For those of you that have read my posts you know how angry I have been with so-called "experts" that have given false and exagerated accounts in the media lately as to what its really like in in the womens camps. I spent 4 years in 4 different camps so I do know something about them. I'm certainly no expert but I would like to share what I do know with those of you that are getting ready to go to a camp or who have loved ones inside. Going to prison is scary thing to contemplate without having to listen to horror stories in the media.
I was incarcerated in FPC Carswell, FPC Lexington, FPC Alderson and FPC Bryan in that order. Each camp is different. The rules should be the same in all of them but they aren't. Much depends on the warden as to what and how the rules are implemented. Some things are the same no matter where you end up though!
The first thing that will do is go to R&D(receiving and discharge). This will probably take awhile. They will dress you out in a uniform. You're picture will be taken and you will meet with someone from medical to discuss any health issues that you have or any medication that you are taking. Usually whatever prescription medication you are taking they will let you keep on taking it as long as its non-narcotic. You will fill out some paperwork and they will assign you to a unit. Each place has different lay-outs as far as the units go. I went from sleeping in a TV room to a 2 man room(with a door you can close anytime you want!)in Lexington. Alderson had 2 man cubicles with about 150 people per unit. After six months in Alderson you qualify to go to a cottage. There are a lot less people in a cottage and its more like a regular room. Bryan has 4 man rooms with 100-150 people per unit. One thing I forgot to mention about R&D is that yes, you will be stripped searched. No cavity searches, just squat and cough. Don't take it personal, the CO's have to do it. I got so used to it that it ended being no big deal. Not pleasant, just try not to think about it. You will also be issued bedding to take with you to your unit. The next morning you will go to laundry to be issued your uniforms. They give you 4 pants, 4 shirts, 5 t-shirts, 5 underwear and 5 pairs of socks. You will also be issued boots or shoes. If you want extra underwear and socks you can purchase them at the commissary. Until you are assigned a job you will work cleaning the unit during the day. Alderson and Bryan will let you actively seek a job instead of waiting to be assigned by the staff. If you are allowed to do that please do. I did and was very fortunate. I was a librarian at Alderson and a GED tutor for special learning needs ladies in Bryan. Just remember that you are required to work unless you have a medical condition that would prevent that. Usually ladies that cannot work due to their health end up going to Carswell.
Bring money with you if you are able. You can go to commissary and buy a variety of things, from cosmetics, shorts, t-shirts, tennis shoes, radios, hygiene items and craft supplies. ALderson has a wonderful commissary and Lexingtons is awful. Around the holidays the commissary will offer holiday items such as Christmas cookies, etc. You can also purchase cigarettes if you smoke.
The majority of the ladies that you meet are kind. You will not be attacked. I thought the same thing before I went to prison. I was going to be beat up or raped or both! It is nothing like that!! I made friends there that I will hopefully have for the rest of my life. Violence in a camp is rare. They are nice places as far as prison goes and if you fight you will be shipped someplace not so nice. Remember to be courteous to your roomates. Clean up after yourself and do your share of the cleaning. The CO's do room inspections. Just be neat and you won't have any problems.
Each prison will offer a variety of educational programs and recreation. If you don't have a GED you will be required to attend clasees. At Bryan the instructors for the local community college come in every evening to teach Information Management. You will receive college credit. There are also classes such as auto-cad, cosmetology and horticulture. Just go to the education department of the institution to see what they offer. Recreation offers bingo at some places. They have bags of goodies from Wal-Mart if you win. They also have a variety of other games. In Alderson they have roller skating in the winter. There are yoga classes and exercise classes. Each institution has a library, some better than others. I can go on and on about different programs that these institutions offer so if you have any specific questions just ask. I will answer what I can.
Your experience in prison will be what you make it. You can bemoan your fate all the time or you can use the time to reflect and work on whatever issues you feel you need to work on. You are already there and nothing will probably change that. Prison is not a fun place to be, but I did have some fun while I was there thanks to some of the lovely ladies I was there with.
I have gone on long enough here. I'm sure there will be things that I will think of later to add. As I said, if anyone has any questions I will do my best to answer them.

Chrisa

Thank you so much for such an indepth and wonderful post. You can't imagine how much better I feel now :-) If you don't mind, I have a couple of questions that I would like to ask.

1. You mentioned that that you are give 5 sets of underwear. Does this include bras as well?

2. In general, what sort of jobs are available?

3. If I already have a college degree, will I still be able to take various classes?

Thank you again! This stress ball sitting in the pit of my stomach is finally going away :-)

I'm glad I could answer some of your questions. Yes, you get 5 bras. You can take any class that they have available. There are many ladies in federal prison with degrees. As far as jobs go there are many. There is the kitchen, landscape, education, facilities. If you have a college degree you should go to education about a job as a GED tutor. They can always use good tutors and it is so rewarding!!
Please try not to worry. It is unnerving when you first arrive. There are many things to get used to. But you will be ok! Please feel free to ask anything you like!

Chrisa

You mentioned you were in for 4 years, and in that time you served in 4 different facilities.

I can't say I am surprised, but it seems like a good amount of transferring. Was there a reason why you moved so often and did it eventually land you back closer to home?

Chrisa....thanks a bunch for posting this! I am sure your personal experience will ease the fears of many who visit PTO!

Diane

I was trasferred from Carswell to Lexington because it was closer to home. I transferred from Lexington to Alderson for the RDAP program. Got to Alderson and the waiting list for RDAP was ridiculously long. They offered to send 48 of us to Bryan for the RDAP program because they said we would get in faster as Bryan's waiting list wasn't very long. When we arrived there it was s different story!

Although I am not going to any of the prisons listed above, I just wanted to say that the post is very informative and I am sure it will be alot of help to alot of woman headed down that road. Chrisa, That is very kind of you to post your info and to be here to help others.......VERY COOL !!!!
Just wanted to tell you how great I thought it was.....Holly

I have had a few people pm me about the telephone system so I thought I would add it here. Soon after you arrive you will be issued a PIN number. You will also fill out a form and write down all the phone numbers that you will be calling. You have up to 30 numbers and can add/delete at any time. It will take a few days to add the numbers to your phone list. You are alloted 300 minutes per month, 400 in November and December. You can call collect but it is much cheaper to add funds from your commissary account to your telephone account. They have an automated telephone system and you can transfer the funds that way. When I left prison I think it was around $3.30 per call. You can only talk for 15 minutes at a time.

If it is not too much bother, I have yet another set of niggling questions...

1. I like making little dolls out of FIMO (a type of clay)...is it possible to get this clay sent to me so I can continue making them?

2. My mother would like to know if she can send me things like shampoo, conditioner, facial wash, body shampoo etc...

3. I have heard that there are cosmetology courses available at certain camps...would you happen to know which ones and how would I go about taking these courses?

4. Am I able to have photographs sent to me? May I bring some with me?

5. My friends and family will be sending me Japanese magazines and books...will this be an issue?

Thank you again! :)

Thank you so much for the info. As I am heading to Coleman in couple weeks, I have couple more questions:
1. Hair color - is it possible at all?
2. Jogging - Is there place for jogging in Camp? Are you allowed to?

Thank you again
Jenny

Mimikitty-at the camps I was at you can buy fimo clay on commissary and they also have classes you can take.
No, you can't have anything brought or sent to you. You can buy what you need on commissary.
They do have cosmetology classes. Go to the Education department and ask about it. There are certain time requirements, I think you have to have at least 18 months left on your sentence. A lot of ladies take cosmetology because it is far less expensive than what you would pay on the outside. When I left it was $150.
You can have photographs sent in to you as long as they are not polaroid. You can have up to 25.
As far as Japanese books I don't believe it will be a problem. Ask when you arrive.

Kapara, yes you can purchase haircolor.
Yes, you can go jogging. Lots of ladies do. There is a track where you can jog.

Hi,
I have just a few questions:
1. bunkbeds... I know that women over 50 get bottom bunks and I'm not yet 50 so that doesn't apply to me... but, what about short people??? Are the beds very tall? I'm five feet tall... will I have trouble getting in and out, especially if I need to get up suddenly in the middle of the night?
2. How would I keep a diary safe and private?
3. Are sketchpads sold at the commissary?
4. I have sensitive ears and special earplugs... and a letter from a speech-language pathologist explaining my need for those earplugs. Will I have any difficulty getting those earplugs in?
5. Today, we had a blizzard. And, until nearly a foot of snow landed on my house, I hadn't even considered the possibility of inclement weather. My self-surrender date is April 6, and, where I live, that is really borderline winter/spring. What will happen if I fail to show up on time due to a storm. Should I just call and explain?
Well, that's enough questions for now, I suppose.
Thank you for your assistance.

"meowmachine":)

Meow, they don't really take into consideration how short you are. I had a bunkie who was 4' 6" and she was on the top bunk. There are ladders on the beds.
Yes, they sell sketchpads, at least the institutions where I was. You can keep your diary in your locker. You will have to purchase a lock from commissary. They also sell earplugs. As far as special earplugs, it souds like that is an issue for medical so I really don't know one way or another. If you are self surrendering I would take them along with the letter and see what they say.
I think that greyghost would be the one to ask about your last question. I really don't have an answer.
Hope this helps some.
Chrisa

Thank you so much for your responses! Knowing that I can make my little FIMO dolls is strangely reassuring :p I know, it seems silly, but right now, it is the little things that are keeping me together.

Would anyone here have a basic list of the items sold at the commisary? Would you happen to remember the types (brands) of cleaners and such?

As for the cosmetology course...What do they teach exactly? Hair? Nails? Make-up? All of the above? Once you complete the course, are you fully licensed?

Thank you again! You are all fabulous assets to this board!

Hi Chrisa,

Thank you so much for the answers that you could give. It's a relief to know that I'll be able to have a diary and a sketch pad in prison. I was very concerned about those tall beds and knowing that there is a ladder is a big help. After I was arrested, I spent the night in the county jail, and there were no ladders... you just had to climb up. Fortunately, someone taller than me agreed to take the top bunk and I slept on the bottom... it was hard work for me to get on top of that bed with my short legs.

