I'm a writer, photographer, and publisher. This year I'm focusing on writing essays, fiction, publishing a journal on Jack London, and documenting the story of California's Vietnam War Memorials. 

 

SHORT BIO:

 I’m James Bleifus, a writer, Mac computer trainer, and photographer living in Sonoma County, CA. I’m often found in the local university library writing, though you may also find me hiking along the incredible northern California coast.


Previously I’ve served as a military policeman in the Gulf War and the LA Riots (as a member of Team Hollywood), been a presenter at Macworld, and a trainer with Apple.

My writing has been published in ZYZZYVA and B&W Magazine, while my photographs have been published in B&W Magazine, Photographer’s Forum, Popular Photography, Best of Photography Annual 2000 and 2002 and elsewhere.

 

LONGER BIO:

 

CULTURAL CAPITAL STUFF

I hold an MA from Sonoma State University. I’ve taught English in the Academy and been a trainer at Apple Inc. My writing has been published in ZYZZYVA and Black and White Magazine and my photographs have been published in the Best of Photography Annual 2000 and 2002, Photographer’s Forum, Popular Photography, Class, and others.

MY CURRENT PROJECTS

I'm currently documenting Vietnam War Memorials throughout California.  The memorial at Sonoma State University was founded after a professor friend (himself a Vietnam War veteran) of mine's student had a tragic experience. After that I realized that there must be many untold stories about the founding of these memorials.   I've found 52 in the state so far, though I suspect there are more.  

Finally, I’m busy writing a manuscript called A Dark Wind Howls. You can learn more about it from the Current Projects page on this site.

PHILOSOPHY OF LIFE

Jack London once said that “The three great things are: GOOD HEALTH, WORK and a PHILOSOPHY OF LIFE. I may add, nay, I must add a fourth – SINCERITY.”  I think London’s right, these are all things to value.  

My philosophy of life is paraphrased from Kant’s Categorical Imperative: don’t befriend someone because of what they can do for you, befriend them for who they are.  This makes living the authentic life much easier.

If you check my Google Profile you’ll see that my superpower is that I can find beauty anywhere.  That’s a strength I value. We can view all negative situations as bad but the truth is, with a slight shift in perspective, we can find that silver lining that makes the experience worth it.

You’re welcome to contact me at james@bleifus.com or 707-324-3142.