Nurses Week 2021 ~ “Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring” eBook Discount!

Happy Nurses Week 2021 to Nurses: past, present, future and those who support them!

“When it’s all said and done, there’s no profession as diverse,
as the art and the science of being a nurse” -Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN

One week of celebration, however is not enough! It has indeed been a ‘different’ year. Who would have thought that a pandemic was looming? The stress and burnout for nurses has seemed unsurmountable at times this past year. I am hopeful for nurses to feel resilient and thrive as people receive vaccinations and stay vigilant in social distancing, handwashing, being sensible, etc. We are all too important to take life (and nurses) for granted.

“Nursing is an incredibly enriching yet stressful profession and besides being a science, it is truly an art. This second edition of Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring is dedicated to all nurses – past, present, and future. It is a celebration of nursing and a tribute to nurses, especially during this unexpected, unprecedented pandemic. Covid-19 took its toll on nurses during 2020 and hopefully the impact of stress and burnout will be lessened with time and the arts. Poetry can be a therapeutic and cathartic tool for nurses and other caring professions to deal with the angst, stressors or joys that accompany the profession.” – Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN

Nurses should be celebrated for all they have done for patients and their families.

Originally published in 1993, my book Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring now has a 2nd edition and is available online (eBook and paperback, and soon to be available as an audiobook).

Special promotion for Nurses Week: the eBook of Poetic Expressions in Nursing: Sharing the Caring (2nd Edition) by Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, SJF Communications ~ has a DISCOUNTED price on Kindle eBook: $0.99 for Nurses Week and might be extended!

eBook LINK ($0.99): https://amzn.com/dp/B091D2GXNN

Paperback is also available ($12.99): https://amzn.com/dp/173697761X

Here is the description of the book:

This exciting collection of freeform poetry with over 40 poems by Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, is a sharing of both professional and personal thoughts and feelings. Susan is a strong advocate of the creative use of poetry to express the wonderment, frustration, dedication, and the love of nurses for their profession and their patients.

Included is a tribute poem to nurses by Mohan Chilukuri, MD and a bonus section of several of Susan’s Haiku Poems with her nature photography.

Susan invites you to share the passion and the traditions of nursing, and to explore the heart of the professional practice of nursing…sharing and caring.

Susan J. (Felice) Farese, MSN, RN, a native of NJ, received her Bachelor of Science (BSN) degree from Widener University and Masters of Science (MSN) from Seton Hall University. Her diversified nursing career includes military and civilian nursing within inpatient outpatient and academic settings- including experience as a clinician, educator, administrator, consultant, and nurse entrepreneur.

Susan is the owner of SJF Communications PR in San Diego. https://sjfcommunications.com.

My Amazon author page: https://www.amazon.com/Susan-J.-Farese/e/B001K7VB6E

#poetry #nursingpoetry #nursepoet #Amazon #RNpoet #theartofnursing #poeticexpressionsinnursing #womenauthors

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‘Creative Ideas | Dynamic Results’!

Interview with Kris Diasio, ADD2Life20 & Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications

This is a special “Extraordinary People Sharing Their Stories” Interview! Plus, March is Women’s History Month and today, March 8th is International Women’s Day. Join me, in reading about and celebrating Kris Diasio.

Kris is Owner of ADD2Life20. I have known Kris since our daughters, (now in their early twenties), were pre-school classmates!

Our daughters (now 22) when they were young!

We bonded then and have kept in touch intermittently over the years. We are both entrepreneurs and love the life with successes, milestones as well as setbacks.

Kris and Susan circa the early 2000’s!
Circa early 2000’s – Kris and Susan with their daughters.

Kris Diasio, Courtesy Photo

In September, 2020, Kris had an enormous setback – she lost her home in the Almeda-Talent/Phoenix fire – and she lost everything. I mean everything. Kris is building back her life with an amazing force of resilience, energy, enthusiasm and vigor.

Read about Kris and her journey with Add2Life20, before and since the fire in our interview:

SJF: Kris, it’s so great to reconnect as always! I am so interested in your journey and am absolutely impressed with your resilience. To get started, please tell us about your special education coaching business Add 2 Life 20.

KD: Add2Life20 delivers special education coaching for parents, caregivers and teachers to support students with special educational needs. I specialize in working with challenged students (ages 13-18) to help them overcome learning difficulties and have a successful educational experience. I offer a variety of coaching tools and help them achieve their educational goals and see successful outcomes.

Kris Diasio M.S. SP.ED.

SJF: Did you make any personal discoveries (or aha! moments) when creating this new business? If so, please explain.

KD: I was a former Program Manager for Sex Trafficked Teen Girls…I loved my job but once the pandemic hit, I was let go. I had my coaching business prior to this job for twenty years. While I was STAYING HOME AND SAFE, I started looking on LinkedIn. I had this account for three years but did absolutely nothing with it. I was tired of going on other sites and getting nowhere. As I spent more time on LinkedIn, I felt like I had a virtual family. There was so much support offered for those of us looking for employment. I soaked up everything; Zoom, posts, whatever I could get my hands on. I then met my Visibility Coach through LinkedIn and thought, “It’s time to rebuild my Coaching business but ‘virtually’!” That’s when ADD2Life20 was born.

SJF:  How did you decide on the business name Add 2 Life 20

KD: The name came to me two years ago…I didn’t understand WHY then but I will break it down to you.

ADD-Stands for Attention Deficit Disorder but it’s also an ADD to life…many of my students have felt that they are so glad they have this. 

So it’s a POSTIVE ADD.

Add2Life…is again a positive situation, not a negative.

The ’20’: I had my coaching business for 20 years and then rediscovered it again in 2020.

So Add2Life20 was born. 

SJF: Why/How/When did you decide to start Add 2 Life 20?

KD: My big issue here is, I wanted to work from home and be safe with the pandemic out there.

I knew that the pandemic was seriously affecting students who are struggling with a variety of learning challenges and they would fall through the cracks in their education. In addition, I no longer wanted to work for an organization that didn’t value my health and welfare – that was unacceptable to me. So that’s where I was inspired to start Add2Life20.

SJF: What is your role as a Special Education Coach?

KD: I have taught, inspired and uplifted students diagnosed with AD/HD, Dyslexia and Anxiety/Depression for over 30 years.

*I use both my academic background (MS. SP. ED.) and practical experience to deliver an educational coaching service where I act as a translator between the student and parents in schools.

*I help students learn life and academic skills.

*I help parents navigate the difficult situations of their child’s educational experience.

*I support teachers in bridging the gap to work more successfully with students.

Through my unique and personal coaching style and learning strategies, I help my students greatly improve their grades, self-esteem and social skills in a relatively short period of time. Many of my “graduates” have gone on to successful careers as Scientists, Therapists, Military Personnel, Hairdressers, Technologists and more. I am passionate about inspiring and supporting my students to live a successful life without limits.