When the storm finally ended last night, the total amount of snowfall was fourteen inches... and a record-breaker. Wow!

meowmachine, covered in snow:rolleyes:

Hi Mimikitty,

What are FIMO dolls? Please describe for me what one looks like.

Thank you!

meowmachine:)

Yes, they teach all those things in the cosmetology program. The commissary list varies depending on which institution you go to. But they have things such as Pantene shampoo and conditioner, Dove soap, all name brand things basically. But as I said, it will vary institution to institution, some are better than others.
I'm glad that I can answer some of your questions. It's frightening enough just knowing that you are going to prison and it helps some to have an idea as to what to expect!

Wow, thats a lot of snow, Meow! It's 65 degrees where I am!

Good job, Chrisa!

Don't forget to mention you can crochet! LOL

Yes, Vicki and and I were crochet partners in Alderson. We crocheted A LOT!! :)

This is all wonderful information. It is almost funny all the little things we each need everyday to keep us sane. And how the thought of not having something is going to push us over the edge... I think it is the unknown that panics us...

I could list thousands of questions. But what I really need to know is ...

If I self-surrender can I have on me papers with my addresses and phone numbers of family and friends. I understand it can take some time to get commissary and your phone card activated and also visitation. For phone calls and visitation - what info on someone do you need? Name, address, do you need their social security number? drivers license number? anything else?

Also, I will be heading to prison with lots of restitution due... What do you know about them deducting funds from your account for restitution? How much do you think would be safe in a commissary account? $50, $100, $200 ???

Do they issue any personal hygeine items? or do you have to pay for all of that yourself?

Thanks,
Sheryl

You can spend $290 per month. If you take money with you it will post in your commissary account either the same day or the following day.
As far as the visitation forms-you will send the form to the person that you want to visit you and they will fill it out with their information. They will then send it directly to your counselor-not to you. Make sure you tell the person that. There will be an address to send it to on the visitation form.
Well when you arrive they will give a couple of little trial size items. Shampoo, soap, toothpaste. But they don't give out these items on a regular basis, at least not in my experience. The only place that did this was Bryan. So yes, you will have to purchase your own hygiene items.
I don't know if you will be able to bring anything with names an addresses. Once you get designated you can call the institution and ask.

Oh! Crocheting! :idea: One of my favorite hobbies! What sort of yarn is available? How about thread? (My friends have been teasing me about making doilies with Martha.)

meowmachine:rolleyes:

You'll see people doing a whole lot of crocheting! They have all different colors of yarn, and also thread. I still crochet!

Chrisa

Chrisa makes beautiful angels!!!! She gave me a copy of her pattern when she left Alderson for Bryant!!!!! :)

You 2 were in together?

You are really making a difference here with the help you have offered! It shows a true spirit of PTO...and we feel blessed to have you here with us!

Diane

Someone else mentioned this once before on PTO....

You can "mail yourself" a list of names,address's and phone numbers the day before you surrender. This way if the one you go in with is lost or not allowed with you, you'll have a back up on the way!

I thought it was a good idea....

Diane

Yes, Vicki (guysgal) and I were together in Alderson. She is a lovely lady and I'm glad to know her!

At FPC Alderson, WV the cosmetology, course is taught by contracted outside instructors, and classes are 5 days a week, M-F from 12 - 8 p.m. At the end of the 18 month course the inmates are tested on site, and if they pass they are licensed cosmetologists in West Virginia. Since so many states have reciprocity for cosmetologists, the inmate usually only has to apply for their license in their home state, and doesn't have to test again. As inmates we were able to make appointments for manicures, pedicures, facials, and even haircuts. In addition, you could also purchase haircolor and perms off commissary and have them done in cosmetology.

Oh yes, and if you were going home or to a half-way house, you could have a set of artificial nails put on the day before u left.. All in all, not too bad. :)

Yes, Chrisa and I were housed together at Alderson until she left for Bryant. We spent many hours crocheting together. Unfortunately, we lost touch. I just happen to see her name in her signature, and when I read a few of her post I just had a feeling it was her. (Not many Chrisa's out there). I PM'd her a couple of weeks ago and we reconnected. Its been great. And thanks for the compliment, Diane!

Hi Diane,

How do you get your mailing address for the prison in advance? I called the prison for a list of things that I could bring with me after the probation officer suggested that I do that. I also asked for the mailing address and the guy who answered the telephone said quite gruffly, "You'll get that when you arrive!" I tried asking again but he remained unresponsive. At that point, I simply gave up on him and politely said goodbye and ended the conversation. I also wondered what happened to the secretary! This guy's talents certainly did not lie in that direction. But... I don't know how to mail the addresses and phone numbers to myself... I could just put them in an envelope and leave it with my parents to mail it to me as soon as they get a letter from me... I guess...

meowmachine:rolleyes:

Meow, what prison are you going to?

Hi,

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!

I'm going to Danbury, Connecticut, about 440 miles from my hometown. The letter from my probation officer said "FCI Danbury."

meowmachine:cool:

Ok, I just thought if it was somewhere i have been that I might have it handy.

You will need your Reg.# in order to get mail, and you won't have that until you get there and are booked in R&D. So, the idea about having your parents send you your list of addresses and telephone numbers is a good one.

Is there a limit on how many people can take the cosmetology course? Are people turned away? Would anyone here know which camps offer this course?

I often give my mom and friends facials, pedicures and manicures, so I figure I might as well get licensed while I am tucked away at in BOP :-)

Another PTO member, Holly who is surrendering today I think... Well, she left her address with a number posted here yesterday or the day before.

I've also seen postings where people with self-surrender dates, while still at home were able to find themselves listed in the BOP locator, and is that how they got their numbers???

Is anyone familiar with this? or maybe it just depends on the facility where you are going.

This thread is great, for women's federal facilities, there are so few by comparioson to male, and I imagine different. Does anyone agree???

Thanks,
Sheryl

Hi Sheryl,

I agree that this is a great thread! There are way more facilities for men than for women. I think that means that we have to take a longer trip to get there, which makes it more difficult for friends and family to come and visit us.

Yes, I checked the BOP locator and found my register number. It says that I am "in transit." I'm sitting in my house and not acting very much as if I'm "in transit," so I might try pretending to be carsick or something. :ha: I suppose that I should just give my friends and family the number so that they can locate me via the internet.

And speaking about visits, does anyone have any idea of what visitors are allowed to bring with them? Can they bring board games, decks of cards, or anything else, so that we can have fun while visiting? I understand that they are not allowed to bring any food to me at all... no cookies, brownies and certainly no cake!!!!:rolleyes:

meowmachine:)

Hi all - I just got back from my stay at camp Carswell in December, so anything you want to ask, go ahead. I should be up to date, although since I've left, the camp administrator AND the warden of the prison have both changed (wonder if the new ones read PTO like the old ones did??!! :) We laughed one day when one of the counselors had pages printed out from the warden about what was being written!

I think I can answer just about anything - medical, commissary, recreation, furloughs, jobs, phone, rules, etc. - so PM me, or I'll try to keep up with posts if I can. I remember how scared I was, and maybe I can help someone else by answering their questions (ToniB saved me by telling me exactly what would happen to me when I got there!)

I had a roommate who had been acquainted with Susan McDougal while she was there - and yes, she WAS at the camp, because I had her old bed - does that mean I've slept where someone (in)famous slept? Hmmm... my dubious claim to fame. I also saw her making the rounds on the talk show circuit, and believe me, her memory has FADED with time - it is NOTHING like she said. Good grief.

I am just so glad to be home... and I still haven't worn ANYTHING green - after wearing it continuously, I've sworn off it!! :)

To meow machine - where are you heading and when? and for how long? I will be right behind you. Working on a plea agreement. For less than 24 months I hope.

I used to visit a guy at a federal camp in Texas and I carried in a clear plastic purse thing, like a large make-up bag/tote. I think it was a rule that the purse had to be clear so they could see. It was subject to being searched, but they rarely did. I always carried a deck of cards with me and that was no problem. I took single dollar bills and a roll of quarters so we could get lunch and snacks from the vending machine. You are not allowed to bring in food. But sometimes I would sneak in something for him. Usually steak from a local restaurant, or a breakfast taco picked up that morning. I always carried my make-up in that bag, money, DL, sometimes I would stuff papers in the bag to prevent anyone from seeing the food.

I imagine every facility is different. This was a camp and very relaxed.

Just looked at another page and saw some questions I do know the answers to.. (gotta figure out this site again since it's changed since last year!)

I sent mail to myself before I ever left home (about 2 days prior to my self-surrender date) so I'd be sure and GET some, and also so I'd have pictures of my family and all my addresses. You can address it with your name, Reg # (find that on the BOP webpage Inmate Locater - it'll be there long before you leave!)... and the rest of the Carswell address - FMC Carswell, PO Box 27137, Ft. Worth, TX 76127. It arrived fine and it was a relief to hear my name at mail call. Silly, but true.

I also took a paperback address book with me - the kind you get from Hallmark - with everything written in it and was allowed to keep that. You cannot take a copy of your PSI, so don't bother. You can have other legal papers, but not that. They'll have a copy which you can eventually look at if you need to. Also, you can take a pair of earrings WITHOUT stones (hoops are okay if they're smaller than a quarter) - the value has to be less than $100. You may also take a necklace with a cross or religious medallion, a wedding ring with no stones - also all valued at less than $100. You can take a paperback Bible, but no other books. Many women get in with their watches - so get a cheap one at Walmart and try - I didn't, and HATED being without one, but also refused to pay $40 at commissary for one. I had read that sometimes you could get in with your tennis shoes and bra, but I didn't, and neither did anyone else while I was there, so I wouldn't bother. You'll get a sports bra (hooray for the uni-boob) when you're in R&D, along with some really ugly slip-on tennies that you'll be stuck with until you go to commissary to buy "real" ones. At Carswell, tennis shoes start at $37 for nylon and leather Reeboks, and go up to over $100 for high-tops. I bought the cheapest and they were wearing out when I left, but I walked about 1200 miles on the track, too!

