What is "1000 Breaths"

On the last day of the year in 2010 and 2011, a special event called "1000 Breaths" awakened audiences to their own innate power of freedom as well as supported a movement to free the enslaved children trapped into a prostituted lifestyle they do not truly choose.

What started as the 1000 Breaths fundraiser event has become a movement for the freedom of us all. This blog expands now to encompass all the good works being done in the name of "freedom for all" as heard on the "FREEDOM FOR ALL" Internet Radio show.

MORE FOUND HERE: FreedomForAll.Me

Saturday, December 29, 2012

This Friday's show was all about visioning for the future and then committing to that vision for the highest success you can experience. That is something we all do, and we all can be supported in, whether it be our vision for home, career, relationship or success. Check out this show as we invited listeners to search within for the truest vision they could wish for your life, and then to hold the courage, persistence, and wherewithal to make that vision a reality. We shared quotes, sayings, fun stories, and refreshments! Tune into this show here: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/12/28/visioning-and-commitment

Friday, December 21, 2012


Celebrate the Winter Solstice with Jim and Jennifer who welcome guest Phyllis Curott who speaks at length of the power of Wicca and the freedom we all need to experience and express our own sacred spirituality. Curott is an attorney and author of numerous books and essays including the internationally bestselling memoir Book of Shadows, her personal story of how an Ivy League lawyer became a Wiccan Priestess. Honored by Jane Magazine as One of the Ten Gutsiest Women of the Year, for more than 30 years Curott has been an outspoken advocate in the courts and the media, winning Wiccans and modern Pagans the right to perform legally binding marriages, to conduct rites in public places and securing other important religious liberties. A graduate of Brown University and NYU Law School, New York Magazine described her as one of the culture's most intellectually cutting-edge thinkers. She is founder of the Temple of Ara and the Vice-Chair of the Council for the Parliament of the World’s Religions, the world’s oldest and largest interfaith organization. Website: http://www.phylliscurott.com/
To listen to this celebration of the solstice and freedom: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/12/21/guest-phyllis-curott

Friday, December 14, 2012

Today's show was all about solar power. Have you heard of it? Of course you have, but have you ever looked into how it works, and how it can work for you? Our guest today Scott Lange had much to say about the topic, so come listen in on. With an MBA in Energy Management, Lange works now as the San Diego Regional Sales Manager for SolarCity, the #1 solar company in the country, installing more solar than the next three companies combined. The company invented the Residential “PPA” (Power Purchase Agreement), which allows homeowners to purchase the power that solar panels make rather than purchase the solar panels themselves. Listen in as Lange talks about this energy technology and ways that the people can be free of the monopoly control of regional energy companies.


To schedule a solar power consultation: www.freedomforall.me

Friday, December 7, 2012


We talked with a woman who has a lot to share about freedom…the wondrous Asha Tyson.
Audiences throughout the country describe her as “dynamic” – “compelling” – “spellbinding." Asha’s own rise from abuse and homelessness to prominence deems her an expert on personal success. She was born the only child to a single mother who was dying. At the age of 17, Asha was abandoned and forgotten. With no connections, no mentors and only $80 dollars in her pocket, Asha went to college, financed her own education, and obtained both Bachelor and Master degrees in record time. Through persistence and determination, this first generation college graduate immediately launched a professional career then retired at the tender age of 26!In Tyson’s #1 national bestseller“How I Retired at 26!” she reveals the secrets of her proven success formula by offering an easy-to-understand blueprint to creating a life of freedom and wealth at any age no matter what!  Her website:
www.ashatyson.com


