John Ewers' Journal from Prison
July 17, 2001 - Aug 17, 2001
7-19-01
Some
folks have suggested I start a journal. I haven't done this before but
I think it might be interesting since this is a totally new
experience-being in prison.
I'm
completing my second day of incarceration. The first days have been
pretty much OK. The intake process has gone well. Bill Houston & I
have been processed together. We have been assigned to Bluegrass2
(B-2), one of four units. There are four units each housing about 75
men. Our unit has a few open bunks. Each unit has 37 living spaces.
Each is 8'X10' with bunk unit, two lockers, a writing desk and three
folding chairs. The space is modern and well-maintained. It's
air-conditioned and a bit too cool for me but OK considering the
alternative.
I
had heard quite a bit before coming in about a perpetual noise level.
So far this does not seem to be the case. I have slept well both
nights. I'm in the lower bunk because as our Counselor, Mr Byrd, says
the older men like Bill & I get that preference. As it turned out
my housemate, Danny, got bumped "up" when I came in. I told Mr Byrd I
was active and able and would take the top but he wouldn't agree.
Danny
is a good guy: quiet and not around much but he has been very helpful
as have been many of the guys in B-2. Greg and Doc are next door and
have helped out a lot helping us get oriented.
The
general attitude and culture here is pretty casual. Most of the guys I
have met who have been here a while and have been transferred in from
other places say this is as good as it gets. So far, I agree. Very
little evidence of staff, unlimited freedom of movement within the
parameters of the daily schedule.
As
an aside, Elkton, which is in northeast OH, was the other place we
considered asking for. I'm very glad we didn't pursue it. Several guys
I've met who came from there said it is noisy, lots of fights and
overcrowded. There used to be an FPC (Federal Prison Camp) there but it
was turned into a FCI-low because they needed the space.
So
far, as we've met others here, guys have been willing to talk a bit.
Usually, the conversation involves: how long are you in for, how long
before you get out, what's your name ( usually "first"name), where
you're from (quite a few from Ohio including Dayton and especially
Columbus). Some guys will talk a bit about why they are in. I'm not
surprised but certainly concerned that drug violations are a major
reason. This is by no means a scientific survey but it may turn out to
be.
I ate
breakfast with a middle-aged black this morning. I asked him about how
long he is in. He spent the rest of the time talking about his sentence
(12yrs) for "conspiracy" which he described as not being involved with
drug trade but had a girlfriend who was. I don't know anything about
the law and how it is enforced but he certainly gave me an ear-ful. At
this point, I've certainly heard quite a bit about a perceived
unfairness in the federal justice system: sentences too long and
arbitrary sentences. Another strain that runs through it is you need to
be a "snitch" to get preferential sentencing and treatment. The other
strain is if you insist on a trial, your sentence will be longer. As I
say, this is not a scientific survey. But I'm still concerned and a bit
upset - and I've only been here two days.
On
another track, Bill and I are being processed quite expeditially. We
had our physicals today, turned in our telephone lists yesterday and
expect to be able to make calls later today. They tell us that we won't
get a work detail assignment for about a month. At this point, I'm
leaning towards asking for "maintenance" which can be grounds, repairs,
etc. No one seems to have an assignment that takes very long which
means we have quite a bit of time on our hands.
I've
started running yesterday since I was able to make my first commissary
purchases. I got a pair of running shoes and went two miles alternately
running (2/3) and walking(1/3). I also took Steinbeck's "East of Eden"
our of the library and started reading it. I think I'll have plenty of
time to read, jog, work and write letters and journal.
That's
enough for now-almost time for lunch (11am) - the food is OK and
certainly enough. I think and expect I'll be able to lose weight (no
snacks & alcohol).
7-20-01
I had another good, two-mile run last evening and a good night sleep.
Bill
and I got our permanent clothing this morning after breakfast. The
issueing staff person was very nice making sure that we had the best
fit we could get. I'm wearing the stuff now. The shoes feel quite
comforable which is not what I was led to believe by some of the
ex-prisoners. We can have our washing done for free at the camp laundry
but I think I will do my own washing.
I
feel like this is one more step in getting into the swing of things. Up
till now Bill & I have been in green jump suits and slip on
sneakers which were issued when we reported Tuesday. The back of the
jump suit has stenciled letters "R&D" (Receiving and Discharge) not
Research and Development.
I
do feel the need to "blend in" at the camp. I felt a little like the
Jews must have felt but, of course, without the recriminations. In fact
both inmates and staff seem interested in talking to us about why we're
here. Some of them seem to know us before we know them. It seems like a
small town where everyone seems to know everyone else and their
business. We have had regular opportunities to talk about the SOA and
their mission. Almost everyone has not heard of it and they are amazed
and shaking their heads that this is going on.
I missed the solidarity hour last night. Doing it this morning.
7-21-01
Yesterday
was a good day overall. I'm making an effort to get to know the people
I come in contact with. I started a list of names of people I've met
with, a few notes to tie face and name together. Sometimes I get into a
conversation. Generally, I hear why they are here. A couple have
admitted they did what they are convicted for but think the penalty is
excessive.
I had
a good conversation with Paul from Columbus (there are a lot of guys
from there mostly drug related). He was very interested in hearing
about the SOA. He quoted a statistic that 85,000 of 140,000 in federal
prisons are in on drug charges. I've heard from several guys including
Paul that "conspiracy" is what got them. I'm sure I don't understand
fully what this means but it sounds like others implicated them because
they had associations - family, girl friend had direct ties to drug
activity.