What Coaching achieves:

*Students will learn time management.

* Students will be able to forecast and use the calendar efficiently.

*Students will have better retrieval systems, so more homework will get done in a timely manner, and they will have fewer last minute frenzied searches for misplaced assignments.

SJF: What are some of your resources for working with your clients?

KD: I use KOALA as a classroom for my clients: https://www.teachwithkoala.com/ and here is a link for the International Dyslexia Association

Here is a recent podcast interview with Kris on the “Maddie’s Chat Show Podcast” all the way from the U.K.:

SJF: Thank you, that is all incredible. The name ADD 2 Life 20 says it all. To change course a bit, is there anything you’d like to mention about challenges and most recently the tragedy in your life?

KD: Ah yes, the Fire! I can share that the past decade had brought many challenges starting with; divorce, breast cancer, single parenting, the loss of a job, diabetes and then the Fire last September. I realize now that all of that was all a “training wheel” for the Fire. 

SJF: You certainly have been through so much the past few years. I saw that you were a part of this video about the devastating Almeda-Talent/Phoenix fire. I am including the video so our readers can see, understand and empathize with you regarding the devastation you endured. https://youtu.be/WqpCHua7pB4

Video about featuring Kris Diasio

KD: Yes, to lose your entire life memories in a fire is brutal…especially if you are a sentimental soul like I am. My neighbors were expecting their first baby when the fire hit. They have it all in front of them though…Baby’s first Christmas ornaments, little hand and footprints from Pre-School, recordings of all the firsts, middle and in between. It’s a bit different when you have a twenty-two year-old, who did all those things. 

My parents’ friend shared with me a great idea; have your daughter recreate what you lost! I LOVED the idea and so for Christmas, I received a very familiar handprint inside a ceramic heart…granted it was a 22-year-old handprint but a TREASURE all the same!

Handprint from Kris’s Daughter at age 22 to recreate the one lost in the fire.

It’s about taking private pain and turning it into something positive!

My daughter and I volunteered at her high school’s Health Classes, and shared both of our journey’s with Breast Cancer…taking private pain and turning it into public purpose! The classes were a big hit and we used theatre, humor and education to get our lessons across (and especially for our male students)! 

Kris and her daughter

I shared with my daughter before she went off to college, that all the pain she’s been through, will serve her later in life.

Later on, she shared with me that two of her friend’s parents were getting a divorce, and that she was now the adviser. Then, a parent of her college friend got cancer, and again she was able to guide and support them. 

While it’s a brutal blow to go through all this trauma, it serves a purpose…oh trust me, I am still walking through four months post-fire but am inspired to write a book about the experience to share with others and want some of the proceeds to go to other fire victims. 

Lastly this, the worst part is to recall everything I lost for the insurance company. Just think of your kitchen, the junk drawer, the towels etc. Makes your head blow up, right?! That’s what it’s like to recall everything and the worst part is I am near my limit on what my insurance offered! So all that work, energy and effort and yet I still have 2 bedrooms to cover…I won’t bother with all I lost in the garage.

I love this quote, “I have held many things in my hands, and I have lost them all; but whatever I have placed in God’s hands, that I still possess!” 

I think that’s about hopes and dreams in God’s hands, that’s how I like to hold it.

SJF: If you had to “do it all over again” would you change anything?

KD: This is a tricky one…you can’t say you regret a bad marriage, as you wouldn’t have your child. 

What I can say is, I wish that my life was kinder to me, but I wouldn’t change anything as I am who I am because of the past!

I learned and grew and changed for the better. If everything was rosy, I wouldn’t be the compassionate soul I am today.  

I know what it’s like to have cancer, diabetes, be a single parent (there should be a medal for all single parents…but OH the skill set you get!) have had to move around that rivals with a military family, and lose a home due to natural disaster. 

The blessing in all of this, is that I am relatable, I understand, I can relate to trauma, managing to do things on my own but I also learned how to ask for help.

Something I didn’t share in a previous question is my faith! I am very strong in the Lord and if it weren’t for God, I have no idea what would have happened to me!

If there was anything to change…I think my older self (now) would tell my younger self, “Be easy on yourself, take one day at a time and know God’s got you!”

SJF: A brief history of your education, work positions, etc.

KD: I hold a Master’s Degree in Special Education and a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology.

I have been a Program Manager for Sex Trafficked Teen girls and had 18 employees, who did amazing work with these young girls.

My executive team was amazing and I called them the Dream Team. We all worked so well together and I promoted their gifts and talents.

It was incredible to watch and see all the gifts my staff carried out each and everyday, through the good, tough and hard and awesome shifts.

I loved my position and felt born for the role. I adored my work with the girls and was able to witness both growth and graduation success.

My joy has been my self-employment being an AD/HD and Educational Coach. I still keep in touch with my former students and seeing them as young successful adults is so rewarding. They all had challenges but overcame those difficulties and have gone on to some incredible careers. Many have gone on to marry and have families of their own. I could share volumes of how all these former students took their challenges and created something positive from their journey. For now, just know how proud I am of them all!

I have been an Aquatic Fitness Instructor, which has nothing to do with my career but I get to teach adults and that’s been a rewarding experience. I get to hear how they are stronger, have more endurance and increased range of motion. I also love my music selection so we all get moving in the pool and have a wonderful time.

When I was much younger, I started out in retail and held that position from age 16-26. It served me well as I experienced firsthand challenges and it taught me how to operate in business. I was an Assistant Manager at Lady Footlocker and that’s where my interest in working with teens came from.

I would be assisting the part-time employees who were teenagers. My manager loved how well I would work with them it was through that journey I realized I was in the wrong field. So I switched gears and worked with juvenile offender teen Boys. This was my first job in the field of teens. It was a huge change but I loved it!  That lead me later to becoming a Child Protection Investigator and Foster Care worker.  I learned incredible skills in these positions and mastered the art of investigating. This helped with asking teens about what happened and getting their story on issues. 

Interesting story on becoming a CPS worker; my ex-husband at the time was in the military. One of the wives approached me with a tough situation she was facing – she was accused of child abuse and a week before I met her and her family (baby and husband). They were a darling couple from the Deep South. I made a call on this wife’s behalf and I shared that the allegations were inaccurate, and that the family were both nurturing to the infant. I was so good at giving detail that after the phone call I was offered the position and then hired.

That started my journey into working with very challenging children, which lead me to working in another group home, which lead me to focusing on education.

My daughter was born and I wanted to stay home and raise her. I had a part time job at a tutoring center in California, that’s where my business was born.

I didn’t like the curriculum that was being taught and one of my students at this company was getting so frustrated and started to cry. He was a little one and I immediately changed the curriculum and thought to myself, “why don’t you start your own specialized tutoring business?!” and the rest as they say, “is history.” 

