My boyfriend just got transferred to Collins from Elmira Reception. What a difference! The COs who sign you in are actually pleasant! They don't bark when you make the metal detector beep...they try and pinpoint the problem so you can get through. The vending machines are filled a couple of times during the visits, there's fruit and salad and it's much cheaper than Elmira.

It was nice to feel like I was a visitor, and not the inmate!

Your guy (and you) are very fotunate to be at Collins. Yes, it is still a facility, but your observations weren't a fluke, if he has to be inside, Collin's is a real good place to be.
Good luck and enjoy your visits!
Caprione

my mother visited there and she said the same thing. i feel in a way blessed with elmira because of the visiting room set up. coming from 5 points which is true hell---elmira is heaven!!! i am happy for u and i can only hope that eventually my fiance will also be there and closer to home! :D