Rebirth marked by cornerstone at Ground Zero: A garnet-speckled granite cornerstone is set into place Sunday, July 4th, 2004 for the Freedom Tower – the tallest skyscraper planned at the World Trade Center site. This was one of New York City’s first tangible steps to recover its place at the pinnacle of the global skyline.
Printer Friendly Version 
STORY ANGLES – BACKGROUNDERS – QUESTIONS – AUTHOR
CONTACT:
Amanda L. Fife at (406) 257-6142
info@umbrellapub.com
LOCATION:
Kalispell, Montana
TIME ZONE:
Mountain
ISBN: 0-9722842-0-6
STORY ANGLES
STORY ANGLES – BACKGROUNDERS – QUESTIONS – AUTHOR
BACKGROUNDERS
BACKGROUNDER 1: Where Were You on 9-11?
We all have an interesting and unique story to tell about the day our world changed forever - September 11th, 2001.
Like Pearl Harbor and the assassination of JFK, each of us remembers exactly where we were on 9/11. “Where were you on 9/11?” became the question uttered by people everywhere immediately after the attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon – and continues to echo throughout the world a decade later! The question will undoubtedly be repeated for decades to come as future generations examine the complex and turbulent saga of America’s evolution.
This seemingly straightforward phrase took on a profound degree of significance for author Janette Reynolds, as it came to serve as a metaphor for where you were physically, mentally and emotionally during one of the most traumatic times in recent US history.
Her book, Where Were You On 9-11? is considered the single most eclectic anthology of interviews, bar-none. According to Reynolds, "I have always held the belief that every individual's personal story is of significant importance and value, no matter how great or little one’s position is in life. Each of us has something to learn from every person we encounter. There is a book inside of everyone waiting to be written!”
Since the disastrous events of that fateful day in September it has become somewhat of a phenomenon to both share and record the thoughts of those directly or indirectly involved with the tragedy. Janette intentionally gathered the famous, the infamous, and everyday people together in one book for an oral account of that day. Where Were You On 9-11? “Features the unique opinion people hold about the events of that day and how crucial those differences are to establishing a healthy perspective and for the healing process to begin."
Where were you when the catastrophic news hit? What was going on in your life? What thoughts raced through your mind?
Compare your experiences with world renown media personalities, authors, historians and lawyers like Gerry Spence, Dr. Robert Schuller, Sarah Ferguson the Duchess Of York and Donald Trump.
Added author commentary, historical references, and a very special additional interview are included in this Ten-Year Commemorative Edition in honor of the support volunteers, EMT’s, FDNY, NYPD, and the families of those who were injured, lost or perished as a result of 9/11. We will never forget!
Personal recollections from featured personalities:
Lt. Colonel Bo Gritz-Green Beret Commander: “I’m probably the only American to actually train Afghan-Mujahedeen…I trained them in the use of weaponry against the Soviets, but these were weapons that could be deployed against us should they become our enemies…”
Sarah Ferguson the Duchess of York: “I am a pilot, so when I saw the airplane go into the first building I said to myself, ‘Well it cannot be air traffic controls problem because it’s such a blue sky!’ I didn’t think of terrorism immediately…”
Stephen Baldwin-Actor: “As the days went on after the attacks, I became very desirable of going on the offensive! I just told my wife to go to the bank and get a bunch of money and food, and be prepared to just stay close to home for a week…”
Gloria Allred-Lawyer: “I mean it was an attack on the United States of America! It was just unthinkable! You know we can think of it more because of the Oklahoma City bombings, but I guess we live in a kind of optimistic denial and we have a sense of invulnerability…”
Dr. Robert Schuller-Pastor & Speaker: “I had worked most of the night, so I was still sleeping when my wife awakened me saying that a plane had hit a tower in New York. I sat up, and then looked at the TV for more than an hour. I felt total grief…weeping. I could not relate to this tragedy…”
Pam Houston - Author: “The end of our lengthy float trip in the Grand Canyon ended on September 11th, 2001. A group of friends and I first heard the news for our river guide, and we thought he was joking! We were all thrown into a state of doubt and confusion. I will never forget the time between hearing, and not having it confirmed. The mood in the van with the eleven of us was that we had no idea what was going to happen next. We were in this weird silence…”
Gerry Spence – Defense Attorney: “I was fascinated by the speculation from television announcers! The inept way the announcers were presenting the matter; I mean they were surprised and horrified. They did not know what was going on. So I watched it over, and over, and over, and over attempting to get some information. And then both towers collapsed in real-time, and I mean this changed my life…”
BACKGROUNDER 2: Keeping the Memory Alive
America's memory is at best, short-lived. Turn on TV, and surf channel after channel of breaking news stories that are reported every few minutes as networks vie for the eyes and ears of consumers. Its little wonder we suffer from information overload! Add to that the usage of media devices, players, smart phones, social interaction like Twitter, Facebook, and the myriad of countless means of communication – it’s difficult to maintain a focus on any one story for too long. Just like the Holocaust, it is critical that we remember the events of 9/11. Immediately after 9/11, the pace of the world was temporarily suspended as individuals and nations grappled to regain a sense of footing. People everywhere began to examine their lives, and how they relate to their community and world. A nation that does not carefully dissect and examine such tragedies is subject to a repeat of history. Invite your viewing and listening audience to debate why it is important to keep the memory alive for generations to come.
