Prison Federal Prison Camp
Click here to see more about my experience in federal prison camp. I talked in detail about my experiences in Herlong Federal Prison Camp. The great thing about this blog was that I talked about it all, from first-hand experience. In the link above, you’ll see the struggles, the food, and the resilience. I know
DOORDASH IS UNION BUSTING! REWARD PROGRAM!
Update 9/28/2025: This sounded so good when it happened. But I actually lost a lot of money on this program. I went down to $30 in a 10-hour period. I had to return to Sacramento, CA and switch to Grubhub. This was a horrible program. DoorDash introduced a new reward program called platinum award. Program
You Gotta Want It
Update 9/30/25: I still feel this way. I would also add that you have to narrow down your focus. I am learning that if I focus on a few things, I’ll get more done. Sometimes at the end of the day you just have to want it. No matter how hard it gets, you just
Locked Out Of My Apartment
Update 9/30/25: I really wish I had a backup key in my wallet. I never did get one. But moving forward, I’ll always have a backup key on me. One of those types of days. I woke up, a little out of it and was rushing to work. I swore I had everything I needed
Doordash Is A Terrible Good Job
Update 9/30/25: I ended up quitting Doordash because the money drop bad! I was making $30 in 10 hours. So I quit. Guess I got my wish. I think I started Doordash in 2018. So what about six years now. I like the job. Yes, I really wanna quit. But I like the job. Are
DoorDash Driver Reward Program Update
Update 9/30/25: I remember this program was good. It gave me a reason to work hard. But I don’t remember how long it lasted. I know they would never bring this back. Happy Monday!You’ve earned 73 points from Fri, 6/7 to Sun, 6/9. Points breakdown:+ 41 points for 41 deliveries completed+ 24 points for 24 deliveries
DoorDash Preferred Dasher?
Update 9/30/25: This program lasted a hot minute. I didn’t make too much money from it at all. I got an email today saying that I’m a preferred dasher for Papa John’s. So this means I get $2 extra for every Papa John’s delivery completed. Also I get Papa John orders before anyone else. Let’s
DoorDash Reward System: First Week
Update 9/30/25: I miss this program. I think it dropped off a month or two later. But it did give me more motivation to drive more. After the first week of Doordash’s new reward program, I have to say I’m pleased. I have made 118 points which gave me $90 in cash for this week,
Doordash Dashers Beta Reward Program
Doordash is rolling out a new beta reward program for its drivers, also called dashers. I’m looking forward to this new program. It looks promising. I can see how I can make some good cash by hitting certain bonuses. And I probably would not need to drive any more than I already do. I put
How To Self-Surrender to a Federal Prison Camp
Update 9/30/25: There have been so many people who have loved this video. I’m glad it helped them so much. Are you wondering how to self-surrender to a federal prison camp? I understand difficult it is to turn yourself in to prison camp. Though lawyers and the marshals tell you a few things about self-surrendering,
Why I Quit Delivering Food for Grubhub
Update 9/30/25: I would return to Grubhub several times since this post. In fact, at the time of this update, I am working for Grubhub full time. The money is pretty good as of 9/30/25. How did I go from washing dishes to delivering food? Well, I’m always looking for a way to keep my
Locked Up & In-Love: Meaningful Prison Romance
Update 9/30/25: I still believe that this post was beneficial. I learned these lessons from other people’s love life in the prison camp. Prison romance can be hard, especially if you’re having a difficult time adjusting to your partner being in prison. They’re even more difficult when you consider all the restrictions of a prison
Family Photos Can Uplift Your Imprisoned Loved One
Update 9/30/25: This was so true. Having these pictures in my desk area made my stay more manageable. Family photos and pictures, in general, can be used to uplift and encourage someone as well as and relive or review moments made in history. They are extremely beneficial to inmates for their well-being and positive development.
A Pinched Nerve is a Real Pain
Update 9/30/25: I’m so glad I found this post. I still do most of these. The massages are the best treatment. A pinched nerve is a real pain! Yea, that might sound cheesy, but it’s truly nothing to joke about. They decrease mobility and range of motion, not to mention they can be difficult to
Describing Herlong Prison Camp
Update 10/01/25: Thank you to all the people who have found this video helpful. I hope you also find it helpful. Are you on your way to federal prison camp? This video will help. I explain detail what you will find when you go to Herlong Prison Camp. At the camp, you’ll have most of
Party Solo for Your Birthday
Update 10/02/25: I still party solo on birthdays. I probably do something special on my 50th. But I like to be alone on my birthdays or go on a trip. Party Solo? Uh, that isn’t what any thirty-something or even forty-something really wants to do for their birthday. But as I get older, I’ve noticed
Prison Pen Pal: Rules of Engagement
Update 10/02/25: Pen Pals are amazing in prison. I had a few. I had some family members and a good friend of mine. Do you know someone who has ever thought about becoming prison pen pals with an inmate? Depression and loneliness are serious matters for inmates, especially for those that don’t have supportive families.
Food Contamination & Depression
Update 10/02/25: Looking back at this post, I can’t believe I ate that food. I mean, I was good, but super unhealthy. Would you ever think, food contamination and depression could be linked? I definitely didn’t think they were until I read a post about a cook in a prison kitchen who encountered packaged chicken
Accepting Depression Can Be Hard
Accepting depression can be hard. Depression affects many people in world, but most try to hide their symptoms from family and friends. It makes people feel embarrassed knowing their feelings can bring others down. Their solution is to stay at home, curled up in a ball drowning in their depressive thoughts. According to Inscribmag.com, depression
Live Your Best Life Locally!