I
talked to Rich this morning. He is a financial counselor who is in
because he counseled clients on avoiding taxes. He says the law
supports his position. Some other guys just feel they were railroaded.
Frankly, I'm appalled at the length of sentences. I'm hearing 5-20 year
sentences for drug related convictions. I can't help feeling that the
mandatory sentencing laws on drug convictions are ridiculous and just
another useless effort at solving the drug situation by attacking the
supply rather than the demand.
On
a brighter note, I talked to Paula yesterday morning and found out
Walter Stuber plans to go to Ft Benning in November and that Mary
Hershberger from Columbus was arrested at Ft Benning. I knew a bunch of
those who went on the WFP trip planned to go to the SOA when they
returned from their trip. I'd like to believe the SOA26 have influenced
these moves. It feels real good to me.
Paula
told me she & Beth Lerman had sent letters to me with newspaper
clippings. My hopes were up at mail call last night but they didn't
arrive.
I had
called Paula to tell her she couldn't visit today because I hadn't
turned in my Visitor list yet. She was disappointed as was I. She will
visit next Sat-7/28-which is Kathy's 42nd birthday. I sent her a card
yesterday.
I
decided to skip dinner last night because breakfast and lunch were kind
of heavy and I am making an effort at losing weight. A lot of guys have
been successful. One of the guys who tends the garden dropped by and
sold me a couple of peppers and a cucumber (1 stamp each). They were
delicious.
I've
settled into a pretty good routine with "reading" a big component. I've
decided I feel like I'm on a retreat - at least at this point that's my
feeling. I also know this won't satisfy me for too long.
I
made, what I think is, a good move yesterday. I talked to Mr Kelly, the
Maintenance Supervisor, about getting on his work detail. He said he
needs a guy and told me to fill out a "Cop-out" request which I did. He
signed it. I now turn it into my Counselor next week. As soon as all of
my intake meetings and paperwork are completed, I will be assigned to a
maintenance crew. I've been told work ebbs and flows but I'm looking
forward to this giving me a decent daily schedule.
7-22-01
Yesterday
was a pretty uneventful day. Sat & Sun are not work days. I felt
like the day pretty much dragged by. I did a lot of reading. I also
introduced myself to quite a few guys. I'm making a list of everyone I
meet and jotting down something to remind me of who they are. It's
tough but necessary to feel like I'm part of the community. I watched a
little bit of the British Open and got into a good discussion of the
SOA- got a good reception. There still seems to be interest. Several of
the people I introduce myself to have already heard about Bill and me.
It definitely is a small "town".
I
got into a good discussion with Paul who lives nearby about Habitat. He
wants to talk more and sounds interested in getting involved when he
gets out. He's from Columbus.
I
developed an interesting phrase to describe what SOA Watch strategy is:
"Non-violent confrontation". I like "confrontation" because that's what
I think we need whether at Benning, letters or lobbying.
I
made my own list of the SOA26 from memory with help on two from Bill. I
hope Beth sends me the picture. I think it will be a conversation
starter. I'm also looking forward to getting the articles which I think
I will have a chance to share.
7-23-01
It's
a quiet Monday morning-day 7 of our incarceration. More and more I'm
getting into a routine but I sure have a lot of time on my hands. it
will get a lot better when I get placed on the Maintenance work detail.
My "celly" (cellmate) Danny works in the warehouse from 7:30am til 3pm
with an hour out for the noon meal. That schedule sounds good to me
with a good four hours for myself. They tell me it takes about a month
to complete all of the intake activities. I hope we can beat that
schedule. I've completed my physical and they are just waiting for the
results of blood tests (which someone told me can take a while since
they send to California). Wed. Bill & I have meetings with our Case
Supervisor, Mr Sparks. I don't know what is involved but it's another
step.
I went to
Sunday School class yesterday. It was a small group but a lively
discussion on John 5. I will definitely return. I'm less sure of the
Protestant church service. It had two segments, starting with singing
which was very nice. The sermon was by a guest preacher who had some
good content but it was a lot of shouting, pacing and finger-pointing
for 45 minutes. I'll go back and see how it goes. There were about 20
people in attendance.
I
keep meeting more people. I'm still tripping over names but it is kind
of a challenge and fun to keep on trying and expanding my list.
I'm
still reading Steinbeck's "East of Eden" and Chuck Colson's "Born
Again". Both are enjoyable. I'll finish them both this week.
I
had an interesting conversation with Leo in the library this morning.
He's a banker. I don't know what he's in for. He worked in Colombia in
banking. His comments about the SOA and what the objective is were
right on the mark. He characterized the American ambassadors in Latin
American countries as "dictators": right in the middle of protecting
local power interests tied particularly to US economic interests.
Sometime soon I'm going to start reading some reference books in the library about federal sentencing guidelines.
7-24-01
Today
is Bill's and my one week anniversary. It seems like a lot longer than
that. I guess because everything is new and different. All told, I
think I have made very good progress. It has helped greatly that
everyone has been helpful. The more I meet guys, I see a mix of
long-sentence guys who have worked their way down to Camp status and
new guys like me that are first-timers doing 6-24 months.
BIG NEWS!
I received my first mail last night - and it was huge - 11 letters,
cards and packages. I sat here for at least an hour reading,
remembering and choking up. What a treat! I got cards from people I
didn't know and two letters from people in the Dayton community that I
knew just a little - and, of course, friends and family. I'm choking up
all over again just writing this. My feeling and prayer is that we are
in SOLIDARITY! We can do this thing in only one way-TOGETHER!
