September 19, 2002

Hi there everyone. Sorry I have not sent a message in a while. The dust has pretty much settled on Rob's crazy stories and information flow.

Rob finally has his phone list all sorted out and surely a few of you have heard from him by now. If not, just know that he is still in great spirits. He is playing softball, jogging on the track and reading a lot of books from the library there. He also came across a guitar he can use. As long as Rob is at his bed for count 4 times a day, he can wander around and do pretty much whatever he wants to within the limitations of the rules there.

Apparently the food is okay too. Rob is happy they turn on the soda fountain for meals. He was thinking he would not get to have any root beer during his stay there. --Ah, the little things we take for granted... The only televisions (4 I think) in the place are always on the Spanish channel, Rap music and sports. (no, Rob is not a big sports guy--thank GOD!!) I guess they are all watching the Sopranos now though. We have never seen it, but it may be the only hope of mindless entertainment available during the week. Rob would really rather be watching Big Brother and Survivor at his leisure on TIVO.

He has been reading and writing a lot of letters too, and has finally received and sent out the forms to the potential visitors. Those forms should be in your hands by Monday. Some of you already received them.

We have noticed some people getting pictures taken with their family members in the visiting area. We are going to ask about having one taken when I go back on Sunday. If I get a picture, I will scan and email it.

I have also been in touch with a prison expert about the half-way house issues about work. He assures me that Rob will not have to take ANY job given him. He will have to steer away from jobs where he may re-offend, and he has to work in a job under supervision. (not working from home) I am sure Rob will hear many stories before he gets there. Once his time is near, (and truly determined) I have asked the prison expert to put me in touch with a released inmate from whatever place he will be going. I will get the real dirt from someone who has actually been there!

Rob just called. He is going to be working soon, at the power plant--off site. He will be bussed back to the camp for lunch. Hours 7:30-3:30. He thinks he will make five dollars a month, but he is not sure. He will be typing and filing in an office. It is a highly coveted position. :P

He also will find out his actual release date next Wednesday. He learned that the arrest date, the day he pleaded guilty and the day he was sentenced all count as time served. Big deal! I wish they counted all the days we lost sleep worrying about this mess. He would be out next week! :)

That is all there is right now. Thanks!
Shannon