Mini Introductions for Californians, please join us!

It has been suggested to me that we do a mini introduction forum here in California what do you think? We have a very large group of members here from or with loved ones in California so let’s hear from you. Please tell us a little about yourself and your loved one and where he/she is. This will make it easier on our new members to join in and get acquainted with PTO and us in general. It could also lead to some mini PTO gatherings in the future. I would also like to know where the most “POPULAR” prisons are so that in the future we can have a sub-forum for them like we have for Pelican Bay.

I will start this by tell you a little about myself and my relationship with the California Prison System. My son is at Pelican Bay and has been a guest of a number of other facilities here in California. I have been at PTO since May of 02 back then I think there were only a few hundred members and now there are 10000. I am married and have three children and a bunch of grandkids. I work a fulltime job and am raising my grandson who by the way will be 18 on New Years Eve. I was lucky enough to attend the first annual PTO Conference in Houston last March where I got to meet some of our PTO members and our fearless leader David, his mother and his girlfriend. I will be going to Florida next March and hope to meet many more of you there then. Love Barb

PS I also take care of the Birthday and Christmas card project so get those names and addresses to me soon.

and here is a little about myself and my relationship with the California Prison System. I have two sons in prison. My older son, Joey, is at the county jail, waiting to go back to CSP (Sac) and then most likely from there back to Pelican Bay (long story). He has to do about 10 more yrs. My youngest son, Bobby, is at PVSP. His release date is Feb 2005! They have both been gone almost 4 yrs. now.
I have been at PTO since Aug. of 03.
I am divorced and have six children. My oldest is 32 and my youngest is 12 (pretty big spread there!). I have 9 grandchildren.
I am disability retired from the State after working for different Depts for 21 yrs.
I live near Chico right now, but, have also lived in Sacramento and down south for a few years, in Corona.
My favorite website is PTO!!!!

well, my name is melissa. i am 22, born in TN, raised out here cali. (raised in watsonville, then moved near prunedale, then sac, then santa cruz & now i am currently living in hollister--going on 3 years). my billy is in texas....umm...i currently dont have any loved ones in any california prisons (THANK GOD)...although back in 1999 i did 17 days next door to santa cruz co. jail..(it was a womens facility, min. security). i was only there for 17 days (on a 30 day sentence, btw--i got a 3 day kick...THANK GOD), anyways, my bestfriend stevie just got picked up on a BS (& FALSE) PV (parole violation)...but ill be visiting him later today (sunday). anywho, thats pretty much it. :)

xoxoxoox,
-melissa

Hi guys. My name is Ana, I'm 34 yrs old and live in Eagle Rock, CA. I'm originally from the Philippines and came here when I was 16. I have 3 kids - my eldest son is 15, my daughter is 12 and my youngest son is 5. My fiance, Marvin is at California Correctional Center (CCC) in Susanville serving a 4 year sentence since 2001 and will be coming home soon on Sept. 2004. He is a second striker and I pray that he did some serious thinkng about his future and what does he want to do in his life.

Hi, as Barb I've been around here at PTO from early on.

I'm simi-retired, single (and Lô¿ôK'n HeHee). I work my neighborhood bicycle shop and vend racing parts, custom built racing bicycles and wheel sets at the local BMX (bicycle) race track on weekends.

I have been in 5 other countries, lived in Alaska for over 10 years, 10 miles out from a small town.

I have done many jobs in my life from swiping floors to Capt in a small fire dept and selfemployed a few times. I'm kinda "jack of many trades".

My present quest is finding information as an expat (living in another country) which has been an interest for many years.

Presently I do not have anyone inside the system. My quest here is to give something to think about from what I know and what I "think" I know :D

Hey Everyone! My name is Yasmeen. I have 2 children..girls ages 5 and 7 and work with the Superintendent of Schools for now. I love just...doing my thing!...which varies from day to day. My fiancee is incarcerated at R.J. Donovan Correctional Facility in San Diego. Hopefully he'll be getting a parole date soon? (I hope). I live in San Bernardino but I'm hoping to relocated to the San Diego area really soon. I like reading, writing and typing...(I'm pretty good at doing all 3).

Also, I am a PTO fan! I've been a member since June 2003 and have been loving it ever since...


Yasmeen

Hello I am Regina my husband is at Lancaster and is serving 15-L. sixteen years already served. It will by only by the grace of God when he can get out. I have 2 biological daughters 21 and 19 a 3 yeard old son that I adopted at birth and two foster sons 17 and 10. I work full time registering births for one of our hospitals. I too live in San bernardino. I keep myself very very busy. I love PTO because it gives me a chance to be real about my incacerated loved one and not get the snoby nose reactions.

Regina

Hi!

My name is Vicki and I am currently on parole in West Virginia after serving four years in prison there. I will be returning to California after my release this coming February. My fiance, Guy, is currently incarcerated at San Quentin State Prison with a parole date of March 2005. We are planning to be married as soon as possible after I return to California.

PTO serves a duel purpose for me. Not only is it a source of support and information regarding having a loved one caught in the California prison system, but also I am able to find that same sort of information and support for myself as an ex-felon.

I found PTO during a web search in the wee hours of the morning after my release and have been devoted to the site since then. It has been a godsend for me when I didn't know anywhere else to turn when then demons of being an ex-felon and loving someone in prison were pursuing me!

Hello! I'm new to pto. I say about 2 weeks. I'm 19 years old born and raised in East Los Angeles. I was just searching the net when I came across pto and since then I've been addicted to it. :) Anyways I have 4 friends who are in prison . Which are SVSP,SATF,ISP,and CSP. Then I have a cousin in Okeechobe Institution. And an aunt in Chowchilla womans facility. Quiete a few huh? But I aint ashamed. Almost half of my family are gangmembers so I've been raised around it. I just choose not to take that path.Actually I did for a while but grew out of it. I currently stopped working because I plan on going back to college. Plus its kind of a full time job raising my lil cousin which is 6 years old. His mother took off about 2 months ago. I love to write so when I have free time I spend it on penpals.

HELLO IM PRETTY NEW TO PTO AND I FIND THE INFORMATION VERY HELPFUL. IM 28 YEARS OLD AND I HAVE A 7 YEAR OLD DAUGHTER (HER DAD IS ORANGE COUNTY JAIL RIGHT NOW WAITING TO GO TO PRISON ALSO, WE ARE NO LONGER TOGERHTER BUT WE TRY TO REMAIN FRIENDS BUT IT DOESNT SEEM TO BE WORKING) I LIVE IN ORANGE COUTNY, ANAHIEM AND MY BOYFRIEND, LOVER, BEST FRIEND AND SOUL MATE AND THE LOVE OF MY LIFE IS IN THE CALIFORNIA MEDICAL FACILITY ALL THE WAY IN VACAVILLE. I GO SEE HIM EVERY OTHER WEEKAND AND IT TAKES ABOUT 6-7 HOURS TO DRIVE OUT THERE. NOT TO BAD HE IS WORTH IT BECAUSE I LOVE HIM SO VERY MUCH AND I AM MISSING HIM. HIS OUT DATE IS JAN 2008 AND I CANT WAIT TO BE WITH HIM! ID LIKE THANK PTO AND EVERYONE WHO IS PART OF IT FOR ALL THE INORMATION IT IS VERY HELPFUL ITS SO HARD HAVING SOMEONE YOU LOVE BEHIND BARS AND NOT KNOWING WHATS GOING ON SOMETIMES. AND NOT KNOWING HOW TO GET ANSWERS AND THANKS TO PTO AND ITS MEMBERS POSTS I FEEL LIKE IM NOT ALONE ANYMORE...THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL THE HELP.:cuffs:

Hello All!! :)

My name is Kelly, I am 38 years old and live in Mar Vista, CA. ( the area before Venice ) I have 3 boys from a previous marriage ages 19, 17, and 11. And I also have 5 cats, which sorta makes me a crazy cat lady! :p LOL I have been working full time for the past 15 years as a Veterinary Technician. ( aka: dog and cat nurse) I met my husband Gary 7 years ago and we have been married for a year and a half. He is curenty housed at CSP-SAC ( New Folsom) and is serving half of a 30 year sentence. I try to go and visit once a month. Also, my oldest son has a habit of landing himself in jail once a year. So he is curently on probation.
I have been a member of PTO since Aug '02 and have been involved in other prison email groups since I first went online in 1996. (Still using the same computer too!! :( LOL )

KellyA.

