tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-84130278275855977092024-02-07T03:12:37.682-08:00Prison Writings, Interviews, Prison Art, and News About Death RowHere you can read and comment on my Prison writings, My Prison Interviews, View Prison Art, and Read Up-To Date Prison News.Please subscribe to my blog for all the up to date prison and death row news.
One in every 32 people in our Nation are either incarcerated, on parole, or probation, It's time for prison reform.Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.comBlogger123125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-7022996659399815692009-08-20T11:45:00.000-07:002009-08-20T11:46:10.087-07:00<span style="color:#cc0000;">A STAY of execution was granted to David L. Wood</span>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-41986121377841414222009-08-19T09:13:00.001-07:002009-08-19T09:14:03.036-07:00URGENT REQUESTUrgent (please repost)<br />Concerning David L. Wood, who is scheduled to be executed by the State of Texas on August 20, 2009. Please contact the Governor of Texas, and The Board of Parole & Pardons and ask for a stay of execution.David has strong innocence claims. No DNA, Jailhouse snitch testimony, false witnesses, etc. He was "railroaded"Read his interview here:<br /> <a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/568683/interview_convicted_serial_killer_david.html?cat=17">http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/568683/interview_convicted_serial_killer_david.html?cat=17</a>Governor:<br />Honorable Rick Perry Governor, State of Texas Office of the Governor P.O. Box 12428 Austin, TX 78711-2428 Fax: (512)463-1849<br /><a href="http://government.aol.com/mygov/mail/?t">http://government.aol.com/mygov/mail/?t</a> ... X&id=31771<br />Board of Pardons and Paroles:<br />Rissie Owens, Board Presiding Officer 1300 11th St., Suite 520 P.O. Box 599 Huntsville, TX 77342-0599 Fax: (936)291-8367<br />Elvis Hightower, Board Member 1300 11th St., Suite 520 P.O. Box 599 Huntsville, TX 77342-0599 Fax: (936)291-8367<br />Jose L. Aliseda, Board Member 1111 West Lacy St. Palestine, TX 75801 Fax: (903)723-1441<br />Linda Garcia, Board Member 1212 N. Velasco, Suite 201 Angleton, TX 77515 Fax: (979)849-8741<br />Charles Aycock, Board Member 5809 S. Western, Suite 237 Amarillo, TX 79110 Fax: (806)358-6455<br />Juanita Gonzalez, Board Member 3408 S. State Hwy. 36 Gatesville, TX 76528 Fax: (254)865-2629<br />Texas Officials:<br /><a href="http://mygov.governmentguide.com/mygov/">http://mygov.governmentguide.com/mygov/</a> ... w=issues#3Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-69409590722064067452009-07-29T07:17:00.000-07:002009-07-29T07:18:30.893-07:00Death Salivates, By Reginald Blanton TX DRDeath Salivates<br />October 27th 2009<br />Execution Date<br />by Reginald Blanton2pm. 7-16-09.I just woke up. I had slept for exactly 8 hours. I am a night owl. Yet, I was not rejuvenated. I did not feel balanced. I told myself that something was happening in the Universe. In the distant dark galaxy of my being I felt something approaching. I’d had an earlier hunch but dispelled it with my exhale. I grabbed all my senses; all of my energy and brought them inside, concentrating it. Concentrating on soothing the waters of what I thought was a turbulent mind-body. Here I was, doing the same thing today. An hour went by. I was frustrated because my meditation yielded very little. I decided to conclude my meditation with the Tripod Pose, a Hatha Yoga posture where I ease into a headstand, feet in the sky, while focusing on my breathing. This pose is designed to calm your mind-body. I felt it might do the trick. It has always worked in the past.I heard the gate pop. Then there were jangling keys as somebody made their way upstairs to2 row where I was encaged. I brought my attention back, like, “Get back over here!” Like that. Then my sense went back outside. “Blanton! What are you doing? The Major wants to talk to you,” said the Sergeant. I eased out of my posture and into another called Child Pose before getting up and telling the Sergeant I had been meditating and needed some time to brush my teeth. I brought my attention fully back and noticed that I was nervous. I knew what it was. Damn! I knew what it was…I gave the Sergeant