I'm happy I have some time today so I can answer the letters.
I
got up at 5:30 this morning and put in my first load of wash. Paula
will be pleased to know that I think I'm fully trained-maybe I won't
let her know.
7-25-01
Yesterday
was another good day. I had several interesting conversations with guys
I met for the first time. Bill and I are scheduled to go to a group
orientation at 1pm today. Hopefully, we can find out how much longer it
will be till we complete A&O (Admissions & Orientation).
When
I was praying this morning, I was asking for insight and direction in
what I should be doing and it came to me that I've been moving
geographically as a part of job moves all my adult life. I just made
another "move" temporary as it may be.
On
further reflection, each previous move I've made has exposed me to new
information, growth opportunities, challenges. Each move has changed me
and, hopefully, expanded me spiritually and intellectually. I expect
this move will do the same. I'm excited.
I
received 5 letters to go with the 11 from Monday. I heard a couple of
mumbles. I'm starting to feel a little guilty when many of the guys
turn away with nothing! I remember Margaret Knapke when she was at
Atwood last year saying the same thing.
I'm
still going to the chow hall three times a day but I'm getting very
selective in what I take - trying to stay away from fats - they do a
lot of fried potatoes. So far the vegetables, salad and fruit (apples
& oranges) are plentiful. Overall, the food is decent. Most of the
guys who have spent time in other prisons says the quality and variety
here is better.
Nevertheless,
I've bought a box of crackers and a jar of peanut butter and some small
cans of tuna in case a meal doesn't have what I want - or I want a
snack.
I will
say it now. My goal is to lose 20 pounds while I'm here. I think I can
do it with a good diet, exercise, no alcohol or soda. My weight at the
medical- fully clothed with boots- was 210. I plan on weighing in each
Friday.
7-26-01
Most
of the day yesterday was routine. We did have a meeting with staff
which is a routine part of A&O. Bill & I had separate meetings
with about the same content. Our release date will be Jan 14, 2002.
They will take $25 from my commissary account in Sept and again in Dec
to pay my fine. I didn't argue. I found out there will be an 8 week
Conversational Spanish class offered in the next month or so. I put in
a cop-out (request) to participate. Bill is doing the same.
I
did get into a discussion on SOA. Why I'm involved. I explained that
our effort is to close the SOA. I told them I was very happy to be here
as part of our strategy. This prompted one of the staff to tell me they
had psychological services available if I want to use them. We had a
good laugh. It was a fine meeting.
This
morning I got into a good discussion with Ricky. He's from
Detroit,42,black, in for drugs. We talked about job opportunities in
construction. I suggested a few ways to get into the housing industry.
I
don't recall whether I mentioned it before but we have usually been
eating on the "black" side of the mess hall. We usually get to
introduce ourselves and get a basic discussion going. There are four
man tables which facilitate this.
I'm
starting to get unsolicited greetings in the compound and guys that
start a conversation. I'm feeling like I'm fitting in OK. It feels good.
07-27-01
We
had a big rain storm yesterday afternoon that stopped outside activity.
I wrote letters and caught up-but then received four more last night.
I'm not complaining!
Bill
& I had our solidarity hour from 7-8pm. It was good. The folks in
Dayton met for dinner and their sharing time. I received a letter from
Paula that had an e-mail from Miriam Spencer. She's had some bad times
and her brother was just killed in an accident. Bill & I remembered
her particularly and sent her letters. Hope it helps. She's a terrific
member of the 26.
I
weighed in this morning at 209-down one pound from last week's
benchmark weigh-in. Today, we're spending most of the day on A&O
orientation:there are 14 of us.
7-29-01
I missed journaling yesterday. It was a pretty busy day as you'll see.
Friday's
orientation was OK. We learned a few things we didn't know. We knew
most of the stuff already from reading the regulations booklet. Met a
few more of the new guys.
Saturday
was a great day. I called Kathy at 9am local time and sang and wished
her a 42nd birthday. Dave was also on the call. It was a good 15 minute
visit. I'm looking forward to more of the same.
After that I put on my freshly pressed "greens" in preparation for Paula's visit and wrote a couple of letters.
About
10:50 the call came over the loud speaker system:"Ewers you have a
visitor". Bill came down to my cubicle to make sure I had heard the
call. I had and I hot-footed up to the visiting area, got patted down
by a C.O. and we commenced the visit with some wonderful kisses and
hugs! We liberally talked non-stop for the next four hours. Paula left
about 2:45 with some more kisses and hugs. It was a memorable event in
our 45 year relationship! Next Sunday, a week from today, Paula will be
visiting again. This time with Zachary, Eric and Celina after their
trip to the cottage.
There
were many things I learned in the visit but one of the more memorable
was hearing about Paula having a lot of discussions with people who are
supporting me and the movement to close the school. We agreed we need
to push involvement, especially by writing congressional reps.
I had a great run after Paula's visit. I was really hyped up. I ran four of my six laps non-stop.
The
rest of the day I relaxed and finished "East of Eden" and started
reading "Of Mice and Men". I like Steinbeck's writing. I will probably
read some more of him including "Grapes of Wrath" if they have it here.
One
other sidelight of yesterday involved a C.O. (Correction Officer).
