Susan J. Farese of SJF Communications taught her 2 hour SJF Communications “Capturing Your Creativity with Haiku” workshop on May 24th at the Julian Branch Library. Many thanks to Josh Mitchell, Branch Manager and Friends of the Julian Library for hosting the workshop.
Mark was a solo attendee that day, and we made the best of it!
We began with an interactive fun ice breaker. After introductions and a review of her published work (with Haiku and other forms of poetry), Susan taught her Power Point presentation about writing Haiku and shared nature photography, including several photos of roses and flowers, plus other nature photos as prompts to encourage Haiku writing. We practiced writing Haiku and had the opportunity to share our work. It was a great discussion and we equally had so much to say about the creative process and the parallels with Haiku poetry and visual arts.
Here is a glimpse of us, along with the photo prompts and written Haiku for the afternoon.
Susan Mark and SusanSusan and Josh (Library Branch Manager)
Capturing Your Creativity With Haiku at the Julian Branch Library 5/24/2022
Moon Rise and Yellow Traffic Light (Photo by Susan J. Farese)
Rings of Gold
electric yellow
round, in a black box says slow
in sunlit moonrise
– Mark
Moonrise/Yellow Light
Moon rose to the east
Yellow traffic light appeared
Serendipity
-Susan
Pacific Highlands Ranch Trail (Photo by Susan J. Farese)
Earth and Sky
dusty clay stretches
around a corner….fading
cool clouds pressing down
-Mark
Mysterious Orange Flower (Photo by Susan J. Farese)
Mysterious Orange Flower
Orange yellow hues
Veinlike markings encircle
A bursting flower
-Susan
Bench at Santee Lakes (Photo by Susan J. Farese)
Bench at Santee Lakes
Bench solitude
Lonely, uninhabited
Summer pause, sit down!
-Susan
Blooming Jacarandas in May (Photo by Susan J. Farese)
Blooming Jacarandas in May
Hues of violet
Lilac-blue and trumpet-shaped
Jacaranda tree!
A late Spring bloomer
Colorful, urban flower
Bravely blooms with awe
-Susan
For more information about attending our
Capturing Your Creativity With Haiku Workshop, click below!:
We began with an interactive fun ice breaker – getting to know each other.
After introductions and a review of her published work (with Haiku and other forms of poetry), Susan taught her Power Point presentation about writing Haiku and shared nature photography, including several photos of roses and flowers, plus other nature photos as prompts to encourage Haiku writing. We all practiced writing Haiku and had the opportunity to share our work. One woman had to leave early so she didn’t contribute a poem. It was a great discussion and we equally had so much to say about the creative process and the parallels with Haiku poetry and visual arts.
Here is a glimpse of us, along with the photo prompts and written Haiku for the afternoon.
Anna’s Hummingbird Feeding (Photo by Susan J. Farese)
Aroma beckons
Vibrating and fluttering
Delightful humming!
-Marilyn
Bold Flower and Butterfly (Photo by Susan J. Farese)
Vivid fuschia bed
Black and orange butterfly
Rests! Summer respite!
-Susan
Moon Rise and Yellow Traffic Light (Photo by Susan J. Farese)
All of a sudden
Yellow traffic light appears
Inviting moon shine!
-Susan
Julian Leaves – (Photo
Julian Leaves – (Photo by Susan J Farese)
Crunchy country sounds
A potpourri of color
Autumn leaves do fall!
-Susan
Elizabeth chose one of her photos on her phone of a beautiful rose, Here is her Haiku:
On February 22, 2022, Susan became a proud member of Alz Authors, having her blog post featured along with Founding Member Marianne Sciucco, RN on the Alz Authors website.
Susan J. Farese, Author of POETIC EXPRESSIONS IN NURSING: SHARING THE CARING and Member of Alz Authors
Alz Authors is a phenomenal global community of over 300 vetted authors writing about the dementias. Their goal is to raise awareness of these diseases and to spotlight carefully vetted books and blogs recommended for caregivers and others looking for knowledge and support. Each week they feature a new author/blogger on their blog and also have a podcast which features Alz Authors. For more information and resources, please visit alzauthors.com, the Alz Authors Bookstore, the Alz Authors Podcast, Alz Authors Helpful Sites, and the Alz Author’s Blog.
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
CONTACT: Susan J. Farese SJF Communications 408-398-5940 sjfcommunications@gmail.com
SAG SHORT FILM “LIFE AFTER OBLIVION” FILM WILL PREMIERE VIRTUALLY ON FEBUARY 25, 2021VIA THE “ARMED FORCES FILM CHALLENGE”SPONSORED BY THE FILM CONSORTIUM SAN DIEGO
The premiere is set for Thursday, February 25 at 7 pm PST and is part of the Armed Forces Film Challenge Virtual Screening in collaboration with So Say We All. Life After Oblivion is one of three films written and directed by military veterans. Mature content. Price: $6.00.
Due to the topics realistically portrayed, this film is intended for mature audiences.
The Armed Forces Film Challenge was a 60 Day challenge, (extended due to the coronavirus pandemic) during which Team VetPics selected one of several stories offered by the Challenge management, wrote a screenplay (by Tommy Anderson, Veteran), filmed (with 2 assigned elements and one optional element), directed and edited (by Floyd Strayer, Veteran) and submitted to the Challenge management.
Based on the Story Oblivion by Adam Stone
Susan Farese and Ryan Gangl – “Life After Oblivion” Production Still by Tommy Anderson.
The story chosen was Oblivion by Veteran Adam Stone through So Say We All. It is about a Marine Sniper returning from Afghanistan and the ghosts that come with him. It focuses on a singular event that tends to stick out amongst the many he has experienced. It stands out with Team VetPics as a phenomenal opportunity to show the world a snippet of what veterans struggle with when they return home.