Hello All:
My name is Sylvia and I am new also at PTO. I am a divorced mother of two beautiful children -- Becky 24 and Joe 22 and one great granddaughter 7. I live in Santa Rosa, CA and have been in this area most of my life.
My boyfriend of 9 years is presently serving a term of not less than 6 years. He is presently at San Quentin waiting for evaluation and transferr to another facility. I hope it will be close by so I can see him on a regular basis's.
For myself, I am employed in the health care field and have been for most of my adult life. I was married for 18 years and have been divorced for almost 11 years now. It doesn't seem possible that it has been that long.
I have found PTO to be helpful and supportive just in the last week or so since I found it. I thought for the longest time that I was the only one feeling alone and lost, but behold, there are hundreds others out there just like me. Thanks to one and all for all of your love and support. I wish I would have found it months ago. As the old saying goes: "Better late than never!"
PTO is the supportive family that we all need

Sylvia

Hi ,

My name is Allison I'm turning 34 this month , I have 4 kid's 3 girl's 14, 9, 6 & my little man he is 3. Were from S. California. My O'l Man "Bulldog" is 38 and serving time in Calipatria, he's been there a year now And we got one more to go Oct. 2004 Man I am so glad I can finally say we got ...month's instead of 1yr. and .... to go, you know .
Mark "Bulldog" and I have been together a little over 4 years now This stuff is all new and very painful , irritating, confusing, and lonley. I stumbled across POL one night while trying to find out about Calipatria and what ever else I could that might help me through this . POL has lot's of friendly people and so much information I don't feel so helpless and alone any more .
Thank's
Dawgzalley

hi all !!!
my name is christy, or some people call me christylove and I'm 28 and live in Los angeles, Calif. No kids yet but I have tons of cousins. My husband is in Isp serving 15 to life. Hoping and praying for a parole date. I have been with him over 7 years and married only 1 year.
Right now I ve done every job, but for now is makeup artista.
and so addicted to pto, some much info and its free....
been since 2002

My daughter's father is in Corcoran State Prison.

My daughter is 8 and he hasn't seen her in a few years. In fact, I haven't even spoken to him since he has been in this time. I am trying to find out how I can get ahold of him. I suppose I will just call the prison or write him.

Anyone else have someone in Corcoran?

Welcome to PTO Bettyboopers, do you have his address and his C #? if you do you can just write him if not you can call and ask for it as long as you have a date of birth for him. Love Barb

Hi, I'm new also I'm 42 and I have 3 boys, raised my family by myself. I live in Hollister CA, my son is in NKSP reception not sure where he will be serving his sentence yet. He has to do 88% of a 7 year sentence he just turned 18 in September, they tried him as an adult. First time too for him to get in trouble with the law, he's had a clean record up until now they didn't take that into consideration that he had no priors... man he has no record whatsoever. I miss him so much life sucks for me right now, when is this feeling gonna go away???? I come into the California forum alot to look for any information regarding NKSP, and everyone is soooo groovy too ----->:cool: gracias everyone for being groovy like that.


Gracias everyone :)
groovie latina

Hello everyone,

My name is Melanie, and I live in Mountain View. My experience with the law was counseling teenage girls in a group home in San Jose and teaching in varies special education schools in Palo Alto. After giving it my all and getting burned out, I am now working for a large computer company in the Bay Area.

I never had a loved one in the system 'til a year ago. My boyfriend had been and out of county jail and then in June he was moved to San Quentin (WOW, what an experience) to sit and wait for evaluation. As soon as I found out he was going to prison, I jumped on the internet to find out everything. That's when I found PTO! What a wonderful, supportive, informative place!! What would I do without it.

He is now mainlined at Avenal and I get the wonderful pleasure of driving 2.5 to 3 hours on the weekends to see him (Thank God for contact visits!). His release date is in 02/04. However, with 1/2 time, my Baby will be home to me VERY soon.

Cheers!
Melanie

Hello, I'm 28 and my husband is in Tehachapi and is due to be transered to Avenal. We have been married for 4 1/2 years. He has only been in for 4 months of a 2 year sentance. I'm from Orange County, been here most of my life. I have been seeing him every other weekend.

Hi, my name is Heather . my husband was sentenced to 3yrs 8months is presently at San Quentin , waiting to be transferred to a minimum security prison, if they ever find room for him. He is expected to do about 2more years he has served 8months so far. He has not yet received an out date. We have 10month old daughter and I am a stay at home mom, at least for now until we run out of money. We are natives of Sonoma Co. and are both very athletic. I have been very upset and confused with our prison system so being able to come to PTO has helped answer some questions.

My name is Rona. I'm 28 and live in Oregon. I work in the legal field as a consultant, but mostly work in civil litigation. I have two very good friends on Death Row at SQ. I met them through a pen pal site while doing some research for a paper. I never expected to find such great compassion and support. Believe me...it comes with lots of frustration. They are best friends and bicker like an old couple.

Although I am more of a lurker on PTO, I would be lost without it. I learn something new everyday from all of the wonderful people here.

So, I guess what I'm trying to say is...Thanks for all of the love!

Rona

MY NAME IS LORI AND THIS IS MY FIRST TIME ON PTO. MY HUSBAND IS IN NEW FOLSOM ON A PAROLE VIOLATION, BEFORE THIS HE WAS GONE 4 YEARS, AND ONLY WAS HOME FOR 4 MONTHS. I MISS HIM SO MUCH HE IS MY TRUE SOULMATE AND I AM DESPERATE FOR HIM TO RETURN AND TO STAY HOME... I DONT HAVE A CAR IT WAS TAKEN ALONG WITH HIM, BOOHOO.. SO GOING ALL THE WAY UP THERE IS HARD. I AM 23 AND HAVE A 5YEAR OLD SON.

Hello all,

My fiance is in the prison system at SCC Jameston. I am currently 30 weeks pregnant and very excited to see my baby boy. My fiance got into the system when I was just a month along so he hasnt been around for the pregnancy. He is expected to be released in May of 2005 hopefully some strikes law will pass so he wont have to do the 80% but who knows. I am also criminal justice major with another 2 years to go till I get my Bachelors woohoo

Hello everyone my name is Kenyatta and I live in Phoenix, AZ I have been here for 5 years and hated every minute of it. I am a full time student working on my special education degree. I have about 2 yrs to finish. I work with children with developmental disabilities. I have a 5 year old son who gives me a run for my $$. :) wouldn't change it though. My relationship to the Ca prison system is a fiancee (hope to be marrried in Jan) he is currently located at RJ Donovan. I also have a nephew who is waiting to get sentenced.

Hi everyone...I am 28 and a stay at home mom that takes care of 5 kids. I am not currently living in Cali but my husband to be is locked up in Coalinga at PVSP. I am currently living in michigan but soon will be relocating to Cali. I come there to visit as often as i can and i try to know all i can about whats goin on. I thank god for the PTO cause it has told me alot. It truely is a great place to come to.

My husband "Cowboy" is at CMC East with one and a half years to go. I live in Mission Viejo and try to go north once a month to visit - it is a five hour drive and I've got a car with about five hours left to live on it. Every time I make the drive I think I will have to abandon my wheels somewhere along the road and thumb the rest of the way...

We have a seventeen year old son who has taken an early enlistment with the Army Rangers program and will go to Fort Benning , GA as soon as he graduates in May.

I am a self employed graphic artist and muralist and also refinish antiques to pay the bills.

I too found PTO during a late night roam and love it! I turned the other woman that I was in the van with on our way for our Conjugals this past Thursday on to PTO and I hope she decides to join up - I'm looking for her post.

judy:)

Hi Everyone, I found PTO while trying to get info about VSPW at Chowchilla. I am new to all things prison related; My sister was sentenced to 2 years and has been there since July. I live in the Central San Joaquin Valley about 2 hours south of Chowchilla. I am a 33 year old,married mother of two children and have one step-child. I am employed full time doing heath education and case management for a health clinic. I have gotten some great info on PTO and because of PTO I have had the opportunity to meet someone in my same situation. That helped so much! I would love to see a forum about having siblings "inside".