Midway in the visit, I had to take a pee. The C.O. took me and stayed
with me. He started a conversation by saying I didn't seem like a
regular prisoner and asked me if I was in for an I.R.S. violation. I
told him about the SOA and P.O.C.(Prisoner Of Conscience). We had a
several minute discussion in the bathroom which ended with him telling
me he thought I was doing the right thing and he respected me for it. I
suggested he support the movement to close the school. He then said I
should remember that he "worked for Caesar" to which I replied, "Render
unto Caesar....". We smiled at each other. For me, it was a special
time. Upon reflection, it convinces me all the more that the more
people know, the more unpopular the school will become. Our
responsibility and strategy is clear. I will put this anecdote into the
SOA26 Newsletter.
7-30-01
A
new work week starts today but it doesn't mean much to me since I
haven't been assigned to a work detail yet. I need to have a dental
examination as a part of my medical processing. I'm going to try to get
that done this week. Otherwise, to the best of my knowledge, they just
need to get my blood test results to complete my A&O(Admission and
Orientation).
Church
activities yesterday were good. The Bible study was kind of dynamic.
The church service was pretty much the same as previous week but with
more singing and a slightly shorter sermon. Larry, the preacher, is
definitely cut from the evangelist mold. He had a good sermon and his
altar call at the end of the service brought three guys forward.
I'm
staying up on my letter writing and I'm enjoying it. It gives me a
chance to encourage active participation in closing the school.
I
read Steinbach's "Of Mice and Men" over the weekend. It is very short
but a simple story of life and death. I'm trying to get a copy of
"Grapes of Wrath". I started reading the book Gaby gave me. it is a
scholarly book on white clergy and civil rights and the anti-war
movement. It is quite interesting so far.
Bill
and I took a walk on the hill last evening and were joined by Preston.
As we walked we talked briefly about why Bill & I are in and quite
a lot about him. He is about fifty. He is in for growing marijuana for
his own use to help him with medical problems. He says he intends to
become an advocate for legalizing it- when he gets out. He is doing
five years. He also took off with a persuasive vengeance on the
prosecuting and sentencing system using examples of guys he has been in
prison with. Once again the "conspiracy" word came up. He also gave
examples of how easy it is to "violate" probation and get put back in.
At our orientation last Friday we talked to a couple of guys who have
just come back in on "violations".
One
other observaion I made over the weekend was how much profanity is
used. It seems like one guy in a group will start using it in a group
discussion and then others will respond in kind. A lot of my
conversations are one-on-one and don't involve profanity. I'm going to
try observing more and see if I arrive at any other conclusions.
That's all for now. I'm still basking in glow of Paula's visit Saturday. It was beautiful-as she is-. I love her so.
7-31-01
Yesterday
was a good day. I kept reasonably busy. Talked to Paula last night
since she is picking up the Roy kids at the airport and heading for the
cottage. They are stopping overnight at Paula and Keith Fagley's. I
won't talk to her or see her until the visit next Sunday.
Mail
call last evening was huge-15 letters plus my Bible that Paula sent. No
problem. There were some unusual writers. One was Jim Pennell, a postal
clerk at our local post office. I've known him for several years. Paula
must have got talking to him when she mailed my Bible. Among other
things, he thought maybe I would be John Gotti's roommate. He also
reminded me "there are still friends for ex-cons when you get out." I
am just plain overwhelmed with the support that is coming. I think Bill
got 7 or 8 letters.
My
next door neighbor invited Bill and me to a Bible study last night. It
was interesting - lasted about 1 1/2 hours. Leader, Colonel Huston, is
an ex-marine. most of the participants are familiar from other
religious activities. Bill wasn't comfortable but I felt OK. I'll
probably go back. Meets every Monday night.
I put in a cop-out to my Counselor to bring in my regular running shoes. We'll see what happens.
8-1-01
Welcome
to August. It should be and probably will be the dog days of summer.
Yesterday was pretty much a slow day. I wrote some letters in response
to the big batch of mail I received Monday. Didn't get anything
yesterday so I should catch up today.
I
tried all evening to call Pete with no luck. I tried this morning at
5:30 his time with no luck. I'll try again at 6:30. It's kind of a
bummer because I haven't talked to him since I came in. They could be
in California. I can't remember. Paula is at the cottage so I can't
call her. I might call Kathy later. (They just came on the P.A. and
said the phone lines will be down for half a day - so much for that
plan.)
I put in
a cop-out yesterday to allow my regular running shoes to be shipped in.
It was quickly denied. I have a dental exam today which is another part
of my medical exam. I think the only thing that's left in my A&O is
blood test results. I then should get my work assignment.
I
had an interesting conversation with Shane yesterday. He's a former
Army Ranger. He asked me what got me "off the street". I told him a
bunch of stuff. He's been in Colombia several times. He agreed with my
assessment. He also did some training of Latin American soldiers using
a translator at SOA. He didn't go into detail but he agreed with my
description of the course content and purpose. And the beat goes on!
The
more I explain why I'm in, the more I am convinced that the easiest
explanation that people understand and agree with is that all people
deserve the freedom and opportunities that US citizens enjoy. And
everytime I make this explanation and remember the agony and sadness of
our brothers and sisters denied these basic rights by their own people
with the assistance of our government, I am angy and frustrated. We
will burn in hell!
8-02-01
Yesterday
was pretty routine: took care of some business items, wrote some
letters, tried again to reach Pete unsuccessfully, had a tough run and
a good conversation.
I
had my first opportunity to read from my own Bible - it felt good and
natural - this is the one that Kathy, Peter, Todd & Rich gave me
for my 51st birthday - 1/29/86 (NIV).