If you can’t live your best life, then live your best life locally until you can. Just because you can’t jet set to another state or country and turn up doesn’t mean that you can’t live your best life locally. I believe there are levels of living your best life and your local best life
4 Easy Entrepreneur Ex-Con Business Ideas
Update 10/18/25: Here is a list of entrepreneurial ideas inmates can try to build while in prison. Inmates who start these ideas in prison can get a head start when they arrive home. The number one issue for newly released inmates is surviving financially. It’s extremely difficult to find a job and/or housing with a
Working a Dead-End Job and Taking Care of Yourself
Update 10/14/25: I still these ideas. Also, sitting on a cryochair at the Crunch.com. Anyone knows that working a dead-end job is physically and emotionally taxing. I know because I’ve been doing it for many years now. Since I have to work this type of job, I had to learn how to take better care
What Are The Warning Signs of Mental Illness?
By Pyerse Dandridge Author: Subprime Felon: Inside Federal Prison Camp Did you know that mental health issues are extremely common in the criminal population? Over 10% of inmates have been reported to have some form of mental illness. Studies have shown that even after receiving psychiatric help, some former criminals still present psychiatric symptoms after
The Importance of Making Your Loved-Ones Active in Post-Prison Recovery
Update 10/04/25: Here is some details of my post prison life. I’ll do an update on http://www.pyerse.com. As detailed in my book, Subprime Felon: Inside Federal Prison Camp, prison is very difficult for the individual who’s going to prison. Yet, what’s not often talked about is how an inmate’s loved ones suffer because of it.
Could College For Convicts Reduce Recidivism?
Update 10/4/25: Maybe this could have given convicts more options. But the job market is bad for everyone right now. I was reading an article by Professor Charles J. Reid, Jr. discussing rather education could lower recidivism rates. He references Christopher Zoukis’ book, College For Convicts. I thought Reid had some great points and I
The Importance of Having a Routine In Federal Prison Camp
Update 10/04/25: These routines helped me out so much that I tried to do these when I got home. I highly recommend these suggestions to anyone. 4 Reasons Routines Help You in Prison Routines can seem mundane and tedious to the person that has to follow its rigid structure. It can almost feel like life’s
Why Black Men Don’t Use Mental Health Care
Update 10/02/25: This explains the issue with Black men and mental health care. I still feel the same today. In a recent article from the Business Insider, they discussed how our mental health care system fails Black men and the fact that Black men under-utilize the services provided. “Instead of receiving professional help for their
Snitches, An excerpt from Subprime Felon
Update 10/02/25: This is one of my favorite sections of Subprime Felon. However, it’s funny snitches had too much power in camp. There’s a saying in the street and I’m sure you’ve heard somebody say to you. It’s simply, “Snitches get stitches”. It’s a powerful statement that implies that tattle tales or snitches deserve the
Saying Good-bye to my Stepdad
Update 10/02/25: I can’t forget this day. It was so crazy. I knew I’d see my family again, but it did seem like a final goodbye. Good-byes aren’t hard when you know you’ll see that person soon. When you are unsure of the time frame or know it’s going to be a long time,
What Is a Halfway House?
Update 10/02/25: Looking back, this halfway house experience was crazy. I see how I survived it, but I never want to have to again. Most people know what prisons are and the details of how they may be operated, but most don’t know what a halfway house is. This article will explain what halfway houses
People Going To Prison For Drug-Related Crimes Doesn’t Make The Country Safer.
Update 10/04/25: I have to admit; this article is more relevant now than ever. Americans want to believe that sending people to prison for drug-related crimes are the best option for keeping the streets clean. However, sending people to prison for drug-related crimes doesn’t make the country safer. According to a report from the Pew
The End Of Solitary Confinement in California?
Update 10/04/25: I think they might have brought this back. I’ll have to check. This week I read on SF Bay Review that California State and local prison have been forced to limit their use of solitary confinement units, or SHU. This is thanks to a settlement reached in the Ashker vs Brown federal class
Cleaning my room helped improve my writing
Update 10/04/25: I’ll find out cleaning my room on a daily schedule helps with managing my asthma. And I mean dusting, vacuuming, and changing the sheets. As a writer, I am always looking for two things: a way to improve my writing and a way to produce more blog posts. During my search I’ve learned
Being Negative at Work Will Drain My Energy
Update 10/04/25: This helped with my mental health so much. I also think it helped attract good people in my life. As I get older, I realize the importance of working at jobs I like and enjoy. I’ve learned that being negative at work will drain my energy. I’ve also noticed that working jobs where
The Natural Ergonomic 4000 by Microsoft Review
Update 10/04/25: This keyboard was very helpful. I don’t use it anymore. I changed my positioning on the desk instead. For a while, I was having wrist and shoulder problems while typing. It felt as if I was squeezing my shoulders and my chest just to type on a traditional keyboard. The problems were so
The Minimum Wage In Sacramento Needs To Be $15 an hour
Update 10/04/25: This was a fun time working with SacACT. I do miss these days. As many people know, I’ve been working minimum wage jobs for most of my life. I’ve also been working with Sacramento ACT, along with other organizations, in the fight to raise the minimum wage to $15 an hour. In order
Economic Dignity and employment and housing opportunities for the formerly incarcerated at the LiveFree Community Forum at South Sacramento Christian Center
Update 10/04/25: A rare moment where I gave a speak. I wish I had books done at this time. On May 19, 2015, I had the honor to speak at the Live Free Public Forum which was put on by Sacramento ACT at the South Sacramento Christian Center. This community forum was created to get
I Just Want To See You Smile, Sara
Pictures, torn and shredded, scattered the broken derby covered floor as Sara, favoring her bloodied, broken hand, sat near a hole in the wall. He walked in her best friend since childhood. She loved him because, as a friend, his there, so she’ll let him stay. But she hates him because he’s a man, so she won’t
You Don’t Act Black
Update 10/04/25: Ten years later, I’m still getting the same issues. I shrug it off now. It’s bad enough that African Americans are stereotyped negatively by the media and other ethnicities. We shouldn’t have to deal with negative stereotypes within our community too, however, sadly we do. For some reason, our mannerisms are supposed to
After 22 Years, River City Brewing Company Pushed Out For Sacramento Kings Arena
Update 10/04/25: My opinion is not changed. Not one bit. At all. If you’ve never lived in a small town then you probably won’t understand the outrage I’m currently feeling. Small towns are known for their close knit, neighborly communities. They take care of each other and have a genuine kindness about them. Their unique
How I broke out of my current writing slump.
