Spencer

As you may know, I visit Spencer almost every week. Judy usually goes with me. He is always upbeat, has a great sense of humor, and looks great. He works out a lot, but since theydon't have weights, they have to use other methods, like putting catalogs inside of pillowcases, etc. He runs a lot, listens to Rush Limbaugh on his radio, and has a TV which I sent (prisoners can order TV's, radios, clothes, and a wide assortment of food, through "quarterly" packages, as long as someone pays for it). His running area is not large, and is basically around the yard. You can see the Corcoran facility on Google Earth or Microsoft's version if you want to see where he lives. Getting through each day is difficlut, mainly due to the demeaning way in which all prisoners are treated, but he deals with it. The substance abuse education is a joke, and is taught by high school graduates who earn $11 per hour. So Spence spends his time studying his college courses (he is earning college credits through courses given online by two junior colleges), reading, working out, and running when they are not in "lock down." The system is one which breaks down the spirit of anyone there, and then releases them without any new skills, and a great feeling of low self worth. Plus it is very hard for most ex cons to get a job. Not surprising that 85% return. And the taxpayers pay a huge price for this. Spencer is determined not to return. But part of the problem is that once you get out, your mind blocks out the whole experience because it was so negative. So many return immediately to their old friends and old ways. Hopefully Spence will be able to stay out this time.