tailed Hawk(s), as well as a Peregrine Falcon, Ferruginous Hawk, White Gyrfalcon and an American Kestrel – plus several exhibitor displays inside the building and demonstrations outside, such as a net trapping and learning how the handlers work with the hawks. Each week will feature different species.

According to the WRI flyer at the event- Here is the upcoming Owl schedule:

February 2nd: Barn Owl, Great Horned Owl, Western Screech

February 16th: Barn Owl, Western Screech

February 23rd: Barn Owl, Western Screech

Here are some photos from the day!