TAKE MONEY WITH YOU!!! A money order made out to FMC Carswell with your name and register number on it is the best, but you can also take cash if you're willing to trust them with it. You can take as much as you like for the first time and this speeds up your shopping and phone process considerably!! Waiting for money to post at the Georgia address is unbearable, as they are sometimes REALLY slow. Spending limit is $290 per month, not including stamps. I never spent that much except my first month when I had to purchase lots of clothing (shorts, t-shirts, sweats, shoes, etc.) and those are all "extra" because I did not want to wear prison-issued cotton pants and shirts all the time. But, take money if you can - that's very important!

At the camp at Carswell, you get toothpaste, toothbrushes, soap, shampoo, and razors once a month. I used the toothpaste to make my laundry whiter, and the shampoo to add to my laundry as well. I purchased "real" toothpaste and laundry soap on commissary. You get laundry soap every other Wednesday morning, and I also used to mix it with my "real" soap. Washers and dryers are free, but it's sometimes a long wait (get up early!!)

I spent the most money on the phone - 300 minutes a month was $60 for me since everything was long distance. It's hard to make them last all month, too... that was the very worst part!

Restitution starts about 30 days after you get there and is based on a "formula" they create, but it's sometimes quite a bit. I had friends who were paying several hundred dollars. This is where having your family send money comes into play - the formula is based on the amount of money you get IN each month, combined with what you're paid for your job (not much, trust me!) So, if you can figure out what you'll really need to survive - commissary, phone, stamps - and then have your family send as close to that as you can, it helps. Of course, that's only if you have restitution, some didn't. You'll have time to figure it all out after you get there, but keep it in mind. Using your account like a savings account doesn't make sense if you have a large dollar amount of restitution.

The camp at Carswell is not really a bad place at all - there are many, many nice women there (there are some who are kinda strange, too, of course!!), but all in all, if I had to be someplace, I'd rate it highly - compared to the women I knew while I was there who'd been other places, and from what I've read on here. You have a LOT of free time and there's no "controlled movement" (moving only during the first 5 minutes of every hour). You can come and go as you please, for the most part. The worst is the separation from your family.

Oh - almost forgot - visitation. Visitors can bring nothing with them but money (the machines now take dollar bills, but are sometimes out of change). Quarters are best - about $20. There are vending machines with sandwiches, hot dogs, chips, candy, pop, popcorn, etc. My advice? Buy what you think you'll want to eat during the day EARLY - it all disappears quickly! There's a microwave available. Also, there are games, cards, etc. and a kid's playroom and television if you have children. You can also sit outside (smoking must be outside). Your visitors CAN bring one unopened pack of cigarettes with them, and they can't leave with them, so smoke them all! No lighters - there are lighters on the buildings to use. MAKE ABSOLUTELY SURE they have a current car tag, registration and insurance or they will be turned away - this is only at Carswell because it's an active military base. Also, get in line EARLY... the guards are notoriously slow at letting people in. To get in by 9:00, get in line at least by 7:00 AM!!

Thank you gruper

I am thinking of asking my attorney to request Carswell for me. I would hope to get RDAP- drug program. I am in MN with my husband and child - closest fermale facility is 400 miles away at Pekin. There is very little chance my husband will be able to afford visiting weekends. The remainder of my family is in Texas. My brother is close to Carswell and everyone else is in Houston. So I figure I could have family visits and when my husband can afford it he would make a trip to see me and have a place to stay for the weekend.

Anyway, if I get Carswell I'm thinking you'll be a great resource for me. How long have you been out. Did you leave any friends there? If I end up going there I would love to know that someone would be there to welcome me.

So thanks for the informative post. I am probably at least 60-90 days away from self surrrender, I hope.

I hope you stay around and can help me go thru the process.

Sheryl

Gruper- Thanks for all the info., it really helps. I just have a few quick questions:
1. Now that you are out, is it hard to find a job? What do you put on your application?
2. Do they inform you on what kinds of jobs you can apply for or is there a web site you can locate that information at? (I'm in San Bernardino, CA)
3. Have you thought about expunging your records or have you found out about that, like the charge for that and what exactly does it cover and who can look into it or can they, and what do you put on your application once it is done?
I know these are crazy questions, but if you don't know can you inform me who can or where can I find this info. at?
Thanks payroll

Hi Gruper,
Wow, this is really helpful information. I'll let my family and friends know about the money for the vending machines and about arriving early to see me... going outside to visit sounds good. We don't smoke so I don't need to tell them about the pack of cigarettes.
I will try to get my watch in, if possible. I suppose the worst that can happen is that the watch is sent home, along with my clothes. Sigh.:yuck: I do so love wearing bright colors. I'm hoping to be able to keep my bra, too... but, if it goes in that box, it goes. Should the money order be a "postal money order"? How much is reasonable? :confused: I was fined $500, and I understand that money will be taken out of my commissary account for that.
meowmachine:ham:

Hi Sheryl,
My probation officer told me to report to Danbury FCI on April 6. I asked him to postpone it for me for a week or two so that I could have Easter with my church choir... but he said no to this soprano. Sigh. (I'm such a diva!) My sentence is ninety days for trespassing on a military base during a protest.
I'll suggest to my mom that she carry a deck of cards in her purse. I don't think that she can fit a Scrabble game... it would be too obvious! I think that's funny about sneaking the food into the camp!!!:D
I hope that you're having a good day.
meowmachine:cool:

Finding a job can be difficult depending on what you are looking for. I have had trouble with this. I am ALWAYS honest on my applications. The majority of businesses will do a background check on you and if you lie this will automatically disqualify you from the position that you are applying for. The best thing to do is have your resume ready even before you are released. I did that and it was one less thing I had to worry about. It's a tight job market and it can be difficult to find employment. I live in Tennessee and I have found no resources that are available to help felons find employment. I'm sure that some states do have something like that available.

I agree with cjjack on always being honest on an application, although I must admit, facing the prospect of people asking questions and automatically assuming the worst about you is terrible. Oh well! As for expunging your records; from what I understand, it cannot be done until your time "on paper" (probation) is complete, and even then, I'm not sure what it entails. I plan on asking my attorney about it. I know of no real resources to help you find employment except your probation officer - mine is very nice.

As for bras... forget it! Anything they THINK you'll like will be tossed into the box to send home! (One thing about the box that I didn't think of was how hard it would be for my family to get it - my husband said it was like I had died or something, and he put it in a closet without opening it). Yes, take a postal money order - the feds like to know it's THEIR money already! To go in, I took $350 and was glad I did. I'd take no less than $200. At Carswell, no one could bring in any type of purse at all, but people did sneak in "food goodies" in the pockets of their jackets, etc. There was nothing I craved THAT much except pizza, and it wasn't "smuggle-able"!!

Meow - there was a woman at Carswell with the same sentence, and I did notice that she was somewhat shunned (for lack of a better word) because (a) her sentence was SO short compared to the rest of the women there, and (b) few women there found the sense in why she was even there. So, keep in mind that you'll be a "short-timer" and just get by. You WILL find friends ... I don't mean to be discouraging, but it's more difficult. I was only in for 6 months and many still had nothing to do with me... which isn't that surprising when you consider some had been there 8+ years with MANY more left. Prison is NOT the place to complain, whine, etc! (waaaaaaaaahhhh... I often WANTED to!)

Sheryl - If you are looking at an RDAP program to shorten your sentence, the camp at Carswell doesn't have that program and you'll be sent to another facility - probably Bryan. The one thing I did figure out was worth avoiding was any kind of transfer - they shackle you during transport. For someone who managed to complete the whole ordeal having never even been handcuffed, that scared me to death! Lots of women left for RDAP programs while I was there, because it significantly shortens your sentence, but I heard the aftercare part was a pain... don't know exactly what THAT means. I would find out more about RDAP before requesting Carswell, but all of that depends on how long your sentence is, I suppose. Sometimes getting in to an RDAP program takes quite awhile.

I've been home since the middle of December and left many good friends there - which sounds strange till you experience it. Before leaving, I was firmly convinced I'd be the ONLY normal person there - ha!! I wouldn't want to ever go back, but it was certainly not as bad as I expected... amazingly enough!

Hi Gruper,

Thank you for all of the advice. It's very helpful and gives me a good idea of what to expect. The bra, of course, will be on me... but if I don't get to keep it, well, that's life. I understand that concept of short-timer. Yes, I will be there for a very short amount of time, and I am sure that there will be plenty of people who will have no clue as to what the heck I'm doing there. I also understand that their sentences run for years, not for weeks. I am able to put up more resistance to authority than they can because I don't have to endure it for all that long. I will try to keep my attitude in check and not whine. Nobody wants to hear that! But I also don't want them to feel sad because I get to go home so soon and they don't. I feel very bad for them already and I'm not even there yet! sigh.
meowmachine

Actually aftercare is not that difficult at all. I went through RDAP and I highly recommend it. I am only required to go to a class once a month for six months, next week is my last class. If you are doing what you are supposed to do then supervised release and aftercare are not that difficult at all.
Also, if you do transfer many times they let you furlough to another institution. When they transferred 48 of us from Alderson to Bryan 2/3 of us got to furlough transfer. You get a bus ticket and some money and off you go.

I just wanted to add something about the RDAP program. Yes, one year of aftercare is required but the majority of the people who go through RDAP are committed to staying clean and sober so the aftercare is actually a great place of support for you once you are released and faced with temptation. I would highly recommend anyone who is eligible for RDAP to take it. I can't say enough about how great the program is. It is definitely one of the things that the BOP has done right!!

Meow, you can get it from bop.gov website. and your letter tells you your prisoner number...I guess that's you prisoner number?