Ask any historian, patriot, and collector of memorabilia – your grandparents! They will tell you the importance of keeping the memory alive about specific life-changing events and moments in history. It’s important to remember events because:
http://www.publicopiniononline.com
http://www.unityamerica.com
http://www.fema.gov
BACKGROUNDER 3: Is this a religious battle?
Clearly, one of the highly contested and primary controversies has been how exactly 9/11 happened, and by whom? The ongoing war against terrorism and nature of politics has made many question their ideologies, political persuasions and personal faith. Were the attacks at the root cause of the disparity between Muslim and Christian beliefs? Where do you stand? Are the events of 9/11 a wake-up call for people who do not embrace religion or a belief in God? Are we living in “end times” as prophesied in the bible? A survey conducted shortly after the attacks on the World Trade Center in 5 boroughs of New York City found that 57% of the people were praying more, and 40% were reading their Bible once again. Or do we lie in the wake of our own doing - America's quest for dominion? Is it right for a Muslim mosque to be built a few blocks from the 9/11 Memorial site in downtown Manhattan? Invite your viewing and listening audience to debate the “who” and “why” of 9/11.
Specific sites of further note:
http://www.terrorismreporter.com
http://www.theatlantic.com
http://www.myredeemerlives.com
http://www.jewishsf.com
http://www.anointed-one.com
Additional related sites:
http://www.9-11commission.gov
http://www.september11news.com
http://www.911research.net
http://www.islamworld.net
http://www.wikipedia.org
http:///www.palmbeachdailynews.com
http://www.digenovatoensing.com
http://www.trump.com
http://www.smallplanet.org
http://www.sarahfergusonfoundation.org
http://www.infidels.org
http://www.amazon.com/Shelley-L.-Davis/e/BooooAPYCEU
http://www.celestinevision.com
http://www.gonzalez-group.com/our-commitment/community/
http://www.pbs.org
http://www.goodnewsaboutgod.com
http://www.stormfront.org/ruby.htm
http://www.ontheissues.org/senate/Conrad_Burns.htm
http://www.stephenbaldwin.com
http://www.gerryspence.com
http://www.bogritz.com
http://www.pamhouston.wordpress.com
http://www.haleclinic.com
http://gloriaallred.com
http://www.lisabloom.com
http://www.crystalcathedral.org
STORY ANGLES – BACKGROUNDERS – QUESTIONS – AUTHOR
INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
Janette Reynolds' book, Where Were You On 9-11? is considered the single most eclectic anthology of interviews, bar-none. According to Reynolds, "I have always held the belief that every individuals’ personal story is of significant importance and value, no matter how great or little one’s position is in life. There’s always something to learn from every encounter, and I believe there is a book inside of everyone waiting to be written!”
Since the disastrous events of that fateful day in September it has become somewhat of a phenomenon to both share and record the thoughts of those directly or indirectly involved with the tragedy. Janette intentionally gathered the famous, the infamous, and everyday people together in one book for an oral account of that day. Where Were You On 9-11? “Features the unique opinion people hold about the events of that day and how crucial those differences are to establishing a healthy perspective and for the healing process to begin."