Update 10/04/25: This works. I need to make it a routine. But this all works. Have you ever committed to doing something you loved, but once you’ve done it for a while you’re uninterested? Although you still have a heart to pursue your passions, you may find yourself in a slump when it comes to
He Pleads Guilty To Taking The Life Of His Cellmate. When He Said Why, Chills Ran Down My Spine
Update 10/04/25: I get it. Some people see him as a hero. I frequently read, watch and listen to things that pertain to inmates, former felons and jails. I recently watched a video about a man pleading guilty to killing his cellmate. The man’s name is Steven Sandison. He was assigned a new cellmate, and
Inmates Try To Make Quick Money To Overcome Financial Challenges
Update 10/04/25: It’s so tempting. It really is. But we have to be careful and not get the wrong money. The majority of inmates in a prison camp are non-violent offenders that just needed money and sought it out illegally. Many wanted to take care of their families the best they could, and others just
My Work Ethic Made Someone Quit While I Was At Herlong Prison Camp
Update 10/04/25: This is a story that didn’t make it inside Subprime Felon. And I still get a kick out of it. You can tell a person’s characteristics by the way they work. It doesn’t matter if they are in prison or outside of prison, their work ethic shouts volumes about them. If someone doesn’t
Why I Don’t Want To Be A Victim Of The Prison System
Update 10/04/25: I don’t want to be a victim of the prison system because I don’t want that mindset. Prison stories are often filled with memories of inmates being victimized by the staff, the overall system or even other inmates. It’s hard to protect yourself from this type of harassment while you are under someone
Does Being Single Really Suck?
Update 10/14/25: And it still sucks. I’m not ready to date yet unfortunately. But yeah, these opinions haven’t changed. I was reading an article from the Standard Media website called “How Being Single Painfully Sucks.” While I agree that being single sucks, I also believe that it’s not as bad as people make it out
Fasting in Prison Camp
Update 10/14/25: Fasting is amazing for my personal life after prison. I would fast for a day, maybe 16 hours or so. They say fasting has benefits for the mind, spirit, and body. Many people have to fast for medical procedures and some do it for religious reasons. I did it fit none of those
My New Year
Update 10/14/25: Love to do these yearly reviews on my life. I’ll be doing this again soon. It’s the start of a new year, at least it is for me. I’m glad another year has passed by, but instead of making some half-brained resolution that I’ll never really set my mind to accomplishing, I’ll just
What I Changes I Would Like To Make At Herlong Prison Camp and The Oakland Halfway House
Update 10/14/25: I still agree with these suggestions to change Herlong. However, I doubt these ideas would ever happen. I’ve been thinking about what would make prison camp more productive for the inmates. I thought carefully about all of my experiences when I was in prison at Herlong Prison Camp and when I stay at
Ceiling. From my Herlong Prison Camp Journal
Update 10/14/25: I’m still glad I went to Sacramento first. I got to regroup and re-root myself. Prison isn’t a place of positive enlightenment. It’s full of strict rules and regulations, required forms and paperwork, and negative attitudes from staff and inmates. However, I wanted a positive experience. I was determined to make my stay
Volunteering at Health Care Enrollment in with the Sacramento Urban League Young Professionals
Serving your community is great way to give back and impact your local area. I’m always looking to help out when I can and volunteering is such a rewarding experience. This past March, I was able to volunteer to help families with insurance policies. The event was hosted by Greater Sacramento Urban League and various
UNICOR Was Down At Herlong Camp
Update 10/14/25: I had a hard time convincing people that I don’t see how this prison made money from our labor. I didn’t dismiss it. I just couldn’t see it based on my experience. Inmates are required to get jobs while in prison. They are paid various and competitive wages just as if they are
The Pay Scale at Federal Prison Camp–Herlong
Update 10/14/25: These pay rates still amaze me. When I explain this to people, they start to understand why former inmates have difficulty managing their money after prison. One of the most important details when looking for a job is the amount of money being offered for the position. As inmates, one of the privileges
Three Habits To Help You Be A Better Entrepreneur
When most people think about being an entrepreneur, they think about owning their own business, long hours and being their own boss. They could also think about being up late hours of the night working on finances and marketing plans/, but most people fail to realize is that being an entrepreneur means you have to
Every Setback Sentence Acceptance Speech
As I was browsing the internet, I came across a blog post by Tara Pringle Jefferson. Her site is called “The Young Mommy Life“. In her post she mentioned her younger sister who is in her twenties and just finished college. She has high aspirations to make a positive impact on the community and make
The Importance of Following Your Inner Voice
Update 10/14/25: The inner voice is so important to me. It’s a guiding force. You can hear it, and you can also feel it, but how often do you ignore it? It’s the sometimes peacefully quiet, sometimes boldly obnoxious voice on the inside of you. It’s the voice that you second guess or brush off,
OVERCOME CREATIVE WRITING BLOCKS
It seems as if writer’s think that writer’s block is some inevitable obstacle that lurks behind them until it’s ready to pounce, stopping them from doing everything they wish to do in the writing world. That’s only true if you say it’s true. I have a problem with writer’s block, but I think of it
My Dentist Experience At Herlong Prison Camp
Update 10/16/25: I still have nightmares about this dentist visit. It was so impersonal and painful. Part of the prison care system allows inmates to receive healthcare. In order to be able to see a doctor, dentist, or any healthcare provider, a form called a cop-out was needed. Once it was filled out and approved,
Is It Possible To Reach The Ceiling?