If anyone wants to know about MCC Chicago (women's unit), MCC NYC, Oklahoma FTC, Danbury FCI (women) and Pekin FPC let me know.

If anyone wants to know about MCC Chicago (women's unit), MCC NYC, Oklahoma FTC, Danbury FCI (women) and Pekin FPC let me know.

Yes, please, I am headed to a women's federal facility - don't know where yet. I am in Minneapolis and I am thinking about what I would want my attorney to ask for. I know I would qualify for a camp. What is MCC Chicago? as that would be closest to my home and then next is Pekin. Were you in both? How do they compare?

Thanks for any general info you could give me. Do they both have the RDAP program?

Sheryl

All things being equal - without any separation issues and with available bedspace - someone from Minnesota (female) would probably go to Pekin, Il. I have several clients there and they do not complain any more than most.

Yes, please, I am going to Danbury. My letter says "FCI." I would like to know more about it.

meowmachine

Hi Sbrown, got your Pm.

MCC Chicago is most for people awaiting trial, unsentences and newly arrested. High security, overcrowded and pretty much not a place you want be in. If you are in MN and self surrender, you will probably go to Pekin FPC (granting that are classified low security). Pekin has no fences. It has two units, they are named Kansas and Nebraska. The units have two long hallways with two bed cubicles. At first you will not go to a cubicle, you will be in a new inmate intake room with bunk beds until there is an available dorm room. There is an exercise facility, pool table, religious services, a law library, education department, racquet court, walking trail and gardening in the spring. The avaialble jobs are landscaping, HVAC, construction, GED tutoring, and orderly jobs.
The food is acceptable but nothing to scream about. The commisary sells a wide variety of stuff including monthly purchases of beads and related craft materials.
Comparing this facility to others it gets the 4 star rating. However, don't forget it is prison. They have zero tolerance for rule breaking. Unruly women get Segregation time in Peoria if they are found out of line or out of bounds. I hope this helps. PM me if you need additional info.Peace

Oh Forgot

No drug program in Pekin. You will have to go to Danbury for that.

Hey Meowmachine

Danbury ah. Danbury has a camp and an adjacent prison. I was in the prison. Danbury prison was build sometime ago and it housed men until a decade ago. I believe it is a rough place. There are some 1100 women there. There are multiple units. The drug program unit, the trauma unit, the rest of the units are numbered from 2 to 12. Unit 2 (where I was) is most undesirable unit to be in. IT is a three tiered structure with metal bars and all just like the movies.A 6x8 cell that houses 2 inmates. If you weigh more than 120lbs you cannot turned around in the cell. There is a huge recreational area, an oval running/walking track, religious hall, messhole (cafeteria), workshop area and UNICOR. They also have a greenhouse program. The library is the only noteworthy place in Danbury. The law library is outdated therefore legal research is impossible. Laundry is done by the inmates in each unit. Laundry detergent is distributed at 6:00 am on tuesdays and thursdays, if you are not up and in line to get it, you cannot do laundry. Shakedowns are done routinely. Fights are the norm. Women there have a variety of sentences and charges. I met women with life sentences, 40 year sentences and short timers all in one place.
Danbury is also the federal dumbing ground for women to be deported after the completion of their sentence. Inmates with violent offenses from DC are also placed in there. Segregation is right next to unit 2, so women going to seg are trafficked through unit 2. The rest of the units are open dormitories with bunk beds.
Jobs are kitchen, orderly, painting and construction, workshop, yard worker and library or educational and some clerical positions. Commissary is distributed according to your assigned day. In order to prevent any writes you must check the unit list nightly (roster) to see if any appointments have been set for you. If you do not show up in appointments you will be picking up cigarette butts from the yard for a week.
Danbury is a true prison experience. My advice in surviving it, is make yourself usefull to other women. Help with GED classes, create a study group, be a legal researcher, work really hard. Personal survival guide: read like it's going out of style, choose the women that surround you very carefully, beware of head games, sexual predators, promises of protection and set ups.
No matter where you are going, remember to tell yourself that you can handle it. No matter what, it will be OK, I promise you. Keep you chin up. Peace.

Wow, Ramiella, thats sounds rough. Do you have any info about the camp? I have never heard much about it.

HI cjjack

Don't know about Danbury's camp. Sorry. Peace

Ladies,
I am heading to Coleman camp next month. Any body been there...done that..? Can you keep yourself busy all day or there are some time during the day that you have nothing to do? Before my bond i spent some time at the county and the most difficult were the hours of doing nothing and the time just stops.
Do you start the work and the classes as soon as you arrive there or it takes time?
Thank you for all the other information you provided here

Does anyone know how the Danbury camp compares to the adjacent prison? And where is RDAP housed? This place sounds awful. The only upside if I went to Danbury is I may get to be Martha's roommate!! LOL

OK , my real question is.... what is a 4 star prison??? like we're discussing hotels and comparing the Hyatt to Holiday Inn... Who does the ratings?

Has anyone here read any of the "Going to Federal Prison" books out there? Would you recommend them? Seems like I can get everything I need to know here at PTO. And with new rules/wardens something published 1-2 years ago could already be way outdated??? Do you think a woman headed to prison needs to read any of these manuals???

Thanks,
Sheryl

Hey hey!

What are the showering facilities like in a camp? Clean? Mildewy? Strange creatures living in the grout?

Would anyone here have any information on the camps on the west coast i.e. California?

And on a random note...are all the bras that are available, sports bras? :hmm:

Thank you!

No, they aren't all sports bras. Just depends on the facility.

The showers aren't too bad, at least the places I was at. You will need to buy shower shoes from the commissary though. But the unit orderlies do a pretty good job of keeping the bathrooms clean. At least until all the women come in and mess them up!

One more thing. Some commissaries sell bras, others don't.

Showers at Carswell Camp are heaven - you are housed in an old military hotel, and each room has up to 5 women with an individual bath! Hooray - you get to take a shower BY YOURSELF with the door closed! Each room does their own cleaning, and let me tell you, some of them are SO CLEAN even Martha wouldn't complain. Others.... well..... it depends! But, the housing facilities are great - individual room heat & air, a TV that rotates to each room about every 5th week (depending on if you keep your room clean enough at inspection), carpet on the floors, and a kitchenette (sink and cabinets) area. I hated prison, but compared to what I'd read, I could not complain about being there!

Bras - LOL - sports bra was given to me at R&D, then I got the yukkiest nylon (typical WalMart $5 special) type bras when I got my uniforms (it's called getting "dressed out" if you're learning prison lingo like I had to). They weren't great, but I survived. Bras were available for sale at commissary, but they were no better. One of my happiest moments when leaving? Putting on the Victoria's Secret bra my husband sent me to wear home!! Talk about learning to appreciate the little things!!

Almost forgot - I bought books before leaving (copies of the handbook and commissary list, etc.), but that was BEFORE I found this site. If I had to do it again, I'd just have found this sooner and saved a LOT of money. However, they were helpful, and even though they were several years old, they had not changed ONE bit. I got the same ones upon arrival (and still have them). It helped to know things, but still was quite an experience figuring out all the UNWRITTEN rules when I got there!

Hi Remiella,
Danbury prison sounds very frightening... like one of those B-movies. :eek: And those cages must have been quite claustrophobic. Can I assume that "segregation" and "the hole" are one and the same???
Thank you for the advice about helping out with GED. I have a degree in journalism and could help tutor anyone who needs help with writing skills. And I'll read a lot and write and try to avoid head games...
Hmmm...
I'm very grateful for your support and encouragement, Remiella.
meowmachine

Another petty, silly question... Can you get tweezers in prison?

Thanks,
Sheryl

Sheryl tweezers are contraband in medium security but are allowed in some institutions... go figure.Peace

You could buy tweezers at Alderson, along with toenail and fingernail clippers, scissors, and cuticle trimmers.

thanks, about the tweezers. I think I will be in a camp. I just can't imagine not being able to get rid of the wild hairs that show up on my face sometimes. How embarrassing... LOL

Sheryl

Has anyone here read any of the "Going to Federal Prison" books out there? Would you recommend them? Seems like I can get everything I need to know here at PTO. And with new rules/wardens something published 1-2 years ago could already be way outdated??? Do you think a woman headed to prison needs to read any of these manuals???

I have purchased for $70.
"The US Federal Prison System" by Mary Bosworth.

You'll have to understand my review...when we first started this bit, and knew nothing about feds except what others say, it would have been a good read.

However, now that places like PTO (not being partial here) are available, it's not worth the $70. {to me}

You all are getting more first hand interaction with these woman here and it doesn't touch what the book could cover.

Diane

Thanks Diane. I was thinking all this first hand info thru PTO was probably more than the books could offer. The women here at PTO who have been thru what I am facing are fabulous for sharing their experiences. I hope to do the same for other fearful females when I make it to the other side.

Sheryl

Sheryl

I cannot speak for all women but the issue for tweezers was the least of worries.When i got to prison i had an inward experience, meaning examination of myself, my limits, wants and needs and truly understanding what i am composed of. I could care less if I turned into a wolf with the facial hair and the plucking of the eyebrows. I hope you experience the same, it is very rewarding. However, I was always a self examiner, prison just exaggerated it. Peace

If anyone wants to know about MCC Chicago (women's unit), MCC NYC, Oklahoma FTC, Danbury FCI (women) and Pekin FPC let me know.
I am going to pekin April 23rd. Everything you can tell me would be great. I'm starting to get very nervous.