About the Producing Team
The VetPics Productions team includes:
Floyd Strayer (Chula Vista, CA) ~ (Team Leader/ Producer/ Director/Veteran) works withSurvivors of Suicide Loss in San Diego, supporting those that have loss to suicide. He acts as the military and Veteran Chair to reach out to our veteran community offering our support. Daily, 22 veterans have struggled with PTSD, mental illness, depression or ghosts of some sort that drove them to take their own life. Twenty-two a day! Floyd’s IMDB;
Tommy Anderson (Norco, CA) ~ Best-selling author and award-winning photographer/artist Tommy Anderson enjoys his role as a motivational speaker and Co-Host of “The Take it Back Show” with Tommy and Tina (Hargett) on the IQ Podcast Network in San Diego. An accomplished screenwriter and Producer on “Life After Oblivion”; a film based on his adapted screenplay from the short story by Adam Stone, Tommy is routinely cast as an actor in commercials, television, and film. Tommy is a founding member of Team VetPics which produced ‘Life after Oblivion”, a short film for the Armed Forces Film Challenge. Tommy”s IMDB.
Susan J. Farese (San Diego, CA) ~ (Producer/Casting/Publicist/Veteran) is the owner of SJF Communications PR and is a veteran Army and Navy Nurse; Susan is a filmmaker: (Producer, Casting Director and Publicist) as well as a SAG-AFTRA actor , writer/poet and photographer. Susan’s IMDB.
Shar Yonan (Bakersfield, CA) ~ (Producer/Location Scout) Shar is a film producer, originally from Milwaukee, Wisconsin and later raised in Chicago. She studied Improv at Columbia College and has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master’s in Counseling and Therapy. After taking acting classes at Act I Studios in Chicago, she relocated to California. Shar was the Festival Director for the Beverly Hills Film Festival for five years and then she was involved in the Bakersfield Out of the BoxFilm Festival where Veteran and disability feature films were showcased, notably Inclusion Films, founded by Joey Travolta. Shar is a strong supporter of Veterans and their stories. In 2016, Shar joined Global Edge Pictures as a producer, showcasing diversity and inspirational stories. Shar is a strong child advocate, empowering foster youth to excel so that they can reach their fullest potential. Shar is currently in the development stage of a number of feature films and continues to be a liaison for independent filmmakers, screenwriters and producers. Shar’s IMDB.
Sue Vicory (Mound City, KS) (Producer) is a three-time Telly Award winning filmmaker. Sue has been making films since 2003. Heartland Films, Inc., her non-profit production company was established to create films that inspire and educate. Sue has spoken on and moderated panels around the world including Sundance and Cannes Film Festivals. She is a member of the Alliance of Women Directors and has served as an Emmy judge both regionally and nationally. Sue’s IMDB.
Twelve veterans were involved in Life After Oblivion: production team, cast and crew, along with Adam Stone, writer of the story ‘Oblivion’.
Ryan Gangl and Elliott McKenzie – “Life After Oblivion” Production Still by Josh Conner
Elliott McKenzie, Ryan Gangl with Will McBride on boom. “Life After Oblivion” Production Still by Josh Conner
Josh Conner, Will Dittrich, Will Hill and Keith Fingers Jr. with DP Joey Garza “Life After Oblivion” Production Still by Tommy Anderson
Will Hill and Emmy Farese, Floyd Strayer in Background. – “Life After Oblivion” Production Still by Josh Conner
Winner: Niagara Falls Indie Film Fest (Poster), Indie Short Fest November, 2020 (Short Script), Big Sur (Screenplay)
Certificate of Achievement (Screenplay): IndieX Film Fest (Short Script), Independent Shorts Awards (Screenplay and Film, November 2020), Indie Short Fest (Short Script), Indie Short Fest (Original Song)
Honorable Mention: Phoenix Short Film Festival (Short Script)
Semi-Finalist: Los Angeles International Film Festival Indie Short Fest (Screenplay December 2020)
Nominee: IndieX Film Festival (Short Screenplay), Independent Shorts (Script), Indie Short Fest December (Short), Venice Short Film Awards (Script)
Official selection: Armed Forces Film Challenge (2020), Indie Short Fest (Screenplay 2020, Film, January 2021), Phoenix Monthly Short Film (Screenplay), Big Sur Film Festival (2021), Vegas Shorts (Screenplay, January 2021), Venice Shorts Film Awards (Screenplay), Paris International Short Festival (Best Music in Short)
More photos from Life After Oblivion
Ryan Gangl, Elliott McKenzie, Josh Conner , Emmy Farese, Chase Dittrich and Will Hill “Life After Oblivion” – Photo by Susan J. Farese
Joey Garza, Floyd Strayer, Elliott McKenzie, Ryan Gangl “Life After Oblivion” Photo by Susan J. Farese
Josh Conner, Sheila Mauck, Shar Yonan and Chase Dittrick “Life After Oblivion” Photo by Susan J. Farese
Joseph Lloyd, La Contessa Miller, Emmy Farese & Miguel Montoya “Life After Oblivion” Photo by Susan J. Farese
Tina Hargett, Will Hill & Robert Hargett “Life After Oblivion” Photo by Susan J. Farese
Keith Fingers, Jr. and Patrick Haynes “Life After Oblivion” Photo by Susan J. Farese
Patrick Haynes, Keith Fingers, Jr. and Joey Garza “Life After Oblivion” Photo by Susan J. FareseCast of “Life After Oblivion” Photo by Susan J. Farese
Joseph Lloyd, Emmy Farese & La Contessa Miller “Life After Oblivion” Photo by Susan J. Farese
Joseph Lloyd, La Contessa Miller & Emmy Farese “Life After Oblivion” Photo by Tommy Anderson
Janey Hann, Kyle Brody & Miguel Montoya “Life After Oblivion” Photo by Susan J. Farese
In summary:
Team VetPics hopes to help bring awareness and remove the stigma around PTSD and suicide to provide hope and encouragement to those in need with Life After Oblivion.