STORY ANGLES – BACKGROUNDERS – QUESTIONS – AUTHOR
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Born and raised in the Motor City (Detroit), Janette spent the first part of her career entrenched in the competitive world of automotive engineering. Longing for a creative new start in a different direction, she chucked it all and moved west to a land “where a river runs through it”, and what many consider a writer’s Mecca – Montana!
Never one to shy away from a challenge, Janette immediately landed a job in broadcast journalism at a rural AM radio station (KGEZ). In her first 30 days on the job, she developed – and later produced and hosted a daily interview talk show, Montana Woman. Within six months the show was nominated for an E.B. Craney Award for “Radio Program of the Year" by the Montana Broadcasters Association after snagging interviews with Gloria Steinem, Shaquille O'Neal, Charlton Heston, Debbie Reynolds, Garth Brooks, Carrie Fisher, President Jimmy Carter, Dr. Helen Caldicott, Lea Thompson and many more.
It was her experience in radio and publishing in the Pacific Northwest that helped Janette develop an ability love for media as a highly creative outlet. “I’ve always had a genuine interest in people and their stories; how they navigate life and where the journey leads them! And when you’re doing something you truly have a passion for, and what comes natural to you - doors open.
Reynolds sharpened her entrepreneurial savvy as President of Umbrella Publishing and Icon Media Communications, overseeing the daily operations and production of a successful women’s magazine that she later sold in 2001.
In 2002, Janette published Where Were You On 9/11? (Umbrella Publishing 2002) after a life-changing experience during the attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon. Shortly after the launch of her book and national press tour, Janette expanded the public relations side of the business with forming Icon Media Communications, specializing in media, graphic & web representation, and project management.
“When interviewing someone I look for an opportunity to gain insight into the complexity of the human soul that’s at the core of every person. I think most people are open to sharing details about themselves if they feel there is an authentic connection, a common bond, and they feel safe. That’s why the art of conversation and communication has always fascinated me. It’s an area I continually explore. Body language, facial expressions…reveal more than words can express. Lately, one of my biggest passions has been studying, and conveying the wisdom and life lessons found in the Bible. There’s a reason it’s one of the best-selling books of all time!”
Assorted Facts:
STORY ANGLES – BACKGROUNDERS – QUESTIONS – AUTHOR
CONTACT:
Amanda L. Fife at (406) 257-6142
info@umbrellapub.com
LOCATION:
Kalispell, Montana
TIME ZONE:
Mountain
ISBN: 0-9722842-0-6
STORY ANGLES
- Where Were You on 9/11? We all have an interesting and unique story to share about our experiences on September 11th, 2001. Where were you when the catastrophic news hit? What thoughts raced through your mind? Invite your reading, viewing and listening audiences to compare and share experiences with those of world renowned media personalities, authors, historians, and lawyers like Gerry Spence, Dr. Robert Schuller, Stephen Baldwin, and Sarah Ferguson.
- Keeping the Memory Alive: America's memory is at best, short-lived. Turn on TV, and surf channel after channel of breaking news stories that are reported every few minutes as networks vie for the eyes and ears of consumers. Its little wonder we suffer from information overload! Add to that the usage of media devices, players, smart phones, social interaction like Twitter, Facebook, and the myriad of countless means of communication – it’s difficult to maintain a focus on any one story for too long. Just like the Holocaust, it is critical that we remember the events of 9/11. Immediately after 9/11, the pace of the world was temporarily suspended as individuals and nations grappled to regain a sense of footing. People everywhere began to examine their lives, and how they relate to their community and world. A nation that does not carefully dissect and examine such tragedies is subject to a repeat of history. Invite your viewing and listening audience to debate why it is important to keep the memory alive for generations to come.