my jumpsuit, sort of spun while shaking out my boxers to try to keep from having to degrade myself by stripping completely naked and having to turn around and spread my…well, you know. The Sergeant wasn’t tripping today. He told me to just come on. I didn’t like that. He was being a (little) nice. That was not a good sign. Not good at all…Damn!We get out in the hallway and he asked me if I knew what this was about. But it was the way he said it. He said it like he knew what it was about. Damn. I told him I did. I saw the nurse and asked him if he had my morphine shot. Ha, ha, um, ha, *ahem*. That did not make me feel any better. I tried though. I just decided to stay quiet the rest of the way.We get in the Major’s office. I sit down and cross my legs, looking him square in the eye, all sorts of emotions flowing through me: Anger, embarrassment, sadness…”What’s up, Major?” I asked. In a slow and somber tone he told me that I had an execution date and he was going to explain a few things to me and have me moved to Death Watch. He said that he’d just found out himself. All I could see in my mind was my Queen. All I could feel is what she would feel. I thought I was going to be sick. I tried to hide it. I knew what time it was. I knew this was coming. And after the march we just had outside of the courthouse in San Antonio, I knew that the D.A.’s weren’t going to hesitate to immediately set a murder date for me. This wasn’t supposed to be happening. It just wasn’t. Maybe I was naive. Me, the “realist”, naive. The courts were going to see the injustice and refuse to let me be railroaded. Yet they railroaded me. It was like the many stories I’ve read about battered women. She’s getting beat by her husband. She knows that he’s going to keep on beating her. He’s vicious. She knows he’s going to stop. He’s a good man.Everything was suddenly happening so fast. Everything was surreal. Yet I had been preparing for this for 9 years.No! You cannot prepare for something like this. You just can’t. 28 years young. Just the other day that one officer cried when she found out how young I was; how much I remind her of her own kids. I hate too much life where the said only dwelt death. I have too much life pouring out of me to prepare to die. Die? Die for what?! Ya’ll are trying to kill, wrongly, a loving, beautiful man. Not a killer. Not a monster. A man with a family. A beautiful, loving wife. A beautiful, loving step-son. My Mama. My people. My people need me. You are trying to steal me away from the people who need me.The Major tells me about the number of witnesses I can have; talks about a last will. A last will, ya’ll! A “last will”?! What about my will to live?!The Major talks…I drift in and out of even being there at all. He talks about disposition of any trust funds, disposition of personal property. He talks of my last meal; how they won’t get me any lobster or shrimp, or T-bone steak. He was trying to make light of the situation. But there was nothing “light” about it – at all. It was heavy; heavy like my consciousness. “Lobster ?! I don’t give a damn about a last meal! A last meal?! A last meal is the farthest thing from my mind.” But this wasn’t what I wanted to say. I said it, yes. But it wasn’t what was just beyond my ability to put into words. It just would have been wrapped in phrases with the words: Love, Justice, Passion; Sun and Supernova; Consciousness, Soul; Infinity, Eternity.Words like that.Worlds like that.The Major talks about disposition of “Remains”. He kept talking but “Remains” kept echoing in my mind. Remains? Remains? Remains of what?! I guess the Major say my confusion and specified “body”. My thoughts went back to My Queen; my precious wife.Baby…The Major, wo once told me I talk too much, talks. The Major, who I once told, “You would rather me talk to you than to not talk to you at all,” talks about my last commissary spend. He said I can spend $150 two weeks from the execution date. I was outraged! I am not going to put $150 of money I don’t even have into their pocket as something of a going away gift; that’s provided I can manage to stomach any food at all. “I’m not trying to spend $150 two weeks out on my commissary!” I said. The Major told me that he was only letting me know what my options were. Those were my options? My options?! That’s that problem: They are constantly limiting my options. If it’s not going home to my wife’s sacred embrace then it is not an option for me! If it’s not living then it is not an option for me! I am a man and will define my own options, my own destiny, worth more than a hundred and fifty bucks.Finally, the Major talks about the so called last special visits and how they would happen.