Another position I held was being a professional organizer. That came from working with one of my student’s parents. I enjoy taking chaos and creating order…it’s one of my gifts and of course, I do that with my students!

I will end with this…we never know when life takes us in interesting journeys and experiences to see where we will end up. Just trust the process and you will get your star and your purpose!

SJF: What are your personal pastimes/hobbies/interests/passions?

KD: When I had my daughter, I became her paparazzi! I love taking photos and can pre-anticipate just about any shot at a birthday party, dance, prom etc. 

Granted, my daughter is well passed all these things, but other people have children and can “capture” the moment like a boss!

The ‘Go-Bag’ with sentimental scrapbooks that Kris made over the years

My true love, and I have done this for 21 years, is scrapbooking! It was awful losing all my supplies (due to the fire), let alone 20 albums, but I have received many gifts to replenish my lost supplies. The big thing now, is to create virtual albums, and while I get this, after the fire, this is NOT me. I love manipulating the ribbons, paper and various embellishments! Last year I completed 6 Albums, while staying home and safe. With my Dad being a CERT leader in his neighborhood, he encouraged me early last year to create a Go Bag in the event of an emergency and I set aside 6 scrapbooks in this Go Bag. As I was evacuating my house, I grabbed 3 more albums and so grateful I had them. I had to literally STOP my brain weeks after the Fire from saying,” Why didn’t you grab…” I told myself…stay THANKFUL and you’re good!

I also love movies! I’m the one who catches what they call “goofs” in a movie, I can see if there was a candle in the background in one shot and the next shot it’s not there. Trust me, it’s an annoying skill but excellent in my line of work with AD/HD students. I mainly love Romantic Comedy but also love Mysteries and enjoyed Sherlock!

My passions are working with students and seeing them become incredible young men and women! Two of them are serving our country, I am very proud to say. The extraordinary measures my students have taken to be successful are incredible!

SJF: Tell us about your upbringing, geographically, personally etc.

KD:  I was born and raised in NYC. It was an interesting life there. I learned to have eye’s in the back of my head and always sat in the back of the bus to observe people. A huge education for me!

My mother was a career Mom, and my Dad wasn’t much in the picture. Dad, I found out had mental illness but I didn’t realize that until my older years. My parents divorced when I was 13 and off I was on my own and learning about life – the good, the bad, the unusual. That was the makings of a great coach later in life!

My grandparents were my rocks in life and named my daughter after one of my grandmothers! 

It wasn’t all doom, while I was getting my education in “life” my mother and I moved to California when I was 16 and life was much better. 

I attended San Jose State University and joined the ROTC program. I loved the structure and while that was only a small moment in my life, it gave me the structure and discipline I so needed.

Living in the Bay Area was wonderful and I had many wonderful experiences there. Made great friends, my career was coming together, obtained a Master’s Degree and had my daughter. 

Eleven years ago, I moved to Oregon and have been here since. I love Southern Oregon and again, have made friends but the experiences were a bit different as I mentioned above.

SJF: Where can we find you on the web? Website, social media etc.

KD: My website is; Add2LIfe20.com, there you can view what my business and services. I am also on LinkedIn and that also gives details of what my business offers as well as my background.

I also want to share that I have a wonderful Virtual Classroom and am excited to share this with my students!

SJF: Do you have any recommendations re: coping with the Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic? Stress management tools? 

KD: COVID-19 -I used this as a time to catch up, organize, exercise, scrapbook, and reaching out to friends whom I haven’t talked to in forever.

I also rediscovered my business and dove right into making that happen. Decorated my house…yes, this is the one that burned.

If some people are wondering how I had time? I am an empty-nester and not married. I had time to do all of this.

What I learned is to be STILL, my prayer life is super important to me and would start my day with readings and prayer and time with God.

Being gentle with yourself is key, if you don’t complete something, don’t become unraveled…just pick it up tomorrow, if the schedule allows. We stress about all kinds of little things and have heard it say, “We major in the minors.” Not a good rule to follow.

COVID for me, was about learning to STEP BACK AND TAKE A MINUTE. Granted, that “minute” was 12 months ago – but it’s a minute in the scheme of a life time!

SJF: How has the Covid-19 affected you personally/professionally?

KD:  I was laid off due to COVID but it brought my self-employment back into my life. So I am very grateful for that. 

My daughter came down with COVID and as she lives 3 hours away from me. She had only a mild case, so I was extremely grateful for that one.

Staying home and staying safe lead me back into scrapbooking again and organizing my townhouse and I really had a good time before the fire.

The biggest struggle is to be a flaming extravert and stay home and stay safe. My crafts and some great music, kept me in Happy Land! I guess you can say in my career and in life, I have good coping skills.

SJF: Role models or persons that inspire you in your life?

KD:  I would say the people who inspired me were both my Grandparents. They had good marriages and they were so incredibly kind and loving towards me. They were there for me and I absolutely loved visiting them. One set of Grandparents were Italian, and OHHH THE FOOD…I am so sorry that I didn’t get recipes from my Grandmother, but she could whip up gourmet meals like nothing!

In the AM, I would hear my Grandparents talk Italian and that was really cool, they didn’t think I was listening but I did. I had no clue what they were talking about, but I figured out later it was to be confidential as they didn’t want me to hear what they were saying. My other set of Grandparents were in the Midwest and completely had different experiences there. Still kindness and grace where there and my other Grandmother made incredible meals but I learned baking from her! Both sets of Grandparents, were my anchors in life and set a standard that I later held in my adult life.

SJF: Favorite quotes?

KD: “Think you can, think you can’t, either way, you’ll be right.” Henry Ford. And “DO what you can, with what you have, where you are.” Theodore Roosevelt

SJF: Who (celebrity) would you like to have lunch or dinner with to discuss your business?

KD:  Barbara Walters would be my pick to have lunch with and share my business! I would also pick Tom Hanks. I think his personality would appreciate what I do and have done in my career!

SJF: Significant moments?

KD: A) When I became a parent! It was great, thrilling and a little scary to know I am solely responsible for this little darling girl! That baby will be 23 soon and she’s done really well in her life and navigating adulting really well.

B) Cancer; Oh man oh man, was that a HUGE wake-up call for my life. This was the time that I had to really focus on myself!

My focus was on my marriage at the time, my child, work and everyone else in my family…then Cancer came knocking on my sweet door.

I learned self-care and basically changed my life. I also appreciate everything small and tiny…gratitude in a BIG WAY. Through this event, both my daughter and I taught Breast-Cancer Awareness classes for four years in all of the Health Classes at my daughter’s high school. We both gained an enormous amount from that experience.

C) September 8, 2020…The Fire; Home burnt to the ground…nothing but ashes! 

Kris Diasiao…after the Fire

Since that was only 5 months ago, it’s still a work in progress. I will be writing a book on my experience and sharing what a REAL GO-BAG should look like.