“The ghosts of the battlefield last longer than the war itself”
Did you know the synthetic B-vitamins found in supplements cannot be absorbed well or easily converted into the bioactive forms our cells actually use? Even other vitamins can’t work well if there is not enough of the naturally occurring B forms called vitamers. For example, without B vitamers, taking vitamin D won’t prevent osteoporosis. Learn how the naturally occurring vitamers DO work and Why, and start on your pathway to healthy living and longevity today!
Your Vitamins are Obsolete explains:
Why vitamer B deficiencies make your vaccines less effective.
How taking B vitamers assists vegans and vegetarians in maximizing their dietary benefits, in some cases even increasing fertility.
Why regular use of B vitamers can decrease your appetite for red meat, promoting personal and environmental health.
How including B vitamers in your diet reduces chronic inflammation, leading to improved health and longevity.
Q & A: Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, SJF Communications and Sheldon Blake Zablow, M.D., Nutritional Psychiatrist and Author
SBZ: I prescribed the bioactive forms of B12 and folate to a very sick patient and she immediately got well. I had no idea why, so I started the research to find out how her body chemistry improved.
SJF: Did you make any personal discoveries (or aha moments) while researching the book? If so, please explain.
SBZ: Two moments. First was that as physicians, we were misinformed that the body can store water soluble B vitamins. The second was that there is a connection between a deficiency of these B vitamins and the onset of chronic inflammation that leads to most illnesses.
SJF: How did you decide on the title Your Vitamins Are Obsolete and decide to find a publishing company vs self-publishing?
SBZ: I choose this title to specifically summarize the book—all our multivitamin supplements have not kept up with the changes in our processed food and the pollutants that now surround us. I actually chose a hybrid publisher so a lot of it has been self-published in the sense that I had to do all the re-writes and organizing the pictures.
SJF: Tell us about your background that led to you discovering the association with Vitamin B-12 and folate deficiencies leading to inflammation and ultimately a variety of diseases
SBZ: My background is as an adult and child psychiatrist which means I see a lot of people with mental and physical problems. When I started prescribing these vitamins, the patients started reporting a reduction in their symptoms that were consistent with a reduction in their inflammation levels.
SJF: What is your role as a Nutritional Psychiatrist?
SBZ: This is a new area of medicine. It can be defined as using food, supplements, vitamins, exercise, meditation, etc. in conjunction with standard psychiatric medications to optimize the potential of the treatment to reduce both mental and physical challenges.
SJF Tell us about your upbringing, geographically, personally etc.
SBZ: I grew up in Norfolk, Virginia and attended college and medical school at the University of Virginia. I had never really been out of Virginia until I started my medical training in Atlanta and then moved on to Boston. I had an older brother that served in the military as did my father. My mother worked as an administrator and my father ran a small furniture store.
SJF: If you had to write the book over again, would you change anything?
SBZ: I would include the information I’ve put on my website about the connection between COVID and a deficiency of the B vitamins that can worsen outcomes.
SJF: A brief history of your education, professor positions/teaching appointments published articles, etc.
SBZ: I went to the University of Virginia for undergraduate and medical school, then moved on to Emory University for an internship in pediatrics. From there I went to Boston University for Adult Psychiatry training and then onto Boston Children’s Hospital to study Child Psychiatry through Harvard Medical School. Since moving to San Diego in 1982 I have volunteered as an instructor of Child Psychiatry at UCSD and have received two teaching awards.
SJF: What are your personal pastimes/hobbies/interests/passions?
SBZ: I have always enjoyed teaching and patient education opportunities through talks and writing. Years ago, I taught judo and wrestling but the more my body complained, the more I turned toward daily walks, weight resistance training and passive stretching. My passion is science and learning about new discoveries in any field.
SBZ: It reviews some complex biology in less complex ways. I tell people that it is hard to hit the right balance when explaining but they should approach the book with the idea that they do not have to read every word to understand the basics.
SJF: Any recommendations for us to journal or document what we are going through with Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic? Stress management tools?
SBZ: The most important action that I mention in the book is to use your entire stress reduction toolbox which consists of exercise, proper diet, proper sleep hygiene, relaxation therapy, psychotherapy (when indicated), prescribed medication (when indicated), supplements and of course B vitamins. The more stress the more you use the tools you have.
SJF: How has the Covid-19 affected you personally/professionally?
SBZ: I had a bad heart attack several years ago that puts me into a high-risk category so I have been following the basic advice of always wearing a mask, distancing and isolating as I can. I have also been trying to perfect my mother’s Toll House cookie recipe.
SJF: Role models or persons that inspire you in your life?
SBZ: My hero is Janusz Korczak (pediatrician/child psychiatrist) who was the Dr. Seuss of Europe and medical director of orphanages before he volunteered to run the orphanage in the Warsaw Ghetto. He was martyred along with all his children.
SJF: Favorite quotes
SBZ: From the book: “Homo sapiens: a tiny twig on an improbable branch of a contingent limb on a fortunate tree.” Stephen Jay Gould
SJF: Who (celebrity) would you like to have lunch or dinner with to discuss your book?
SBZ: Arianna Huffington because of her interest in natural ways to improve mental and physical performance and how this can benefit the world.
SJF: Life hurdles? Successes?
SBZ: The main hurdles for me are the same as for others with the premature loss of a loved one (my brother through medical misdiagnosis) and health challenges (a near-fatal heart attack at 59 years). My successes have been the return of mental health in my patients after long hard work by both of us.
SJF: Three significant/pivotal moments in your life?