Saturday, December 1, 2012

Here is a show full of passion and purpose. A perfect listen for those of you looking to learn more about "self-sufficiency" in the realm of our food as well as our disaster preparedness. Claiming that "self-sufficiency & self-reliance through voluntary simplicity and conscious consumption" is the only way to freedom, Lisa Cianci lives on a 16-acre ranch in Topanga Canyon, without recycling, trash and little need for refrigeration as she teaches "Permaculture & Preparedness." She has started her own "Bulk Organic Dry Goods, Buying Co-Op" and supplements almost everything she needs to survive allowing her to save $5,000 per year on groceries. Owning her own freedom and guiding others on the same path, she says, "The government isn't here to take care of us. We need to create food security & food independence for ourselves, our families & communities. True life assurance ensures maintenance of each and every one of our individual liberty and responsibility." Listen to Lisa’s amazing story and tips she has to share to help listeners become more “self-sufficient:" http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/11/30/guest-lisa-cianci

Saturday, November 24, 2012

The holidays can be a difficult time for many. Today we focused on how the practice of gratitude can free ourselves so we can defuse the pain and loss and bring much more positive growth in your lives, especially during times of struggle. We spoke with two inspiring souls, Damon Kinnamon and friend Vicki who shared their own stories of challenge and how gratitude helped carry them through. To hear today’s show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/11/23/thanksgiving-freedom

Saturday, November 17, 2012

 

Today we turned the tables on co-host Jim Ellis...
 
Other co-host Jennifer Geronimo interviewed her co-host's alter-ego James Anthony Ellis about his new book: "The Honor Book" and it was quite a discussion. "James" discussed the power of a man's word and what he must do whenever that word is broken - not only for himself but also for the wellbeing of that man's circle of influence. Through the filter of a man who has spent 15 years in a men's organization, the topic of honor was alive and well in this inspiring episode.
 
Listen in as James speaks passionately about a topic he believes is vital for all of our success - as individuals, and as members of healthy community. Hear it here: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/11/16/guest-james-anthony-ellis
 
Regarding his new book ... rarely in this day and age do you find a book just for men, but this is no ordinary book. “The Honor Book: Reclaim the Honorable Life for Your Power, Success and Freedom” is a book about honor that doesn’t have its foundation in religion nor military. According to author James Anthony Ellis, somewhere in the dawning of the Industrial Age, when fathers took their leave from the family unit in order to "make a living," the masculine male role models were lost to those who may have needed them most. What has transpired over the decades is the deterioration of a "code of honor" that held sacred the power of a man's word and held strong the family and community structures. This powerful, poignant and personal book, written in a forceful yet lighthearted way, will appeal to all men searching for a masculine spirit that is still held sacred, a male identity that has a place in our families and communities, a strong presence that maintains, sustains and protects all that is honorable within our relationships, society and world.
 

Friday, November 9, 2012

Today's show focused directly on a huge topic facing many Americans - Genetically Modified Organisms or GMOs found in many of our foods. The controversial topic was played out in the California election through Proposition 37, which called for the labeling of all foods that were made with GMOs.We spoke with Lori Pennington about this topic. A volunteer for CARightToKnow.org for the past 16 months, Lori can be found on Facebook at GMOfreeLosAngeles. She had much insight to share about this vital issue.To hear this show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/11/09/guest-lori-pennington

Monday, November 5, 2012

Today we talked with Arvis Jones, and we were astonished. A rich experience to hear how Arvis has supported many in the recovery using Music Therapy, including herself after the murder of her 38-year-old son.

She is well accomplished. Arvis was one of the first African American Music Therapist employed by Arts & Services for the Disabled. Arvis was also the first Music Therapist at the Los Angeles Child Guidance Clinic, working with children and youth of all ages who have emotional and environmental problems. As founder of the Center For Grief and Loss Children’s Choir, she provides grief and loss training for therapists, clinicians, teachers, after-school personnel, clergy, parents, and volunteers. Through a grant provided by the L. A. City Attorney’s Office, she has developed a grief and loss program for nine middle schools of LAUSD. She works with the L. A. Mayor’s Crises Response Team and the LAPD. Arvis has received numerous awards including, Woman of Distinction of Senate District 25, and Pioneer Woman of Council District 15.
To listen to our show with this amazing woman: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/11/02/guest-arvis-jones

Friday, October 26, 2012



Here was a powerful show!  Thank you Chris Anderson of MaleSurvivor.org for doing all you do in the freeing of all the boys and men out there who may be carrying a heavy burden.