The ‘Go-Bag’

A back-pack with tiny toiletries does not a GO-BAG make! I can no longer look at a fireplace with peace, but if the flames are small it’s okay.

There are certain fire smells that are okay…like that of a fire place but there’s a completely different smell when homes are burning.

I am grateful that I left fifteen minutes before my house caught fire. My former student came by only fifteen minutes AFTER I left to check and see if I was okay, and he shared that the back of my house was on fire. Gratefully, I got out of there and was spared seeing my house on fire, even though the next day I saw a video that showed otherwise. 

People came with a tidal-wave of support for me; my high school friends, relatives, literally people out of the woodwork came and supported me. Even more gratitude here, I think everyone else had a sense of how severe the situation was verses where my trauma-brain was at at that time. I live gratitude everyday and am slowly building up some of what I have lost. I shifted from having a DVD collection to purchasing streamed movies…less clutter and I can watch my movies on any device! Something the younger group knows vs. us! Going lighter on paper and there are more tools on the computer which is linked to the Cloud! 

Fire Humor; When people asked if I have this or that…I say,”Yup, it’s in the Cloud…I just can’t access it! LOL”

A tiny piece of my book:

What to say to someone who has lost a house to a Fire? “I can’t even imagine.” That’s right…you have no idea!

Bring a solution to the Fire Victim, “Can I bring you lunch tomorrow?” Be as specific as you can when offering something, because we can’t even think about our new reality.

What NOT to say,” Well, you can replace items…the key thing is you are okay.” This one is really bad, and you think I can purchase a tiny footprint of my daughter when she was 1? 

Baby book for Kris’ Daughter

Or how about ALL the Mother’s Day cards my daughter ever made me? Or the two bins that had all of her best-of-the best of schooling, report cards, awards, letters to Santa…yah, they don’t sell that at Walmart! There’s a thousand other items like Baby’s First Christmas ornament, very specialized, all the Christmas ornaments she made for me in Elementary School…that’s right…won’t find that at Macy’s. Or how about my Grandfather’s military uniform…not on Amazon! Also don’t say, “What do you need?” I laughed so hard when I heard that…again, ask, “Would you like a gift card to your favorite store?” Bring solutions, not questions. We are in trauma-brain, my list would have been like this: bandages, duck tape, bra’s, underwear, Q-tips, mascara…” We need everything…so bring SPECIFICS to the conversations.

Another note; Please don’t share YOUR fire story…this is not the time to think you could possibly know what we are going through. You might feel it’s a way of connecting with us but it just makes us upset as we need to tell OUR story, not hear YOURS. So listening to how you Grandma lost everything in the fire really doesn’t do it for us. Wait for a year before you share that story.

INSURANCE; This is a God-Send BUT…You better have the time and the concentration to write down all that was lost. Here are some things you will need; item, where purchased, serial number (my personal favorite! LOL!) how long you’ve had the item and describe the item. Oh for those of you who think you have it covered by taking pictures and video…NOPE, that photo or video is for YOU. You still have to write it all down. No off-the-hook for you. It’s a gut wrenching experience. Remember when you take a photo of your couch, the Content person doesn’t know if that couch is $800 or $8000.

The wonderful idea my parents friends had was to RECREATE some of those special items I lost in the fire. I suggested this to my daughter about the recreation and she purchased a heart shaped plaster wall hanging where she put her 22-year old hand print in. There you go…a replica of her handprint at age two was made! That was the BEST gift…and what do I care that she’s a grown up…the sentiment was there and I love it! Creativity is key and it’s healing and fun!

SJF: Where/How do you ‘give back’ to your community/communities?

KD: I mentioned how my daughter and I took private pain and turned it into public purpose and talked about the journey through Breast Cancer. While we were teaching our BC classes in Health Classes, we also participated in Relay for Life.

Here are some photos from ‘Relay for Life’

I was a Co-Captain for Relay and my Co-Captain Leslie handled our Team, who were Breast Cancer Survivors. I handled the Students, who were going to participate in the 24 hour Relay. So my daughter and I recruited 25-40 students for this event during our classes, during the school year. I realized, I needed help and acquired three more students who demonstrated true leadership ability during the first Relay. In addition to my daughter, we had four amazing leaders to run Relay.  I got the Dream Team in place during the 2nd year of Relay, so they were quite seasoned in what to do during this event. I trained my Dream Team for four months on how to handle students during Relay. The Dream Team was able to successfully forecast any challenges that would arise. On the day of Relay, both me and my Co-Captain Leslie, watched in awe as these students ran things. My Dream Team had to work on scheduling, posting different students at different events through out the day. Always have accountability every hour on where these students were, who was on break, who was working where etc. The Dream Team managed all the in’s and outs of this event and would check in with me hourly on the various activities. The students participated in walking for our team and other fun events, and working specific stations, including doing bathroom duty. 

It was a huge success for four years and I was so proud of all the students who participated in this event, especially, the Dream Team!!

SJF: What qualities should the younger generations aspire to that you think are important in this day and age?

KD: This is simple; PULL AWAY FROM YOUR DEVICES and realize that Social Media is NOT always correct. Get back out into nature! TEEN CHALLENGE; For one day, leave your phone at home! That’s right…1 whole day…then they can see what life was like when we were young:)

SJF: Tell us some of your thoughts on Motherhood!

Kris and her daughter at 2+ years old

KD: Motherhood – Enjoy the little years! While you are thinking during the temper tantrums…”I can’t wait until they grow up, so I can have a real conversation with them!” They really won’t be too interested in what you have to say then. I see the little years as the “Wonder Years.” Granted, I had fantastic “little years” experience, so I’m somewhat tainted! 

Once they hit 18…start asking them questions! Like, “So how would handle that?” Put more of the solution in their court than in yours.  As your child learns and grows, sit back and listen to their view of the world. Let them be the expert…remember they have had a completely different experience growing up in a different time than you did! The greatest moment for me, is when I have watched my daughter coach her Gymnastics Team! She’s a MASTER in her field…and only 22! To see your child become successful, to see your child navigate in a relationship, is wonderful! They have to figure it out. If you hear something that freaks you out…let THEM figure it out!! This does not apply if there is danger or high risk, then parent away! I’m talking when they think they can do some things and YOU know better…let them figure it out. We didn’t have anyone to really slow the brakes on us…by letting go, they grow up! Cherish the short time you have with your adult child as they grow older and realize they are doing the best they can. The good thing is, when they leave the nest…for the most part, they LOVE coming home, and the memories flow and I even heard from some of my friends who are Grandmothers, that your adult children will actually apologize to you for being so selfish! Don’t hold your breath or wait on that one…if it comes, it’s a bonus:)

SJF: How do you handle loss?