“Mama was taken off my visitation list”, I said without trying to say it. It just spilled out with some of the anger. They took Mama off my visitation list last year to torture me into telling them who brought the cell phones into this unit – one of which I had used to call Mama every morning before she went to work to tell her I love her. They took my damn Mama off the list because of it, we she did not violate any visitation rules.“are ya’ll going to put Mama back on the list?” I ask. It was more like, this is the least you should do for me in light, yeah “light” of things they were trying to take from me:“Gimme your freedom!”“Gimme your mind!””Gimme your Mama!”“Gimme your LIFE – “ Whoa, whoa, whoa. Now you’re just asking for too damn much.The Major looked at me for a moment, in silence, taking the measure of a man that was containing himself, and lords knows how. A man whose words were filled to the brim, no – brimming over, with all that I was containing; with ALL, EVERYTHING spilling everywhere from the eyes of my words, those windows.There is just so much in me. Just so, so much…The Major told me that he couldn’t promise anything, but that he would talk to the Warden and see what he says. Just for that brief moment, that brief moment we shared in silence, I could tell he gave in to his humanity. For that brief moment he and I existed beyond the veil. But, just as brief as that moment came, it went. His authoritarian, take-take-take-and-only-give-when-it’s-to-his-advantage programming kicked in. I could see the change. He said, if it were up to him, and he decided to put my Mama’s name on my list, under these exceptional circumstances, and he stressed “exceptional circumstances”, if I were to get a stay of execution, she would be taken back off the list.Sick.Because I saw he was thinking a bit too much, I asked him to set the meeting up with the Warden and allow me to be there with him. The Warden needs to hear the words from my heart, not the Major’s words of suspicion and some obsessive desire to control.Back to my pod and cage.How was I going to tell him? I have known him for 9 years. 9 years! And now I have to tell him this. I sat at the foot of my bunk, leaning against the wall between Obie Weathers and me. The little loose metal bar that plugged the whole went all the way through the wall; I rattled to get his attention. I put my ear to it to hear his response. When he answered I began to tell him about everything that had happened. I managed to tell him that I was given a date for October 27th, as well as what he could do but from that point on my words slowly faded away as I slipped into the depths of an ocean of tears that I struggled to push back. And I drifted…as my mind drifted back to the first moment I met Obie; my first day on the tank after wrongly being thrown into Bexar County jail for this horrible crime in 2001. Then, various experiences he and I had shared over the years, one after another flooded my mind. ..Suddenly I gasped, somehow able to push back the ocean of tears. I backed away from the wall to breathe and gain control. Then my mind went back to where my mouth left off at. I didn’t want to give him tears. They have had too many of my tears already. No! They weren’t going to get anymore! I was going to be strong. But I felt so weak. And Obie felt it. He said it. “It’s all just knocked the air out of me”, I told him. “But I’m focused”, I added as feeble as it may have sounded. “Obie, it’s just so messed up”.“I know. It’s…nightmarish. It’s-it’s…surreal”, he said.“I know I have so many brothers around here watching what happens to me. I have preached to these brothers time and time again over the years to not give up on themselves despite how hopeless the situation seems; to fight for their lives; for their Humanity. And now this. I don’t want this to reinforce their fears. I don’t want them to say, ‘See! Look at what happened to Reg. It doesn’t matter what you do, they still gonna kill you.’”