Hello to all the other Californians out there!! My name is Bonnie aka freedom anjel. I met my husband through his sister, who was and is a very good friend and now my sister-in-law. She handed me the phone one day while she went potty and the rest is history. I prayed for a man of God and while his being in prison would not have been my choice, he is an awesome man of God. A prodigal son, who loves the Lord and has returned to the Word he was raised in. His father is the pastor of Gesthemene - The Church of the press in Los Angeles. He is serving 25 to life under the three strikes law (which our Heavenly Father is going to change). We walk in faith and belief that this law cannot continue for non-violent/non-serious offenses (my husband walked into a bank with a check that had been stolen and forged, but not by him....it was payment from two women for fixing their air conditioner). With two prior felonies (burglaries), he didn't have a chance, especially being black and in San Diego County at the time. Attorney said plead guilty and you'll get five years at the most. Judge said, three strikes, your out - 25 to life. But we serve a mighty God and what man may say is not what God says. Our state cannot afford to house the non-violent offenders for life. We can't even afford to pay our teachers and educate our kids. CDC will crumble eventually. I know I'm marchng around them like Jericho...LOL!!! Soon the walls WILL FALL!!!

I've been with PTO since Aug of 2002 when there were only about 500 of us. Went to Houston last year, but don't think I'll be able to make Florida this year :( Oh well!! California is growing so fast, we should be able to have a pretty big get together right here.

Take care and God bless all!

My brother is currently in Pelican Bay State Prison in the SHU unit. He will be in the SHU until 2007. He has been incarcerated off and on since he was 15 years old. Most recently he has been imprisoned since 1992. He was given a sentence of Life without the possibility of parole.(LWOP)

I pray consatanly that somehting will change for him. He is my only sibling and I miss him so much. I will be going to see him for the first time in 7 years on the weekend of 11/15. He hasn't wanted me to make the trip from CHINO. Because it is 800 miles. He thought he would get a transfer closer to home. But that was before he was re-classified to the SHU 2 years ago. PTO has been a God send to me. So many of you feel the same way I do about our loved ones being locked up. I've seen a lot of people feel no compassion for the loved ones and turn their backs but here at PTO everything is expressed. I wish more people knew about it and had access to it. It is a whole lot cheaper than counseling and gives a forum to find out what is going on behind the walls. I want to thank everyone for their strength and support. You have no idea how much you give on a daily basis.

Tiffany

Hello All!
I am located near Chico, and my son is at SATF. He was sentenced to 3 years, with an out date of October 2004.

I am a nurse who works full time and also have a second job in the evenings and on weekends in order to support my son's family while he is is down and also to pay the outrageous phone bills. But hey, it's only money, right?

The good news is that I am going to be a Grandma again in about 2 weeks!!!! The bad news is that my son won't be there for the birth. He is missing so much of his children's lives and I grieve for that. But this too shall pass. I work hard at staying positive and in keeping my son and daughter in law thinking positive.

PTO is a Godsend to me and I attribute it with keeping my sanity through these hard times!!!

Hello everybody, I have finally gotten the nerve to join the action instead of reading from the shadows. I am 27 and I live in orange county, CA. My boyfriend, Michael, was finally sent to Wasco after being at Men's Central Jail since March 29, 2003. I have a 17 month old son and Michael has assumed the role of daddy and loves him more than anything. I have a few questions so if anyone could give me some answers i 'd really appreciate it.
Can my son visit him at Wasco...(or the next place he goes)? There is no father listed on my sons birth certificate. I know at Ironwood they said your child was approved as long as you (the mother) was approved. Is it different at other prisons or at reception?
I think he got 3 years 80%. Does that mean he serves 80% of that time. Does this stay the same or change once he gets a job??? Also once he finally got sentenced I checked the LASD inmate search website and there was a new case no. in addition to the one he had always had. The original case had 0 days sentenced and SP (now SP4) for disp. The new case had 365 for the days sentenced and I think it said "sent" for the disp... not positive... but anyways now it says"EXP". What does "EXP or EXPIRE" mean, it said that before he went to wasco. I didn't go to court when he went... and whenever i talked to him on the phone or visited I always forgot to ask him exactly what his sentence was and the first time he told me i thought I understood.... but now I'm not sure and I can't remember exactly. I know he is the only one who can tell me exactly what his sentence was/is but if anyone could clue me in a little better until i hear from him i would really appreciate it. Thank you and i hope to get a chance to talk with everyone soon.

Hello Everyone!!,

My name is Kerry i live about 40 miles east of San Francisco, Mconnection to the prison system would be the love of my life and soon to be husband, Jake. Jake is currently in San Quentin, hes been to screening and has a release date of 2/28/04 seems loke forever.. This is the first time ive ever dealt with the prison system hell before Aug. i had never even written to anyone in jail, yes its all very scary and yes very lonley.
Im a mother of 2 kids son almost 21 and daughter, 17.... since aug my girl has put me through pure hell and has moved to another state to live with her dad, so me im really alone. im currently unemployed but looking im kinda a jane of all trades, but i like painting inside or eoutside,i also like to do tree service, im 38 yrs old and get along awesomly with everyone!!!
I would like to say a special thank you to BBS for her b-day and x-mas card program I am sure my Jake will be pleasently supprised and his heart will be warmed from all your love !!! thanks alot!!
Kerry

smile this to shall pass.......

:cuffs: Hello Everyone!

My name is Jaimee, hence the really original screen name! I have been a member (PTO junky) since July 2003. I am 27 with two kids: 4 & 5. I am newly living in the High Desert, although I am from and spend so much of my time (still) in the San Fernando Valley. I have been an ER nurse for 6 years at a county hospital in L.A.-yes, I DO communte that far three days a week! I was recently diagnosed with Systemic Lupus, so I am cutting back on my hours to transition into disability in 2004 for a while due to very poor immunity. I am also a successful Mary Kay Beauty Consultant, so I am extremely happy to have that to fall back on, financially.

My husband has served 20 of a 15-life and is currently at CTF, Soledad. We will have been together 10 years this coming February. He was recently denied parole (again) for three years, but, we still keep our hopes and prayers up for changes in the CDC everyday! I will be there until the bitter end.

My friends say that I should have been in comedy because I have a great sense of humor (you sort of have to these days)-I LOVE to laugh. I wear my heart on my sleeve and have tremendous compassion for all people. PTO is my haven for the frustrations we all deal with in CDC as well as a wonderful stomping ground for people that live the type of life I live everyday.
....that's me, take it or leave it! ;)

Well hello My name is Meia and my boyfriend is at Calipatira State Prison. I am 24 and have 5yar old daughter.(not by the man in prison) I have been a member her since 2002 and what brought me to this site was that we were going to get married and I wanted to get more info. Well the marriage never happend but I am still here at PTO. HAve a blessed day.

Well hello My name is Meia and my boyfriend is at Calipatira State Prison. I am 24 and have 5yar old daughter.(not by the man in prison) I have been a member her since 2002 and what brought me to this site was that we were going to get married and I wanted to get more info. Well the marriage never happend but I am still here at PTO.
I am a nusing assistant at a home for adolecents with eating disorders.I work night so I have the days to do mommy things.

hi my name is Yvonne i'm 26 with three kids 9/5/3 2 girls and a boy. my husband has been in prison since jan 00 he has 4 1/2 yrs left to do on 10 yr sentence he is currently in pvsp i haven't been able to see him in 14 months. i also have a brother in avenal and another brother in corcoran. i was wondering how the b-day and x-mas card thing worked i would like to have more info on it if possible thank you

hi guys im new here and i love all of the info thats on this web site thanks it has helped me out a great deal.
my husband is at new folsom, he went in last year and is in the process of an appeal. he will probally have to do 3 years.

Hi all! I'm Christine, 44 yrs and holding, my daughter turned 19 on Halloween. We live in San Diego... less than 10 miles from my front door to the gates of RJ Donovan! My love of 3 years, husband for 20 days, Mark, is currently at RJ Donovan. I recently wrote the Warden a letter of hardship... in hopes they will allow him to remain there. I never thought I'd be sooooo happy to live near a prison!