Update 10/14/25: I’ll update this on my pyerse.com site. I think I’ve changed my views. If you’re in the corporate world or even just the professional world, you understand ceilings. There are ceilings in talent, position, promotion and much more. Most ceilings are glass and you never see it until you hit it, but what
Why Men Don’t Discuss Sex Openly
Update 10/14/25: I’ve kept my sex life personal. It’s no one’s business. So far, I still agree with my points back then. Today, I was reading a post from VerySmartBrothas.com which discussed why men don’t discuss their sex lives openly. Like the author, I was thinking, “All I ever hear are men talking about their
How To Qualify For Federal Camp Or Camp Status
Update 10/16/25: People have asked me so many questions about getting into federal prison camp. It is all about how many crimes you have committed current crime and your prior crimes. If you have any violent crimes, you’re not going to camp. More below. Sentencing Guidelines to Qualify for Federal Camp Status If you’re here,
Heterosexual Males Having Sex In Federal Prison Camp
Update 10/16/25: I didn’t see any of these relationships in prison camp. I think people just want to have these conversations because they enjoy them. But it doesn’t happen. At all. Rumor Has It Sexual desire is normally very strong in males to begin with and everyone knows the urge for sex doesn’t relinquish its
You Were ALWAYS A Strong Person Even Before Prison Camp
Update 10/16/25: You are and have been a strong person. Prison camp is enough to break you and your family, but don’t let it. I hope this post will further encourage you to believe in yourself. While I was in camp, I learned that if you became a strong person because of being in prison
Relaxing and How I Hoped To Apply Relaxing When I Got Home From Prison Camp
Update 10/14/25: This is still my goal. I don’t need to work so hard. I’ll get my work and goals done. If I don’t break or relax, I might not get anything done. My goal in prison was to find various methods to help me stay positive. I knew it was going to be difficult,
How I Used Herlong Prison Camp For Self-Development
Update 10/16/25: This post is about how one of the ways I used prison camp to my advantage. I hope this encourages you to do the same. I found this journal entry in my prison camp journal at home. I wrote it because I was working on some self-development ideas about getting over procrastination and
What Are The Showers Like At Herlong Prison Camp?
Update 10/16/25: We had semi-private showers. It wasn’t that bad actually. No other people were in the shower with me–ever! One of the most famous saying for anyone going to prison is, ‘Don’t drop the soap’. Most people think that the showers in jail are large community showers where CO’s and other inmates intimately watch
Beware Of Snitches At Herlong Prison Camp
Update 10/16/25: You have to mind your own business in prison camp. All you have to do is keep your focus on getting out of camp and going home. “Snitches get stitches” is a powerful statement that implies that tattle tales or snitches deserve the consequence of being beat up various people. The outside community
Am I Uncomfortable With The Conversation or Intimidated by The Woman
Update 10/14/25: I have to learn this lesson again. When I’m ready to date again, that is. As men and women play this game called love, each side has to go back to the drawing board and figure out what went wrong with their last date. They second guess themselves and then they somehow come
What Is Love To Me as a Black Man
Update 10/14/25: Love would be amazing. But can I love and be loved if I’m influx? Many people dream of being in love with someone. They dream of what their life will be like when they’re dating, engaged and then finally married. Society has watched movies of women who were down and out all of
Being Positive During Difficult Times
Update 10/14/25: It’s all about thinking. Perception gets you through so much. I swear one of the most difficult things to do is get over hard times. Everyone has them and although they create character, it’s rough to get through. It’s like trying to see the forest apart from the trees. It’s difficult because it
Never Say Racist Jokes If You’re The Only Black Man In The Room
Update 10/14/25: I don’t like doing this. It give permission for people to do the same racial jokes. At least in suburbs. I guess I should be used to being the in the minority. I should probably already know what to say and what not to say. I’ve been in this situation since I was
What Is Too Much Sex?
Update 10/14/25: You’re only having too much sex if you’re not going your responsible or your causing harm. But let’s see what I say below. I remember when I came home from prison camp, that’s all I wanted to do–have sex! Lots of it. And I did. Well, I had more of it than I
How I Minimized Procrastination
You know you should be doing more important things, but here you are, playing a game, watching YouTube or TV or talking in the phone. It’s a huge issue for many people including myself. It’s like me taking forever just to type the word, procrastination. One of my biggest problems is overcoming procrastination. I like
Too Old For Children?
Update 10/14/25: I think my views changed. Is it too late to have child? Maybe. I’ll let time tell me. Women are known for watching their biological time clocks like a hawk; however, men also think about their age in regard to having children. As I near the age of 36, my mind has been
Never Get Drunk At Company Parties
4 Reasons to Never Get Drunk at Company Parties Before going to prison, I remember drinking with coworkers after work at a restaurant called California Cafe. To be honest, it was pretty damn cool. It was a great way to unwind and blow off some steam. It also gave us a chance to get to
4 Advantages Of Working For A Temp Agency
Update 10/14/25: This is NOT true anymore. Temp agencies are difficult to get into and they are unpredictable. 4 Advantages of Working for A Temp Agency As of recently, I left my full time job at Bon Appetit (assigned at William Jessup University) to work for a temp agency called Acrobat Outsourcing. The reason I
Dishwashers Begging For Validation
It’s a great thing to love your job and have a desire to do well, improve and move up in the company. However, not every employee wants to move up. In fact, some just don’t care and would rather do as much as they can and go home. Most dishwashers just want to do their
What Does Christmas Mean To Me?