(silence)“I don’t accept this date. I’m not trying to hear it, Obie. They’ve got me messed up! With everything I am, EVERYTHING I AM, I’m going to fight this. EVERYTHING I AM!”After telling him I love him and that I had to get my things packed, I left the wall.The officers came back to the section. Lights came on. The gate popped. They brought the little cart to carry my belongings. And I thought to myself, so much for easing off the section.I didn’t want anybody to know that I was going to death watch. I didn’t even want anybody to know that I was even on death watch at all. The only thing I wanted them to know is that I got my life back. Not that they were about to take it away. It was all completely humiliating and sick all at the same time.My stuff was packed. I backed to the cage door to get handcuffed, took a deep cleansing breath – and stepped into the run. Fighting back that ocean the whole way, I went down the run and woke Tony Medina up. I cringed at having to wake him to this. He came to the door rubbing his eyes. I told him that I was moving to Death Watch and that I’ve got a date for Oct.27th. He looked at me and the only thing he said was, “That’s fucked up”.His neighbor was standing at the door, Juan Reynosa. “You moving, man?”“Yeah, they gave me a date for Oct.27th…”“Ah man, that’s fucked up! Man! Damn…keep ya head up”.“A’ight ,man, a’ight,” I said. Tears were beginning to breach the levees. A deep breath. I stepped on.Joseph Lave hollered at me from the other end of the run. “What cell ya going to?”“14 cage”, I reply.“You know, that’s my old cage!”Joseph was just off of Death Watch and, for whatever reason, made it off.“Yeah, I know. And I’m trying to come back just like you did!” I said.“Already!” he laughed. “I’ve been busy but I’ll get with you.”I was in front of Obie’s cage. We looked in each other’s eyes for a moment. I could tell he was taking measure of me. I let him. I wondered if he could see through me. I wondered if I was hiding what I truly felt as much as I thought I was.“You’re ugly.” he said.Though I was thinking you know damn well I’m not ugly, I couldn’t help but smile. “I’ll catch up with you,” I said.“A’ight.”As I was coming down the stairs, I hollered at another prisoner I knew I on the row. And with a smile that smiled through his words, he said, “Holler at me.” I thought to myself, why is he smiling? Would he be the one who sends my wife flowers at my funeral to entice her into responding with a “Thank you,” so that he could respond and try to get her to write again? There are vultures like that around here.“I’ma holler at the whole world!” I returned to him as I walked of the section.Another brother hollers at me from another section – in Swahili. I tell him, “October 27th!”“”Ahhhhh man!” he gave.And shut the door behind me.When I got to Death Watch the whole vibe was different. There are eight people over here right now. I’m not saying that they were happy to see me. But it was like my company comforted them to some vague extent. A faint beam of light that found a thin layer of clouds; as thin as a layer of ice that this beam of sunlight stepped upon and fell through.All of this was mere layers of ice I had to work through. Underneath all this lied the iceburg: How? How can I tell my precious wife that her husband, her baby, that she hasn’t even had the chance to properly and officially marry yet – has an execution date? How can I tell my queen this? I want to just cry in her arms but I cannot even tell her like that. I’m disgusted with the State for even putting me in this situation. How do I tell Mama that they have set the date to kill her baby? (Tears) The weight . God, the weight. I have to tell them. I hate to tell them. My God! I have to.Baby, my precious baby, I love you with my soul. Baby, you know this. (Tears) They set a date for me to die. I despise this day, My Queen. I despise having to tell you this. I despise putting you through this. All I can say is that you are m Queen-Self and I vow to you that I will fight this fight with all that I have. I will not allow them to take me away from my Heaven: You, Queen. My life. My Heaven and my Life. I will have you, My