June 15, 2021 @ OSCI (T-42 days to release)

Hi Everyone!

I've decided to include a count down until release ticker on each post from here on out. I don't like being aware of the days left but at the same time it's crucial to my release preparations. It's also mainly what's on my mind lately. After 17 years plus another 4 years it is very strange for me to once again be contemplating release.

This contemplation included the fact that in 42 days my world will completely change in ways that (for the most part) I can't control. New people, places, and situations. I think a lot of my anxiety comes from having served most of my adult life behind bars with the exception of just over a year and a half.

To boot, I just had my first call with my new parole officer (PO) today. She seems like I might be able to work with her. There's always a few things that give me pause. For instance, she wasn't sure if she would give me my flash drive from Windows to Work (reentry programming) that has my resume and cover letter on it because she didn't want me thinking that I could use a computer unsupervised.

From what I understand it seems like I'll have less access to the internet than I currently do from in here. In here I get email, can download movies/music/games, and have a tablet with a plug-in keyboard. Everything is done on Wi-Fi. I would expect more accessibility. The phrase that stands out is my PO saying based on my previous violations (viewing porn, owning a computer/tablet, etc) that everything was going to be taken slow.

My goto response would be that I was revoked for my rule violations and have now served 4 1/2 years as punishment for them. It seems that I now have to continue being punished out on the streets. Of course I didn't say that. I'm really trying to keep an open mind but I've been duped before. I asked her to get me a copy of my rules as she envisions them and we could discuss from there. Hopefully, something can be worked out.

We did get worked out that I'll be staying at a TLP and the DOC Transportation Sergeants will get me there. So, that's good. Step one of my release is working out at least. My PO even seemed open to me living with family but unfortunately no one in my family has a real stable residence. There is some hope there at least.

Ultimately, I have to have some internet access for work, to handle my lawsuits, keep involved with IWOC and continue my posting on this blog from the streets. This will be especially true for running my own business (an idea that was not immediately shot down by the PO). Things will be a lot harder without ready access to a computer and/or the internet. Again, I hope things can be worked out, even at a slow pace.

Well, that's all for now. Stay safe and sane!

Solidarity,
Tony