SBZ: The first two are above and the third is missing a plane flight that ended in the death of most of its passengers.
SJF: Fears?
SBZ: The only one that comes to mind is a fear of mandolin slicers. I have to wear a cut resistance glove and insist that anyone who uses one around me needs to also.
SJF: Recurring dreams/ Usual dreams?
SBZ: I am a very heavy sleeper, so I don’t remember my dreams other than the death- resolution dreams that have occurred after the losses of a loved one.
SJF: Strongest asset? What would you like to work on/improve?
SBZ: My strongest asset is my ability to focus forward when stresses increase. I have to work harder on not letting the focus forwarding make me miss out on the here and now.
SJF: Where/how do you ‘give back’ to your community/communities?
SBZ: I give back through my work with my patients by helping them improve their communication skills with the people in their lives and by teaching and writing about science, nutritional psychiatry, and parenting.
SJF: Any regrets in life?
SBZ: I never got that screenplay produced and I have not made it to Japan yet.
SJF: What qualities should the younger generations aspire to that you think are important in this day and age?
SBZ: Life is a process and to make the most of it, try to make choices that give you more choices while keeping in mind that most choices are not right or wrong – just different directions to go.
SJF: Funny/humorous (appropriate) stories (Psychiatry? Medical stories, etc)?
SBZ: I was talking to a father about his son’s school performance and he said his son could do better because high intelligence runs in the family. He said that many of his relatives were members of that high IQ organization—Menses.
SJF: Funny! and PUNNY too!
SJF: How do you handle loss?
SBZ: I turn toward those that know me the best and love me as I am with all my limitations.
SJF: Where have you traveled and where would you like to travel once Covid-19 is OVER???
Tribute to Jodi Cilley, Founder, Film Consortium San Diego – Premiering October 21, 2020 on KOCT TV
San Diego film community sets out to pay tribute and leave some good in the community- Courtesy photo
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications 408-398-5940 sjfcommunications@gmail.com
(San Diego, CA October 7, 2020) – It all began as a ‘Lemon Bar Meetup” social event in January, 2020 over lemon bars at Milton’s Deli in Del Mar, California which led to a “Lemon Bar Mystery Film” casting call with over 50 people – actors (or would be actors) and crew attending.
The “Lemon Bar Mystery Film” ultimately transformed into a new parody short film Panic at Parq, Executive Produced by Sue Vicory and Heartland Films, Inc.
“Panic at Parq” Poster designed by Stephanie Tillman
Jodi Cilley, Founder, Film Consortium San Diego
Jodi Cilley, Founder, Film Consortium San Diego
Panic at Parq is a tribute to Jodi Cilley, Founder of the Film Consortium San Diego. The seventeen-minute parody will have a world premiere on KOCT TV on October 21, 2020 at 6:30 p.m. Pacific Time and will be aired on KOCT Channel 18 at 6:30pm on weekdays and Saturdays and at 7:30pm on Sundays between Wednesday, October 21st and Sunday November 1st. It be available to watch at these times on both Cox Cable Channel 18 & on Channel 18’s Live Stream via KOCT.org for those without Cox. https://www.koct.org/channel-18.
Left to right: Kymberrly Scott, Shannon Taylor, Joe Castanho, Jordan Jacobo, Sue Vicory, David S. Dawson, Oscar Perez, Keith Russell “Panic at Parq” production still photo credit: Luly’s Enchanted Pixels
Ken Gora “Panic at Parq” production still photo credit: Luly’s Enchanted Pixels
Filming locations for Panic at Parq included KOCT Studios in Oceanside, California, the Parq Nightclub in Downtown, San Diego, California and third shooting location at the home of Merrick McCartha and Peggy Warny in the Los Angeles area.
Joe Castanho “Panic at Parq” production still photo credit: Luly’s Enchanted Pixels
During Production the cast and crew completed a community based act of kindness, giving blood at the annual Kyle Kraska Celebration of Heroes blood drive, led by Lori Morkunas Jones.
“Making a film in San Diego is both a pleasure and an honor working with so many talented cast and crew. Although a parody, this film is also a love letter to Jodi Cilley, President and founder of the San Diego Film Consortium.”
– Sue Vicory, Executive producer/Co-Director/Actor
“San Diego has a talented and diverse group of filmmakers who relentlessly pursue their passion for the art form. Just before the pandemic shut down nearly the entire industry, a large sample of this creative body came together to create a loving tribute to Jodi Cilley, the founder of Film Consortium San Diego and unintentionally to themselves. This fun little film is a delightful piece of comedy that highlights the strange beauty of artists battling deadlines, creative differences and the mind-boggling diversity of talents that creative people bring to the table.”
“The challenge was to write a short film that included the majority of the San Diego film community, which is extensive. I think my writing team and I found a very clever way in which to do that.
“It was an honor organizing our film community to help with Kyle Kraska’s annual blood drive. To know that our efforts and blood donations went to save lives is a wonderful feeling.”
When all the acts for the San Diego Film Awards suddenly become unavailable, the production team is tasked with finding replacements at the very last minute. Fearing the wrath of the show’s head honcho, the squabbling band of producers is forced to put aside their differences long enough to secretly audition replacement acts; but when nearly every performer in San Diego responds to their casting-call, they quickly realize just how in-over-their-heads they truly are.
Panic at Parq Logline:
A squabbling band of producers is forced to book last-minute talent for an awards show, all under their boss’s nose.
Left to right: John Aviles, Teresa Suarez Grosso, Lizet Benrey, & Randy Davison “Panic at Parq” production still photo credit: Luly’s Enchanted Pixels
About Heartland Films Inc.: Heartland Films, Inc., a 501(c)3, was established in 2003 by Director/Producer Sue Vicory to create content that inspires, educates, and empowers its audience. Over the past 18 years Heartland Films has released a vast array of content that has screened in festivals worldwide and won many awards.