Anderson is a man of change who is helping to free males who have experienced sexual abuse. As the Executive Director of MaleSurvivor, Chris is a passionate advocate for the rights of survivors of sexual abuse. He joined the organization in 2007 after coming to understand the extent to which the sexual abuse and trauma he suffered as a child profoundly affected his life. He now speaks publicly about his own experiences as a survivor of sexual abuse, how MaleSurvivor helped him progress in his own healing, and about how vital it is that we offer our support survivors.

On today's show we got to hear Chris' inspirational story of recovery, the inside story of the Jerry Sandusky / Penn State court case, as well as the pathway of freedom for any male who has experienced sexual abuse. In honor of the 1 in 6 males who have been abused, we thank you Chris Anderson.
 

Saturday, October 20, 2012

After learning that there are millions of child slaves in the US and around the world, 8-year-old Vivienne Harr decided to “make a stand.” She set into motion a plan to raise $150,000 for Not For Sale, a 501(c)3 organization that fights modern-day slavery. Since the only “business”Vivienne knew was lemonade, she would make her “stand” at a lemonade stand. Jim and Jennifer were joined on this show by Vivienne’s father Eric. With enthusiasm and insight, he shares with us Vivienne’s story as well as many inspiring words all motivated by an amazing young girl. To hear this show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/10/19/guest-vivienne-harr

Saturday, October 6, 2012

Where does a man go to reveal the truth in the spirit of free expression and pure masculine care? For Geoff Tomlinson he found such a place within the International men's organization called MDI. We had a fascinating talk with Tomlinson, a man who supports other men in becoming free in their lives. Through his leadership in MDI, as well as his role as the International Director of the End Abuse Cause, Tomlinson has been an inspiration for transformation and higher purpose living. In his own transparent and refreshing way, Tomlinson shared intimate details of what drove him to fight the good fight against abuse and for a men's circle that truly takes care of its own.

To listen to the show:  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/10/05/guest-geoff-tomlinson

 

Saturday, September 29, 2012

Welcoming Carissa Phelps and D'lita Miller to the show was eye opening. Carissa formerly a prostituted youth at 13 and now CEO of Runaway Girl, Inc, attorney, crisis counselor, mentor, author and advocate for runaway and homeless youth shared her story of inspiration, hope, and success. D'lita Miller is a trainer for Runaway Girl Inc. Her story and that of her daughter will bring home just how important it is to bring awareness to the important topic of child sex slavery. Both gave hope to the vision of freedom for a modern-day slavery everyone should know about,. To hear the show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/09/28/guest-carissa-phelps

Sunday, September 23, 2012

As seen on ABC, CBS, and The Huffington Post, a quite ambitious 8-year-old Vivienne Harr raises money at her lemonade stand to help free children enslaved around the world. On Friday, September 21, Jim and Jennifer were excited to welcome Vivienne and her father Eric to relate this very inspiring story, but due to unexpected circumstances the guests were unable to make it. They however are rescheduled for the Friday, October 19 broadcast. On this show, Jim and Jennifer discussed the film Indoctrinated: The Grooming of Our Children Into Prostitution (www.indoctrinated.org) and various topics related to freedom. It turned out to be an informative, engaging and thought-provoking show.
To Listen:  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/09/21/guest-vivienne-harr

Saturday, September 15, 2012

There are many engaged in the cause of ending violence and abuse in our world, but few who have had the impact that Bob Geffner has had.  We had the privilege of speaking with Dr. Geffner, president and founder of the Institute of Violence, Abuse and Trauma (IVAT), a day following IVAT's international conference, which brought in over 1500 people from 49 states and over 15 countries. IVAT’s 17thannual International Conference took place September 9 - 12 in San Diego, attracting professionals, counselors, researchers, policy makers, survivors, and advocates in order to find solutions and share knowledge, experience and hope. Among many accolades, Geffner is a Licensed Psychologist and Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist in California and Texas. He has also served on several national and state committees dealing with various aspects of family psychology, family violence, child abuse, and family law. He has presented over 450 keynote addresses, workshops and seminars at international, national, regional, and state conferences and meetings. In short, Geffner stands for the freedom for many afflicted human who is presently experiencing the trauma of abuse or violence.



Friday, September 7, 2012

Hope, a pop sensation ready to explode onto the scene, was our guest on "Freedom For All" this week. With over 1 million listens/friends on My Space, this one is definitely going places. People on YouTube are even posting covers to her songs. Hear her songs and you know what everyone is getting. Hope's passion for her songs takes listeners on a journey to soul, love and hope.
 
Originally from Woodstock, NY, Hope learned piano and guitar as a child and started writing songs at 13. After high school she came to LA with $40 in her pocket. Playing to passersby at LA Venice Beach boardwalk, her popularity grew, leading to a self-titled Debut CD, which includes a duet with Jason Mraz. Hope has landed her songs in Tyler Perry’s “Why Did I Get Married,” “P.S. I Love You,” “Step Up 2,” MTV’s “The City” and many more. She can be found at FollowHope.com.

Friday, August 31, 2012

Today's show we welcomed Miss Tina Malia, an international music artist whose music goes beyond the lyrics and the tunes. That's how I describe it. Etherial yet grounded, sacred and sublime, Tina's music can open hearts and minds for the sake of all of our evolution and personal growth. She spent time with us on the show talking about her music, her path and that which inspires her. We even got a glimpse of the title track of her most recent CD The Lost Frontier, with an introduction by Tina herself. Check out the show here: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/08/31/guest-tina-malia




Saturday, August 25, 2012


On today's show, we were pleased to welcome Alisha Zalkin, a wondrous LA-based singer who will be a featured talent at this year's IVAT international conference to end violence, abuse and trauma. Alisha was able to share about her process in creating and sharing her music, which empowers others to find inner peace, full self-expression, and courage in order to promote a harmonious world. She also shared about her mixed heritage with a Mexican grandmother and a Jewish grandmother and its effect on her art. As well, she shared about her participation in anti-bullying initiative Hey U.G.L.Y. And finally we were gifted with one of her most popular songs, You Beautiful You, to close out the show.

To listen to the show:  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/08/24/guest-alisha-zalkin

Saturday, August 18, 2012


On today’s Freedom for All Radio Show we talked with Dr. Coy Cross, author of The Dhance: A Caregivers Search for Meaning. Coy shared so openly, filled with emotion, the story of his late wife’s journey with ovarian cancer and his quest for meaning. There is such a freedom and inspiration in the way Coy chose to handle his wife’s diagnosis, illness and passing. Listen to the show to learn his secrets: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/08/17/guest-dr-coy-cross-ii

Friday, August 10, 2012

Today we welcomed to the show Margaret Dooley Sammuli from the ACLU (American Civil Liberties Union) Chapter in San Diego.
The organization’s mission: “The ACLU of San Diego and Imperial Counties fights for individual rights and fundamental freedoms for all through education, litigation, and policy advocacy.”
Vision: “We envision a society where fairness prevails and where liberty and justice exist for all.”
We brought up many topics today that all of you will be interested in hearing about – everything from check points, to traffic light cameras to the presidential election.

Saturday, July 28, 2012


On this week's Freedom For All radio show, we welcomed Charmaine Hammond so she could illuminate us all about “courageous dialogue." How many times have you felt anxiety about having to address a difficult issue with a business associate or co-worker or boss? Have you wondered: "What do I do if they react negatively to my dialogue?"
Knowing how to handle these situations can help you to feel free!The most inspiring Charmaine shares with us the path to effective communication and conversations so that we may be free in ourselves and in our relationships. This is an important show to listen to, especially for those of us wanting to ever utter words again to another. Listen in here: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/​freedomforall/2012/07/27/​guest-charmaine-hammond

Friday, July 20, 2012


Today we had Nedra Abramson on our Freedom For All radio show to discuss Reiki with us. A healing modality, Reiki uses Universal Energy to free participants from physical ailments as well as emotional and mental issues. The 30 minutes was chock full of information, including the use of Reiki for not just humans but animals as well. Listen in to learn how to use this modality to heal yourself and free yourself. Amazing! Check out the show to learn more: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/07/20/guest-nedra-abramson

Friday, July 13, 2012


It was quite a show today, as Dionne Carlson - member of the Public Facilities, Transportation and Public Art subcommittee for the North Park Planning Committee - was able to bring light to the latest hot topic for us in San Diego: Balboa Park's renovation "Plaza de Panama Project." Do we need these changes to a historical park; do we need a paid parking structure; who will ultimately pay for the project? And the real question as it ties into the topic of freedom - can a public park be altered through privation and commercialization, without the due diligence of including the will and input of the people? Good topics. So glad we could get the scoop from Dionne today. To listen to the show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/07/13/guest-dionne-carlson

Sunday, July 8, 2012

Had a momentous show Friday, July 6. Does that date look familiar? Why yes, it's the birthday of one Jennifer M. Geronimo, our cohost of the Freedom For All show. On this episode, we had a number of special guests appear acting as if it was part of a "This is Your Life" show. For each person, they started with a song or a story, and our lovely birthday girl got to guess the identity. Of course she knew the loved ones: Her father Roger, her sister Kristin, her pal Dawn O'Creene, her friend from childhood Kathy Petise Woolven, and her present yoga instructor and friend Courtney Yezzi Kimpo. So much celebration, joy, fun and a few tears. Check it out:  http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/07/06/jennifers-birthday


Friday, June 29, 2012

On today's radio show we welcomed speaker, author, filmmaker Douglas Vermeeren. Talk about being in a state of freedom - he called into the show while just landing in his hometown of Calgary, as he stood up to get his luggage out of the upper bin. In the moment. The show was fun and inspiring. Doug talked about his book "Guerrilla Achiever" and what we can do to achieve more in our lives. We also looked at the barriers that sometimes hold us back. And we discussed his work in China as the first North American ever invited to speak to the Chinese Political Party and Educational leaders. Today's show is a must listen! http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/06/29/guest-doug-vermeeren

Monday, June 25, 2012

Yesterday, Jim spoke to a group called the Sunset Poets, which meet monthly in Vista, CA. Jim's presentation - called "Write Your Self" - interspersed sharing, visualization, and experiential exercises with reading pieces of poetry from his book, Breadcrumbs: Poetry and Prose Designed to Lead You Home. The attendees loved it, even bringing some to tears.

Friday, June 22, 2012

Have you all heard of the Occupy Movement? We had, and we wanted to know more. We knew there were activists who were taking a stand in various cities for the power of the people in the face of a political environment of social and economic inequality. On this week's show, we welcomed Cristie Paris, who is part of the Media Committee for Occupy San Diego, which she officially joined on October 28, 2011. She works to spread the Occupy message far and wide using various social networks, offering a message of accountability for political and community leaders, and hope for a vision of creating a better world. It was great hearing her hands-on experience of what it is like out on the streets of protest, and what the movement is all about. Bottom line - freedom for all. To hear this show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/​freedomforall/2012/06/22/​guest-cristie-paris