I'm new to this also... and very confused. As the lawyer (public defender) explained to me... they dropped the initial charge (violation of RO), & got him for violation of probation with 2 dirty tests and for only attending 5 out of 10 AA meetings. Mark got 2 yrs, but they credited previous time served 357 days (but previous time served was from the charge they dropped) and an additional credit of 36 days served in county for the probation hold. He's still in Reception Center but he has a work assignment. Is that part of the 1 for 2 (work counts as 2 days for every 1 day served)? Who do I talk to, to find out exactly when he is supposed to be released? This is all toooooo confusing!

I too found PTO while web hopping in the wee hrs searching for info on Donovan. This site is truly a blessing... if it were not for PTO and all the wonderful people who have helped me keep my faith up... I would have literally lost my sanity. I thank PTO and all its members for being there! Thanks all!

Hello Everybody. My name is Paulette and I have been a member of PTO since about July 2003 (not real sure of the date). My connection with the CDC is, my husband is in MCSP. He has been down since 01/02, and has another 3 years and 3 months and a few days to go. It has not been easy, and we have made alot of changes. I look forward to the day he comes home and we can begin our new life together. 2002 was a very bad year!! Thank you to everybody at PTO, there are wonderful people here. There are alot of changes going to be made in Calif in 2004, so I look forward to alot of help from you all and hope that I can be of help to somebody. Good luck to all of us. KJsTT

Hi. My name is Sue and I'm in Sacramento. My husband was just transfered to Soledad from Tracy. He's 4 months in on a 3 year sentence. This is not his first time but it is mine. I have not been able to visit him as of yet, my application is still "pending". So it's been 4 months since I have heard his voice or seen his face. I pray every night it will happen soon. Thanks for all of the information and companionship. I really appreciate all of you.

Hello. My name is Karen and I have been a member of PTO for about six months. Currently, I live in Joshua Tree -- about 35 miles northeast of Palm Springs. Living out here within the National Park has given me the sense of peace I've needed to deal with all the craziness of recent years! Grrrr...trying to figure out the CDC sure can drive a gal nuts :D!!! I actually have a few loved ones who are guests within this state's prison system - my boyfriend (CVSP, due home mid-2005), his brother (Corcoran, 25 to Life) and my cousin (Calipatria, paroles January '04).

Best wishes and kindest regards to All!!

My sister is in Valley State Prison for Women, in Chowchilla, and I live in San Diego. No kids, currently unemployed. My mother who is elderly lives in SD, too. It has been a HUGE hardship to visit her, as the drive is long and my mother has a zillion needs. Not to mention the expense.

We all are new to this- it has been HELL. My sister proclaims her ultimate innocence, and is not doing well within the system (depressed, angry, scared, desperate to get out i.e. APPEAL). This was a first 'offence' of anything, and she got the book thrown HARD at her by a very nasty, ugly woman judge in the San Diego Courts.

Her court-appointed lawyer was remiss on many counts... She got three years for something that had no criminal intent... no wonder she is steaming mad.

SO, it bears down on us, the family, so curiously freaky hard.

My name is Trish & my boyfriend is currantly in Wasco waiting to mainline on a 4 year term - luckily we already have over a year and a half of county time down :) I also have several (too many!) friends in various locations across california. I found PTO like most everyone else - surfing late nite! Although I can't log on as often as I'd like it has been a real great place for informatoin and support. Thanks!

My name is Michelle and my brother is currently at Jamestown looking to be transfered to a fire camp near Big Bear soon. He has been in since last January on a five year felony charge. He had no priors and no arrests- it has been a shock to me how our judicial system fails so many people. I found PTO last year and have been so grateful for all the info- especially info from family members about visitation at different prisons and jails- my brother was in county near Magic Mountain, then Tehachapi, and now Jamestown. We have grown very close during all of this and I have been able to help him know what to expect next in the prison system by all the info I get here. Thanks so much! Any one have a loved one in the Big Bear fire camp?

Hello All..My name is Melinda and my future husband(I Hope) is currently at PVSP. He was at Calipatria before he was sent to PVSP. I drive almost every weekend from Orange County to Coalinga. I just joined this website and am really glad I did. Nobody else understands why I continue to stay with him. Simple. I love him. Its nice to know there are others who do understand and are willing to help. To the future.

Hello everyone, My name is Priscilla and like most of you am new to PTO. I live in Stockton in northern California. As a Employment Training Specialist for San Joaquin County, I work mainly with Youth helping them with educational and career planning. I enjoy my work and find it very rewarding. My husband is currently in Corcoran. He goes before the board in March of 2004. I am not familar with the prison system and would like to ask everyone for assistance. How do I prepare for this board. In the past me and his family wrote letters. Are the letters the only means of showing support to my husband? And does the Board really consider the letters? Are there other things I can do? I will appreciate any feed back.

Talofa, hello and nice to see another one from the nieghborhood and welcome to PTO.

Hi my name is Tami I have5 kids 3 are mine 2 are my boyfriends none live at home .Mu boyfriend of 3 years is now in reception at delano. He was sentenced to 16 months has only been in for 2. I am now waiting to see where they will send him. I am from banning calif. so i hope they send him closer to home but from what i hear they probly wont. this is his first time in prison and hopefully god willing his last . Does anyone know how long reciption takes?

Hey I guess I have been on PTO for a while now

I’m not actually Californian infact I’m not even American but my hubby of 3 months is and I will be moving (well hopefully) to South CA in 2005 at the latest when he gets out (max time served)

We had only been writing to each other and then after 2 years I went to visit him and since then ALL my money seems to go on flights to visit him (not that I mind)

We had been writing and visiting for 3 years before we decided to get married!

Before I got married I travelled 7 different countries in 2002 and then came back to London to get my ass into gear and start earning a wage again,

I don’t have any children and this is my 1st marriage

I guess that’s about it

Great idea Barb :)

My name is Cindy, I'm 32, have 2 teen daughters. I've been a member of PTO for a year now! Wow, how time flies. My link to the Cali. prison system is none other than BSS's son Richard. :) We have been writing to each for a year this coming December. I also write to his cellie Dale, who plans to feature my Rott and a poem I wrote about his dog, in his book. :) I have a few other pen-pals in various states.
I was honored with meeting Barbara this past summer and soon I hope to be making that trip to Pelican Bay.

Lucid I miss you! Hope all is well!

Btw my tie to the Ca. prison system is my ex and love of my life is in Pelican Bay.We have been back in touch for about a year and are just seeing where this possible second chance for us may lead when he is free,sometime early 2004. I'm 31,work for the State and live near Sacramento with my child (That would by my crazy cat lol).

hi my name is carol and i presently live in oregon, however my guy was just released from jamestown. i lived in huntington beach most of my life, so southern cali is like home to me.

carol

hello Everyone!

My name is Cynthia and i have been a member since about August or maybe before that! ( I do not remember anymore)
Well, my husband was sent to prison in the middle of August. He was recently sent to mainline up to CCC in Susanville. he should be in a level 3 yard.

this all prison system thing is all new to me, so any advice is appreciated!

My name is David and I am a 52-year old who lives in Houston, Texas. I grew up in Sonora, California, but moved here about 22 years ago.

My son was incarcerated in California from December, 2001 until February, 2003. He has been out now for 10 full months and is doing very well.

He served his time at Tracy, Jamestown and Old Folsom. He was a kid who had every opportunity to do well, but just screwed up. He's on the right track now, but he found out the hard way.

I just joined. My boyfriend is in Chino. I am lost, lonely, hitting walls constantly. I am from Orange County California. I have two children, 13 and 18.
I just heard from him tonight for the first time in a month. He was just put in mainline there. Now what?
I miss him.

Hi, I'm new to PTO. It's nice to have a place to go to talk to other people who can relate to my situation. I am 34 and my boyfriend is in Chuckawalla Valley State Prison in Blythe. His time is up in 2007--maybe sooner if California grants some early release dates. We've been together a year and a half and want to get married. I live in San Diego and drive to see him as much as I can. I love him dearly, but being apart is hard but I'm slowly adjusting. PTO is helpful and I plan to stick around. Thanks for listening.

i have a friend who paroled 6 months ago from the level ii yard at corcoran. his name is albert hes older (54) and he says to keep your head up, your honey will be ok.


beci

Hi my name is Tracie (obviously didnt bother with a different screen name, lol). I'm from Upland, So. Cal. I'm 31 years old. I put a few years in CDC myself. Now my husband Robbie (BabyBoy) is doing 3 years. He's in Wasco right now waiting to get endorsed, hopefully to camp.