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We had a wonderful virtual 2 hour SJF Communications Haiku workshop, ‘Capturing Your Creativity With Haiku’ via Zoom on August 29th.
Best part of it…these were my two friends, Ann Stowe and Karen De Arana, that decided to give Haiku a try! Wow, they really delivered!
We began with a review of my professional history and experience with Haiku and poetry as well as a short ice-breaker.
Next, after introductions and a review of my work with poetry, I taught my Power Point presentation about writing Haiku and shared several (16) of my nature (and other) photography photos as prompts to encourage Haiku writing. Besides the photo prompts, we had a choice to also write either about our experiences dealing with the isolation and angst of the Covid-19 pandemic or the ‘best’ or ‘worst’ day in our lives.
Everyone practiced writing Haiku and finally we had the opportunity to share our work. It was a delightful time with two fabulous ladies. They wrote some amazing Haiku!
Here’s a glimpse of our enlightened attendees written Haiku along with photo prompts we chose that day!
Joshua Tree Flowers –Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Lying in the grass
Wind coaxing flowers to dance
Gazing at the sky!
~ Karen
Sunset Cliffs, Point Loma
Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Roaring waves crashing
Thundering across the cliffs
Loudly pounding shore!
~ Ann
Moon Rise & Yellow Traffic Light
Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
All of a sudden
Moon rose at the yellow light
Serendipity!
~ Susan
Julian Leaves – Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Autumn is now here
A kaleidoscope palette
Welcomes the season!
~Ann
Summer stirs the trees
Leaves fall as darkness chills air
Look! Vibrant colors!
~Karen
Waterfall at Tahquitz Canyon Trail
Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Hike in the canyon
Flowers, scents and landscapes too
Look – A waterfall!
~ Susan
Great White Egret at Santee Lakes
Photo by Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications
Waited patiently
Water serene, time just right-
The egret took fight!
~ Susan
Thoughts on Covid-19 & the Coronavirus Pandemic
(Stock Photo)
Consumed with media
Newsflash! People are dying!
Covid sucks big time.
~ Ann
Depression and angst
Weight gain and isolation
When will it all cease?
~ Karen
We celebrated with a high five!
And ended on a happy workshop note!
And when it as nearly over, I read my poems ‘Ann’s Zest Ends’ and my Haiku ‘Crisis & Hope’ aloud. I really miss doing live presentations and readings..
Come on Covid-19. Lets get this pandemic under control so we can truly be social again!
I look forward to teaching many more workshops in the future – virtual or in person!
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.
The Armed Forces Film Challenge is a 60 Day challenge, (extended a bit due to the coronavirus pandemic and Covid-19) during which VetPics Productions selected one of several stories offered by the Challenge management, wrote a screenplay (by Tommy Anderson), filmed (with 2 assigned elements), edited (by Floyd Strayer) and submitted to the Challenge management.
Based on the Story Oblivion by Adam Stone
The story we chose is Oblivion by Veteran Adam Stone. It is about a Marine Sniper returning from Afghanistan and the ghosts that come with him. It focuses on a singular event that tends to stick out amongst the many he has experienced. It stands out with our team as a phenomenal opportunity to show the world a snippet of what our veterans struggle with when they come home.
Life After Oblivion – Photo by Tommy Anderson
About the Producing Team
The VetPics Productions team includes:
Floyd Strayer (Chula Vista, CA) ~ (Team Leader/ Producer/ Director/Veteran) works withSurvivors of Suicide Loss in San Diego, supporting those that have loss to suicide. He acts as the military and Veteran Chair to reach out to our veteran community offering our support. Daily, 22 veterans have struggled with PTSD, mental illness, depression or ghosts of some sort that drove them to take their own life. Twenty-two a day! Floyd’s IMDB;
Tommy Anderson (Norco, CA) ~ (Producer/Screenwriter/Veteran) www.haboobwind.com, is a PTS survivor and has worked with veterans’ issues including suicide prevention for both veterans and public safety personnel. He is on the board of directors of the US For Warriors Foundation in San Diego and has been recognized by both the Los Angeles County Board and the Riverside County Board for with work with veterans.Tommy’s IMDB;
Susan J. Farese (San Diego, CA) ~ (Producer/Casting/Publicist/Veteran)is the owner of SJF Communications and is a veteran Army and Navy Nurse.Susan’s IMDB;
Shar Yonan (Bakersfield, CA) ~ (Producer/Location Scout) is a strong child advocate for abused children in foster care as well as an advocate for children who have attempted to take their own life. Shar’s IMDB.
Sue Vicory(Mound City, KS) (Producer) is a three-time Telly Award winning filmmaker. Sue has been making films since 2003. Heartland Films, Inc., her non-profit production company was established to create films that inspire and educate. Sue has spoken on and moderated panels around the world including Sundance and Cannes Film Festivals. She is a member of the Alliance of Women Directors and has served as an Emmy judge both regionally and nationally. Sue’s IMDB.
We have 12 veterans involved in Life After Oblivion, the film, (production team, cast and crew) along with Adam Stone, writer of the story ‘Oblivion’.
We hope to help bring awareness and remove the stigma around PTS/PTSD and suicide to provide hope and encouragement to those in need with Life After Oblivion
“The ghosts of the battlefield last longer than the war itself”
Here is a 2020 NEW YEARS ‘Gift’ from SJF Communications to Celebrate San Diego Area Theater! Compiled by Susan J. Farese, President of SJF Communications and many thanks to Julien Des Pres. Julien is a senior at SDSU majoring in Public Relations. He has a passion for all things sports and is pursuing a career in sports media and is Susan’s mentee.
Shows, Shows and More Shows!!!