I
sent off a letter to get $250 self-surrender bond back. I had a little
set back on getting back my medical clearance. I had more blood taken
this morning because the first blood test was no good, according to the
nurse. She did say it would only take a few days to get the results.
I'm anxious to fill a few hours in the middle of the day.
Mail
was outstanding again yesterday which prompted the C.O. doing the
distribution to tell me he wasn't my secretary. I hit the jackpot with
big envelopes from Paula, Pete & Kathy. I found out in Pete's
letter that they are in California which accounts for my not being able
to reach them. The pictures from Kathy and Pete were excellent. It is
absolutely precious to be able to "hang" a few pics and look through
the others. It definitely keeps me in touch. Pete sent the enlarged pic
of the SOA 26 which he pulled from the internet. Bill and I will be
using it in our Thursday night solidarity sessions.
After
dinner yesterday I was sitting in the common area reading. A guy, Bill,
introduced himself. He knew something about me and we discussed the SOA
& US policy. It turned out he grew marijuana. He had enough plants
that he received a 16 year sentence that was subsequently reduced to 10
years. It was his first arrest and conviction. He painted a picture of
a virtual 100% conviction rate in federal court on drug offenses.
Common tactics are to get flimsy witnesses to create "evidence" of
conspiracy in order to charge and convict someone not directly involved
in a drug crime. Prosecutor intimidation of persons and their lawyers:
threaten maximum sentence if they go to trial with lesser
recommendation if they plead guilty. There is more but I'm not sure I
understand it well enough to descibe it. Confiscation of money and
property is something else that I need to understand better. Bill has
done 9 of his 10 years, is about 50 and says once is enough. He is
intelligent, seems resigned and not bitter but he matter-of-factly
states that our legal system is out of control.
When
I hear more, I'll put more in my journal. What I do sense is that there
are a lot of talented, good citizens here that are paying an exorbitant
price for the mistake they make. If this is a society that is driven by
economics, the government is making a huge mistake taking a huge number
of people - workers and consumers - out of the economy. I need to read
and study the penal/prison/justice system.
08-03-01
Yesterday
was OK. Everything seemed a bit loosy-goosey, I think, because some of
the regular staff is on vacation. No big deal. It's just when I'm
getting in sync with the system, something changes a little. It doesn't
seem to bother guys that have been around for a while.
I
had to go in for another blood test - apparently the first one was no
good. Bill had the same problem. They told him the blood wasn't
processed fast enough. They said the results would be back early next
week. I hope so because I think that is all that is left before A&O
is complete and I can get assigned to the work detail (I realized I
wrote the same thing yesterday - I must be getting stir-crazy).
Ironically,
Bill & I have our first (of three) pre-release lectures this
morning. It was explained that these are mandatory during the last 18
months of incarceration. I'll write more on this unless it's a total
non-event.
I
wrote some more letters yesterday. I'm saving a few for the week-end
since it is so slow during that time. I'm sure looking forward to Paula
and the kids coming Sunday.
Bill
& I had an excellent solidarity time last evening. We had some
quiet time for reflection then used the rest of the time discussing
some members of the 26 and talking about "the abc's of doing time". I
think we are somewhat in tune with the suggestions. We will discuss it
more in coming weeks. One of the things we discussed was having
birthday recognitions when they occur. We will check with some of the
guys who have been around for a while to see if it has been done before
etc. More later.
I
finished reading Steinbeck's "Cannery Row". I need to pick a new book.
I've browsed the library but haven't chosen one yet. I have been doing
some crossword puzzles. I'm also reading "Readers' Digest" the last
minutes before I go to sleep just like I do at home. It feels good.
Then, I say goodnight to Paula and give her a kiss. I've been turning
in about 9:45 and getting up at or a bit before 6am, just like at home.
08-04-01
Yesterday
was a good day. I had my routine stuff. I weighed in as planned for
every Friday. I lost a pound. At least for two weeks, I'm on track with
my weight-reduction plan. Bill is a good influence. He is a vegetable
and fruit guy. I'm still eating some meat but I'm being selective. The
meat is, by and large, marginal so it's not much of a sacrifice.
I
checked out the birthday idea that Bill & I talked about yesterday.
I didn't get any encouragement. I haven't talked to Bill.
I
met a guy at dinner who is new this week. He's middle-aged - good
shape- a runner. He is on a 16 yr sentence for cocaine possession. Has
a previous conviction. He was transferred here with 9 years left to
serve.
I find
this mind-numbing. I'm going to ask Paula to contact someone - maybe
Ellis Jacobs from Legal Aid- to find me a book that is an authoritative
study of the drug penal system.
I
met another guy in the chow line who is serving 15months on a marijuana
charge. His name was in the book of a distributor. He was not arrested
for possession. The evidence stream seems flimsy at best.
I
received five letters last night. They are now sorting Bill's and my
mail into packets so they only call our names once. We like that
because it doesn't single us out as much. One of the letters was from
Mark Greiner, a pastor in Baldwin, NY, who was chair of the Presbytery
Global Mission Committee during the time we were setting up the
Colombian Partnership. He would like to regularly correspond. He is
very thoughtful and has sent me 2 letters with interesting info. He
seems to be interested in letters from jail and justice reform. I'm
going to take him up on it and see where it goes.
The
first pre-release course was on financial management. This involved how
to open a bank account, write a check and balance a check book. The
instructor talked for 15 minutes + a video. We had a short quiz. It,
hopefully, was useful to some of the attendees. But I doubt it.