I found PTO one night cruising the internet. Boy was I glad. I can read about and talk about things that I know and that pertain to me, and feel comfortable.



PTO JUNKY SINCE JULY "03"

AND STILL LOVIN EVERY MINUTE OF IT!!!!!!!!!

Hello everyone. I just found this wonderful site tonight! I have been writing a very good friend for 9 years now. He is in Mule Creek State Prison serving 25 to life on the three strikes law.
The information here is great and I'm learning so much that I didn't know! Thank you everyone!
A little about myelf. I'm 29. I've been married for 10 years and have no children. I'm the oldest of 5 girls and have 2 nieces that I adore! At this time I am a housewife. I also have a very special friend that is in Arizona that I've been writing to for the same amount of time.

Hi my name is Kristine. I am 22, living in Arcadia (it's near Pasadena, Southern California). I'm not very new to PTO, although I still can't seem to get into the swing of things. One of the first people that showed any compassion and offered help has left PTO (Cobra), so now I'm not quite sure who to turn to with questions. My posts never get answered, but oh well its okay! My husband started out at Wasco Reception Center and was then transferred to a Modified Community Correctional Facility in McFarland, that's when I found PTO and needed everyone the most! Now he's back at Wasco. The Good News... He parole's January 30, 2004! I am so excited! Thank you everyone at PTO for all your help!

hi everyone! i am also new to PTO. my boyfriend is serving his time right now at Wasco. he is waiting to be transferred to mainline to finish serving his time. im 19 years old, and from Orange county. hopefully, he'll be transferred closer to home
:(

hey! my name is wendi and i am in the pasadena area... i am 36, single, a hairstylist, and my boyfriend is in prison in muskegon heights michigan...quite a ways away! nice to know there are so many californian's here!

Hi Everyone, my name is Chris. I am 53 years old, all of you are so young. I have a 22 years old son who is in Deuel Vocational Institute. He has been in prison since August 03', and should be coming home in March of 04'. My husband and I are retired. My husband is a retired Los Angeles Police Sgt. and one of our three daughters is a deputy for Los Angeles County Sheriff Dept., and another is a police officer here in Las Vegas. See, all of us have heart ache, matters not what path you have taken we just need our loved ones to take their path in the right direction. I joined PTO in August of 03'. It has helped keep me sane--We live in Vegas, and our son is in California. God Bless all of you, and thank you for the support you all have given me.

Hi, my name is Lori. I was introduced to the prison system in March '03, when my daughter met an inmate at PVSP. They were married in August '03, and I visit my son-in-law as often as possible. I found this site late at night, and it has kept me sane with all the support just knowing that others have walked in my shoes, and they are willing to share their experience.

Hi! My name is Tracy. My husband Billy is at CSP-SAC New Folsom. He's serving a LWOP sentence for a crime he didn't commit. He's been down now for eight and a half years. Six of those in County Jail fighting his case. I found this site searching through Innonce Project sites, and think it's terrific.

I don't get to see my husband as much as I like because of the expense. On the average I get to go every other month, it's hardly enough but I'll take what I can get!

I have a friend in San Diego whose boyfriend is at New Folsom too. We usally fly out and meet at the airport and split the cost of the rental car and the motel. We met through our men and have become pretty good friends. It's nice to have some one to talk to and do stuff with.

Anyone else with a "loved one" at New Folsom???

My name is Megan and in am 20 years old and my guy is at San Quentin State prison. He is there on a parole Violation and has done many years at Pelican Bay in the SHU unit. I am a criminal jusitce major and attend school in Santa Cruz, where I was born and raised. My loved one was given a few months and should be home in January. My heart goes out to everyone who cares for an inmate who is doing "alot" of time. My experiance at SQ has been great no complaints!!!!! I joined PTO the beigning of September 2003 to get any information i could and i have found a group of incrediable people.
Thanks to all the members who have helped me out in times when i thought no one knew what i was going through........
megan

HI MY NAME IS VERONICA. I AM 20 YEARS OLD. MY HUSBAND IS NOW AT MCFARLAND CCF. HE IS DOING A PARLOLE VIOLATION. I AM A STAY AT HOME MOM FOR TWO KIDS. A BOY WHO IS 4 YEARS OLD AND A 1 YEAR OLD LITTLE GIRL. I JOINED PTO THIS MONTH TO LOOK UP PRISON MARRIAGES B/C ME AND MY HUSBAND ARE NOT OFFICIALLY MARRIED YET. THIS WEBSITE HAS HELPED ME ALOT ALREADY. I FEEL DOWN AND OUT SOMETIMES THEN I COME ON HERE AND FEEL SO MUCH BETTER.

Hi, I'm new to PTO but not the system. I am 47 years old, have 1 child and 6 stepchildren. I have 12 grandchildren from my stepchildren, but I am still their grandma. My husband is at Avenel. I try to go every other weekend, it's about a 4 1/2 hour drive for me. I work for the San Bernardino County Probation Department, sometimes it helps to have friends in law enforcement. My husband turned down a plea bargain of 3 years and was sentenced to 15 to life, that was in 1986. We go to the BPT in January 2004, hopefully he will get a date this time around. It seems that the new governor is willing to approve dates given by the BPT. Now if the BPT won't be afraid to do their jobs like they were when Davis was in office. We could use all the prayers we can get on Jan. 7th. As always we will hope for the best but expect the worse.

Also has anyone heard the rumor that the state is going to abolish the BPT and give all of those with indeterminate dates a parole date. I heard this from the people I work with, they heard it from their union rep. and my husband had heard the same rumor up at Avenal. Thanks.......

dvg4ever, welcome to PTO and the CA forum.

Welcome to PTO, I have not heard that rumor yet but I sure hope I do soon :) Love Barb

Hello everyone!!
My name is Nancy and I just joined PTO about an hour ago!!! My fiancee is currently at Ironwood State Prision with about five more years to go. He is finishing out a 13 year sentence and while doing that is part of the school program and will have his Associates next year. After that he is wanting to go to a four year while he is still in to get his Bachlor's degree so that he won't have to worry about it when he gets out and can go straight to work. I have a two year old son from a previous relationship which my fiancee has grown to love and is willing to care for as his own. I am a manager at Great Clips for Hair and have been doing hair for four years, managing for one. We just got our marrige package sent out this week and should be married withing a couple of months!! WEEEEE!!!!!! I try to get out to see him at least once a month, or as work permits. I am excited to meet all of you and share and support!

Nancy

Hello my wonderful PTO family
I'm Carol the love of my life in serving our time at Avenal he just mainlined 3 weeks ago and has been in the system since sept. 25 doing 80% of a 4 year sentance I'm on PTO all the time thank you all for all the information and support you all give

Hi! I'm Sharon aka Deerlover. We live in Brentwood (Between Antioch and Stockton). Our son is at Pleasant Valley State Prison serving 25 to life unless we can win an appeal. We have two cats who let us live here with them. Got to get a dog to put them in their place! I found PTO surfing for help. I was devasted when this happened and PTO has helped me get through it all. Our son is doing fine. He has a great Christian cell mate and is staying out of trouble. Thank you all for being here for all of us.

Hugs, Deerlover

Hello Deerlover,

I also have a loved one at PVSP. Do you visit often? I am sure your son will make it because he has a supportive loving mom like you. We are here is you need us. We only have eachother because nobody else really understands.

My boyfriend of 3 years is in Oroville County Jail, but is leaving to DVI in Tracy, CA on Wednesday. From there he is supposed to be going to a Substance Abuse Program for 1 year. He should be out around this time next year, or maybe even earlier if fits in the mix of Governor Arnold's new ideas. I work as a bookkeeper for an insurance agency in Nothern California, and came across PTO one night while searching for some type of support group to talk to without judgement. This site is great all around, and so are the people.

Hello all...
I reside in Carson, CA...
21 years of age...
My fiance is still going thru the transfer process...
He's currently at Men's Central Jail in downtown L.A. ...
He's been sentenced to 6 years...
We're due to get married by next week, hopefully before he gets transferred upstate... We're still not sure where he's going yet...
We're being optimistic about the 6 years, just tryin' to keep our heads up and all that...
I'm positive that being a member here will definitely help :)

Hi, my name s Rebecca I'm 25 and my little brother who is 22 is in P.D.C. or wayside he's had yet to be sentenced and we are still fighting his case but we do have a good lawyer and God on our side so hopefully it won't be long till he comes home to the S.F.V. we miss him so much but go to see him every chance we get.If anyone has questions about P.D.C. or just wants to chat email as It helps to know people in simular situations.:idea:
:wave: Rebecca

Hi my name is Robin, I'm 22 years old and my fiancee got sentenced in May. At that time I was 6 months pregnant with our now 4 month old son. He has made it to Fire Camp and is doing great. Today is the first time I've visited this web site and already it has become a big comfort.

