Do Federal Prison Inmates Have Internet Access?
Federal inmates do not have internet access (unless of course they possess illegal contraband Smartphones which contrary to popular belief are not as common as the public is lead to believe).
Can You Order A Food Package In Prison?
Federal prisoners at any security level can not order or have food packages sent in. Food packages are strictly prohibited and there are no exceptions. Further, federal prisoners can not receive any other types of packages including care packages, clothing, electronic items, etc.
Can You Keep Your Wedding Ring In A Federal Prison?
The short answer is YES, you can keep your wedding ring in federal prison. The Federal Bureau of Prisons policy says that you are permitted a wedding band without stones or intricate markings (Program Statement 5580.08). Other personal items that you can retain in federal prison are prescription eyeglasses; medical or orthopedic devices; legal documents; earrings with no stones for females only with declared value under $100; and a religious medallion with chain with a declared value under $100.
Cardinal Dolan’s Visit to Otisville Federal Correctional Institution
It's been five years since Cardinal Timothy Dolan visited us here at the Federal prison in Otisville, New York and those of us who are still here from that time continue to feel the love he had left with us.
THE CHRISTMAS SWORD
The Holidays is a time of year where family and friends gather and spend time together. The spark of love and peace is all over the place and the sense of giving to others is high. For most, this season is unconsciously taken for granted. Its an annual event that comes and goes with the passage of time. For those in prison it can be the worst time of year.
We are on Mars
Several years ago there was a supervisory chaplain here named Rabbi Laskin A”H. I liked him very much and we would frequently sit in his office and talk. One particular day we were having a conversation about one thing or another having to do something with the craziness of prison. At one point I sat back and expressed my complete dumbfoundedness. In response Rabbi Laskin leaned forward and said to me, “Mr. Marcinski, what makes sense in the world, does not make sense in here; what makes sense in here does not make sense in the world. Mr. Marcinski, we are on Mars and I’m afraid that WE are the martians”.
New Years Message from Greg Marcinski
Dear Family and Friends, Every end marks a new beginning. Keep your spirits and determination unshaken, and you shall always walk the good road. With courage, faith, and great effort, you shall achieve everything you desire. I wish you a Happy New Year! 2019 had its ups and downs, but I always try to find the positive and continue to learn from my mistakes. The highlight for me was this past December as it wrapped up the year on a high note. Schoolwork had been steady but slow. A few snags with timelines, etc. but everything seems to be moving ahead well. I’m just about to wrap up a philosophy class now and will take the exams soon.
Prison Visits
One of the most important things for a prisoner is to receive visits from family and friends. It is widely recognized as being beneficial as it is known to reduce recidivism, keep moral high, and helps to maintain family and community ties. The benefits extend to all, to include the prison staff, the community, the prisoners’ family, and the prisoner. Visitation is vital for the prisoner to help maintain his or her humanity.
CHRISTMAS DINNER… LOCK DOWN!
Its 10:50am Christmas morning when they call us to the chow hall for our Christmas dinner. As I wait in line to get out ID’s scanned I start to feel very alone. I think about Christmases past and better times with family and loved ones, but I put myself here and caused this similar pain for so many others — I now also feel ashamed.
THE ODYSSEY
A couple of months ago my journey began when George Drance of Magis Theatre Company visited our facility. He performed a one man dramatic adaptation/teaching of Homer’s “The Odyssey” and asked if we would have interest of possibly putting on the production. What an amazing opportunity that was offered to us. I immediately shouted that there would be interest and that we’re all in as if I were afraid that George would leave before we had a chance to answer. The rest of the men in the room were all in agreement and enjoyed what was presented to us. Fast forward to this afternoon (Sat., 12/21/19) and George came back!