People have varying reasons for celebrating Christmas, but for me, if it wasn’t for the purpose of family coming together, I honestly wouldn’t celebrate it. This day is nothing special to me, except that I get to see family that I haven’t seen in a while. There are some family members that I can’t catch
How I Overcome Boredom In A Relationship
In a previous post, I talked about how people would rather be in a bad relationship than to sit a home and be lonely. I mentioned that bad relationships could lead to arguing and disappointments, but I today I want to talk about how bad relationships can just be boring. Lately I’ve been very bored
Preferring N-word Over African American?
According to a TMZ poll fifty-five percent of Black Americans prefer to be referred to as N***a and the remaining forty-five percent prefer African American. Why? Well, according to the rap artist, Suga Knight, “We aren’t from Africa.” I’m assuming he is referring to the fact that Blacks called other Blacks the n-word. I’m unsure
My Bio
Pyerse Dandridge was born Pierce Dandridge, Jr. to Sonya Robinson and Pierce Dandridge Sr. on October 29, 1978 in Sacramento, California. He is the eldest of two boys who enjoyed a normal childhood in North Carolina and at the Vandenberg Air Force Base, near Santa Barbara, where their father (who has two daughters from other
Taking Gambles and Chances–And Being Afraid!
You know the only way to get ahead in life is to take chances. Why should you take chances? If you have goals and dreams of achieving your heart’s desires, then it’s the only way to get to where you want to be in life. You have to go out on a limb in order
Do People Have Bad Relationships To Avoid Being Lonely?
Most people want to be in a happy and loving relationship with all the bells and whistles of their heart’s desire. Those that can’t find a partner to be in love with often unwillingly settle for lonely days and nights. However, there is a new trend of men and women who would rather get hooked
People Do Research and Still Can’t Show Me Evidence?
The world is full of disagreeing people. It seems that no one can see eye to eye on almost any subject, we’re all divided. From religion to politics to social norms to sports, nothing is unanimously agreed upon. The only way we can somehow function is to agree to disagree, acknowledge our differences and respect
Sports To Ban Nigga/er?
I read on ESPN.com today that David Stern and Roger Goodell “might make the appropriate choice to define their workplaces as slur-free zones.” To my understanding, if this ban happens it would only take place while the players are playing the game, practicing, or doing other job related events. This ban would not prevent what
Pointless Childhood Romances
I cracked up when I saw this picture. It reminded me of how silly and funny childhood romances were. They consisted of notes being passed from person to person just to get to the right girl or boy. You’d have a knot in your stomach, waiting and anticipating an answer. Sometimes you’d win and sometimes
When it’s all said and done, would you have said more than you’ve done?
It’s Time to Go After Your Dreams Today I came across a quote that read: “When it’s all said and done, would you have said more than you’ve done?” I thought to myself, ‘yes!’ However, I had to stop and think about it. I realized that if my time ended right now, I’m not sure
How To Have A Sports Argument
Sports is probably America’s favorite pastime. We groom our children to play sports, watch college sports and go hard for the minor and major leagues. Most of the time we are screaming and cheering for our team, but then there are those times where our team loses, the refs call bogus penalties, coaches suck and
N-Word and Why I Don’t Use It.
This word is probably one of the most controversial words in the history of the world. It’s racist when one culture uses it and it’s becomes cultural when another race speaks it. It’s acceptable in one family, but unacceptable in another. Some people are seen as being ignorant and rude when they use and others
How To Be Productive At Work With A Boss You Don’t Like
There are many people in the working industry that severely dislike their bosses. I am now joining the crowd. From the first time I met my boss, I had a strong disliking for him. It turns out that I just don’t get along with my boss. I’m unsure what it is. Maybe I am misunderstanding
Solutions To Ending Facebook Game Addictions
Okay, let’s admit it, we all from time to time get addicted to these stupid little games on Facebook. Like I said in an earlier blog, I was addicted to Marvel Avenger Alliance. I was so addicted that I would even spend real money to help me advance in the game. I’ve heard of people
George Zimmerman Not Guilty & Acquitted. Dad′s A Freemason Judge Does That Matter?
No Way Free Masons Helped Acquit Zimmerman One day as I was browsing the internet I came across a site owned by C.KHiD. His website features hip hop news and other related articles. However, he had an article about George Zimmerman and Free and Accepted Masonry. In this article, he accused the Free and Accepted
How To Make Friends In Prison
Update 10/16/25: Friends are the best thing to get you through prison camp. But remember, you have to be very picky about your friends. You’ll see why as you read along. Everyone needs a friend sometimes, even when you’re behind bars. It can be lonely in prison whether you’re in a camp or a
Don’t Riot Over The Zimmerman Trial Verdict
I’ve never really understood riots and looting, but after the Zimmerman verdict – I’m still just as confused as I was before! Riots cause damage to businesses, communities, and people. Have you ever looked up the amount of people that have to be taken to the hospital after a riot? I understand the trial was
First Day At The Power House Prison Job–Federal Prison Camp Journal
Update 10/18/25: I’m so glad I got that job. But I quickly realized, I wasn’t going to get the benefits I thought I’d get. I did learn a lot. But I wouldn’t do it again. Realizing My Potential and Passion Finding your passion is sometimes hard to do. Most people don’t wake up knowing exactly
A&O Meeting at Federal Prison Camp–Herlong
Update 10/16/25: I remembered this as a pointless meeting. But it did kind of scare me straight if you will. Every job you attend and are hired for should give you some type of orientation. As soon as you start working, you should be trained and oriented for the job. Even if you are joining
How To Free Write And Why It’s Important For Writers
Free writing is the simplest form of writing. It’s also the most private form if you do it in journal format. What I like to tell people is that free writing is something no one would ever see. To me, free writing is like a man’s wife in the morning, the only person who’s going
From Pierce To Pyerse
There are many African Americans that have non-existent or poor relationships with their parents. Most of the time, the bad relationship is due to an absent father. Although some will have father figures in their life, some will hold on to the fact that their biological father seems as if he doesn’t care about them
Sometimes It’s The Man’s Fault When Relationships End
Real Reasons Men Leave Women In a few women magazines and self help books, I’ve read that women should dress a certain way, talk a certain way, or cook and clean to keep their men happy. I think there’s some truth to that, however, like the Black and Married with Kids website mentioned, “This line
Laundry At Herlong Prison Camp
Update 10/16/25: Looking back, laundry was one of my favorite things to do in prison. I could do my laundry daily and it was always clean. Laundry can seem like a chore if you’re not in the comfort of your own home. It can be a hassle to lug your clothing around the corner, even
My First Team Meeting–Federal Prison Camp Herlong Journal
Update 10/16/25: This was my first team meeting at prison camp, which several months into my sentence. Like all the other meetings, it was just to let me know who’s in charge, and a reminder of my lane in prison camp. Prison is supposed to be a place of rehabilitation. If that’s the case, then
Men Need More Than Just Sex
I was reading an article on a site called Black and Married with Kids which discussed the failures of romance and gave advice for men. There were four points, but the one I especially agree with was, “Even though we don’t readily admit it, men have emotional needs that no amount of sex can fill.”