Hi ya all. I am Donna K and I have been with PTO since July 03. My son has served 4+ years of an 11 year sentence. He went through Wasco to Corcoran SATF and has been at Corcoran State for over 3 years. He is 28 and was doing pretty good just working, following the rules, getting along with others yet, keeping his distance and dealing with a couple C/O's that seemed to enjoy belittling and making things rough for everyone. Then, in July he got back from work to find 4 Inmates in his cell and was attacked and raped. He has been going through hell ever since. All of his property was put in storage and he was put in what they call PC (Protective Custody), a small cell where he could only have writing materials and books. He did not receive his medications; antidepressant, anxiety, and something prescribed for severe headaches, for a week, and he has received it at random ever since because, sometimes they just "forget" to bring it. Other than one call to me, he has not been allowed to make any other calls. After a 3 month investigation they just couldn't find any evidence to sustain his allegations and his case was closed. There was a C/O involved so I was not surprised by the outcome. Chad has filled an appeal but, he has been so mentally and physically abused these past 5+ months, and "acted" out so much, I doubt that he will have any credibility. He has become a man that none of us in the family recognize any more. He was a Christian who has lost all faith and his letters are mostly incoherent any more. I have talked to so many people in the prison, they know my voice now. They pretend to be so understanding and I have caught them in so many lies it is almost funny. The lady in the Ombudsman Office has been the most help and has always followed through with what she says she will do. She has also been a big help to Chad. Corcoran is listed at the top of the 4 worse prisons for C/O abuse and corruption and has been under investigation for over 3 years now. There is no way anything involving a C/O is going to get out. He is to be transferred to Lancaster State in L.A. Co. as soon as the bus leaves. He will be going to a SNY (Sensitive Needs Yard) as an outpatient within the Medical/Mental Facility. I am just praying he will get the help he needs and get back to normal. I could have never handled all of this without the support of all the awesome people here at PTO. I am embarrassed to say but, I was the one who turned him in when I suspected he was involved in a couple of burglaries, but if I had it all to do over again, I do not think I would. I know it was the right thing to do, but I thought he would be punished fair and justly. He really was a very nice guy who made the wrong choice and agreed he deserved to pay for it.
Well, that may have been more than you wanted to know about me and I thank you for allowing me to vent again.
Donna K

Hi

My Name Is Monica I Am 26 Years Old. I Have Three Kids 8,7 And 6 Year Old. My Husband Is Currently In Delano State Prison. He Will Be Out In August. I Dont Know How Long Ins Will Hold Him For. But Hopefuly Not For That Long.

Welcome to PTO, thank you for telling us about yourself :) If there is anything I can do for you please ask. Love Barb

Welcome to PTO, thank you for telling us about yourself :) If there is anything I can do for you please ask. Love Barb
I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHAT SUPPLIES I CAN SEND HIM. I WOULD LIKE TO SEND HIM SOME PICTURES CAN I SEND THEM TO HIM IN A BUBBLE TYPE OF ENVEPOLE? IF YOU CAN ANSWER MY QUESTION I WOULD REALLY APPRECIATE IT. OR IF YOU CAN LET ME KNOW WHAT NUMBER TO CALL THAT WILL ALSO HELP. THANK YOU

Hello everyone my name is Andrea and I live in the Bay Area. I have been with PTO since early 2003. My fiance, best friend, and soul mate is incarcerated at Lancaster State Prison (hell on earth). By the time he comes home to his family we would have waited for two years which has been the longest, toughest two years of our lives. But thank god he is coming home before Christmas and that is the greatest gift I can ask for. I welcome all of you new PTOing's :) You will find much needed advice, understanding and a 2nd family here. I wish everyone all the best.

Greetings to Everyone at PTO!

Hello, my name is Tai. I am 27 and a single mother of a 10yo beautiful daughter (Sierra). I work in the medical field and will be returning to college (02/09/2004) to acquire my registered nursing degree. I live in Wilmington,CA.(in between Carson/Long Beach). My connection to the prison system is from my SOULMATE and LOVE OF MY LIFE, Sean (Nookie), who is at SVSP. I have known Sean since we were 15 and 16 years old. He has been incarcerated since 1999 and was sentenced in August 2002 for 28yrs to life. I also have a sister (Sheree) who was recently sentenced to 17 years and is serving time at CCWF Chowchilla. I came across PTO by surfing the net last year in September. I feel really blessed to have this site available to me, it has kept me pretty sane and for the most part, not feeling so alone... You all have made dealing with this not so scarry and I can now actually read most of the threads without crying.SMILE. So Thanks to all the members for reaching out to us who are new to this! I hope to correspond with most or all of you! My love goes out to each and every one of you and your loved ones within the system.

;) Hi, I Am Ken'smom ,i Live In Southern Ca. Orange County To Be Exact,tustin. I Have Lived In Ca. Since 1960. My Son Was Born In Anaheim General Hospital In 1971 .his Dad ,my Ex Have Lived In Pretty Much The Same Area All Thease Years.my Son Ha S Been In And Out Of The System In Ca.ie: Folsum,tahatcape(can Not Spell)avenal,anyway You Know What I Mean.he Is Gone For 35yrs. This Time, It Is The 3rd Strike!i Have Been Married For 24 Yrs. To A Great Guy,he Is An Arcihtect,as Matter Of Fact My Son Is How I Met My Guy.we Have No Other Kids,my Son Has 2 Step Sisters,we Are All Good Friends.i Have Always Been In Electronics,but After The Last Lay-off I Find Myself Working For A Dvd On Line Rental Co. Called Netflix.com We Are Every Were On The Net.please Check Us Out,if You Watch A Lot Of Dvds You Will Love It! I Work For 1 Of Many Hubs Thru Out The Us, We Do The Actual Handling Of The Dvds,we Mail Out The Dvds ,and In The Morning We Go To The Post Office 2x Pick Up Mailers.we Ship 70,ooo A Day.it Is Hard Work But I Love It! Bye Ken'smom (waynette)

Hey everybody in Cali. I have been with you for a little over a month, I guess I'm a little shy when first meeting new people (in any shape or form). I am from a small town just east of Petersonville, ooopps, I mean Modesto, and my boyfriend was sent to prison shortly after we just started dating (like ten days), but we had been close friends for about four years prior to that, so I chose to wait for his return. He is in CTF, Soledad and I expect him home sometime this summer. He was thankfully only sentenced to 16 months, and his current release date is August 04, but I am hoping for June, based on everything that I have researched on sentencing, CDC, time served, yadda yadda yadda.... So I get to see him for the first time this weekend.... I am very nervous, excited, and everything in between. I just want to thank all of you, before I found this site, I felt extremly alone....but the last month has been much, much, better. I have learned alot about the CDC, I feel like I know some of you personally, and all I have been doing is reading what you have to say. Most of all Thanks for Caring.

Hi Ana! My name is Deb. My husband is also living at CCC in Sierra Yard. I have been concerned with the current lockdown status. Has it affected your man at all? I was planning on going up to visit this weekend, but it doesn't look like that will be happening now. Where's Eagle Rock? Is it S.Cal, or N. Cal? I live in Vacaville and CCC is about a 3-4 hour drive for me. Nice meeting you! Deb




Hi guys. My name is Ana, I'm 34 yrs old and live in Eagle Rock, CA. I'm originally from the Philippines and came here when I was 16. I have 3 kids - my eldest son is 15, my daughter is 12 and my youngest son is 5. My fiance, Marvin is at California Correctional Center (CCC) in Susanville serving a 4 year sentence since 2001 and will be coming home soon on Sept. 2004. He is a second striker and I pray that he did some serious thinkng about his future and what does he want to do in his life.