- Is this a religious battle? Clearly, one of the highly contested and primary controversies has been how exactly 9/11 happened, and by whom? The ongoing war against terrorism and nature of politics has made many question their ideologies, political persuasions and personal faith. Were the attacks at the root cause of the disparity between Muslim and Christian beliefs? Where do you stand? Are the events of 9/11 a wake-up call for people who do not embrace religion or a belief in God? Are we living in “end times” as prophesied in the bible? A survey conducted shortly after the attacks on the World Trade Center in 5 boroughs of New York City found that 57% of the people were praying more, and 40% were reading their Bible once again. Or do we lie in the wake of our own doing - America's quest for dominion? Is it right for a Muslim mosque to be built a few blocks from the 9/11 Memorial site in downtown Manhattan? Invite your viewing and listening audience to debate the “who” and “why” of 9/11.
- Top 10 Events That No One Can Forget: You know an event is really significant when you remember every detail - where you were, what you were doing, what you were thinking, and who you were with when you first found out the news. Your viewing, reading and listening audience will join in for a discussion of the top 10 events that etched themselves indelibly into the hearts of people everywhere. Top 10 events include: Assassination of John F. Kennedy; the murder of Martin Luther King, Jr; the landing on the moon; the attack on Pearl Harbor; Nixon's resignation; John Lennon assassination; O'J's infamous car chase; Beatle's first televised American appearance; Hiroshima bombed with nuclear weapons.
- Top 10 Events That Have Shaped America: From author Robert Blevins who has done vast research on the top ten events that have shaped America which include: 1.) The American Revolution; 2.) The Lewis and Clark Expedition; 3.) The Western Migration and The California Gold Rush; 4.) The Civil War; 5.) The Inventors (the Industrial Revolution); 6.) Pearl Harbor; 7.) Vietnam; 8.) The Moon Landing; 9.) The Dawn of the Information Age (Bill Gates, the Internet and the invention of modern computers); 10.) 9/11
- Nations top lawyers speak about September 11th: It’s been said that some lawyers are nothing more than “hired guns” that can debate anything, yet feel strongly about nothing. But during and after 9/11, our nation’s top attorney’s experienced powerful emotions - and provide articulate and poignant perspectives. Find out what Gerry Spence, Gloria Allred, Victoria Toensing, and other prominent attorneys personally experienced on 9/11, and how they view our post 9/11 world.
- Historians take on 9/11: It is the job of historians to discuss and write about world-changing events with an unemotional and objective perspective. However, the tragic events of 9/11 were so disturbing that many historians could not help but react emotionally. The full historical importance of the terrorist attacks is still being revealed, but find out how renowned historian Shelley L. Davis responded to the events and what is being done to preserve the memory of 9/11.
- Sarah Ferguson speaks on 911: The Duchess of York, Sarah Ferguson, like so many of us, experienced the loss of co-workers and loved ones during the terrorist attack. The offices of her beloved charity, Chances for Children occupied the 101st floor of One World Trade Center. In Reynolds’ anthology of interviews she talks with “Fergie” - up close and personal. Invite your viewing and listening audience to hear the author’s impressions of the Duchess – a woman that has been repeatedly a topic of conversation and often vilified in the press.
- Health: In a post 9/11 world, few would argue that American citizens have suffered emotional, mental and physical health. The experiences range from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety, alcoholism, depression, joblessness...to suicide. Are there people who continue to be affected from the trauma of 9/11? Has the nation begun to heal yet? How has this affected our well-being? What do we learn about chronic health issues that are a result of traumatic events such as war or 9/11? Invite your viewing and listening audience to discuss the impact that trauma has on a society and its people.
STORY ANGLES – BACKGROUNDERS – QUESTIONS – AUTHOR
BACKGROUNDERS
BACKGROUNDER 1: Where Were You on 9-11?
We all have an interesting and unique story to tell about the day our world changed forever - September 11th, 2001.
Like Pearl Harbor and the assassination of JFK, each of us remembers exactly where we were on 9/11. “Where were you on 9/11?” became the question uttered by people everywhere immediately after the attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon – and continues to echo throughout the world a decade later! The question will undoubtedly be repeated for decades to come as future generations examine the complex and turbulent saga of America’s evolution.
This seemingly straightforward phrase took on a profound degree of significance for author Janette Reynolds, as it came to serve as a metaphor for where you were physically, mentally and emotionally during one of the most traumatic times in recent US history.