Queen, I will.Reginald Blanton © 2009For More Information Visit Reggie's MySpace Page - <a href="http://time-awareness.ning.com/group/nomoredeath/forum/topic/%3Ca%20href=" target="_blank">FreeReggieB</a>Or Contact T.I.M.E. Member <a href="http://time-awareness.ning.com/profile/ReginaldBlanton?xg_source=profiles_memberList" target="_blank">Sandie</a>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-51850321749300895512009-05-13T11:36:00.000-07:002009-05-13T11:39:33.865-07:00David l. Wood Recieves an Execution date of august 20, 2009David L. Wood Receives an Execution Date of August 20, 2009, by the State of Texas<br />May 13, 2009 by<br /><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/user/33484/dee.html">Dee</a><br />Is Texas About to Execute The Wrong Man?<br /><br />David L. Wood sits in a cell on Texas death row counting the days until his scheduled execution. He claims he is innocent and that by executing him, will bring no justice. His execution is scheduled for August 20, 2009, in Texas a state who has executed more death row inmates than any other state in the nation.<br /><br />Wood was convicted of the rape and murder of one women, and indicted for the rape and murder of several young women in El Paso back in 1987. He was called a serial killer and the <a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/theme/1558/crime.html">crime</a> was called "The Northeast Desert Murders."<br /><br />His trial bring many questions to my mind. I did an <a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/568683/interview_convicted_serial_killer_david.html?cat=17">interview </a>with David, and have paper work to back up his allegations. There were no positive match from his DNA, and there were no eye witness's to the crimes he was convicted of. He completely cooperated with <a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/theme/595/police.html">police</a> and officials handling this case.<br /><br />Although Wood admits he had prior convictions for rape, he maintains his innocence in this case. I imagine when a sexual <a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/theme/1558/crime.html">crime</a> is committed, the state runs a check for any registered sex offenders in the area, but it doesn't necessary mean that one of those sex offenders are responsible for the crime.<br /><br />What troubles me the most about this case is the use of "jailhouse snitch testimony." Jailhouse snitch testimony is when the DA or other official pays another inmate or promises a reduction in sentence, or even freedom to testify against a defendant. The use of this kind of testimony is unethical, unbelievable, and a corruption and mockery of our justice system. Some of the jailhouse snitches used are "career snitches." Their testimony can't seriously be taken serious, nor is it credible.<br /><br />Jailhouse snitch testimony had a huge part in the conviction of Wood. Wood describes in his <a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/568683/interview_convicted_serial_killer_david.html?cat=17">interview</a> how the DA used a <a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/theme/1590/career.html">career</a> jailhouse snitch to help get him convicted. You can read about it here.<br /><br />While Wood has been incarcerated all these years, similar crimes like the one he has been convicted of have occurred. Approximately 150 miles or so from El Paso, in Albuquerque New Mexico, the remains of 12 bodies have been discovered, buried in a remote area, in a similar <a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/theme/442/fashion.html">fashion</a> as the victims in Wood's case. According to <a href="http://www.elpasotimes.com/ci_12068200?source=most_viewed">elpasotimes.com</a> "detectives are also reviewing cases involving dozens of women who vanished from the city in the past two decades."<br /><br />This makes one wonder if they had a reason to go back 20 years. Wood stated that detectives from Albuquerque had tried to talk to him when he was in jail in 1987, but the El Paso detectives told them there was no need, that he wasn't involved. He states he wasn't involved but wonders why they wouldn't let anyone talk to him.