My Doctor Visits at Federal Prison Camp–Herlong, Journal 07
Update 10/16/25: I hated doctor visits in prison camp. But I didn’t remember having a choice. Have you ever heard that prisons are supposedly the best place for anyone that needs medical care? I don’t know who told me that inmates get the best health care, but I can honestly tell you, that’s not entirely
Leisure Library–Federal Prison Camp Herlong Journal Entry
Update 10/16/25: The Leisure Library was the best thing that happened to me in prison camp. This is where I would get all my peace and work done. If you’re on your way to prison and want to know how to stay out of of trouble or away from drama, then the library is the
What Would My Future Self Tell Me?
We always say to ourselves, that if we’d known what we knew now back in our youth, things would have been different. What if there was a way to do just that? What if your future self could somehow contact you and let you know about some dangers ahead in life or about your victories
How Important Is Count Time?
Update 10/16/25: I quickly learned to never miss count time. Yes, there were some people who didn’t get in trouble for missing count time. I know some people who when to the SHU for missing count time. Sometimes, I think some of the correctional officers (COs) are lightweight sadists because they use their power to
How To Get Readjusted After Returning From Prison Camp
Update 10/14/25: I agree with most of these. I think the temp agencies are still hard to get into. However, the other ideas are good suggestions. 9 Tips for Reestablishing Your Life So you just got home from prison, congratulations! I’m sure seeing your family was a fantastic blessing. Breathing that fresh, clean, FREE air
Cheap Dates are the BEST!
Okay, so I’m always stressing about where to take a woman on our first date. It’s almost as if I’m worried about if this place or that place is the most important because it’s a maker/breaker of our date. I admit it does feel as if I have to make sure the place is perfect,
Homesickness in Prison Camp
Update 10/16/25: Being homesick was pretty normal for me. I will try the suggestions listed below and they did work. Looking back, these suggestions didn’t cure my homesickness, but it managed it. Anytime you go away on a long trip, you may feel homesick. This is true for prison inmates as well. My first few
Yoga Tips for Writers
Update 10/16/25: Yoga was one of the best things about prison camp. I took it with me and made it part of my life. If you’re like me, you sit all day in front of your computer writing, typing, and researching for more ideas. Or you’re just saying that and you’re on Facebook for hours
Unit Rules at Federal Prison Camp, Herlong
Update 10/16/25: These were the rules all inmates had to follow. Sometimes, we could get away with these strict rules. I never tried. I just wanted to go home. Prison is full of rules and regulations, something everyone already knows. However, you would think that strict adherence to these policies would be maintained. From time
Procedural Changes For Herlong Federal Prison Camp
Update 10/16/25: These procedurals were for lockdowns. It’s more for the FCI Herlong, and not so much for the FCP Herlong. Lockdowns within the prison system are a serious issue for both inmates and staff. They are the result of what the administration deems a loss of control on their part. In this instance, a
Leather Craft Changes at Federal Prison Camp, Herlong
Update 10/18/25: Though I never did this, leather craft was one of the many ways inmates kept busy in prison camp. It was also a good way of making money as an inmate. Prison systems love to keep inmates busy. They provide the inmates with a variety of activities, movies, books and crafting hobbies. They
Community Based Program Agreement at Herlong Prison Camp
Update 10/18/25: Once in a while, inmates from Herlong Prison Camp can go into the local community and do, what is called, community service. It gives us a chance to get out prison, and we get points for our release. It’s a great feeling to be released from prison, even if you are going into
Recreation Procedures Post Lock Down 10 pm Count
Update 10/18/25: This memo is explaining how recreation programs and procedures will happen post lock down. Also, the warden expresses his concerns about 10pm count. From time to time, the executive staff of the prison will send out memos regarding current incidences. Many things can happen in prison and most of the time it’s negative.
Recreation Procedures at Herlong Federal Prison Camp
Update 10/18/25: This post is a quick memo from the warren discussing recreation procedures. Also, it tells inmates what they can wear and how to wear them. Prison inmates are kept to strict standards when it comes to dress codes and recreation. However, from time to time, inmates can get off track from the guidelines
Dress Code/Personal Property/Work Details at Herlong Prison Camp
Update 10/18/25: This is a memo from the warren reminding inmates about how to properly wear our uniforms. It is also a reminder that inmates could get in trouble for not following instructions. Inmate Dress Code Policy Dress codes are important for many places. They help keep a cohesive appearance and allow for overseeing persons
Destroying or Altering Prison Property
Update 10/18/25: This memo reminds inmates that destroy or altering prison property result in disciplinary action. It also reminds inmates that everything is prison property and inmates could pay for damages. Destroying property is never a good idea. At Herlong Prison Camp, just altering the appearance of certain items will get an inmate into trouble.