Her book, Where Were You On 9-11? is considered the single most eclectic anthology of interviews, bar-none. According to Reynolds, "I have always held the belief that every individual's personal story is of significant importance and value, no matter how great or little one’s position is in life. Each of us has something to learn from every person we encounter. There is a book inside of everyone waiting to be written!”
Since the disastrous events of that fateful day in September it has become somewhat of a phenomenon to both share and record the thoughts of those directly or indirectly involved with the tragedy. Janette intentionally gathered the famous, the infamous, and everyday people together in one book for an oral account of that day. Where Were You On 9-11? “Features the unique opinion people hold about the events of that day and how crucial those differences are to establishing a healthy perspective and for the healing process to begin."
Where were you when the catastrophic news hit? What was going on in your life? What thoughts raced through your mind?
Compare your experiences with world renown media personalities, authors, historians and lawyers like Gerry Spence, Dr. Robert Schuller, Sarah Ferguson the Duchess Of York and Donald Trump.
Added author commentary, historical references, and a very special additional interview are included in this Ten-Year Commemorative Edition in honor of the support volunteers, EMT’s, FDNY, NYPD, and the families of those who were injured, lost or perished as a result of 9/11. We will never forget!
Personal recollections from featured personalities:
Lt. Colonel Bo Gritz-Green Beret Commander: “I’m probably the only American to actually train Afghan-Mujahedeen…I trained them in the use of weaponry against the Soviets, but these were weapons that could be deployed against us should they become our enemies…”
Sarah Ferguson the Duchess of York: “I am a pilot, so when I saw the airplane go into the first building I said to myself, ‘Well it cannot be air traffic controls problem because it’s such a blue sky!’ I didn’t think of terrorism immediately…”
Stephen Baldwin-Actor: “As the days went on after the attacks, I became very desirable of going on the offensive! I just told my wife to go to the bank and get a bunch of money and food, and be prepared to just stay close to home for a week…”
Gloria Allred-Lawyer: “I mean it was an attack on the United States of America! It was just unthinkable! You know we can think of it more because of the Oklahoma City bombings, but I guess we live in a kind of optimistic denial and we have a sense of invulnerability…”
Dr. Robert Schuller-Pastor & Speaker: “I had worked most of the night, so I was still sleeping when my wife awakened me saying that a plane had hit a tower in New York. I sat up, and then looked at the TV for more than an hour. I felt total grief…weeping. I could not relate to this tragedy…”
Pam Houston - Author: “The end of our lengthy float trip in the Grand Canyon ended on September 11th, 2001. A group of friends and I first heard the news for our river guide, and we thought he was joking! We were all thrown into a state of doubt and confusion. I will never forget the time between hearing, and not having it confirmed. The mood in the van with the eleven of us was that we had no idea what was going to happen next. We were in this weird silence…”
Gerry Spence – Defense Attorney: “I was fascinated by the speculation from television announcers! The inept way the announcers were presenting the matter; I mean they were surprised and horrified. They did not know what was going on. So I watched it over, and over, and over, and over attempting to get some information. And then both towers collapsed in real-time, and I mean this changed my life…”
BACKGROUNDER 2: Keeping the Memory Alive
America's memory is at best, short-lived. Turn on TV, and surf channel after channel of breaking news stories that are reported every few minutes as networks vie for the eyes and ears of consumers. Its little wonder we suffer from information overload! Add to that the usage of media devices, players, smart phones, social interaction like Twitter, Facebook, and the myriad of countless means of communication – it’s difficult to maintain a focus on any one story for too long. Just like the Holocaust, it is critical that we remember the events of 9/11. Immediately after 9/11, the pace of the world was temporarily suspended as individuals and nations grappled to regain a sense of footing. People everywhere began to examine their lives, and how they relate to their community and world. A nation that does not carefully dissect and examine such tragedies is subject to a repeat of history. Invite your viewing and listening audience to debate why it is important to keep the memory alive for generations to come.
Ask any historian, patriot, and collector of memorabilia – your grandparents! They will tell you the importance of keeping the memory alive about specific life-changing events and moments in history. It’s important to remember events because:
- No repeats: A short memory leads to repeating the same mistakes.