Friday, June 15, 2012

Last week Jim and I were in New York to surprise my mom for her 60th birthday so we just did a short 10 minute show during our travels… the free-est show ever we called it. This week we had an inspiring guest – musician Charley Thweatt. He told us all about giving up his cubical job to follow his calling as a musician. And thousandds of inspired fans are so glad he did. Charley’s music makes you feel good! The show ended with one of his uplifting tunes "I am the Wind." Check out the show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/​freedomforall/2012/06/15/​guest-charley-thweatt

Sunday, June 3, 2012

What a fascinating show we had this week. Cass Smith is a person on the path of "liberation." Defined as "moksha," enlightenment, freedom from desires or freedom from suffering, liberation has been the focus of this spiritual seeker for over 40 years. Cass - a singer, seminar leader, healer has been a devotee of guru Sai Baba since the 1970's, having made pilgrimage trips to his India ashram every year. Married in 1989 to Shama, the two have worked together leading groups and individuals to their own spiritual liberation - using "rebirthing" breathwork, sacred teachings, meditation and emotional release techniques. We had a great conversation with Cass on Friday's "Freedom for All" as he dove deeply into what he believes people need to truly liberate themselves from suffering and the self-imposed limitations. Check it out to share in some deep contemplation: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/​freedomforall/2012/06/01/​guests-cass-and-shama-smith

Saturday, May 26, 2012

On today’s radio show Jim and I welcomed Alannah Sinclaire, the Founder and Executive Director of the nonprofit organization Oaks and Acorns, which brings both youth (acorns) and elders (oaks) within a society's fabric. Says Alannah, “Oaks & Acorns envisions a world that celebrates the mosaic of all generations exchanging wisdom, experience, exuberance and innovation.” Both seniors and children in our society do not always have the freedoms they deserve. Often times these two generations are unheard, ignored and misunderstood. Oaks and Acorns bridges this by bringing these two generations together for fun, support and mutual understanding. Thank you to Alannah for being a guest on today’s show and for sharing some beautiful stories that will touch every listener’s heart. To listen to the show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/​freedomforall/2012/05/25/​guest-alannah-sinclaire To check out Oaks and Acorns: http://www.oaks-acorns.org/

Monday, May 21, 2012

It was such an honor to have this man on our most recent radio show. Vince Lombardi, a leader among men, supports men to discover freedom and empowerment within themselves. Lombardi has held numerous leadership positions within his LA men's organization, among them: Division Coordinator two times, as well as a course Instructor for a refresher course for the Sterling Men's Weekend. During day hours, Lombardi is a mortgage broker, but it's his work with the men that is most inspiring to me. I have seen this man in action, facilitating courses as well as leading men past their internal barriers and towards their real-world success. He pulls no punches, tells it like it is, and holds his "word" as gold. He holds his word as high as a word should be held. I hope the rest of the population can realize, like perhaps Lombardi has, that without your word, you will limit not only the trust people will have in you, but also limit the power you hold to create the type of life you truly want. To listen to this amazing show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/05/18/guest-vince-lombardi

Thursday, May 17, 2012

We had a guest scheduled for this past Friday's Freedom for All Radio Show who was ill and had to cancel last minute...so what's better than spending some time with an old bud from childhood reminiscing about the good old days in the neighborhood, laughing, playing and enjoying the freedom of youth? That's right: Living it! Well, I got to do both. Live that childhood with Jamie Jordan on Cambay Lane in Huntington Beach, CA, as well as reminisce on the latest installment of Freedom For All Blogtalk radio. Check out me, Jennifer and Jamie talking up the past as if it was right here in our midst today. It was a blast. Check out the show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/​freedomforall/2012/05/11/​guest-mikaya-heart

Saturday, May 5, 2012

Wow! What a engaging show we had today with Dr. Steven Hotze all about freedom in health care. This really is a must-listen show. You will think twice about those prescription drugs you are taking after hearing what Dr. Hotze has to say. In addition to the topic of prescription drugs, we also spoke with him about vaccines, hormones, vitamins, as well as what he thinks is the reason people may have lost their power over the years to the medical institutions. To listen to the show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/05/04/guest-dr-steven-hotze