Hello everyone,

I've been with PTO for just one day...newbie, newbie. My best friend's husband, Dan, is in NKSP/Delano at the reception center. He is serving 7 years for involuntary manslaughter (long story). My husband (also Dan) and I have been friends with Shari and Dan for nearly 20 years and so we are as close as family. We go up to see Dan every 3 weeks or so and send lots of letters.

I'm learning my way through the legal system, the penal system, etc., and am constantly shaking my head over how unjust the "justice" system is. Thanks for sharing your stories and your knowledge. I know it's going to be a big help to me.

--laura

My X husband is in Centinela San Diego and his name is Timmy McGuire. I am new to this site, so I will have to study it a little more before I can give anymore feedback. How do all of you do it? Do you chat? Do you email to inmates? I am lost... :ha:

Hi, My name is Lynn. I am brand new to PTO. I am still trying to figure out if I am doing this correctly - help?!?! I'm not sure if I am on the correct "Thread" or what... My younger sister has been at VSPW in Chowchilla, California for the past three years., hopefully she will be out in 1-2 years. I also live in California, Central Coast area. I have been trying to find out information about work credits to reduce her time while in Chowchilla. Any suggestions?? It is supposed to reduce her time by half while she is there.. Thanks.

hey every one I am meia . my boyfrind is in CalipatriaState Prison. He has ben gone dfor almost 10years now. i have been apart of pto for maybe 2 years now.htis is a nice site and love to comw here i guess to feel a little bit more informed about things i am not sure of or do not know. hope evey one enjoys the site too.

Hi, I'm Linda. Been popping in and out of PTO for at least a year now. I'm in Humboldt County, California, my son is six hours south in Stockton, California. He's been gone since 1997 with another year and a half to go (fingers and toes crossed). SO glad this site is here ...

Hello PTO. I have been viewing this site for a few days now. I found it after searching for information on the Arizona hostage situation. I have experience in both the California and Arizona systems and am interested in learning more as I plan on a long career in Corrections. This site is very informative both from the view of family members and the numerous prison news articles placed on the board.

I will mainly be viewing posts to learn and will be focused on the California and Arizona sections. I doubt I will be an active poster but if I can add to a discussion or answer questions I will. I am not an expert on Corrections by any means and wouldn't feel comfortable putting out information based on hearsay or what I think is true. I realize the questions posed on this site are very important to the poster and you already have many knowledgeable people on board. Maybe at some point something will happen at the institution I work at and will provide helpful information.

I already wish I could change my screen name.

Hello and welcome to PTO. I'm sure that all of us share my sentiment that good CO's are a blessing. I personally want to thank you for being sensitive to the "outmates" feelings you have read here. That is all we want - a little consideration and sensitivity from a large sometimes seemingly cold and hostile environment that constitutes prison. I hope you share what you have learned here with other CO's. We still believe kindness is contagious and that punishment can be meted out with a level, even hand without stripping every shred of dignity from the inmates.

HI SWEETTHNG, I AM KEN'SMOM, I WOULD LIKE TO SAY HERE,HERE TO YOUR RESPONSE TO THE "GoodCop" I ALSO REPLYED TO HIM(OR HER) TRYING TO SAY THE SAME THING. THX KEN'SMOM SON DOIN 35YRS.!!!!! IN PELICAN BAY IN CA. BYE

Hello Everyone,
I'm Pucca from Stockton, CA. My b/f, Garu (we're named after Korean cartoon characters) is serving a 12 year sentence and will be home in July 2004 (possibly sooner if good time goes through).
Garu is in Lancaster which makes seeing him really difficult, but he trys to call me as much as he can, 'cause I need to hear his voice!
Garu and I were introduced to each other as pen-pals by his childhood friend who I had a major crush on in college. Geez, that's drama for you.
Over the years we've been there for each other as friends and just recently it turned into "something more." Yet, I think we knew all along that it would happen.
I'm really glad I found PTO. This whole situation with Garu is hard for other people to understand. Here at PTO I find not only valuable information, but a lot of support that I truly appreciate. Thanks to you all!

Waynette, from what I have read in here re Pelican Bay, shivers go up and down my back. I have always tried to make positives out of negatives and I'm hoping that the negative publicity, and lots of it, will bring major change to that hell hole. I don't know how big and tough Ken is, I just hope he's smart enough to keep it cool and maybe changes for the better will finally start to make measurable amounts of difference. I was appalled by the incident at Corcoran this past week also. That's why I felt compelled to respond to GoodCop after reading about some of the bad ones. I consider blatant indifference about on par with abusiveness. To stand idly by watching attrocities occur to a human being without enough compassion left to at least attempt to right the wrong is evil personified. I too became an activist again spurred by what I have seen and the way I have been treated. I am a letter writing fool these days and an eternal optimist -- I just don't know any other way. Our combined voices will be heard. This site has been my inspiration these past months. I thought I was alone for a long time - but we're not alone - in fact, I think I'm in some pretty savvy company with this PTO group. Hang tough, it's time for the white hats to ride in and right some wrongs. Look out!

:) Hello, just wanted to introduce myself to you all.
I am 40 yrs young 2 kids under 15yrs old. I am a former inmate released in 1999. I served my time in CCWF, and learned that prison life is not what most people think! It was my first time, and I was not sure what to expect, how ever I made it through and was released dec 1999.
I am currently trying to start my paper work on a rehabilitation certificate and pardon. When I was released I was told it would be a 5 yr waiting period but now have found out the law was amended and the wait is now 7 yrs.
I had wanted to start my own business but with out a pardon I am unable to proceed to get the license I need to operate. So I am researching the law to see if there is any loop holes on ammended laws after the fact of convictions. Not much luck. Most all cases have been denied, but I wont give up. I currently work for a number of attorneys doing vidio depositions and some process service work, I also do investigations, but until I am pardoned I can not be licensed for the work I want to do!
I am here to see others that may have simular situations , and to help others with any questions I may be able to answer with.
I also have a dear friend in CCWF that I have been helping since my release, and will continue to do so until her release from CCWF.
Good to be here and I find a lot of very interessting posts here at this site with great informable information for all who come here!
Tanya

You know, we are all dealing with what is happening to our loved ones due to the abuse of the "Bad Cops" in Prisons and it is hard to even imagine there is such a person as a "Good Cop" in the system. But, there are many! And, their jobs are very stressful. Kathy has posted a sample of what I am talking about in the CA News and Events Spotlight at the top of the CA Forum. It is titled "Guard Challenges Code of Silence" and, her information comes from the link I see went before the line of my post here. We should also remember the Guards are also put in many dangerous situations from many Inmates who would do them harm in a second if given the chance. My Nephew was a Guard at a jail for 8 years and he witnessed so much of the abuse, but because of the "Code Of Silence" inside those walls, he was afraid to speak out. He was also on the end of abuse by violent Inmates. The stress he was under changed him into a man we could hardly stand to be around. He was always so angry and no one knew why. He finally quit a couple of years ago and it is so great to have him back as the loveable, laid-back, funny guy he was. So, it is great to be able to see someone who calls herself "GoodCop" posting here. It reminds me of that old saying, "one bad apple can ruin the whole bunch". It makes me even more determined to continue writing those letters, exposing every act of injustice Prisoners receive at the hands of a very sick person who should be behind bars not guarding them. GoodCop, please don't change your screen name and I am looking forward to hearing a lot more from you.

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http://www.latimes.com/news/local/l...0,1,36737.story

hello to all , my name is Terry and my sweety name is Eddie, I am from southern Az, and he is from LA, Calif but he is serving in Vacaville , I hear tell it is a nice place and relaxed at visiting times , so far I have not got to there yet, saving money to fly out this spring ..
Got a mess us kids from a former marrige, 3 boys 2 are grown and one teenager at home, plus a 9 year old daughter , who thinks she is 19.
I am the motor mouth out of my family , just love to talk and get to know different folks , I am a farm chick , been raised around critters.. but now reside in a so called city , but it is close to water so thats ok ..
I have family members who has served time in Fl. Tex, and some family on the other side gaurds those inside , I do have family in Calif ,, But most in AZ .. I was always raised to think if you commet a crime you pay the price IF that is killing someone , you die, Well I don't think that way anymore , it has not stopped the killing ..
I do have friends from N.Y- Va Wa. and Calif, from S.Q. To the Bay and then my sweety in Vacaville well I'll close fer now
thanks for letting me blab here :ha:

My name is Danielle. I live in Palmdale, California. My fiance is in Corcoran, Ca. I am 30 years old and I have a 9 year old daughter. I am currently working as a data entry operator, but will be laid off soon and I think I am going to school to be a paralegal. I sports~Go Lakers! ~Go Broncos!~ listening to music, watching movies, etc. If your loved one is in Corcoran you can feel free to pm me with any ?'s .