While
I was reading my Bible this morning in Colossians 1&2, I had an
idea and I don't know why it came to me. I credit the Lord's leading.
It involves a new strategy to close the SOA. Essentially it is this -
There seems to be a drop in students this year. I read that 80 of 140
students this year are from Colombia. In 55 years over 60,000 students
have been trained. In other words matriculation has dropped. This needs
to be explored. I've got some notes that I made as I thought this
through. I've got an outline of ideas on how to proceed. I'm going to
talk it through with Bill and build a proposal to share with SOA Watch.
I'm pretty excited about it.
08-05-01
Today
is a special day. Paula and the grandkids are coming. I plan on going
to Sunday School but not church since they will be arriving before
church starts. Yesterday was, what appears to be, a typical Sat - guys
sleeping in, doing their own thing, staying up late. I pretty much had
my regular, daily routine. I wrote a bunch of leters but I still have
seven to go.
Bill
& I took a walk and discussed the new idea for an SOA Watch
strategy that came to me yesterday. He had several comments and
suggestions that helped my thinking. He thinks it is a good thing to
pursue. I'm going to spend some time this coming week working on it. My
goal is to send it to SOAW in Washington by the end of the week. I also
want to write Rumsfeld, Powell and our legislative reps. It should be a
busy week.
We
are coming up Tuesday on the start of our fourth week. I'm surprised
and disappointed that nothing has come out of SOAW yet - they should be
writing us with suggestion on what they want us to do, what is going on
in the various prisons. We also need to know what is going on
legislatively-co-sponsors on 1810, status of a bill in the Senate,
update on Colombia etc. We need to be doing a lot - letters from prison
etc., but we need to write with authority, the facts. If I sound
frustrated, it's because I am.
I
had a couple of good conversations yesterday with a few guys that I am
getting to know better. I also met two more guys, both at meal time. By
my records, I have met 74 guys and got their names. I can identify 60
of them and call them by name when I see them. I feel pretty good about
that. I will keep working on it.
08-06-01
Yesterday
was a good day! Paula and the kids didn't arrive until 11:30am. I was
getting concerned and actually called home about 11am. Of course, there
was no answer. It turned out they stayed up late and Paula let them
sleep in. We had a good visit. It wasn't quite as good a visit for
Paula and me because the kids were being kids. They left about 2pm.
Paula's next visit will be Sunday 8/19-2 weeks.
I
went out and ran after they left. My runs - with some walking - have
been pretty consistent. I'm doing seven laps which is just a bit over 2
miles. I'm going to work up to three miles - 10 laps - but I'm not
going to push it. The hill is really tough. If I can work up to 10 laps
without a stop, I will be in good condition.
I'm
starting to get into more conversations of substance. I talked for
almost an hour last evening with Pat. He's 8 yrs into a 10yr sentence
for marijuana distribution. He had several stories of guys who got
little or no sentence because they cooperated and implicated others.
Pat's take is that guys will implicate others with phony information
just to get a better sentence. He says the federal law allows for a
"conspiracy" charge which he says just means someone knew about a drug
activity and thus they can be charged. He says state laws don't have
this allowance. I need to corroborate this before carrying it further.
I did have a feeling that he had significant knowledge of how the
federal justice system works.
I'm
writing Gordon Chapman today. Paula talked to him and she thinks he may
have some involvement in the prison/sentencing system. I'd like to read
an authoritative book on the subject too, hopefully, get a balanced
perspective on the subject. There is no question that I'm interested
and would also like to link with an organization working on the
subject. Sister Rita Steinhagen may be a resource. I think I'll see if
Margaret has a contact with her.
08-07-01
No much happening yesterday. I think I'll make some notes on my impressions of prison and prisoners.
Before
I start though I will report a miracle. I wrote to Jay Cook the
probation officer that processed me in Georgia, and asked for the
return of my $250 self-surrender bond. Mailed it on Wed. Paula received
the check on Saturday! The government doing a one-day turnaround! Tell
me that's not a miracle!
Today
is the start of my fourth week. I'm getting a pretty good feel for life
in the compound (camp). I haven't made a scientific study of the daily
habits of the prisoners but it would be an interesting study. Here are
my observations just observng life in my unit of about 65 men. Monday
through Friday will find 1/3 to 1/2 of them in the unit. These folks
are sleeping, reading, writing or housekeeping. Outside in the common
area there are small groups on benches or standing smoking (I'd say
over half of the guys smoke) & talking. There may be 20-30
scattered at any given time. In the recreation area on all activities
there will be 20-30 guys - running, walking, weight-lifting are the
most popular activities. The library will have 20-30 either in classes,
reading or watching TV (in off-hours). The rest of the guys are on work
details. Work details seem to be in two categories. Some guys work 7-3
with a lunch break. These would be maintenance, landscape, warehouse,
kitchen etc. Others are orderlies (keeping the units and compound neat
and in order). Hours worked on these tasks are until it is done which
will not take all day - probably on an average of 1-2 hours per day. A
final category is new arrivals. it takes about a month to get processed
and assigned to a work detail.
I've
developed a general impression that life in the compound is pretty
slow-moving except when there may be a mad dash to get in the chow
line. The conversations I have been in and have overheard are oriented
to prison concerns (lots of gripes)- sentences, legal system, personal
matters. I have not talked current events much.