- Respect: We honor and respect the families of those who were lost, injured or perished as a result of the events of 9/11. Our respect is also shown to the support volunteers, EMT’s, FDNY, NYPD, and all those who gave so generously of their time, talent and treasures during one of the most traumatic events in US history.
- Humility: Staying in touch with the sober feelings experienced by millions immediately after the attacks.
- Legacy: Passing on the memory, thoughts and feelings onto the next generation – and those to come.
- Connection: This tragedy made each person realize a connectedness that perhaps never existed before. It also rekindled a newfound camaraderie as we relied on one another to pull through a difficult time for our nation and families. We all shared shock and loss.
- Awareness: Americans have now made it a point learn more about the Muslim culture and community, the religion of Islam, and the views and opinions shared by our neighbors in the Middle East. It has equally sparked heated dialog at times as many are challenged by the events of 9/11.
http://www.publicopiniononline.com
http://www.unityamerica.com
http://www.fema.gov
BACKGROUNDER 3: Is this a religious battle?
Clearly, one of the highly contested and primary controversies has been how exactly 9/11 happened, and by whom? The ongoing war against terrorism and nature of politics has made many question their ideologies, political persuasions and personal faith. Were the attacks at the root cause of the disparity between Muslim and Christian beliefs? Where do you stand? Are the events of 9/11 a wake-up call for people who do not embrace religion or a belief in God? Are we living in “end times” as prophesied in the bible? A survey conducted shortly after the attacks on the World Trade Center in 5 boroughs of New York City found that 57% of the people were praying more, and 40% were reading their Bible once again. Or do we lie in the wake of our own doing - America's quest for dominion? Is it right for a Muslim mosque to be built a few blocks from the 9/11 Memorial site in downtown Manhattan? Invite your viewing and listening audience to debate the “who” and “why” of 9/11.
Specific sites of further note:
http://www.terrorismreporter.com
http://www.theatlantic.com
http://www.myredeemerlives.com
http://www.jewishsf.com
http://www.anointed-one.com
Additional related sites:
http://www.9-11commission.gov
http://www.september11news.com
http://www.911research.net
http://www.islamworld.net
http://www.wikipedia.org
http:///www.palmbeachdailynews.com
http://www.digenovatoensing.com
http://www.trump.com
http://www.smallplanet.org
http://www.sarahfergusonfoundation.org
http://www.infidels.org
http://www.amazon.com/Shelley-L.-Davis/e/BooooAPYCEU
http://www.celestinevision.com
http://www.gonzalez-group.com/our-commitment/community/
http://www.pbs.org
http://www.goodnewsaboutgod.com
http://www.stormfront.org/ruby.htm
http://www.ontheissues.org/senate/Conrad_Burns.htm
http://www.stephenbaldwin.com
http://www.gerryspence.com
http://www.bogritz.com
http://www.pamhouston.wordpress.com
http://www.haleclinic.com
http://gloriaallred.com
http://www.lisabloom.com
http://www.crystalcathedral.org
STORY ANGLES – BACKGROUNDERS – QUESTIONS – AUTHOR
INTERVIEW QUESTIONS
Janette Reynolds' book, Where Were You On 9-11? is considered the single most eclectic anthology of interviews, bar-none. According to Reynolds, "I have always held the belief that every individuals’ personal story is of significant importance and value, no matter how great or little one’s position is in life. There’s always something to learn from every encounter, and I believe there is a book inside of everyone waiting to be written!”
Since the disastrous events of that fateful day in September it has become somewhat of a phenomenon to both share and record the thoughts of those directly or indirectly involved with the tragedy. Janette intentionally gathered the famous, the infamous, and everyday people together in one book for an oral account of that day. Where Were You On 9-11? “Features the unique opinion people hold about the events of that day and how crucial those differences are to establishing a healthy perspective and for the healing process to begin."
- Where were when you first heard the news?
- What went through your mind after hearing the news?
- How were you personally affected by the terrorist attacks on 9/11?
- When did you first get the idea to compile a book of personal reflections on the terrorist attacks and the post-9/11 world?
- Did you find it difficult finding people to interview?
- How has your personal world changed since 9/11?
- In what ways have you seen the world change in the last ten years since 9/11?
- What were the most compelling interviews you conducted?