The Release of Remaining Prison Funds from Herlong Prison Camp
Update 10/18/25: This memo addresses the family sending funds to inmates. A BP-199 is needed for funds. When most inmates leave prison, their number need is finances. If friends and family have been putting money into an inmates account, when the inmate is released from prison, the amount within their account is released to them.
Photo Procedures at Herlong Prison Camp
Update 10/18/25: This memo addresses how and when inmates can take photos. Structure is needed to facilitate order, and prisons are full of structure. In this memo from the supervisor of recreation, a detailed system for taking and receiving prison photos is given. The document states that prisoners must wear certain clothing, refrain from obscene
A&O (Admissions & Orientation) Checklist
Update 10/18/25: This memo addresses the rules and regulations all inmates will follow. When starting a new job many employers give their employees a manual to read over and familiarize themselves with all rules and regulations. Prison is no different. In fact, they have an entire checklist for every inmate so that each inmate goes
Herlong Prison Camp Institution Supplement Booklet
Update 10/18/25: This is one of many booklets that inmates received at prison camp. When starting a new job many employers give their employees a manual to read over and familiarize themselves with all rules and regulations. At Herlong Prison it’s no different when it comes to assigning their inmates to an orientation program. The
“Cop-out” AKA Inmate Request to Staff
Update 10/18/25: This is a form inmates filled out if inmates needed pretty much anything from the prison staff. Filing A Request in Prison Filing an Inmate Request to Staff form while in prison can seem like a daunting task. The form itself isn’t scary, but the thoughts of retaliation, punishment and denial can cause
Visitor Information Form and Additional Visiting Information
Inmate Rules For Visitations SEPTEMBER 20, 2011 In a previous post I talked about the rewards of having family visit. I also discussed how important it was for visiting family to read over the rules and regulations before visiting so as not to waste time. If your loved ones don’t familiarize themselves with the rules
Federal Prison Camp Detail Workers
There’s a saying: “The early bird gets the worm.” Well, not in this case. I’ve always been taught that to be early is to be on time, but at Herlong Prison, the earliest you could leave to get to work was at 6:45 am. All inmates had to stay within their housing areas unless they
The Expectations of Herlong Prison and Herlong Prison Camp
My thought process when entering prison camp was to make sure that this experience was a positive one. Although I was locked up in a place filled with rumors of gangs, sexual assaults, and a major loss of freedom, I did my best to stay on a positive path. As you read this memo, you
Institution Progress Update at Herlong Prison Camp
In order to keep the prison “safe” for all inmates and staff, when things seem to be out of control, the administration will lock down the prison camp. This means that all inmates are confined to their cells until further notice. Although the lockdown was resolved and inmates were released from their cells, the administration
Health Services Department Operations at Herlong Prison Camp
Medical offices have a tight ship to run and that’s even truer when their office is located within a prison. There are certain rules that each inmate has to follow in order to see a doctor or dentist. A form called an Inmate Request to Staff Member also known as a cop-out form must be
Softball Backstops at Herlong Prison Camp and Stand Up Count Concerns
Herlong Prison has two institutions. The first is an actual prison (Federal Correctional Institution – FCI) and the other is a prison camp which has less security and non-violent offenders. When the administration sends out a memo, it goes to both the prison and the prison camp. This memo talked about the changes on the
Memo to Inmates About Homemade Intoxicants
It’s memos like these that keep prison television shows raw. Inmates making “hooch” or other alcoholic drinks are regularly seen on TV. Shows are also portraying inmates that make various weapons. What the shows don’t show you are the interrupted routines of those that just want to get through their sentences. I had a routine
Transition to Continental Breakfast Due To Increase of Food Cost
Periodically, inmates receive memos from the Warden or other prison and prison camp staff about updates in policy or other warnings. This is an official memo found in the Trulincs system. The memo below tells both the prison camp and the prison that the administration is getting rid of the normal full-sized breakfast. They are
My Furlough Application: Approved for Community Service Furlough
Community service allows an inmate to leave the prison or prison camp in order to serve the community in various capacities such as cleaning up public areas. The National Crime Prevention Council believes it is a way to reduce crime and encourage public spaces to be properly used again. In order for an inmate to
Herlong Prison Camp Transfer Plan Sheet
All inmates are waiting for the day that they can leave the prison or prison camp. Some of them, like myself, transferred to a halfway house, but the others transferred from prison to their own residences. This could be that they have completed their sentence or that they are on parole. I never had to
Federal Register Vol 71, No 92: Smoking/No Smoking Areas
This document is from the TRULINCS. Inmates can find this and more under “Bulletin” Every month, a new Federal Register will be placed in that section. This volume gives information about where to smoke for both administration and correctional officers. Inmates are NOT allowed to smoke. Smoking would result in major disciplinary action. For more
Herlong Federal Prison Camp Admissions and Orientation Inmate Handbook
Below is the entire handbook the administration gives Federal Prison Camp Inmates when they first arrive at Herlong Satellite Prison Camp. https://www.pyersedandridge.com/ao.pdf
Flag Protocol At Herlong Prison
Have you ever seen the flag flown in the middle of the flagpole? If you’ve ever wondered why, the memo below may offer an explanation. It is usually flown in the middle of the flagpole on a holiday like Memorial Day. That holiday commemorates the life sacrifice that the men and women of the military
Federal Prison Camp Inmate Suicide Prevention
Suicide prevention is one of the most important aspects of prison control. Males have a higher rate of suicide, not just in prison, but in general. Prison can make a person even more susceptible to depression and other mental health disorders. It is up to the prison staff to be aware of the signs and
Inmate Rights and Responsibilities And Disciplinary Scale
What Are Your Rights and Responsibilities As An Inmate? Most know that there a lot of liberties and privileges taken away while in jail, but which ones? When you’re arrested, the law enforcing personnel is required to “read you your rights”. This tells you what you can do and how to protect yourself from further
No Collect Calls at Herlong Federal Prison Camp: Prepaid Accounts
Staying in touch with family and/or friends is sometimes essential to an inmates psychological and emotional stability. Being able to communicate with those that love you is a reward of its own. When someone is unable to speak to their loved ones, depression and agitation can set in quickly. Fortunately, the prison has multiple ways
Inmate Direct and Prepaid Calling Rates
Staying in touch with loved ones can be challenging when you’re away at prison camp or prison. There are no cell phones allowed and if you’re caught with one then you most likely will receive a shot (disciplinary action). The phones that are available cost money and inmates aren’t the ones that pay the bill.
Inmate Minute Revalidation Cycle At Herlong Prison Camp
If you pay your cell phone bill each month then I’m sure you’ll understand how the Inmate Minute Revalidation Cycle operates. Every month your cell phone carrier allots you a certain amount of minutes to use each month (unless you have unlimited minutes). When you reach that amount within a month, you cannot make any
Oakland Halfway House Resident Handbook–Complete
Oakland Halfway House is a transitional living institution for former inmates located in Oakland, California. This post is a brief recount of my stay there and how to survive your stay. Oakland Halfway House is a co-ed residency in which the women are the minority and the men are the majority. The women stayed in
Herlong Prison Camp’s Job Fair
Update 10/18/25: I really do not like job fairs in general. I think they are more advertising than job opportunities. But in prison camp, it was only advertisements. Prisons are supposed to be about reforming individuals to become better citizens in society. That’s supposedly why they offer GED classes, lucrative hobbies, and prison jobs. The
Writing Is About Doing It. Not Thinking About Doing It.
“You have to show up. There is no magic pill. You have to show up and do the work.” Per Petterson. If you’re a writer, I’m sure you’ve probably experienced setbacks and frustrations when you finally find the time to write. You have so many ideas to get out and to write down. You get
How To Survive Federal Prison Camp
Update 10/18/25: If you’re on your way to prison camp, here is seventeen ways to get through prison. If you follow these steps, you’ll never need a consultation and you’ll have a productive time in prison. 17 Ways to Survive Prison Camp Let’s be honest, prison camp or any kind of prison is stressful. You’re
New Exercise Routine–Building Cardio Without Running
Cardio workouts are known to help people strengthen their heart and lungs. It also helps the muscles to use oxygen more efficiently. Over time, your body gets used to your fitness level and your endurance has increased! With these types of benefits, I have been trying to workout more. For some reason, as soon as
Federal Prison Camp Herlong Entry 03
Update 10/18/25: COs are here to manage the prison camp. They are not there to be friends or allies. However, some inmates will try to be friends with COs. The funny thing about being here in prison is that the correctional officers (COs) think they are better than everyone else. I don’t know if it’s
Federal Prison Camp’s Weekly Meal Menus at Herlong FPC
Update 10/12/25: I’m still not sure how I lived off that food. I mean, it wasn’t too bad. But the food at home was so much better. According to TV, prison food always looks like slop from a pig trough that’s ladled into a bowl or plate. It’s the lumpiest looking goop you’ve ever seen.
Sending Money to An Inmate While in Herlong Federal Prison Camp
Update 10/18/25: Here is how to send money to an inmate in Herlong Federal Prison Camp. This post is over ten years old, so some things may have changed. How to Send Money to a Federal Inmate via Western Union or MoneyGram EFFECTIVE MARCH 22, 2004 Being locked away from society doesn’t remove the need
Visiting A Loved One in Prison
Update 10/18/25: Visits at a prison camp is nothing like the television shows. Inmates and their families can interact with each other. YOU just have to be careful how you move with loved ones in the visiting room. Is Your Loved One in Prison? Visiting a loved one in prison (camp or otherwise) can be
Federal Prison Camp Herlong Entry 02: The Truth about the Prison Healthcare System
Update 10/18/25: Prison camp healthcare is terrible. I saw inmates having to wait months for any surgeries. I remembered I was in the Sports room watching the Heat during the Eastern Conference finals. All of the inmates had assigned seats. The seats that were closer to the TV belonged to the brothers that were in
How to Email Inmates in Federal Prison with TRULINCS
Update 10/18/25: Here is a post on how to send emails and other communications through Corrlinks and Trulincs. This information may have changed over the years. When you have a loved one in prison, one of the most important things to remember is communication. Despite their actions and the fact that they are locked
TRULINCS: How It works for Herlong Prison Camp
Update 10/18/25: Trulincs and Corrlinks were the system inmates used to communicate with their loved ones without having to us a phone. They charged five cents per minute, which was cheaper than the phone calls. However, it could take two to four hours to get information from your loved ones. According the Bureau of
Federal Prison Camp–Herlong, Entry 01
Update 10/18/25: So I broke down what Herlong Prison Camp is and how it made me feel. Introduction I don’t consider myself to be a professional on the subject of anything prison related. I feel that I would have to spend much more time in prison than the twelve months (of a seventeen-month sentence) I
Can a convicted felon vote in California?
Update 10/18/25: Yes, felons can vote in all California elections. They just have to be off paper. It is well known that anyone with a felony conviction cannot vote in elections. It’s been an issue for many years. Some think it’s wrong, some think it’s right, and others are indifferent. It’s a big issue
View from Gap
As a writer, I’m always looking for a way to share my thoughts and experiences with you. Sometimes I never know what I’m going to share, but I’m always ready to share it. While living at the halfway house in Oakland, I was lucky enough to work with a temp agency called ACROBAT. Although the
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