KD: Loss; that’s a tough one. Each of us has our own coping skills on how we handle ourselves during Trauma/Loss. 

For me, TAKE IT EASY…be kind to myself! 

Realize that people are doing the best they can…even if they annoy you to no-end!

Each day brings different things but hold on to FAITH, NEVER GIVE UP…the miracle might be just around the corner…I have waited and the miracle did come. 

I have walked through, Divorce, Breast Cancer,  Single Parenthood and the loss of a Home to a Fire…I refuse to be an EMPTY SHELL person! Gratitude is a MUST, and I hold to that daily. I have heard it say,” Cracks are where the Grace of God shine through!” So shine, grieve, cry, get mad but don’t let anger get the last word!

Be extremely gentle with yourself, take naps, power down, walk, exercise, dance and call someone who you haven’t talked to in awhile. 

You will want to PLOW through it all…there’s only one way to deal with pain…GO THROUGH IT, in order to get to the other side of WELLNESS!

SJF: Where have you traveled and where would you like to travel once Covid-19 is OVER??? 

KD: After COVID; I want to take my daughter to Central California and stay at one of our favorite places called Apple Farm in San Luis Obispo or as the locals call it SLO!

As my business starts doing well, I want to go to England, as I have so many new friends through LinkedIn!! I’m excited about that experience! 

Honestly, I just can’t wait to go the beach, be in a crowd, without having heart-failure about COVID! Be out and about with peace and serenity is fine by me!

SJF: To sum it up, is there anything else you’d like to tell us?

KD: One more thing…The song “I’m Still Standing’ by Elton John really resonated with me and says it all!

SJF: Absolutely, that song is spot on…definitely! Thank you Kris, it’s truly been a pleasure. All the best in 2021 and beyond!

Connect with Kris Diasio at add2life20@gmail.com

Website: http://add2life20.com or

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kris-diasio/

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‘Creative Ideas | Dynamic Results’!

SHORT FILM “LIFE AFTER OBLIVION” (ARMED FORCES FILM CHALLENGE) WILL PREMIERE ONLINE FEBRUARY 25, 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

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, 2021 VIA THE “ARMED FORCES FILM CHALLENGE” SPONSORED BY THE FILM CONSORTIUM SAN DIEGO

(San Diego, February 15, 2021) – Team VetPics Productions has produced a SAG short film project (15 min), Life After Oblivion for the Armed Forces Film Challenge through the Film Consortium San Diego, collaborating with So Say We All

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.

Link to purchase and view: (Click photo below)  https://filmconsortiumsd.com/special_events/armed-forces-film-challenge-virtual-screening/

Link for Premiere of “Life After Oblivion”

Featuring readings and Q&A’s from local creators.

The Armed Forces Film Challenge tells stories written and directed by military veterans and active-duty service members.

 Life After Oblivion was filmed at the Meadows Field Airport and the Wind Wolves Preserve in Bakersfield, California. There are 12 veterans associated with Life After Oblivion.

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
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 with Survivors 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 Box Film 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

The Music in Life After Oblivion

The song ‘Life After Oblivion’ sung by Tina Hargett and co-written and accompanied by Mark Ontiveros and Nick Tersio Ontiveros is featured on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/4c4EHoYtcPvlBPEGbNCGmy?si=EXG3J3fQRsGk5wql06yTRA

The background music is by Dead as Dillinger featuring Roman Terenzini, Adrian Byers, Mike Garritson and Matt Novack.

Social Media for Life After Oblivion

Life After Oblivion Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/LifeAfterOblivionVetPics

Life After Oblivion IMDB page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt11722940/?ref_=fn_al_tt_1

Montage Video – Day 1- Life After Oblivion

This video is a photo montage from day one of our film shoot. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxY2DYhvkxw&t=2s

The Cast of Life After Oblivion

The cast of Life After Oblivion includes: Ryan Gangl: Phil (Sniper); Elliott McKenzie: Jeff (Spotter); Kyle Brody: Afghan Boy/Sniper’s Son;   Susan Farese: Dr. Silvia Ricci; Emmy Farese: Libby; Chase Dittrich: Marine #1; Keith Fingers, Jr.: Marine #2; Will Hill: Marine #3; Josh Conner: Marine #4: Janey Hann: Phil’s (Sniper’s) wife; Tom Anderson: Phil’s Father; La Contessa Miller: Libby’s Mother; Joseph Lloyd: Libby’s Father; Miguel Montoya: Libby’s Boyfriend/Utility Stand-In; Johnitta Clemons: Jeff’s (Spotter’s) Mother; Shar Yonan: Marine #1’s Wife; Tina Hargett: Mother of Marine #3; Robert Hargett: Father of Marine #3; Sheila Mauck: Wife of Marine #4.

The Crew of Life After Oblivion

The Life After Oblivion local Bakersfield crew is led by Joey Garza and includes Patrick HaynesKeith Fingers, Jr.Will McBride and Miguel Montoya and Tiffany Wennihan.

Recent Awards/Nominations (as of 1/25/2021)

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. Farese

Cast 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”

– Tommy Anderson

Ticket link for the February 25th Screening Premiere through Film Consortium San Diego and So Say We All:: https://filmconsortiumsd.com/schedule/?show=2021-02-25

Media Inquiries – please contact:

Susan J. Farese,  SJF Communications PR: sjfcommunications@gmail.com.

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SJF Communications – ‘Creative Ideas | Dynamic Results’!

2021 by SJF Communications

Q & A: Journalist, Author, Former Presidential Advisor Barry Jagoda & Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications

Barry Jagoda – Courtesy Photo

It’s such a pleasure to introduce our esteemed SJF Communications client, Author, Journalist, PR professional as well as Media Advisor to former President Jimmy Carter. Barry’s new memoir is Journeys With Jimmy Carter and Other Adventures in Media, published by Koehler Books. Here is information, including details to purchase the book from our previous 12/7/2020 post: https://sjfcommunications.com/2020/12/07/memoir-by-award-winning-journalist-presidential-advisor-barry-jagoda/

Q & A – Barry Jagoda and Susan J. Farese

SJF: Why/How did you decide to write Journeys with Jimmy Carter and Other Adventures in Media?

BJ: People kept asking me, after I mentioned that I was retired, “what do you do or what did you?”  I always answered, “I’m a writer”.  Many would follow with “What have you written?”  

I had been toying with a few paragraphs, so then I started saying, “I’m semi-retired, working on a memoir.”

Here is an example of letting imagination be partly driven by external forces.  These fans of Jimmy Carter and Walter Cronkite, though dying off, provided a platform for my story. I didn’t mean to be at the center of American political and cultural life but a journalist can have that serendipity.

If you have modern information technology and talented colleagues, a first draft of your story can be whipped up in about two years including finding a solid publisher with a stable of intelligent editors and designers.  Subsequent drafts will benefit from trusted advance readers, including some who think the completed final first draft needs more substance, except for the brilliant energy-oriented lawyer who noted a lack of rigor—He said the book could be divided into three parts:  an analysis of the Carter Presidency, a study of modern telecommunications policy & the Presidency and my friends and others I had encountered.  Though not denying my right to name names, he was quite obviously miffed at being left out. Go back to the drawing board!, he counseled.

SJF: Did you make any personal discoveries (or aha! moments) while writing your memoir? If so, please explain.

BJ: While writing, the concept of “flow” seemed to kick in as I was very comfortable remembering earlier life-episodes.  In fact, one post-publication reader asked if I had used a “diary” with notes because details seemed to flow as I wrote.  This discovery of useful memory was a pleasant surprise.

SJF: How did you decide on the title and decide to find a publishing company vs. self-publishing?? 

BJ: As loyal readers will attest, here is the book and I take full responsibility for factual errors.  The solid publisher, John Koehler, wanted to use the Carter cover in part for marketing.  I had no better idea.

SJF: Tell us about your background in the media and in politics

BJ: After graduate school (M.S., Journalism, Graduate School, Columbia University), I was hired as an Intern/Writer at NBC News and after a few months in the Newsroom at NYC Headquarters was assigned as Writer/Editor in Washington, DC.  Their top stars, such as David Brinkley and Nancy Dickerson would present their copy for radio news (“hourlies) and television inserts.  Left their own styles but occasionally did find factual errors which they were always glad to correct.  During this period was often assigned as field producer at Capitol Hill gallery and back-up at other news making locations in DC.  After accepting an overnight assignment monitoring audio feeds from NASA early Apollo Program came to attention of CBS news team covering moon landing effort and was hired as Associate Producer there.  Subsequently became Producer (for Walter Cronkite) in coverage of Apollo 11.  After ten years in broadcast journalism was asked by Jimmy Carter to help as Television Advisor in his nascent presidential campaign.

Barry Jagoda with President Jimmy Carter in the Oval Office – Courtesy Photo – Barry Jagoda

SJF: Tell us about your role in politics as Presidential media advisor

BJ: Carter wanted help understanding role of TV in presidential nominating politics and general election, though he was not interested in someone who would change his style and manner of presentation.  After I said I would only advise him of effect of his words on news coverage, by networks and major print publications, he said I could be helpful and told senior media advisor, Jody Powell, to invite me aboard the campaign.  After the successful election of 1976 I was named Special Assistant to the President, serving in the White House focusing on media and cultural relations.  Eventually I had a philosophical difference with top campaign advisors (including powerful candidate spouse, Rosalynn Carter) who thought my work was giving Carter “overexposure” instead of focusing on a few cardinal issues.  Moving to the National Security Council, I served there for seven months, but did not participate in Carter’s 1980 unsuccessful re-election campaign.

SJF: Tell us about your upbringing, geographically, personally etc.

BJ: My parents, both immigrants from Eastern Europe (part of the massive inflow between 1880 and 1920) were hard working and successful.  Mother, who spoke no English upon arrival in USA from Ukraine, quickly mastered elementary and secondary education and went on to receive a medical degree (pediatric chiropody) from Case/Western Reserve University.  Father, a serial entrepreneur, had a grocery business in affluent part of otherwise industrial Youngstown, Ohio.  After being forced to move to warmer climes (first Phoenix, then Houston) he started small markets catering to shift workers from emerging petrochemical plants.  They settled in post-WWII GI bungalows near stores.  Eventually parents moved to districts of Houston where schooling was an improvement.  This had a profound effect on me, as I moved forward with classmates in journalism and debate at one of Houston’s top high schools, Bellaire.  For college, though accepted at some top private universities, enrolled at cost-effective University of Texas.

Karen and Barry Jagoda – Courtesy Photo

SJF:  If you had to write the book over again, would you change anything?

BJ: A re-written book might include more information on differences between legitimate media and fake expressions, particularly in an election year. Thus, I would try to provide more analysis of difference between legitimate media and fake social media, especially from my experience and perspective from years of work in journalism and, more recently, in use of legitimate social media.

SJF:  A brief history of your education, media and political positions/teaching appointments published articles, etc.

BJ: After graduate school, I was hired by NBC News, then CBS News to cover science and politics of moon landing.  This evolved into coverage of the Watergate scandals for which I shared in an Emmy Award.

SJF: What are your personal pastimes/hobbies/interests/passions?

BJ: When I have a chance to relax, I enjoy the sports of golf and squash racquets.

SJF: Anything you’d like to mention about Watergate? Kennedy in Texas? Apollo? Emmy award?

BJ: From my memoir one can see a photo of the Emmy Award, press credentials for President Kennedy’s fatal trip to Texas in 1963 and photos signed by Apollo astronauts reflecting on my coverage of those events.

SJF:  Where can we find you on the web? Website, social media etc.

BJ: I maintain a website (BarryJagoda.com) where those photos are easily accessible.  Less useful for my expression is the Twitter account and the Linked-In that are available in my name.  The best way I communicate with others is through email, where I am readily available via <Barry@barryjagoda.com>.

SJF: Any recommendations for us to journal or document what we are going through with Covid-19 coronavirus pandemic? Stress management tools? 

BJ: When I anticipate a sense of stress or anxiety upcoming (mainly due to the Covid-19 Pandemic) I find “breathing exercise” to be a regular source of relief.

SJF:  How has the Covid-19 affected you personally/professionally?

BJ: The Pandemic has forced me to be very careful about meeting with or encountering others without following the recommended tools of mask wearing, social distancing and trying to stay at home as much as possible.

SJF:  Role models or persons that inspire you in your life?

BJ: I am reminded about these safety measures—and other common-sense applications—by my spouse, Karen Jagoda, who is a role model and an inspiration.

SJF:  Favorite quotes?

BJ: At some point I favored the expression “practice makes perfect,” but in maturity I have chosen a variation, “practice makes improvement.”  A short way of pointing to the inspiration I’ve had from Karen is by attention to the words in dedication to her of this book: “If you want to go quickly, go alone.  If you want to go far, go together.”

SJF:  Who would you like to have lunch or dinner with to discuss your book?

BJ: In addition to a long lunch to discuss the memoir with President and Mrs. Carter, it would be useful to compare notes with Professor Douglas Brinkley and other scholars who have given serious thought to their lives, including accomplishments and shortcomings.

SJF:  Life hurdles? Successes?

BJ: After formal education I realized my shortcomings in mathematics and computational sciences, but was gratified to have gained skills in public speaking and general social interaction.

SJF:  Three significant/pivotal moments in your life?

BJ: My parents favored extreme “left-wing” social change and when I realized that often brought more trouble than success, I became more moderate in political opinion.  After choosing journalism as a career approach I left behind advocacy but later, pivotally, realized one could combine fact seeking with moderate political expression.