The
only "formal" education I am aware of is mandatory GED classes (group
and 1-1) for guys who don't have a high school diploma. There is an 8
week conversational Spanish class 2 days a week. (I'm enrolled in the
next one) and a study of Viet Nam. There are 2-4 pre-release courses
that are mandatory. I've taken the first one-pretty basic-one
hour-didn't learn anything. My conclusion is that if a guy wants to
study and improve himself, he's pretty much on his own - and some do.
I
probably will update this in a couple of months to verify my current
feeling that there isn't a focused program of "correction" in this
correctional institution.
08-08-01
I
read my journal to date today and it seems to flow OK although I have
seemed to repeat myself. My short-term memory isn't as good as it used
to be. I'm also realizing my hearing, especially in the
chow
line, isn't as good. When I get out, I think I'll have a hearing test.
I've heard that hearing aids are best installed while your hearing is
still pretty good.
Yesterday
was a routine day. No word on the blood test results. While I am
thinking about it, I just went up to medical to ask them if the test
results are back yet. They are not. The nurse was very nice. She said
she remembered that I am "hot" to get out on a work detail and she
promised to process my paperwork as soon as the results come in.
I
met a few more guys yesterday. I also had one come looking for me to
talk. I hope and think this will continue. I know more and more Bill
& I are identified as POCs and, I think, respected for it.
I
have gotten into a first of the morning discipline of reading my Bible
and praying. I had often gotten away from this before I came in here
because of needing to get out on the building site (Habitat). It feels
really good to start my day this way. I also have the loan of a little
study book "Secrets of the Vine" by Bruce Wilkinson ("Breaking through
to Abundance"). I'm reading that as well.
My
spiritual life seems fresher and more urgent and useful, I think for
several reasons. I'm away from my normal routine at home. I don't have
a lot to do and I don't have the distractions. I have not been watching
TV at all and I only browse a newpaper every couple of days. I don't
miss it and I don't think I need it. I find time for personal
reflection. I have a sense of God having put me here for a reason and,
therefore, I have a sense of commitment even though I am not sure what
God has in mind for me. I'm actually pretty excited. More later.
08-09-01
Yesterday
was a routine day - Bible study, prayer, reading, bought a few things
at the commissary. Running is going OK except for 90+heat &
humidity.
I
received a nice batch of mail last night, some from folks I know but
didn't necessarily expect to hear from. I plan on doing some letter
writing today and catch up on the weekend.
I
tried to send my proposal to SOA Watch yesterday but the copier wasn't
operational . I'll try again today. I also want to write them and
encourage them to use us while we have "the power of the prison", like
apostle Paul, MLK and Bonhoeffer, for example.
08-10-01
Yesterday was productive. My regular schedule seemed productive. I seemed to enjoy everything I did.
The
copier was still not functioning so I wrote out my proposal for SOA
Watch. I even improved it a bit, I think. I'll be interested in what
they think. I kept the draft for my reference.
I
continued reading "Secrets of the Vine" and finished it this morning.
When I talked to Paula this morning I asked her to buy me a personal
copy. I think it would be great for a study group both here and at
College Hill Church. I will pursue it in both areas.
I
also started reading one of the two "Left Behind" series books that I
haven't read. This one is "The Indwelling". It is a "page turner" and
won't take long to finish. I'm still reading "Lift Up Your Voice Like A
Trumpet". It is now into the clergy response to the Vietnam War. I'm
really enjoying the book. I'm comparing the historical clerical
response of civil rights/Vietnam War with current controversial
subjects and the church/cleric response to them. I think I'm not seeing
much difference, unfortunately.
I
weighed in this morning (Friday) at 207 1/2, just down a half a pound.
I 'm a little disappointed but at least I'm down a little. I think I
need to be more careful on fatty food volume. My running is still good
and I'm enjoying it. I'm going to buy a better pair of shoes next week.
Mail
last night was great. I got a very nice letter from Robert E Jones. He
is writing a letter supporting the school closing! I received letters
from Nance & Art both plus two paperback mysteries from Nance. And
I got a bunch of reading material and a nice letter from Paula It
doesn't get much better than this!
And
Bill & I had a good solidarity hour last evening. One of the things
we did was discuss and reflect on Margaret's trip to El Salvador. We
received her trip report this week. She was impressed and humbled by
the response (positive) of the people. So are we. I need to remember
this and keep any little problems I have in perspective.
08-11-01
Yesterday
was another good day. Still no word on going to work. I'm going to talk
to my counselor, Mr Byrd, Monday and see if he'll push it a little.
I
received another nice mail call last evening. I just counted up and I
have 15 unanswered letters. I'm going to write five today, tomorrow and
Monday to catch up. Monday's mail call has been strong each week that
I've been here. The specialness of receiving mail has not diminished.
I'm humbled by the support and faithfulness of folks writing me, a
number of whom I don't know. Writing back is actually fun. It makes me
think of that person and is kind of a mental, spiritual bridge to the
outside. It keeps me in touch with the outside.
I
put a few more names and faces together yesterday. It is a challenge
but I still feel like it's important. More people are calling me by
name. A few are calling me "Mr Ewers" or "Mr E". These are the younger
guys. I try to get them to call me "John" but I understand. I remember
when I was young being reluctant to call my elders by their first name.
I'm also trying to make eye contact with most folks and pass a word
with a smile. I think guys need it and I feel good doing it. This whole
process reminds me of doing the same thing each time I moved to a new
plant.
I had
lunch with [a man named] Bill yesterday. I asked him how much time he
had left. He told me 50 months. I said that's a bunch. He told me he
started with 210 months - 17 1/2 years. He's a great guy with a good
attitude. He attends chapel and seems to be a good role model. I'd
guess he's in his mid-forties. I don't know what he's in for but it
just lays heavy on my heart to see this happen to a guy who could be
doing so much more on the outside.
