This past week was Law Enforcement Appreciation Week. What an oddity to be recognized while in prison. The daily schedule here was completed changed, so I did not have to work for the entire week. Ironic, how I was benefiting from this week too! I am very appreciative for those dedicated women and men who commit their lives to the betterment and safety of our society. We desperately need them. By no means are they perfect, but they are held to high standards to enforce the laws that our elected officials enact. On a daily basis, I am reminded of the hard work that these people do. Prior to prison, I had not considered appreciating correctional officers - I certainly had appreciation for police, especially a former housemate of many year, Officer Maxwell Poupart. One of my dear friends, Officer Thomas Patton, lost his life in the line of duty for the Cleveland Heights Police Department. The duty and dedication of these individuals aspires, so thank you to each one of you for making daily risks to keep us safe and stable!
I know that we all have had an interaction with a police officer or some law enforcer, and perhaps, even been to court to pay a ticket or fine issued from an officer. Typically, these interactions are not positive, but out of the many law enforcement officers that I have friended over the years, they are incredibly amazing and good women and men. During my sentencing, I was able to make my first and only public statement. At one point, I directed my attention to the FBI and IRS agents that had investigated my case and raided my residence (twice). I heartfully apologized, but also thanked them for their service. I truly meant it. I was in the complete wrong, and I was mortified that I caused their attention to focused on me. I have absolutely no ill-will or negativity toward law enforcement (unless they abuse their position). Their sacrifices are many, including their lives to keep us safer than we otherwise would be. I am surrounded by inmates that vehemently despise law enforcement, so my disposition toward thanking them and acknowledging their incredible efforts is not representative of most guys in prison. I would like to personally thank Warden Bayless (she is very approachable, sensible,and seemingly keeps our best interest in mind), Mr. Gary Gearde (electric department supervisor - my boss with incredible patience), Mr. John Gribble (unit counselor - he approves the visitor list and helps maintain daily order in the dorm), Mr. Horner (education department supervisor - my tutoring boss), Ms. Bryant and Ms. Crilly (education department staff), Mr. Kidder (electrician apprenticeship supervisor), Mr. Rinck (hobby craft manager who allows me to participate in bands and make crochet bears), and Chaplin Basile (head of the chapel and religious programming - while not Catholic, he maintains a highly respectful approach to our Catholic worship and prayer).
On Thursday, I was able to go to the chapel for a Catholic holy day, Ascension of Jesus to Heaven. On my way to the chapel, a friend, also a co-worker, was called to the area that releases inmates. Thomas Fowler was skipping down the trail in the middle of campus that passes the chapel. I stopped him and asked, "are you leaving?" He smiled bright and acknowledged that he was. This 26-year-old man had a 24-month sentence for wire fraud, but he was charged in both his home state and federally. He completed the two years in his state prison, but then was transferred to Morgantown (through diesel therapy). With an error in his paperwork, he was instructed to serve another 2 years here since he was not given credit for his prior 2 years. At his sentencing, his judge indicated that the time served in state would count toward 2 years in federal prison, but in error, it was recorded that he would have to serve a total of 4 years. He was nearing his first year at Morgantown when he filed a motion for his sentencing judge asking for an immediate release given the circumstances. Finally, his voice was heard, and he was immediately released! This sort of situation is unheard of, and is atypical for leaving prison. For Thomas, he persisted and was released! He was home in Frankfort, Kentucky by the end the of that day. I'm beyond happy that he could be reunited with his two young children, both of whom he had not seen in 3 years...this was quite the miracle for him and his family!
I harp on the fact that the weight of prison is most felt during significant life moments. I experienced another one of these realities this past Saturday for Drew's birthday, which I obviously missed. He had slightly injured his back at work last week, so he was mostly indisposed for his birthday. It is awful to be so helpless and distant during these monumental times. He is a man worth substantial recognition and celebration for all the wonderful good things that he does, especially for the animals he treats. Happy 36th Birthday, Drew! I am entirely grateful for all your support, endless love, and help throughout this prison journey. He endlessly puts up with my many requests and keeps me quite grounded and connected to the real world! He's an incredibly special man!!! Continue to look for the many little miracles in your life - Have a blessed and happy week!