SJF: Fears?

BJ: I fear unchecked governmental power and, simultaneously I worry about a failure to use the levers of government to seek improvement in the general human condition. 

SJF:  Recurring dreams/ Usual dreams?

BJ: From time-to-time I worry about human catastrophes, such as earth quakes, and a general failure to act in ways that will modify the harmful effects of climate change.  The weakness of humanity to observe and address problems sometimes leads me to have nightmares, mostly overcome in a startling awaking.

SJF: Strongest asset? What would you like to work on/improve?

BJ: I am a good listener but would like to improve on that trait.  And, moving too fast—simulating the speed of light—makes one see less brightly!

SJF:  Where/How do you ‘give back’ to your community/communities?

BJ: Though I try to see how I can give back to my fellows, and to the general community, this is an area that requires concentration and improvement. 

SJF: Any regrets in life?

BJ: Being readily more selfless by focusing on helping my fellow man is a real shortcoming that, I try to remind myself, needs focus and hard work.

SJF: What qualities should the younger generations aspire to that you think are important in this day and age?

BJ: The younger generation seems even more self-oriented that my own group of “baby boomers” and pre-boomers.

SJF: Funny/humorous (appropriate) stories in media or politics?

BJ: The book, Presidential Campaigns, by Professor Paul F. Boller cites hundreds of laugh-filled moments in politics, including several where I am the butt of the situation.  I heartily recommend this volume for many hours of humor.

SJF: How do you handle loss?

BJ: Loss is often the result of misfortune and, therefore, should not be taken personally, though this awareness may only mitigate the pain.

SJF:  Where have you traveled and where would you like to travel once Covid-19 is OVER???

BJ:  I have traveled the world as a journalist and political assistant, including having more than just a passing stop or two.  Longer stays, of course, always been more informative and rewarding.  These days, while desk bound by the Pandemic, I think of going back to some places I’ve enjoyed the most—particularly the Hawaiian Islands and the Adriatic coast and islands—but to more intriguing locations including Madagascar and New Zealand.  Having the responsibility to share in the caring of a very active canine, a Mini Schnauzer named Timothy, is probably as much of a snag for travel as anything else.

SJF: What has been the most valuable lesson in your life?

BJ: The most valuable lesson I’ve had would be learning to appreciate the many qualities that others can bring when and where I frequently fall short.

SJF: Many thanks Barry, such a pleasure to learn more about you.

Book Details:
Journeys With Jimmy Carter and Other Adventures in Media

The book is available at Amazon and wherever books are sold:

Paperback: ISBN-10: 1646630319; ISBN-13 : 978-1646630318

Hardcover: ISBN-10: 1646630335  ISBN-13 : 978-1646630332

eBook ISBN: 978-1-64663-032-5

More information:

Barry Jagoda : 
barryjagoda.com Email: barry@barryjagoda.com Ph: 858-688-1025

Media Contact:
Susan J. Farese,SJFCommunications – sjfcommunications@gmail.com Ph: 408-398-5940

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‘Creative Ideas | Dynamic Results’!

We Captured Our Creativity With Haiku (for Workplace Wellness) at SDSU!

I was thrilled to be invited by San Diego State University Communications Professor Patricia Geist-Martin, Ph.D., to present a virtual (Zoom) shortened session of Capturing Your Creativity With Haiku to her upper level undergraduate course – COM 428 class: Communicating Workplace Wellness.

This was on December 8th, one of the last days of the Fall, 2020 semester (and of course during the current challenging pandemic).

We started with Dr. Geist-Martin introducing me, followed by my brief bio, PowerPoint presentation and photos to encourage writing. The students had the choice of writing from several different prompts i.e. one of the photos that I showed to them, the best day in your life, or worst day in your life, pandemic related stress, love, nature, seasonal, etc.

What a wonderful afternoon! It was amazing how quickly the students formed their haiku! They were so attentive, enlightening . The session was interactive via audio or adding their haiku or questions or comments to the chat area. I added some suggestions with a few haiku…

Capturing Your Creativity with Haiku

Susan J. Farese, MSN, RN, SJF Communications

SDSU COM 428 – 12.8.2020 

Love is happiness

The warmth and security

everlasting comfort!

-Leah

SJF suggestion: last line can be changed to: comfort, everlast!

The cold breeze is strong,

the sun falls behind the cliffs,

winter has begun

-Natalie

Lookout the window

Snow is falling from the sky

The candle brings warmth

-Adrian

Ninety days and night

Future grown in the sunlight,

Early retirement found.

-Daniel

SJF suggestion:
Last line can be changed to: retire early? (with ? at the end)

Red nose, cooling breeze

 Hot cocoa warming cold hands

 Nights bring colored lights

-Melissa

Workplace wellness is

Communication together

Thanks for your effort

-Josah

SJF suggestion: 2nd line could be:
people/persons/students (either) communicating

Though we are deprived

I find myself healing with

You. Hope you stay well.

-Josah

SJF suggestion: 2nd line can be : I find that I heal with you (7- heal is one syllable!)

SJF suggestion: 3rd line can be: I hope you stay well

I met you thank god

 gently adventurous, you are

 breeze to my summer

-Alma

SJF suggestion: 2nd line can be: gentle, adventurous you

Family is here,

sitting around the fire pit,

this is Christmas time

-Natalie

SJF suggestion: 2nd line can be: sits around the fire pit

Morning desert light

First show the sun will put on today

Cold breeze turns to heat

– Gladys

SJF suggestion: 2nd line can be: first show sun puts on today

Whistle of the wind,

my soul flutters through the sky,

 seeking peace in mind

– Kayla

The blissful nature,

 calms my wandering mind

 that comforts my soul

-Taylor

SJF suggestion: 2nd line can be: calms down my wandering mind

Staring at my love

Under a sky full of stars

Will you marry me?

-Janell

Looking out to see

Something new in my landscape

To transform my life

-Patricia

Inside is raging

Silently hoping for change

Awaken what’s lost

-Patricia

What an amazing afternoon! Thank you to Dr. Patricia Geist-Martin for inviting me and for the students for participating!

Information about our Haiku workshops: https://sjfcommunications.com/upcoming-haiku-workshops/

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Susan J. Farese Interviewed on ‘Love Conquers Alz’ Podcast – Episode #22

Here is the link to an inspiring, poignant and important interview that I was a guest on – the ‘Love Conquers Alz‘ #Podcast Episode #22 ‘On The Power of Art’. The incredibly compassionate, articulate and empathetic hosts were podcasters/filmmakers Susie Singer Carter and Kassi Crews. We recorded it on Mothers Day, 2020 and it was posted online on Wednesday, October 7, 2020.