Whether we score comp tix, buy discount tix (Goldstar, or the San Diego Performing Arts League -ArtsTix https://www.sdartstix.com/ or purchase at full price, theatre inspires!!!
This list is our NEW YEARS present to our San Diego Community! Why? Because we wanted to know what the upcoming shows were PLUS we believe in SHARING and GETTING THE WORD OUT! So take a gander!
We have listed (alphabetically) the Theatre/Production Company, Title of Show(s), Dates of Shows and Website links. It’s quite comprehensive! Let us know if there are any additions, corrections etc. We aim to please!
Backyard Renaissance (P); The Dazzle May 7th – 30th; The 4th Annual LIVE LIP SYNC FACE OFF! May 18th; Steel Magnolias June 11th – 28th http://backyardrenaissance.com/tickets/
Broadway San Diego (P); The Simon and Garfunkel Story Feb 18th – 19th; Frozen March 26th – April 12th; The Office! A Musical Parody April 8th – 9th; RENT 20th Anniversary TourMay 8th – 10th; Mean Girls June 9th – 14th; Come From Away June 23rd – 28thhttp://www.broadwaysd.com/
Broadway Vista (P); At Wits End Jan 23rd – Feb 9th; The Glass Menagerie March 5th – 22nd; Beau Gest April 9th – 26th; Brighton Beach Memoirs May 14th – 31sthttp://www.broadwayvista.biz/adult-shows.html
Community Actors Theatre (C); Bojo’s Place: A Musical Revue Jan 31st – March 1st; No Turning Back March 13 – 20; A Place in Time April 10-26; RANTS May 1st – 3rd http://www.communityactorstheatre.com/
Coronado Playhouse (C); Matilda Jan 17th – Feb 23rd; Moon Over Buffalo March 20th – April 19th; Closer than Ever Song by Song April 23 – 26; Anything Goes May 22nd – June 28thhttp://coronadoplayhouse.com/
Cygnet Theatre (P); The Great Leap Jan 22nd – Feb 16th; La Cage Aux Folles March 11th – May 2nd; Two Trains Running May 20th – June 14thhttp://www.cygnettheatre.com/
Diversionary Theatre (P): A Kind of Weather Feb 6th – March 8th; Plot Points in our Sexual Development March 26th – April 26th; Head Over Heels May 21st – June 21sthttp://diversionary.org/season32/
Lamb’s Players (P); Babettes Feast Jan 10th – Feb 16th; Alice Feb 29th – April 12th; The Belle of Amherst April 25th – June 7th https://www.lambsplayers.org/2020-shows
Lamplighters Community Theatre (C); God of Carnage Jan 10th – Feb 9th; The Hollow Feb 28th – March 29th; Company April 17th – May 17thhttps://www.lamplighterslamesa.com/
Moonlight Stage Productions (P); An American in Paris May 13th – May 30th; Something Rotten June 10th – 27thhttp://www.moonlightstage.com/
New Village Arts (P); Murder for Two Jan 24th – March 1st; Little Women: A Concert Reading Feb 16th – 17th http://www.newvillagearts.org/
North Coast Rep (P); Bloomsday Jan 8th – Feb 2nd; The Outsider Feb 19th – March 15th; The Homecoming April 8th – May 3rd; Human Error May 27th – June 21sthttps://northcoastrep.org/
Ocean Beach Playhouse (C); The Rocky Horror Show Jan 17th – March 1st; Into the Woods March 13th – April 5thhttp://www.obtheatrecompany.com/
Onstage Playhouse(C); Going to a Place Where You Already Are Jan 17th – Feb 16th; Real Women Have Curves March 20th – April 12th; Always… Patsy Cline May 8th – June 7th https://www.onstageplayhouse.org/
Patio Playhouse (C); Fun Home Jan 17th – Feb 9th; When We Were Young and Unafraid May 1st – 24thhttp://patioplayhouse.com/
PowPac Theatre (C); Nuts Jan 24th-Feb 23rd; Murder on the Nile March 20th – April 19th; Arsenic and Old Lace May 15th – June 14th http://www.powpac.org/
San Diego Musical Theatre (P); She Loves Me Feb 7th – March 8th; Rent April 17th – May 3rd; Catch Me If You Can May 29th – June 28thsdmt.org
San Diego Repertory Theatre (P); The Humans Jan 9th – Feb 2nd; House of Joy March 5th – 29th; Hershey Felder: A Paris Love Story May 7th – 31st http://www.sdrep.org/
Scripps Ranch Theatre (C); Italian American Reconciliation Jan 17th – Feb 16th; Love Song March 27th – April 26th; I Hate Hamlet May 29th – June 28th http://www.scrippsranchtheatre.org/
The Old Globe (P); August Wilson’s Jitney Jan 18th – Feb 23rd; Hurricane Diane Feb 8th – March 8th; Little Women March 14th – April 19th; Faceless March 28th – April 26th; The Gardens of Anuncia May 8th – June 14th; What We Talk About When We Talk About Anne Frank May 28th – June 28th https://www.theoldglobe.org/
The Roustabouts Theatre Company (P); gUnTOPIA March 8th – 29th; Senorita JuliaMarch 16th; Twelve Angry Men April 6th http://www.theroustabouts.org/onstage
Trinity Theatre Company (C); Seussical Jr. Jan 30th – Feb 1st; Clybourne Park Feb 14 – March 8;https://www.trinityttc.org/
Welk Resort Theatre (P); A Chorus Line Jan 10th – March 22nd; Nunsense April 3rd – June 14th; Elvis – The Early Years April 8th – May 27th; https://welkresorts.com/san-diego/theatre/
Center Stage Children’s Theatre Aladdin Jr. March 6, 7, 8, 13. 14, 15; The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee April 17-19; TBA May 29 – 31, June 5 – 7. https://www.centerstagechildrenstheater.org/
Christian Youth Theatre (CYT) Tuck Everlasting (South County) Feb. 21-23, Feb. 28-29 March 1; Matilda (East County) Feb. 21-23, Feb. 28-29 March 1; Mary Poppins (Central/Clairemont) Feb. 21-23, Feb. 28-29 March 1; Seussical (North County Inland/Escondido) TBA; Tri-City (Oceanside) Camp Rock The Musical Feb. 29, March 1, 7, 8. Spring, 2020 – TBA https://www.cytsandiego.org/
Community Players Theatre The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Jan. 17-19, 24 – 26. Shrek The Musical April 24 – 26, May 1 – 3. http://www.clcfamily.org/theatre/
J Company Mamma MiaJan. 10 – 26; Shabbat Shakespeare: A Midsummer Night’s Dream Feb 7-8; Matilda March 6 – 22; Fireflies The Story of the Artists of Terezin Featuring The Original Children’s Opera Brundibar May 8 – 17; https://www.sdcjc.org/jc/
San Diego Junior Theatre Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Rock Experience Feb. 28 – March 8; Wake Up, Brother Bear March 14 -15; Roald Dahl’s Matilda The Musical April 24 – May 10; https://juniortheatre.com/seasons/
China Arts and Entertainment Group Ltd. (CAEG) presented the U.S. premiere of an opera and dance theatrical musical production Lady Zhaojun Starring Chinese multi-award Singer Li Yugang and fellow performers from the China National Opera and Dance Drama Theater on Sunday, December 1, 2019 at 7:30 p.m. and Monday, December 2, 2019 at the San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave, San Diego, CA 92101.
An Anna’s Hummingbird building and guarding her Nest – This was exciting to see! Thanks to the fellow bird watcher who told us about it!A pair of American Wigeons exploring in the lagoon
The beauty of the trail at the San Elijo Lagoon
A lone pine cone in the torrey pine tree
Gadwalls at the lagoon
Sweet female MallardThings happen in threes, even Mallards!More of the lovely trail at the San Elijo Lagoon
Mallard pair staring!
Visitors at the San Elijo Lagoon – including Curlew, Godwit, Willet shorebirds
When was the last time that you ‘unplugged’ from your devices and appreciated or partook in ‘nature’?
If your answer was today, this week, recently etc. – No worries…but if there’s a gap…there’s definitely hope!
In this interview, you will ‘virtually’ meet SJF Communications’ clients Sebastian Slovin and Sonya Mohamed, Owners of Nature Unplugged in Encinitas, California. We spent some great quality time ‘unplugging’ outdoors together at the beautiful San Dieguito County Park in Rancho Santa Fe for this fun photo shoot, inspiring conversation and of course, connecting with nature!
And now…without further ado..please sit back, relax and enjoy our SJF Communications interview with Sebastian and Sonya, owners of Nature Unplugged!
Sonya Mohamed and Sebastian Slovin, Nature Unplugged
SJF: Welcome Sebastian and Sonya! So nice to chat with you both today. What compelled to create Nature Unplugged together?
Sebastian: The origin of Nature Unplugged began about 10 years ago, when I started by providing unique outdoor experiences around San Diego. The aim was to get people off of their devices and out into nature by combining movement and mindfulness practices. I offered a variety of outdoor experiences – such as guided hikes, outdoor yoga, surfing, stand up paddling, and snorkeling – based on my expertise and background as a professional bodyboarder (boogieboarder), yoga instructor and nature enthusiast. My time in the ocean and on the mat inspired the services/experiences that Nature Unplugged provided.
A few years later, I met Sonya. While I grew up exploring the beaches and waves of Southern California, Sonya adventured in the woods of Valley Forge National Park near her home outside of Philadelphia. It wasn’t long before we started to explore ways to combine our individual skills and passions and share them with the world. We were fortunate to enroll in the MA of Leadership Studies program at the University of San Diego. It was there that our vision for Nature Unplugged really came together.
While at USD, we began to create curriculum specifically designed to help people cultivate wellness through healthy relationships with technology and a deeper connection to nature. Our focus right now is creating momentum for this movement. We offer workshops, speaking engagements/presentations, and one-on-one coaching. Our vision is to create conscious individuals and thriving communities through healthy relationships with nature and technology.
SJF: That’s awesome! What a way for each of you to live your purpose! Sonya, please describe 3 types/groups of people that would be ideal Nature Unplugged clients
Sonya: Sure, we work with several categories:
New Professionals/Millennials
We work with new professionals and millennials who are seeking work-life balance and want to prevent or manage burnout. This group often works in jobs where tech/screen times are heavy and finding balance is critical for their success in work and happiness beyond their professional roles.
Parents, Caretakers and Educators
We work with parents, caretakers and educators who are raising and developing young people in this digital age. We offer plans/tools/tips on how to teach healthy boundaries with technology and how to reconnect youth to the outdoors and nature.
Students
We work with adolescents (middle school/high school) who may have an imbalance with their tech use/screen time. This could be due to gaming/social media/etc.
Sonya Mohamed and Sebastian Slovin, Nature Unplugged
SJF: What motivates you as entrepreneurs?
Sebastian and Sonya: We are both highly creative and are energized by the process of starting something new. We feel uniquely equipped – with our personal, professional and educational backgrounds – to create and share tools and resources that can make a meaningful difference in people’s lives and communities.
SJF: Any roadblocks or challenges with Nature Unplugged along the way? Any challenges working together as partners/spouses?
Sebastian:While we’ve had some wonderful successes over the years and built great connections with individuals and communities, we’ve also had some challenges along the way. We work with people of all ages, though our formative work was primarily with adolescents ages 12-17. Often we would connect with parents who were very eager and committed to helping their children become less attached to/dependent on their smartphones, video games, or other devices. As you can imagine, that’s not the same mindset and eagerness the youngsters met us with.
As for working together as partners/spouses, there are sometimes added challenges and conflict with our dual roles. It can be hard to separate our personal and professional boundaries. Purely from a business partner standpoint, we are also quite different people. Sebastian is fueled by the larger abstract thinking and brainstorming where Sonya has more of a task and process orientation. Most often this is a useful balance that produces both the innovative ideas and the ability to implement them and bring them to life. It can also lead to misunderstandings and frustrations, as there’s a natural tension between the two.
That being said, we are grateful and feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to learn a lot about work and leadership dynamics through our MA in Leadership Studies program. We’ve learned (and continue to learn) how we work best individually and as partners. With styles and approaches that are very different, we have learned how to capitalize on our strengths and manage our tension points. The awareness and attention to those differences make for a great partnership.
SJF: Thank you for that incredibly astute explanation! Despite potential challenges you two work very well together!
SJF: How would you talk about Nature Unplugged to your 13 year old self(selves)
Sebastian: Great question! I’d say: “ You know 13 year old Sebastian, when I look back on my my life, do you know what stands out? It’s the relationships I’ve had, the face to face time, and the adventures of mixing it up out in the ocean and in nature. Your time is precious. Do what makes you feel alive”!
Sonya: I would say: “Never lose sight of your wild self. Run a muck outside as often as you can for as long as you can. Find some friends, get out into nature, explore and goof around. Play is not something reserved for children! You’re going to face a lot of pressure to conform and to take yourself more seriously. Stability is valuable, but it shouldn’t be at the expense of your happiness. Get in touch with what you want and don’t be afraid to go for it. It will be tempting to fill all your free time with tasks, and TV shows, and social media. Be careful there, you won’t be happier for it.
SJF: Why should we unplug?
Sebastian: Simply put: it feels better when we do. There is a growing body of research supporting the benefits – mentally, emotionally and physically – of getting off our devices and outside.
Sonya Mohamed and Sebastian Slovin Nature Unplugged
SJF: Pricing points?
Sebastian: For more information about Nature Unplugged presentations, workshops and coaching plans and pricing email: sebastian@natureunplugged.com or call: 858-775-6486
SJF:What is yourMotto/Tagline and how it evolved for Nature Unplugged?
Sebastian: Our mission/motto: Cultivating consciousness in the digital age
SJF: Describe your awesome, simplistic (yet extremely effective) Nature Unplugged Logo Design
Sonya: I designed and created the logo, using the ‘N’ from Nature and ‘U’ from Unplugged to create something beautiful and relevant to our work.
SJF: Who are Role Models in the entrepreneurial, fitness, academic etc world for you both?
Terri Monroe
Zachary Green
Brene Brown
Fred Kaufman
Jack Kornfield
Michael Phelps
Jon Kabat Zinn
Byron Katie
Michael Gervais
Jim Carrey
Paulo Coelho
Thich Nhatt Hanh
Jose Stevens
David Whyte
Dr. Seuss
SJF: Wow, such a great list. We’ll need to follow up and see any connections that might ensue!If you had to do it over again, (starting a business)….
Sebastian: We would have done it sooner! It’s scary (we still feel that fear a bit) and it’s taken us some time to lean into the discomfort and just go for it.
SJF: But…if you didn’t ‘go for it’ we wouldn’t be working together! So glad you leaned in!
SJF: Describe a workshop/presentation for Nature Unplugged
Sebastian and Sonya:
TITLE: “Nature Unplugged: How to Cultivate Consciousness in the Digital Age”
Presentation:
This interactive and dynamic presentation is all about thewhat and the why.What are we filling our time with and why? The focus is on why balance between time we spend/spent with technology and out in nature is important, and then practically speaking, how to find balance when we’re constantly being pulled and lured into imbalance. We explore the latest research on increased tech use and the benefits of nature, sharing our own personal stories in search of balance. Also included are tools and practices offered as takeaways to inspire attendees to take action and create meaningful change in their daily lives.
SJF: How much time are the presentations?
Sebastian and Sonya:
Typically 1 hour but can range 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
SJF: Where do you teach/provide the presentations?
Sebastian and Sonya:
We’ve presented in a wide variety of locations such as: schools (5th – 12th grade), universities, and businesses.
SJF: How about the Workshops:
Sebastian and Sonya:
Workshops are highly interactive and are a combination of content, small group work, and personal reflection and practice. More than simply delivering information, we provide opportunities for reflection, guide practices and offer tools to make immediate and impactful change.
SJF: How much time is spent in your workshops?
Sebastian and Sonya:
We offer half-day (4 hour) and full-day (8 hour) workshops.
SJF: Where do you teach/provide the presentations?
Sebastian and Sonya:
We hold workshops on site at schools (5th – 12th grade), universities, and businesses. Workshops out in nature (parks, reserves, etc.) are also available.
SJF: What are some of your Workshop Learning Outcomes?
Sebastian and Sonya:
Discover (or rediscover) the beauty and benefits of nature
Regain control of the tech/media in your life by setting healthy boundaries
Live more intentionally by developing or deepening your mindfulness practice
Reclaim a spirit of playfulness and reinsert free time into your day
Try new things, learn to lean into discomfort and push the edges of your comfort zone
Understand your values, how they inform your behaviors and attitudes, and learn how to align your goals to them
Build capacity for self-reflection and self-awareness
SJF: Anything else you’d like to mention?
Sebastian and Sonya: Thanks so much for your time Susan and SJF Communications. We really appreciate it. The only thing we’d like to share with your readers is:
“We’d love to hear from you and continue the conversation. What obstacles are you facing? What do you want to know more about? What about Nature Unplugged resonates with you? Don’t hesitate to reach out!”
SJF: Please let us know how to find Nature Unplugged