Hey Terry, Welcome aboard! I am also known as the "Motor Mouth" in my family and a "Farm Chick" raised in Nebraska. You said, "I was always raised to think if you comet a crime you pay the price IF that is killing someone , you die, Well I don't think that way anymore , it has not stopped the killing" My thought on the Death Penalty has always been that it is wrong. It is giving a Legal License to someone to kill the killer and IMO, brings us down to the level of the killer. Death Row Criminals should be demoted to Life + 100 years with no chance of Parole and no contact with anyone. Even though many have committed crimes which can only be described as those of a vicious animal, the fact remains they are still a human, and should be treated as such with the very basic of needs.
With all your history in the Prison System, I hope you will do a lot of "blabbing" here.

And, welcome aboard Danielle. My son has been at Corcoran for 5+ years and, I have been "embedded" with him these past 6 months after he was attacked and raped in his cell. I've learned more about what goes on behind the "Walls" than I ever wanted to know. Hope to hear more from you in the California Forum.

Just looked at my original post my how things change.... Back then my guy in Pelican Bay was my ex shortly after that we decided to go for a second chance so now he is no longer the ex :) We have about 9 more months to go in the SHU now instead of gen population where he was and then he will be home god willing!

HELLO my name is Jennifer .I reside in san bernardino county . I have 2 young boysOne of which has a father that is in the corrections system in CA.He was just moved from wasco to shafter ( which is a new prison to me , never heard of it ) , but he got sentenced to 2 years & has served approx. 4 months .So we have alil ways to go ! The hardest part is trying to explain to a 2 yr old Daddy will be back I promise !! Then look at me & ask" Daddy ?" So I was glad to find this site to know I am not alone w/ the stresses & everday crap that goes on thank you all very much !!!!

Ps::: To Jennifer, I Am Sorry I Could Not See The Name Shafter,or What The Hell It Is, I Never Heard Of It Either. Let's Look It Up. It Would Be Under The Site For Ca. Prisons Sorry!! Please Keep In Touch, We Are So Close To Each Other Miles Wise. Bye Ken'smom (waynette)

Hi Jennifer. The only info I can find is that it is in Seal Beach, CA. That is close to the Long Beach area. Wasco State should be able to give you more info. The phone # there is (661) 758-8400. I know how hard it is to explain where Daddy is to someone so young. We told my 3 year old Granddaughter, who so loves her Uncle Chad and saw him several times a week, that he was away taking care of business. As she got older, she is 9 now, we explained it a bit more. It also helped that he sent her letters, usually drawing funny pictures and helping her write (pictures) to him. Keep in touch, ok?

Hi my name is Christie and I live in Sacramento, Ca. My husband just started his 6 year term and I think is in DVI. We are expecting our first child in September. This is my first
time with the CDC dept. It already looks like its going to be a rough ride.

Hello:

I'm ginger, 43, married five going on six years, no children but hubby has two from a previous marriage, I live in L.A., first time offender (and last), on five years formal probation, own two Siberian Huskies. I am currently working and plan to start school soon. My hubby and I like to travel, river raft, and we love the carribean. I am of Christian faith. I read by bible and attended church regularly. I enjoy watching good movies, cooking, reading, going to the movies and hanging out with our family and close friends.

ginger



Mini Introductions for Californians, please join us!

It has been suggested to me that we do a mini introduction forum here in California what do you think? We have a very large group of members here from or with loved ones in California so let’s hear from you. Please tell us a little about yourself and your loved one and where he/she is. This will make it easier on our new members to join in and get acquainted with PTO and us in general. It could also lead to some mini PTO gatherings in the future. I would also like to know where the most “POPULAR” prisons are so that in the future we can have a sub-forum for them like we have for Pelican Bay.

I will start this by tell you a little about myself and my relationship with the California Prison System. My son is at Pelican Bay and has been a guest of a number of other facilities here in California. I have been at PTO since May of 02 back then I think there were only a few hundred members and now there are 10000. I am married and have three children and a bunch of grandkids. I work a fulltime job and am raising my grandson who by the way will be 18 on New Years Eve. I was lucky enough to attend the first annual PTO Conference in Houston last March where I got to meet some of our PTO members and our fearless leader David, his mother and his girlfriend. I will be going to Florida next March and hope to meet many more of you there then. Love Barb

PS I also take care of the Birthday and Christmas card project so get those names and addresses to me soon.

Good evening. My name is Debbie. I am 49 yrs old. Turning the big 5-0 in April. My man is doing 13 yrs with 85%. I always wonder what is 85%.? He has done one yr and six months. It seems like a life time. I take care of my ninety year old mother. She can't care for herself because of what the medical field has done. I am doing time with my man . just doing time. mr "C" is my man.

Hi, my name is Debbie I'm 39. My Husband is doing ten years in Ironwood. He was just sent there Feb. 9. I live in Escondido. I am trying to find out about, Visiting, Mail, Phone calls etc. etc. Missing my Baby....

Hi Debbie. If you go to www.google.com and put in the name of the Prison, it will give you the general information. If you have any questions that are not answered there, call the Prison and when you get the automated greeting, push 0 for Operator and she will direct you to someone who can answer those questions. This works for all Prisons. Hope it helps.

Hi I'm new to all of this. My name is Judy....devilswoman. My fiancee is at SVSP, transferred down from Pelican Bay. We have had a positive experience with Salinas V. I hope it continues. I enjoy talking with all of you on our little bus trip. I live in Atascadero and have for almost 20 years. Hope to meet some of you on our way to visiting. Everyone has been helpful and friendly and now after one month I am even answering new peoples questions. Let's all help to get Friday visiting back.

Well I really dont know where to start. My husband is doing time in California Correctional Center in Susanville. I live in Northern California. I have 2girls. I work and i go to school and take care of our daughters. I am new to PTO. I have been here a few months I guess. Time goes by so fast the only thing that doesnt go by fast is having my husband here with me and our girls. He still has 2 yrs left. I am trying to keep it positive but it is really hard. I am very thankful for PTO. I have so much support here.

Hi.. My name is Tammy I am 39 , I live in Sacramento formerly from West Virginia I have been in Cali for almost 3 years...... My fiance Josh who is 26 and original from Oregon, is in Avenal with only 49 days and a wake up call left of his 7 month sentence... YEAH!!! I have a son Tony who is 21 and a daughter Nicole who is 17 and Josh and I are the parents of 2 little angels... Michael and Jacob.. who now reside in HEAVEN and are our guardian Angels... This has been the hardest thing I have ever had to deal with in my life but it has made me a stronger person... and I love my Joshie

Hi all, My name is April and I'm brand new to PTO (just logged in today). My Husband is incarcerated at New Folsom in Sacramento, California. He spent the first 18 months of his term at Avenal State Prison and just recently got moved to Folsom. I was denied visits at Avenal, but am hoping to visit now that he has moved to a level 1 facility. We were co-defendents, but my husband took a deal to make sure I didnt do any prison time. I did however come away with 2 felony convictions, which is why my visits were denied at Avenal. I miss him so much, as I'm sure all of you can trully understand. Any wisdom on how to get visiting approved or any other words of encouragement would be greatly appreciated. Sometimes I feel so alone out here. Thanks. :cuffs: April :cuffs:

To all of you that I have missed while you have introduced yourself, please allow me a belated welcome to PTO! It is great to have all of you here!

HI Plumfairy70 & welcome to PTO!
Just as a side note, you are going to be the last person to ever post in this thread (I think! :) ) as we have just opened up the new introductions forum, which I am moving this into!
Please allow me to speak for everyone, it is great to have you as a part of our community and look forward to talking more to you in the future! :)

Now, to wrap up the thread that has shown me that Californians need a dedicated Introductions forum, please post your own individual introductions from here on out! :)

All of you that have posted in this thread are welcome to create another dedicated post about yourself..

Cheers to all of you!

Fed-X

Californian Introduction forum Intro: (Please Read)
http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=49569