I was so honored and it was such a pleasure for me to be a guest on the Love Conquers Alz Podcast! I know that my maternal grandmother and soulmate, Ann, (who suffered from early onset Alzheimer’s Disease and passed away in 1971) was listening from up above when I shared my tribute #poem to her, ‘Ann’s Zest Ends’ ! She passed away in 1971.

Besides reading Ann’s’ Zest Ends on Love Conquers Alz, I also read my poem “Caregiver” dedicated to all persons caring for family members or friends with dementia and other disabilities or diseases. Caregiving can be truly stressful, and caregivers need to take care of themselves so they can care for others.

Links to listen/watch:

Spotify https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Vc2q0JqPtYuz7UMZCXSGL

Stitcher http://bit.ly/LCAStchr

Apple https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/love-conquers-alz/id1492023291

Youtube https://youtu.be/WlBDM5WW6s8

✨ ✨

More links:

Love Conquers Alz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/loveconquersalz

My Mom and the Girl Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyMomAndTheGirl

Go Girl Media: https://www.gogirlmedia.com/

Susie Singer Carter IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0802053/

Kassi Crews Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KassiCrews

Kassi Crews IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0187707/

#poetryheals #artheals #sandiegopoet #poetrycommunity #sharingthecaring #alzheimersawareness #thepowerofpoetry #LoveConquersAlz #Podcast #Alzheimers #Dementia #caregivers #Caregiversupport #susiesingercarter #kassicrews #aging #seniors #connect #COVID19

Here’s my previous 2014 blog post including my tribute poem to Grandma Ann, ‘Ann’s Zest Ends” :

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Sue Vicory/Heartland Films, Inc. Executive Produces “Panic at Parq” Parody Film

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
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

The parody was directed by Sue Vicory and David S. Dawson of Intellexual Entertainment, and produced by Susan J. Farese of SJF Communications and Lori Morkunas Jones. Advising Producer was Francine Filsinger and Assistant Producer was Marci Krown.

Ron Christopher Jones
“Panic at Parq” production still photo credit: Luly’s Enchanted Pixels

The writing team included Jordan Jacobo  as Head Writer/Screenplay, and Assistant Writers Lisa Bruhn, David S. Dawson, Doug Lito, Marie Malham, Michelle Malham and Shannon Taylor.

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.”

David S. Dawson, Co-Director/Editor/Actor

“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.

Jordan Jacobo, Lead Writer

“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.”

Lori Morkunas Jones, Producer/ Blood Drive Organizer

Panic at Parq Synopsis:

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

Additional Production Team and Crew:  Cinematographers: Aram Khachaturyan & Oscar Perez; Editor: David S. Dawson; Assistant Editor: Whitney Wegman-Wood; Casting Director/Publicist: Susan J. Farese; Makeup: John Aviles; Assistant Director: Kymberrly Scott; Second Assistant Director: Heidi Bridges; Sound: Frank Forth; Boom Operator: Bryan Keith Davis; Still Photographer: Lourdes Araiza Beltran; Composer: Alejandro Castro; Performer: Doug Lito; Talent Wrangler: Emmy Farese.

Lexsy McCowen & Frank Forth
“Panic at Parq” production still photo credit: Luly’s Enchanted Pixels

Cast: Shannon Taylor; Jordan Jacobo; David S. Dawson; Sue Vicory; Joe Castanho; Peggy Warny; Merrick McCartha; Carly Starr Brullo-Niles; Keith Russell; Ken Gora; Cristyn Chandler; Frank Forth; Mark Atkinson; Whitney Wegman-Wood; Larry Poole; Bryon Harrington; Lee DiBernardo; Ruben Chato Hinojosa, Jr.; Mark Allyn; Julie Clemmons; Doug Lito; Martin Gomez; Jen Allen; Lori Jones; Caroline Amiguet; John Aviles; Lizet Benrey; Connie Chiarelli; Albert Sylvero; Jack Emmel; Anthony Maze; Randy Davison; Em Ozaki; Lexsy McCowen; Brooke McCormick; Mickey Faerch; Ron Christopher Jones; Isabel Canzoneri; Teresa Suarez Grosso; Teri Wilder; Luke DePron; Jamie Henkin; Allie Lennox; Dimitri Greene.

Follow Panic at Parq on IMDB

Contact:

Sue Vicory: Email: susanvicory@gmail.com Phone: 913-449-5861

Media Contact:

Susan J. Farese, SJF Communications

Email: sjfcommunications@gmail.com Phone: 408-398-5940

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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Testimonial for SJF Communications via Patricia Geist-Martin, Ph.D.

“Susan J. Farese of SJF Communications is simply the best! If you want to work with someone who believes in your project as if it was her own, then Susan is the person you want to hire.  From the moment I met Susan, I knew that she would become one of the best collaborators I have worked with—she asked great questions, she listened intently, and then offered a wealth of ideas about what we needed to accomplish and how we would be successful in getting it done.  Susan recently designed and launched my new website – patriciageistmartin.com and facilitated my navigating and utilizing it. Even more, Susan is a sleuth—she investigates and finds some of the best avenues for promoting your work.  Not only did I find the best marketing and PR person in Susan, she has become a friend that I look forward to working with in my next project”.

-Patricia Geist-Martin, Ph.D.

-Testimonial for SJF Communications via Patricia Geist-Martin, Ph.D., Professor Emerita in the School of Communication at San Diego State University. Her research examines the stories people tell in making sense of their lives, particularly in their journeys through health and illness. Falling in Love with the Process: Cultivating Resilience in Health Crises: A Stroke Survivor’s Story (2020), is Dr. Geist-Martin’s fifth book.

A Visit to the Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Park, Carlsbad, CA

I thoroughly enjoyed visiting the Leo Carrillo Ranch Historic Ranch in Carlsbad during June, 2020. I heard about it several months ago and couldn’t believe that after 10 years of living in San Diego I had never heard of it.

Leo Carrillo was an entertainer on Broadway, in films and became famous for playing ‘Pancho’ in the 1950’s TV Show ‘The Cisco Kid’.

Much more info at : https://carrillo-ranch.org/

WOW! What a gem! Beautiful grounds, citrus trees and of course the peacocks and peahens preening and chilling about (and vocalizing as well)!

Despite Covid-19, I wore my mask and socially distanced and it was definitely worth the trip.

Here are my photos of the trip.

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SJF Communications – ‘Creative Ideas | Dynamic Results’!

2020 by SJF Communications

A Nursing Poetry Reading (Video) – Dedicated to All Nurses for Nurse’s Week, May 6 -13, 2020

In honor of and celebrating all Nurses, especially those providing care throughout the Covid-19 pandemic

by Susan J. Farese, MSN RN, SJF Communications

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Contact SJF Communications for your PR/Marketing/Websites/Writing

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SJF Communications – ‘Creative Ideas | Dynamic Results’!

2020 by SJF Communications