Angie0

Pekin isn't hard time. I will walk you through it. You arrive at R&D (receiving and discharge). You fill out some paper work. Just normal stuff. Then you state your size of clothing. The uniform is dark green ( a lovely forest green). You get 3 pants, 3 shirts, 3 white t-shirts, a pair of steel toe boots, toothbrush, socks and underwear. Physical exam follows, in the nude (go ahead and take it off they have seen it before). Case manager sees you next, spells out some rules. You may get some shots, like tetanus and a PPD test (tuberculosis). These are precaution for you as well as the inmates already inside.
After this processing you will be led to one of the housing units. You will either stay in Kansas or Nebraska. Both units have a preliminary intake unit, an open dorm with 6 or 8 bunk beds. After a month or so you will be given a bed in a cubicle which houses two women instead of 8. You will be assigned a job from your second day of arrival. They availability is limited and your choice even more so.
Pekin has a library, legal library, a large rec area, walking trail, greenhouse program, educational Ged programming, landscaping, construction jobs and HVAC.
Visiting room usually fills up on the weekends. You are searched going and coming from visits. The visiting room is pleasant, has vending machines and an outdoor small yard with picnic tables.
Commissary has cigarretes, candy, laundry stuff, quite a few items. Some crafts are allowed. Beading and crotching are the most popular.
While I was in Pekin i was allowed to teach a creative writing class. Take personal inventory of what you know well and ask the educational department is you will be allowed to teach. It is rewarding and gives other women the opportunity to occupy thier time constructively.
No fences, no bars in Pekin. Make sure you tame your tendency to just walk away from this place. The escape charge is going to add 5 years to your senetence.
Things to watch out for: groups formed for a particular reason, gossip and pettiness, relationships with other women based on favors/protection, gay sexuality (will land you in seg at Peoria), contraband.
I know this may sound goofy to you. Be thankful it is Pekin. The hardest thing I had to do there was rake rocks in the middle of nowhere; but I was outside looking at the sun. Keep you head high. The time will pass. Let me know if you have any more questions. Peace

To all the women who have been there can you tell me about violence in the camps?

I have read a handful of very scary posts about violence. I am certain they are all male facilities, and probably not camp enviornments. But if you could please, can you be truthful and gentle at the same time. What's the worst thing going on? What's the worst you saw?

I have never been a fighter on the outside. And I intend to mind my own business and maintain a low profile while in. Do other women just come after you because they can? without being provoked?

Looking forward to hearing any feedback.

Thanks,
Sheryl

It was my experience that violence is extremely rare in camps. If you stay away from the troublemakers you'll be just fine. No one will come up to you and just beat you up. No way. Most women just want to do their time. And if you do fight you will be shipped to a higher level institution. The 4 camps I was in had zero tolerance for violence. If you fight you get shipped. Period. If you have a history of violence you would not be designated to a camp. It does happen but I only saw one fight when I was incarcerated. Most of the time there are just verbal arguements if anything. Don't worry about being attacked while your there. That is really the least of your worries. Just be respectful to others and you will find that most of the ladies are very kind.

thanks Chrisa, I'm going to stop reading the scary posts and swear off all of those prison movies also.

Sheryl

lol. You'll be okay! :)

lol. You'll be okay! :)



does anyone have any info about vspw my sister just got 4 years this is our first experience with prison please help im scared for her.

Emily, is she going to a federal facility?

I have made contact with lots of you ladies who, along with me, will be surrendering soon. I can't keep all of your names and screen names straight. Who all is on their way, where and when. I don't have a sentencing date or surrender date yet so I imagine it will come after yours. In the meantime I would like to trade information, and stay in contact. If I follow even one of you to the facility where you go, I would like to look you up. Let's stay strong for each other and ourselves.

Sheryl

Sheryl, that sounds like a good idea. I get sentenced on April 12, 2004, and yes i'm kinda scared, but I know there is nothing I can do. I signed a plea bargain for 2 years to do 16 months, but my attorney called me the other day to inform me that the district attorney talked to him and they are going to reduce my time even more. I am happy, but I don't know how much more, I will find out on the 12th. Well keep in touch.
Georgia

This may seem rather random, but...

Could anyone tell me what an "average" day is like in a camp? What time do you wake up? Where do you go? What do you do? I am just curious and once again mentally gearing up for what will probably be 2+ years of BOP "hospitality." :-P

How are the camps at FCI Dublin and FCI Phoenix?

Mimi, every day is pretty much the same. I would wake up at 6 a.m. and take a shower. I would go to breakfast at 7 and then report to my job detail by 7:30 for roll call. I worked until 11 a.m. Everyone is called back to their units to wait to be released for lunch. Lunch lasted until 12:30. I worked until 3:45 in the afternoon. At 4 p.m is stand up count. After count cleared the units were released for dinner. You have free time up until 10 p.m. count. After that count clears you can go watch television but are not allowed in the common areas. We had to be in our rooms by 11:30 in Bryan and 1:00 a.m. in Alderson.
The weekends are a little different as we had brunch instead of lunch. There is also a 10:00 a.m. count on Saturday, Sunday and holidays. If you don't work your time is pretty much free. There is a stand up 4:00 count every day.

Good morning girls..

If you self surrender to a camp, is there an orientation period? How long does it take to get a job if you do want one? At some camps I've heard no jobs are available, and you must cope with boredom. I've also heard you must work. Does it vary from camp to camp?

Thanks,
Sheryl

Yes, you definitely have to work. You have no choice. They will find something for you to do. They do have a one day orientation outlining the rules of the camp. They will have someone from the kitchen, education, the mail room, etc. speaking to you.

As far as how long it takes to find a job, it varies. Until you find a job you will be working in the unit with the orderlies cleaning. Just staying in your room doing nothing is not allowed.

Let me just say that you will be assigned a job. According to many, not all jobs involve work.

LOL Hkieffer

You are right. Some of the jobs are just called jobs but require that you show up with a regular pulse and breathing. However, my job at the camp was landscaping. I drove a tractor, trimmed the grass(endless task) with a weed wacker, rebuild faulty carbirators in lawn mowers, kept equipment clean, loaded soil and rocks in trucks and decorated the extrerior of all buildings. I was a tough job but I ilked working hard. It wore me out so i could just take a shower and crash, in addition to keeping me fit.
Peace

I was wondering if anyone knew anything about FPC Phoenix. I will be headed there May 17. I wanted to work on my master's thesis while in there - but I guess computer access or access to a word processor is wishful thinking?? What about reading materials sent in - do they have to come directly from the publisher/ or am I just limited to what is in the prison library? What about getting old journal articles for my research - is it at all possible? Can someone tell me more about the prison library - what it contains, and what is available? I want to continue my graduate education in prison, but I am not sure how I am going to do that without having a computer, word processor, ability to attend lectures, email access, library catalogs, easy access to reading materials pertinent to my research, etc. Not only that - but I am too embarrassed to tell my program what is going on with me - I am afraid what they will think. So, I am thinking that I am going to ask for a year leave of absence for "peronal reasons" - and not let on about the whole prison stint. ANyone have any suggestions for me??
I AM SO LOST!
Jamie

Jamie,

I am afraid I can't help you with much knowledge of the federal camps. cjjack, and the others will be able to help there. I can't advise about your progress towards your BA, however, I knew a girl on state that managed to get hers. It took her awhile, but we had (I say had - it has since been ended) a program where we were allowed to attend classes, etc., at a women's college, just across the road from the prison. Sue, is now an Associate Prof. at UVA so I know it can be done.

But, as I said, cjjack and others can help more than I here.

Just for now, do me the favor of taking this one moment at a time one day at a time. Deal with one thing at a time if possible, the stress is enough without adding to it.

Your lost now, but we are here to listen and help, so you are not alone in this.

Stay strong,

Patti

Jamie, I am sorry to say that there is no internet access at all.

You can have reading material sent in. Paperback books can be sent from family/friends and hardback books can be sent as long as they come directly from the publisher. The prison library will vary from institution to institution but there will be mainly romance or suspense novels. Probably nothing at all that would help you.

This website has been SO helpful to me. I feel like reading everyone's posts especially other women who are headed to federal prison - has really helped me mentally prepare for this. I am sure that when I go to prison I will find there are many lovely ladies that I will form friendships with as there are here in this forum. When I first got sentenced in November - I was completely unprepared for what I heard. My lawyer had me CONVINCED I would get probation (even 5 minutes before I was called up for sentencing I told him I was a little nervous and he replied "Don't be. There is absolutely no way the judge is going to send you to prison." Well, 5 minutes later I almost fainted at the year and a day sentence, and the WORST went through my mind (getting beaten up, raped, both, etc.). However, gratefully, the judge has given me until May 17 to surrender so I have had almost 6 months to prepare for this. A couple of months ago - it was literally not-do-able, and the prospect of going to prison was totally preposterous! I am finally adjusting to the reality of things - and I am so grateful for this website - as it has helped me tremendously.
Thanks!
Jamie

I had the same experience! I was told there was no way I'd go to prison, that at worst I'd get 30 days at home, "shock confinement". Well, I got that year and a day too! That one day is a blessing though.

Do have you been assigned a location yet? I was at Pekin, if that helps.

Good luck!

Hi Felonmom

I was at Pekin from Feb of 1999 to June of 1999. Do we possibly know each other?
Peace

No, we weren't there at the same time. I was there in '03. But it's nice to meet you now. I bet we know a lot of the same people!

Hi Felonmom,
I have been assigned FPC Phoenix, will be surrendering May 17. My mom will be taking care of my 6-year-old son while I am away. I do have a question for you - out of the one year and one day, how much did you actually spend in prison, in a halfway house, etc.? And, is there anything I should be concerned about, going to prison??
Jamie

With my good time, I was there for 10 1/2 months. I turned down halfway house, or I would've been out in 91/2 months. It was a personal decision for me, but a lot of women were trying to turn down halfway when I left, especially if they had less than 35 days in Halfway or less.

Good luck with everything. You can do this.