08-12-01
Uneventful
day yesterday. Did all the regular stuff. Finished reading
"Indwelling", the most recent book from the "Left Behind" series. Also
wrote five letters. Still have 10 in backlog. I talked to Paula
yesterday. She sounded good. But she said she was a bit lonely. Funny,
I felt the same today. I'm still enjoying Sunday school but I'm not
liking the church service very much - too fundamental. I'll still keep
going - it's better than not going.
I
don't think I mentioned that I've been listening to "Prarie Home
Companion" on Saturday night radio. It's a two hour show with Garrison
Keeler. I like it. I just lay on my bunk and listen from my headset.
08-13-01
Monday
morning and starting a new week. Today finishes my fourth week of
incarceration but whose counting! I'm a little bummed - I saw guys on
today's call-out list being assigned to work details. Some of them came
in after me. Some transferred in from another prison so they probably
had up-to-date medical records, but still...! Last evening we were out
for a walk and I caught a twinge in my right knee. I think it is
probably from my shoes which I'm going to replace this week, assuming
the money order Paula sent in gets posted by Wed-commissary time.
I
started reading "Burning Man" by Margolin. It's a lawyer/trial book
Nance sent me last week. I felt logy yesterday so I duffed off and
didn't write any letters. I'll make up for it today. Not much else
going on.
08-14-01
I
had an excellent day yesterday. I got eight letters written yesterday -
some with suggestions for action on the recipient's part. It's a good
thing I made that progress because I received18 letters at mail call
last evening plus a book on the federal legal system from Willie
Righter and some good reference material Margaret pulled from the
internet. I've got my work cut out for me but I asked for it and I'm
excited about the prospect of studying the issue and perhaps developing
a personal game plan for action -hopefully while I'm still in prison.
I
talked to Mr Lutz, one of the counselors, about my status for approval
for work. He said he would check it today and let me know.
This
morning, while waiting for the "A.M. Accountability" check (head count)
I talked to two well-educated guys about prospects for broadening
education opportunities. We talked about using second-hand computers
for self-study courses, TV/PBS for the same and VCRs for the same. They
said the only courses that are available are correspondence courses
that don't require state-of-the-art resources like the above.
This
saddens and frustrates me when these guys, most of whom have pretty
long sentences, will get out without marketable skills. This strikes me
as generating a higher level of recidivism. I would like to believe
this is not deliberate but, at best, it is misguided. I need to
research this to see if Ashland is typical.
08-15-01
As
I am geting ready to journal this morning, I read back yesterday's
entry. It occurs to me that TV/VCR units with a series of mini-courses
would be a good way to expand educational opportunities for prisoners.
I need to read the mission and objectives of the Bureau of Prisons. How
about all TV programming in the units during the 7am-3pm normal duty
hours was for educational purposes. I need to research, discuss and, of
course, involve staff.
I
had another long conversation with Jeff yesterday on the general
subject of sentencing, how one gets back in trouble when you're
released and on probation.
There
is a "Promisekeepers" group here. I went last night at Jeff's urging.
My next door neighbor, Dr. Greg (a real doctor), gave an excellent
presentation on preventing cancer. I've previously mentioned that he's
in for five years on something associated with illegal prescriptions.
He is a caring, down-to-earth guy. What a waste to have him in here.
I
finished the "Burning Man" novel Nance sent me. It was a good read. For
the rest of the week, I think I'll read the prison stuff Margaret sent
me and the book "Drug Crazy" that Willie Righter sent.
08-16-01
I
had a good day yesterday. I did my regular stuff and started reading
the material on mandatory sentencing on drug violations. I'm about
half-way through it. It is very illuminating. I bought a writing pad
like this one and I plan to outline various components of the issues
involved. I also started reading the book "Drug Crazy". I thing it will
be useful as well.
I
bought a pair of running shoes at the Commissary and will try them out
today. I think and hope they will help the "hitch" in my right knee to
go away. I'll use my first pair for evening walking and relaxing around
the compound.
Today,
Kathy and others meet with their representative, Tom Tancredo, on
closing the school and co-sponsoring HR 1810. I prayed for them all
this morning. I'm going to send letters today to Pres Bush, Secretaries
Powell & Rumsfeld, Senators Voinovich and DeWine and Rep Hall.
Tomorrow is the first month anniversary of my incarceration. I have an
idea of what I'll write but I will work on the draft when I finish this
journaling.
I'm
also going to write SOA Watch about them coordinating and communicating
with the SOA26. Bill & I will be meeting tonight again from 7-8pm.
08-17-01
Today
is a special day - our one month anniversary of incarceration. It seems
like a lot longer. It probably seems this way because so many things
are new. I give thanks to God for helping me be here. It feels so right
to be in this place in this time for this purpose.
And
I continue to be surprised by new revelations. For example, I finished
reading the material on drug convictions and sentencing and then read
several e-mails Paula sent that came from 26ers. They all mentioned a
concern for the drug related situation. Upon reflection, I'm not
surprised because we're all human rights activists.
Bill
and I had an excellent solidarity time last night. That time is very
special. We don't have a candle to light but we both decided that we're
not that much into candles except on birthday cakes.
I
wrote letters yesterday, which are posted today, to Pres Bush, Secr
Powell & Rumsfeld, Sen DeWine & Voinovich and Rep Hall. Here is
the letter:
