As a first time writer my book, Wake Up Call / Pick Up The Phone and Listen is about (The Reality of Youth Violence: Family, Community & Prison). The book brings attention to the rise of youth violence, recognizing changes in attitude and behavior that affects youths mentally, physically, socially and educationally. My book addresses the needs of youth who lack positive role models who they can trust and confide in. Their dire need of respect for their personal opinions is described. Comments from incarcerated inmates who become imprisoned at an early age as a result of what's missing in their life and family. Opinions from professionals, parents, and other adults who work with or have… youths at risk are discussed. Wake Up Call stresses the need to educate our children as young as toddlers and preschoolers regarding violence, hate, prison and crime by having volunteers present lectures in the schools. A section of the book is autobiographical, describing my childhood growing up in the 60's, my "Vietnam" experience, my employment as a Corrections Officer with the Department of Corrections at the Erie County Prison and my introduction into martial arts. I was the first karate instructor who promoted Billy Blanks, the "Tae Bo" founder and martial arts movie star, to his first-and-second-degree black belts. As an inner city youth growing up in Erie during the early 70's, Billy persevered to reach his goals by hard work and training. Today, his name is a household word and he serves as a positive role model for our youth. "Inside Edition" interviewed me in April of this year because of my early experience with Billy Blanks, (photos are included in my book). Author Peter Ellikan is an author, law counsellor and a journalist from Boston Massachusetts, who wrote the book "The Tough on Crime Myth" in 1996, recently contacted me. He invited me to write and send my opinion on juvenile violence and incarceration for his latest book "Super Predator," published in 1999. Founder of the Following Programs The Karate Fighting School of School Defense - 1969 (Head Master) - to present The Women On Guard Program - 1974 to present The Children ON Guard Program - 1979 to present Erie County Prison Juv. Awareness Program - Scared Straight 1986 to present The Youth On A Mission Team - 1990 to present Victims of Bullies ALLY Group Exposure (V.O.B.A.G.E.) 2004 ---------- AUTHOR IS AVAILABLE FOR SPEAKING PRESENTATIONS