For those of you that have read my posts you know how angry I have been with so-called "experts" that have given false and exagerated accounts in the media lately as to what its really like in in the womens camps. I spent 4 years in 4 different camps so I do know something about them. I'm certainly no expert but I would like to share what I do know with those of you that are getting ready to go to a camp or who have loved ones inside. Going to prison is scary thing to contemplate without having to listen to horror stories in the media.
I was incarcerated in FPC Carswell, FPC Lexington, FPC Alderson and FPC Bryan in that order. Each camp is different. The rules should be the same in all of them but they aren't. Much depends on the warden as to what and how the rules are implemented. Some things are the same no matter where you end up though!
The first thing that will do is go to R&D(receiving and discharge). This will probably take awhile. They will dress you out in a uniform. You're picture will be taken and you will meet with someone from medical to discuss any health issues that you have or any medication that you are taking. Usually whatever prescription medication you are taking they will let you keep on taking it as long as its non-narcotic. You will fill out some paperwork and they will assign you to a unit. Each place has different lay-outs as far as the units go. I went from sleeping in a TV room to a 2 man room(with a door you can close anytime you want!)in Lexington. Alderson had 2 man cubicles with about 150 people per unit. After six months in Alderson you qualify to go to a cottage. There are a lot less people in a cottage and its more like a regular room. Bryan has 4 man rooms with 100-150 people per unit. One thing I forgot to mention about R&D is that yes, you will be stripped searched. No cavity searches, just squat and cough. Don't take it personal, the CO's have to do it. I got so used to it that it ended being no big deal. Not pleasant, just try not to think about it. You will also be issued bedding to take with you to your unit. The next morning you will go to laundry to be issued your uniforms. They give you 4 pants, 4 shirts, 5 t-shirts, 5 underwear and 5 pairs of socks. You will also be issued boots or shoes. If you want extra underwear and socks you can purchase them at the commissary. Until you are assigned a job you will work cleaning the unit during the day. Alderson and Bryan will let you actively seek a job instead of waiting to be assigned by the staff. If you are allowed to do that please do. I did and was very fortunate. I was a librarian at Alderson and a GED tutor for special learning needs ladies in Bryan. Just remember that you are required to work unless you have a medical condition that would prevent that. Usually ladies that cannot work due to their health end up going to Carswell.
Bring money with you if you are able. You can go to commissary and buy a variety of things, from cosmetics, shorts, t-shirts, tennis shoes, radios, hygiene items and craft supplies. ALderson has a wonderful commissary and Lexingtons is awful. Around the holidays the commissary will offer holiday items such as Christmas cookies, etc. You can also purchase cigarettes if you smoke.
The majority of the ladies that you meet are kind. You will not be attacked. I thought the same thing before I went to prison. I was going to be beat up or raped or both! It is nothing like that!! I made friends there that I will hopefully have for the rest of my life. Violence in a camp is rare. They are nice places as far as prison goes and if you fight you will be shipped someplace not so nice. Remember to be courteous to your roomates. Clean up after yourself and do your share of the cleaning. The CO's do room inspections. Just be neat and you won't have any problems.
Each prison will offer a variety of educational programs and recreation. If you don't have a GED you will be required to attend clasees. At Bryan the instructors for the local community college come in every evening to teach Information Management. You will receive college credit. There are also classes such as auto-cad, cosmetology and horticulture. Just go to the education department of the institution to see what they offer. Recreation offers bingo at some places. They have bags of goodies from Wal-Mart if you win. They also have a variety of other games. In Alderson they have roller skating in the winter. There are yoga classes and exercise classes. Each institution has a library, some better than others. I can go on and on about different programs that these institutions offer so if you have any specific questions just ask. I will answer what I can.
Your experience in prison will be what you make it. You can bemoan your fate all the time or you can use the time to reflect and work on whatever issues you feel you need to work on. You are already there and nothing will probably change that. Prison is not a fun place to be, but I did have some fun while I was there thanks to some of the lovely ladies I was there with.
I have gone on long enough here. I'm sure there will be things that I will think of later to add. As I said, if anyone has any questions I will do my best to answer them.

Chrisa
Hi. I have just entered a plea agreement to spend 33 months in FPC camp. As you are all aware, I am very nervous. I am 36-years old and a mother of a 7 year old son.(whom will staywith my mother) I live in Champaign, Illinois and am requesting to go to Pekin. I read all the postings on this forum and am so much more at ease. So I want to say thanks to all of you. Pretty much all of my questions were answered. I do have a few more:

1. What are the chances of getting into the prison your attorney/sentencing consulatant recommends? (such as Pekin) If not, how difficult is it to get a transfer?

2. Also, I need a few glasses of wine to sleep every night because of the anxiety- do you think this would constitute being admitted into an RDAP program?

3. Are there alot of children in the visiting room at Pekin?

4. Lastly, what does the typical menu consist of?

And any other information you think I need to know would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks so much!

Kim

Hi. I have just entered a plea agreement to spend 33 months in FPC camp. As you are all aware, I am very nervous. I am 36-years old and a mother of a 7 year old son.(whom will staywith my mother) I live in Champaign, Illinois and am requesting to go to Pekin. I read all the postings on this forum and am so much more at ease. So I want to say thanks to all of you. Pretty much all of my questions were answered. I do have a few more:

1. What are the chances of getting into the prison your attorney/sentencing consulatant recommends? (such as Pekin) If not, how difficult is it to get a transfer?

2. Also, I need a few glasses of wine to sleep every night because of the anxiety- do you think this would constitute being admitted into an RDAP program?

3. Are there alot of children in the visiting room at Pekin?

4. Lastly, what does the typical menu consist of?

And any other information you think I need to know would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks so much!

Kim

Hi Yasmine

If you do not get to Pekin, see your case worker wherever you go and request a transfer, the sooner you put in a request the sooner things roll. That can only happen if you are minimum out custody and you are classified by the BOP as such.
LOL about the wine. The RDAP program is designed for people who were determined in need of it in the PSI. If you have history of drug abuse, or charges related to drugs you may be eligible. Wine to calm your nerves scenarios do not qualify. LOL.
While I was at Pekin I saw hundreds of children visit. They actually have a little yard with toys past the visiting room for little people to play and interact with their parents and also a side room with videos and toys. The visiting room is decent, clean and has vending machines for food and beverages.
Typical menu items: salad bar every day, spaghetti and meat sauce (mystery sauce)
chicken occasionally, pizza, typical breakfast (eggs, pancakes etc), macaroni and cheese, mystery stir fry (LOL), once in a while meat but paper thin. Don't expect much from the kitchen. I survived on the salad and some commisary items.
Prison is no easy experience but do thank the BOP "gods" if you find yourself at Pekin.
I experienced the BOP's harshest places only to see Pekin at the last 3 months of sentence and I was upset not having been sent there for all my sentence.
The places that may ease your mind a little is the library and the gym. If religion is your thing they do have all kinds of services. My generic prison suggestion for survival is to keep yourself busy. Do whatever it takes to fill your day with activities. Idle time means troublesome time. Your mind will roam more if you sit around, so get busy. My typical day (Pekin or not) started at 6:30 am and finished at 10:30pm non stop. I kept my sanity this way.
If you do get to Pekin look for Valerie in Kansas unit. She is on a wheelchair, young sweet woman. Say hi from Maria, the creative writing class instructor. Love that girl. (Hope she is still there)
I wish you strength, endurance, and the will to become stronger. Peace sis.

Maria, I don't think Valerie's still there. The only woman in a wheelchair in either units is an elderly african-american woman. And her name's not Valerie. She does live in Kansas though. Well, of course, that's where all the wheelchair bound women go because of the handicap accessibility. Duh!

Hello,
There is one question that I have neglected to ask about the federal prison camps, because I have not even thought about it (with everything else to worry about) until now. I am a vegetarian - and I have been all my life. I eat cheese and dairy, but no meat, poultry, seafood, or eggs. In fact, I gag at just the thought of eating these items (I know it sounds pretentious). Is there a possibility that I may starve to death while at the camp? Is it reasonable for an inmate to maintain a vegetarian diet of this sort while in there? 2 summers ago I went on a study abroad program with my university, and we stopped in Tunisia for a week. All they served us was meat and lettuce with no dressing and nothing else (just the green leaves, not even carrots or tomatoes) and I had to survive on the lettuce for the whole week, because I just could not bring myself to eat the meat. By the end of the stay there - I felt terrible - headachy, weak, and just plain starving! I don't know how I would manage this for ten months, though. Maybe I should spend my last few weeks of freedom forcing myself to get used to eating meat?? I know this probably sounds weird - but this is a legitimate concern of mine! Any thoughts??
Jamie :)

Jamie,

I know of several women at Alderson who were also vegetarians. They had to have their diet approved through medical, and special trays were prepared for them.
If Phoenix's CDR is anything like Alderson's you will not have a problem. It won't be like home, but it will be ok. :)

Most of the time a special diet must be for religious reasons.

Thanks so much for your answers. It has helped alot. I just have a few more questions. How soon after I am admitted can I see my son or call home? And, is there anything I should be doing now to prepare myself? I drove to the camp and checked it out. That really helped. Also, how is the first night there- is it terrifying? Did women reach out to you right away or did you make the inital contact? I guess I am asking what the protocol is?

Thanks again!

Kim

Hey Yasmine

You can call home after 2-3 days. They need to place your name and the numbers you will be calling in the phone system. Visiting depends on how fast your loved ones are approved. There are forms you need to get from your case manager. Get them as soon as you can. Mail them home and have your relatives fill them out and send back to the prison. Bureaucratic processes can be excruciating in prison, keep your cool.
As far as the first night in, let's consider this. Everything that is new or unknown is kind of scary. You will probably feel a bit lost and jumpy. I am sure that women will immediately reach out to you. It seems that within 24 hours you will have a network of women that will gravitate towards you and you towards them. It happens everytime a new woman comes in. It is important to keep focused. This is not forever, it is temporary, it will come to an end and must make the best of it.
For me, imprisonment was a profoundly inward experience. This may strike you as philosophical jargon, but I felt that prison was a descent into the deepest parts of myself, and an ascendent to the highest peaks. Your spirit is never imprisoned, noone can touch it or taint it, it is free to roam. This notion will keep you grinning with satisfaction of self knowledge. Keep your chin up.

remiella,

what a fabulous post, so inspirational to all of us facing time. I too believe they cannot reach my spirit. Who I am and my spirit resides inside of me, in my heart. No matter what anyone says to me or how many strip searches, or whatever means used to degrade/humiliate me.... They cannot touch who I am, I get to keep this. And only me, can keep my spirit alive and well.

Again, thank you for posting this wonderful information. Especially from someone who made it thru.

Sheryl

Amen Remiella!! Well put. I did my time way also. I used it as a time to get to know me, what made me tick, why I did the things I do. For me personally it was a time to enrich my faith. I started working out, losing weight. When someone asks me, I tell them that the experience profoundly changed me and may well be one of the best things to happen to me.

It will be OK. Stay positive, walk the track, stay busy. Read to you limit, journal, just lock it in you locker. Write your son often. :) xoxo

Remiella, Brilliant! Thanks for sharing your wisdom and strengh with ALL of us here at PTO!! With Gratitude!

To felonmom -

All I have heard about is everyone gaining weight in prison and the food being loaded with carbs and fat. How is it you lost weight??? How can I at least maintain my weight and not come home depressed over my new larger size??? I would love to see you post about the good things that happened for you because of prison. How has it changed you? and do you believe the change will last? Thanks, if you are willing to share.

Sheryl

You guys brought tears to my eyes with your recognition and gratitude. Thank you.

And to Sbrown

Here is a way to get fit while in prison. Eat your breakfast. Eat some protein (eggs) and some carbs, like oatmeal (medium portions). Have plenty of water. Choose a job that involves physical labor like landscaping or warehouse and push yourself to sweat a little. Don't get excessive. Eat a moderate lunch. Take it easy with the carbs.But do have some. (Cutting out carbs all together is dangerous to your health, you don't want to visit medical facilities while you're imprisoned). Finish your work day. After 4:00pm count dinner is served. Eat a very light dinner. Keep any fruit you are allowed to take back to the unit. Wait until 6:00pm to digest. Then from 6-7:30 lift weights. In the beginning lift light weights, do leg curls, work your bicepts and tricepts, squats with weights, lats, deltoids, gluteous, langes. Make sure you start with 10 sets (15 per set) of sit ups after you lift. Every facility I have been in had charts on the wall of specific exercises targeting the muscle groups. It is up to you to design a routine you can live with. Stop if you feel dizzy, nauseous or weak. It is suppose to be invigorating. After your workout, stretch and breath deeply. then walk for 15 minutes.
(Some facilities do not have free weights because unruly children hit each other with dumbells. In that case there should be machines to accomodate you).
By 9:00 eat your fruit and have plenty of water. You will soon be ready to graduate to heavier weights for the ripped look, and I mean ripped.
I followed this pattern for 18 months. I want to brag but i won't. Solid as a rock may be descriptive. You will absolutely love the way you look, you will be praised and looked upon as a leader. you may even get a following. Try it and have a ball while you are trying it. Don't forget to laugh at yourself. Peace
Maria

thanks for the advise. You haven't seen my body, I doubt I'll ever get the ripped look, too far gone..... But congrats to you. If I develop a following it will be because of compassion and laughter. Thank god we have laughter.

Sheryl

Remiella~ It is quite obvious from your posts, you have a true gift and you share openly and freely and our lives are enriched because of it ... You have given each and everyone of us HOPE where it has been barren for Soooooooo long ... We wish you much joy in all of your endeavors and much PEACE in your world! With Gratitude to you ALWAYS!

I was just wondering, when I first go in, will the other ladies wait until I approach them, or will they make me feel welcome there? I am shy, so it is hard for me to take the initiative with new people - especially in such a novel and stressful situation such as my first day of prison. I really want to make friends there, and feel comfortable as soon as possible. Do the people who have been there longer make fun of the new people or anything like that (as is depicted in movies)? Are there any "implicit rules of etiquette" that I should always remember that may not be as obvious to a newcomer? What is it at like at night time when everyone goes to sleep? Does everyone go right to sleep when the lights go out, or do they gossip and whisper amongst themselves :)
Are you permitted to nap during the day (after work, of course!). Sorry for all of these crazy questions, but May 17 is fast approaching, and I still have all of these little concerns and questions!
Jamie

Mach1

I want to thank you for your comments. You made my week. It takes ability to recognize it in someone else. Good wishes to you. Peace

sbrown- you can lose weight in prison! When I went into Pekin, I needed 6X pants and weight about 315 pounds. By the time I left I was in an XL pant and L shirt. I got on the construction crew and our favorite phrase was, "mow, mow, mow" !! We walked miles and miles pushing those red or green mowers. After I got on Grounds crew, which had a MUCH lighter schedule, I had my days to myself and instead of sitting in the TV room crocheting (no offense to you crafty ladies!) I got up and got out. I walked 3 miles every day and added weights and abdominal workouts. There was a step aerobics class 4 nights a week and man can you burn off the lbs. I'm around 220 now (I've gained about 20) but I'm no longer always in plus sizes and when I came home I got to shop at Old Navy!! PLEASE!! Don't go on the Atkins diet while you are there. It's the craze right now and the women are being very unhealthy and falling out all over the place. Be safe, eat smart and move your body!!

Jamie- my first moments there were bonding experiences. Two of my best friends were in the bus stop with me and they will be in my life for a long time. At first, you will likely bond with your bus stop, depending on the group. I was lucky, we were almost all money crimes, with like stories. And yes, we did talk all night. Since my time in the bus stop they've cracked down on lights out hours, but we stayed up talking and sometimes crying, sharing our life stories. I hope you like to play cards, because that is a nightly ritual!! Caramel corn and cards!! If you're in the bus stop be careful about napping. Our counselor would go in the bus stop and wake up sleepers and give them extra duty. Once I got my Grounds Crew job, however, I relished my afternoon nap, or the quick zz's I caught after hustling back to my room after getting off from construction, hoping I woke up for count. As for rules of etiquette, the one thing that sticks with me is that the women who have been there for a while don't trust anyone who comes in too eager or asks too many questions. Slow your roll, and stick with your group! If you go to Pekin and anyone hears you say the above, they're going to know that you know me!! :)

Dear Remiella and Felonmom-

I want to thank you again for all the information you have given me and all the personal feelings you two shared. I am trying to believe that this is happening for a "good" reason and I will grow from it. I guess I will know for certain when I can look back and reflect on it-once I am finished with my sentence.(which is still about two-three months from beginning)

I have a question for anyone with small children- how did your kids react the first time they saw you in prison and how were they when you got out? I have such a fear that my 7-year-old son is going to feel like I abandoned him because I will not be there when he needs me. Quite honestly, this is what scares me most about going- the guilt of not being there for him and going for days without seeing him. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks-

Kim

Thanks felonmom!
One more question - if I get a cavity while in the camp, are dental services provided? If so - do they just pull the teeth or is it possible to get cleanings/fillings? I am going to try to get a dental check-up before I go in, but I am not sure if I will be able to get into an appointment with this short notice. I think I feel a cavity coming on!
Jamie

HI Jamie

Please don't rely on the BOP for the well being of your teeth. It is hard to see a dentist, especially if you have short time to do. Medical services in general is a gray area, try to enter the system with no need for any medical attention. It will only aggravate you. Peace

Hi Sheryl

Hilarious response about the following, you are such a goof. I want to asuure you that the heavier you are the easier to alter your metabolism to lose weight. It is the last 15-20 lbs that are hard get rid off. So don't excuse the exercise thing by saying that you are too heavy to get the ripped look. YES YOU CAN. Just start. You remind me of my son and the little train going up the hill. I THINK I CAN, ITHINK I CAN, I THINK I CAN. And my husband in the background mubbles, "the little train the could and should and would". LOL Come on Sheryl tell me you will try. Peace

Yasmine - about your son. My wife is at FPC Bryan and I'm home with our two daughters (6 & 2). It was a few weeks before we took the kids to see mom in prison. I wanted to give them time to adjust to her not being around when they wanted something. Amazingly it only took a day or two for them to stop asking for her. We were honest and open w/the 6yo about where mommy was and why she was there and were firm that mom wouldn't be home for a while. Right away she was able to understand that we were here and mom was there. I don't intend to diminish the importance of Mom being home with us, but the kids have been so adaptable, flexible. Much more so than I ever would have imagined. As far as the separation goes, I believe it's much harder on Mom than on the kids. I also have a fabulous support system here at home w/family help and such. Just my $0.02 worth. Which facility are you headed to?

I have read all of the post, and have to agree with all that was said about Pekin. I did almost two years there, and honestly think that God put me there for a reason. The first day I arrived, I was so scared, and had no ideal what to expect. The women in the bus stop became my first friends, but it didn't take long before, everyone was talking to me, and I made lots friends. There are five ladies, who I am still very close to, and helped me learn a lot about myself. My father died while I was at Pekin, and everyone was there for me, and help me deal with how I was feeling. If, people in the real world were as kind and friendly as most people I did my time with, the world would be a lot better of a place to be.
You are the one who makes your experience a valuable one......just be your self, and remember it is an experience that you can learn from.
My children were young when I went to Pekin, and I was honest with them before I left. I didn't go into the details of why I was going, but did explain to them where I was going and for how long. They understood, and I called them as much as I could. My ex-husband made it hard on me at first, but I got with my counselor, and she got me into a group, that really helped. The people who conducted the group, my counselor, and the other ladies at Pekin helped me learn what my rights were, and send letters to the schools, courts and etc. The resources are there....you just have to use them. I took every parenting class that was available, and once I got home, I got my children right back. My ex is even a state probation and parole office and tired to fight me for custody, but I won, nad the judge stated it was because I took advantage of what was being offered, and admitted that I was not perfect. I did take some college courses and worked in the HVAC department, which taught me a lot. You can take advantage of what they offer.....I figured I HAD to be there, I might as well let the Goverment pay for something.
I can honestly say that there will be some hard days, especially during the holidays, and when you first enter back into the real world, but you just hold your head high. I have come to the conclusion, I don't care what others think of me cause of my past, I know that I am a better person cause of it. I made the best friends that I have ever had, am a better parent, learned alot about myself, and am proud of who I am. Yea, I made a mistake, but who hasn't. And anyone who thinks I am bad because I did time, well I don't need them.
To all of you that are getting ready to go....I wish you luck, just do your time one day at a time.