- How is the sharing of memories important to national healing?
- Did you encounter any negative backlash when trying to get your book published?
- What was your visit to Ground Zero like?
- How many interviews did you conduct for this book?
- Do you have any future projects in the works?
- What was the biggest challenge?
- Did you experience any negative feedback?
STORY ANGLES – BACKGROUNDERS – QUESTIONS – AUTHOR
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Born and raised in the Motor City (Detroit), Janette spent the first part of her career entrenched in the competitive world of automotive engineering. Longing for a creative new start in a different direction, she chucked it all and moved west to a land “where a river runs through it”, and what many consider a writer’s Mecca – Montana!
Never one to shy away from a challenge, Janette immediately landed a job in broadcast journalism at a rural AM radio station (KGEZ). In her first 30 days on the job, she developed – and later produced and hosted a daily interview talk show, Montana Woman. Within six months the show was nominated for an E.B. Craney Award for “Radio Program of the Year" by the Montana Broadcasters Association after snagging interviews with Gloria Steinem, Shaquille O'Neal, Charlton Heston, Debbie Reynolds, Garth Brooks, Carrie Fisher, President Jimmy Carter, Dr. Helen Caldicott, Lea Thompson and many more.
It was her experience in radio and publishing in the Pacific Northwest that helped Janette develop an ability love for media as a highly creative outlet. “I’ve always had a genuine interest in people and their stories; how they navigate life and where the journey leads them! And when you’re doing something you truly have a passion for, and what comes natural to you - doors open.
Reynolds sharpened her entrepreneurial savvy as President of Umbrella Publishing and Icon Media Communications, overseeing the daily operations and production of a successful women’s magazine that she later sold in 2001.
In 2002, Janette published Where Were You On 9/11? (Umbrella Publishing 2002) after a life-changing experience during the attacks on the World Trade Center and Pentagon. Shortly after the launch of her book and national press tour, Janette expanded the public relations side of the business with forming Icon Media Communications, specializing in media, graphic & web representation, and project management.
“When interviewing someone I look for an opportunity to gain insight into the complexity of the human soul that’s at the core of every person. I think most people are open to sharing details about themselves if they feel there is an authentic connection, a common bond, and they feel safe. That’s why the art of conversation and communication has always fascinated me. It’s an area I continually explore. Body language, facial expressions…reveal more than words can express. Lately, one of my biggest passions has been studying, and conveying the wisdom and life lessons found in the Bible. There’s a reason it’s one of the best-selling books of all time!”
Assorted Facts:
- Has appeared on CNN, NBC, FOX News, TBN, and radio & TV throughout US and Europe
- Conducted more than 850 interviews of well-known celebrities, newsmakers, politicians, and everyday people. Covered and developed stories across the US and Europe including Oxford, London, and Paris.
- Produced and hosted an interview-format radio talk show for 8 years
- Founder, Editor and Publisher of Montana Woman (Publishing 89 Issues before selling in 2001)
- Keynote speaker at the University of Montana Center for Leadership Development Conference, October 2000
- Author of Where Were You on 9-11? - An Anthology of Intimate Interviews with Introduction by Donald J. Trump
- Author of Don’t Fence Me In, an insightful and humorous account of leaving the big city for a less-complicated, rural life.
- Keynote speaker at the Business Women's Conference sponsored by the US Small Business Administration in Bozeman, Montana, September 2003.
- Was entertainment editor for her high school newspaper with Reynolds’ Wrap byline
- Thrice mistaken to be of the R. J. Reynolds Tobacco family clan
- Obsessed with interior design and organizing
- Current favorite books in the Bible are Isaiah, and Daniel
- Love cats, used to have a canary named Max
- Slothful at Facebook
- Mad about Mad Men, and huge fan of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives
- Should have bought stock in iTunes
- Enjoy zip-lining, and hiking mountain trails in Montana
CHOOSE LANGUAGE 
CONTACT US
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TERMS & PRIVACY
COPYRIGHT © 2001-2014 UMBRELLA PUBLISHING, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
CONTACT US
UMBRELLAPUB.COM
TERMS & PRIVACY COPYRIGHT © 2001-2014 UMBRELLA PUBLISHING, LLC. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.