Thursday, May 3, 2012

OK, so it wasn't the best show technically speaking - the Internet went OUT for about one minute at the start - BUT we had a fascinating guest last week. Mr.Joe Bakely. It was his sister who was murdered that one day in 2001 when she was found shot in the car of Robert Blake (of Baretta fame) outside an LA restaurant. On the show, Joe reveals his version of what actually transpired - how Blake actually tried to hire him as a hit man for his own sister. Though amazing drama, the real gift is the attitude Mr. Joe holds now - as a humble handyman just wanting to live the right life. Thanks Joe for being who you are... and for fixing my bathroom shower. Ha. For those listening in, jump to the 2 minute mark to pick up the show after the technical difficulties. Here’s the link: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/freedomforall/2012/04/27/guest-joe-bakley

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Breadcrumbs: Poems & Prose Designed to Lead You Home



For Immediate Release

To schedule an interview with James Anthony Ellis, contact:
Jennifer Geronimo ~ (619) 713-6756 ~ JMGeronimo@aol.com


Writer Leads Readers Home with New Book for National Poetry Month

It says it all right there in the dedication: “Dedicated to words, which saved my life.”

So writes San Diego author James Anthony Ellis in his new book “Breadcrumbs: Poems & Prose Designed to Lead You Home” (CreateSpace 2012). A collection of 101 poems written over the last 20 years, the book is published with the author’s expressed intention to lead readers to a state of freedom, love and joy. In a word, Ellis wants to lead readers “home,” a state of mind he has searched for his entire creative career.

Ellis is publishing his book to coincide with April’s National Poetry Month. Inaugurated by the Academy of American Poets in 1996, the designated national acknowledgement is held every April, when publishers, booksellers, libraries, schools and poets around the country band together to celebrate poetry and its place in American culture.

Ellis’ title “Breadcrumbs” was taken from the fairy tale of Hansel and Gretel, referring to the breadcrumbs that Hansel leaves on a trail in order for both he and Gretel to find their way home out of the dangerous woods. Their major obstacle: hungry birds.

The obstacles Ellis overcame to complete the book included believing in his self-worth and expression, both of which were bolstered by an ability to write.

“I remember being a kid with a lot I wanted to get across to my folks and friends, but without the ability to speak it,” he says. “The outlet of writing was my one saving grace, and that turned to poetry when I really wanted to reach deep.”

“Breadcrumbs” includes poems separated into chapters such as “Love Poems,” “Heartbreak and Humanity” and “Freedom.” They range in style and theme, from the first poem Ellis wrote at the age of 10 called “The Clock of My Life” to a poem he wrote in October 2011 called “He was One of our Own” in honor of a friend who passed away.

The book is available on Amazon.com and at bookstores everywhere. To order online, click HERE.

About the Author
James Anthony Ellis is a writer, producer and filmmaker living in Southern California. His first book, Starting Point; A Guide to Metaphysics, the Golden Time and Love, was initially published in 1989. Other books include Life Traveler, Tears, and Preparing For the Best; A Guide to Earth Changes in 2012. James also pens The Creative Collaborative, a monthly internet newsletter that announces available writings, upcoming special events and anything he finds pertinent in the moment. To receive a copy of the newsletter or to contact James about his books, see www.LegacyProductions.org.

Thursday, February 16, 2012

The Buzz


The word is getting out there. The movie is getting out there.

The educational film "Indoctrinated" was screened in a special setting to help support the further dissemination of a film that will bring awareness of and solution to the issue of our prostituted
youth.

The San Diego County Office of Education sponsored a "Movie Screening and Study Guide Training of Trainers" session on February 14, 2012 at the South County Regional Education Center in National City, to a full room of educators, activists and community members ready to make a difference. Jim Ellis was part of a live panel commenting on the issue of child sex trafficking. "It's inspiring to see a community come together with such deep care for its own," Ellis said.