Well put, newlife. Us Pekin chicks stick together!! :)

Thanks so much for your advice. I am hoping to have a similar experience and believe this is happening for a reason!

Kim

Kim - I don't know if you're headed to Pekin or not . . . But if you are, another PTO member started her time there in late Feb. or Mar. of this year - Mrsg (Tamie Gordon). Got 3 yrs. I think. If you're going there, look her up. I know my wife has run into a few PTOers at Bryan. She said it's nice to have at least one thing in common with the other ladies.

BusyMan,

Have you heard from Tamie? I just posted a letter to her last Monday, when she hit the BOP site it still had her at FTC OK.

Patti

Patti - my wife asked me to look her up on the BOP site because she thought she might be headed to Bryan also and wanted to meet her. So I checked the site today and it has her listed at Pekin.

Can some one tell me what the BOP web site is?

www.bop.gov
If you're looking for someone, click on the inmate locator button. It'll tell you what to do from there.

Thanks for the information. I was able to locate a friend that I lost contact with, and found out that another is out. So, now I need to send some letters.

Hi Newlife. Did you ever see any fights when you were at Pekin? Also, I just got a letter from an inmate- Ruth- she seems great. Do you know her?

Thanks-

Kim

I never saw any fights while I was there, but did hear about a few. But, there were all between two people, never any gang's or anything. All, the fights that happen while I was there, was due to lover quarrels. Pekin, isn't a bad place. To be honest, except for missing my freedom, and my family, my time was their was easy. While I was there there was always something going on, seems like there was activities of some sort. The family day's were nice, they allow you family to go to other places in the camp, beside the visiting room. I made some of the greatest friends, and I know that these friends don't judge me for the things that I have done. :thumbsup: Just go in there and be willing to learn something, and you will. You can learn some interesting skills, and alot about you self. I worked in HVAC while I was there, it is an easy job, and we use to have fun. A lot of times, we would come up with a reason and go on top of food service, and then we would set up there and just talked for a long time. Make sure you know how to play spades, there are a lot of nights there different people are sitten around playing spades.
If, you have any more questions, feel free to ask them, and I will gladly tell you what I can.
There isn't anyone left at Pekin that I know. All of them are now at home, drug program or the half-way house.

I'm just home from Pekin. Well, it seems like I just got home, it's been four months already. I know women who are still there.

There weren't any fights while I was there. The weapon of choice during my time was horrible gossip and outright lies! Women can be ferocious!! (sp?)

I'm down with everything new life says. I was on Construction 2 and we had a ball. Mowing season is a great way to lose weight.

Tamie and I live in the same city, and I know that there are women in Pekin who were expecting her and are looking out for her. She'll be taken care of, I'm sure.

OH, FYI Newlife- the new camp administrator did away with open family days. Now the only family day is part of the parenting class and it takes place over in the cramped Parity building. Our families don't get to see the compound anymore. :(

felonmom:

You are 100% correct about the gossip and lies. I made some close friends and spent 90% of my time with them. That way I knew I was getting the truth. It really sucks, that they did away with Family day, it helped for my boys to see where I was staying at the time. They got to go into the housing unit, and even stayed in our "rooms" for awhile. That really helped them, to see that I wasn't inside a cell, and didn't have the metal doors. At Christmas family day, they were allowed to stay till after dark, and we had a lighting of the Christmas tree, and a singing contest, the families would judge, then they had to go. Guess the new camp administrator thought "inmates" were getting to many privlages. But, you know by having thoes family days, and etc, really helped the moral and did make you realize what all you were missing. Cause, once your family left, it was hard.

Morale was at a low when I left. More and more changes were being made. We were having to sign up for a laundry time each week. Every alley had one day of the week and you got one hour during that day. What a mess. But, camp adm thought it was a dandy idea. The women were also made to take all magazine pix off the bulletin boards. You know how it is, some women only had those pictures to put up. It was getting crazy. This year hardly anyone came out for the tree lighting and the play was cancelled due to lack of enthusiasm. The more crowded it gets the lower morale will sink I am afraid.

I was the same way. Our motto was, "stay with your group" that way you knew they had your back. Of course, since we were always together that meant we were all gay. :)

Sounds like they need to do something about the morale. I know it is suppose to be prison, but still, they should treat people like humans, not animals. I got to the point, I didn't care what other people said about me and my friends. I knew we were not gay, but good friends, and still are friends.

I hear ya! I'm still friends with my group too. We kind of have been through the fire together and that bonds you.

For some reason, there were a group of 'haters' who thought the ultimate insult was to say you were gay. It didn't bother me a bit, if I were gay, I'd be proud to be hooked up with my friends! :)

People like that are just jealous cause other people make good friends and that bothers them. I do hope that PTO members that go to Pekin or any-where else, let other inmates know about this web site. I wish I would of know about it when I got out. I know it would of helped me a lot.:thumbsup:

If any of you know Inmates that are still in....if you add their name to the first "free" issue of Con-tact news.....they will get to know we exist! And hopefully share with others outside or come visit when they see freedom! Just a thought....:p

Here is the link....

http://www.prisontalk.com/forums/showthread.php?t=54330

Diane

Hello,

Well, I am now officially 13 days from self-surrendering. I guess the thing that bothers me the most is how the guards are going to talk/treat me like an animal just because I'm one of their "prisoners." I've heard a lot of stories about the guards (not sure if they are true or not) - that most of them are mean "power-trippers," and relish in making one's life miserable if someone shows them a tiny bit of disrespect. I have a tendency to get my feelings hurt easily, and cry! But, oh well, I guess. I still believe I will get through this and come out a stronger person! And hopefully, meet many new friends along the way.

Hi Jamie. I understand your concerns and I am sure you will get your questions answered. ( I am curious myself and so far I have gotten all the answers I have needed) Do you know your number yet, so we can write?

Kim

Jamie- I have to tell you that I never came across a guard that was like that. There were some button-pushers, but all in all, they were pretty decent. Now, if you are trouble and make them have to work harder then maybe it's a different story, but I don't think you will have to worry about that.

You are not the first woman who cries while inside. There are good people in there who will stand by you. I was a real mooshie one, and I did have to toughen up, not let them see me get my feelings hurt, and it's been good for me. You'll be OK. PM if you need anything. :) xoxo

Yes, I do have my register number and the FPC Phoenix address and everything. I would love to keep in touch with anyone who wants to write to me! I know I am not allowed to post the information here in the forum, but will gladly give the info to anyone who PMs me!
This site has really helped me prepare for this, and I am so grateful to everyone who has helped me!
Jamie

:p I went from a size 12 to a 16! When my family picked me up form Coleman to go to CCC, I could not even get my pants over my hips!
Since I hung out inbig baggy sweats and did not give a sh?! what i ate when I was in, the pounds creeped up on me. Now I am doing Atkins, UGH!! To lose it, I am working on it!
When you first get out you want to eat a LOT too! LOL


To felonmom -

All I have heard about is everyone gaining weight in prison and the food being loaded with carbs and fat. How is it you lost weight??? How can I at least maintain my weight and not come home depressed over my new larger size??? I would love to see you post about the good things that happened for you because of prison. How has it changed you? and do you believe the change will last? Thanks, if you are willing to share.

Sheryl

Where is the closest airport to Pekin? or what about Greenville? Is pekin a camp only? and there is no RDAP there? Does Greenville have RDAP? Is it a camp?

Thanks,
Sheryl

Okay, so now I am twelve days from surrendering, and I am finally realizing that I am not going to wake up and realize this was all a terrible nightmare. I guess I have one more little "silly" question:
Do they have hair driers and/or curling irons in the camps?? Otherwise, I will just have to wear a pony tail or bun every day (I have wild hair without these items).
Jamie

When I was at Pekin, there were hairdryers and curling irons. Sometimes you had to hunt them down on the weekend, because people had a habit of "sleeping' with them so they'd have them to get ready for their visit. But they were quality items and they worked well. I wore my hair in a ponytail to work and play softball though.

You will wake up one day and realize that you did it, and now it's over and you can move on with your life. This is just a bump in the road, it's not who you are. :)

Sherly:

I do not know where the nearest airport is, but I know there is one close by. Pekin, is a camp, and not a bad place. I totally agree with what felonmom said "you will wake up one day and realize that you did it, and not it's over and you can move on with you life. IT IS JUST A BUMP IN THE ROAD, IT'S NOT WHO YOU ARE.
Before I ever surrendered, I never thought that I would make it. I was scared to death, cried for two or three days before I got there, and all day the day I surrendered. But, I did it, with no problems, and am a much better person for it now. I know that there isn't anything that I can't get through now.

Just always remember that you are a good person, and what every-one else thinks doesn't matter, it's what you think of yourself that counts.

Hi, Thank you all for so much information and positive thoughts. I just filed my objections for the preliminary PSI and expect sentencing to be set in late June. My husband (my co-defendent) just received his sentencing date of June 21. Our three children will be in North Carolina. We live in Missouri currently. My attorney said she would request the nearest camp to Charlotte, NC. But I have been doing research and that would be Lexington KY, or Danbury. However there are minimum in West Virginia and South Carolina, I think. Would I be insane to request minimum over camp? How likely is the judge to request that of the BOP? How likely is the BOP to actually place me there? The guideline range is 21 - 27 months - for fraud w/ no criminal history. Any suggestions?

Also, I wear contacts - my vision is horrible. Can I wear contacts? Or do I wear my big glasses? (vanity - ugh...). If I can wear contacts - do they have cleanser and stuff at commissary?

Thank you for all the info you've provided.
Suzanne

Alderson is in WV and it is a federal prison camp for women. From my limit