<br /><br />Until <a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/theme/836/texas.html">Texas</a> can say that they are 100% sure David L. Wood committed the crimes he is scheduled to die for, a review of his case should be taken. Some people believe that Wood is innocent and a petition asking Governor Rick Perry for a stay of execution or clemency be granted can be read and signed <a href="http://www.thepetitionsite.com/3/stop-the-texas-execution-of-texas-david-l-wood">here.</a><br /><br />Sources:Associated Content<br /><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/568683/interview_convicted_serial_killer_david.html?cat=17">http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/568683/interview_convicted_serial_killer_david.html?cat=17</a><br /><br /><br />Elpasotimes.com<br /><a href="http://www.elpasotimes.com/ci_12068200?source=most_viewed">http://www.elpasotimes.com/ci_12068200?source=most_viewed</a><br /><br />Care2 Petition site<br /><a href="http://www.thepetitionsite.com/3/stop-the-texas-execution-of-texas-david-l-wood">http://www.thepetitionsite.com/3/stop-the-texas-execution-of-texas-david-l-wood</a>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-84526162527709790892009-04-15T07:15:00.000-07:002009-04-15T07:18:39.320-07:00Petition to sign to get rid of The Law of PartiesThis petition urges texas legislators to support House Bill 304 and House Bill 2267; both which call for ending the death penalty as a sentencing option for law of parties cases. Please sign this and pass it along. We need @ least 5000 signatures in 1 month!!! Please...innocent men awaiting execution for murders they did not commit are counting on you!!!<a href="http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/Challenge-the-Texas-Law-of-Parties">http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/Challenge-the-Texas-Law-of-Parties</a>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-87093006778734155542009-04-15T07:03:00.000-07:002009-04-15T07:04:32.461-07:00Parole letters needed, please readPAROLE LETTERS NEEDED FOR PAPA BENNIE PRICE<br />PLEASE COULD YOU WRITE PAROLE LETTERS FOR BENNIE PAPA PRICE, HE NEEDS THESE LETTERS DONE WITHIN THE NEXT 3 MONTHS, THIS WILL BE ADDED . PLEASE SPARE SOME TIME TO WRITE THESE LETTERS FOR BENNIE PAPA PRICE, PLEASE GIVE HIM A CHANCE TO COME BACK HOME INTO THE COMMUNITY AGAIN.BENNIE PAPA PRICE 715136264 FM 3478 ESTELLE UNITESTELLEHUNTSVILLETEXAS 77320THIS IS WHAT CAN BE INCLUDED IN THE PAROLE LETTER* SUPPORT LETTERS FOR THE PAROLE FILE."THERE ARE NO RULES FOR SUPPORT LETTERS. THESE ARE ONLY GUIDELINES AND SUGGESTIONS. USE WHAT FITS YOUR SITUATION, DONT BE AFRAID TO ASK PEOPLE TO WRITE LETTERS. MANY PEOPLE CARE AND WANT TO HELP. YOUR REQUEST FOR HELP MAY GIVE THEM A BETTER UNDERSTANDING OF THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE PROCESS.*THE LETTERS COULD INCLUDE AND SHOW THE FOLLOWING*1. SOMEBODY KNOWS THE OFFENDER AND CARES2. THE OFFENDER HAS FREE WORLD INPUT WHILE IN PRISON3. SOMEONE WILL HELP WHEN HE OR SHE GETS OUT.4. THE GOOD SIDE OF THE OFFENDER, AND THUS HELPS BALANCE THE BAD SIDE WHICH APPEARS IN HIS OR HER CRIMINAL RECORD.*WHO WRITES SUPPORT LETTERS*1. FAMILY MEMBERS, CLOSE FRIENDS AND LOVED ONES.2. DISTANT RELATIVES, AUNTS UNCLES AND GRANDPARENTS3. RESPECTED MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY INCLUDING PAST AND PRESENT EMPLOYERS, MINISTERS, TEACHER, RELIGIOUS INSTRUCTORS, STUDENTS, COUNSELLORS, AND VOLUNTEERS FROM COMMUNITY. PEOPLE WHO KNOW THE OFFENDERS FAMILY AND CAN STATE THAT THEIR SUPPORT WILL BE OF VALUE DURING THE OFFENDERS RE-ADJUSTMENT TO THE COMMUNITY."WHAT SHOULD SUPPORT LETTERS LOOK LIKE*A LETTER OF SUPPORT SHOULD MAKE A GOOD APPEARANCE. IF POSSIBLE IT SHOULD BE TYPED AND ON ONE PAGE, IF EVERYTHING THAT NEEDS TO BE SAID CAN BE COVERED IN ONE PAGE. IF THE LETTER IS FROM A BUSINESS OR PROFESSIONAL PERSON, IT SHOULD BE WRITTEN IN LETTERHEAD STATIONARY, IF POSSIBLE.AT THE TIME OF THE PAROLE INTERVIEW 3-10 SUPPORT LETTERS SHOULD BE ENOUGH , KEEP SENDING SUPPORT LETTERS REGULARLY, NOT JUST AT THE PAROLE REVIEW DATE . THIS SHOWS CONSISTENCY, ACTIVE SUPPORT AND LETS THE PAROLE BOARD KNOW THAT YOU’LL STICK WITH THE OFFENDER AFTER RELEASE.*WHAT TO SAY?*1. THE RELATIONSHIP TO THE OFFENDER2. HOW LONG YOU HAVE KNOWN THE OFFENDER.3. YOUR BELIEF THAT, DESPITE THE MISTAKE HE IS A GOOD PERSON.4. THE REASON YOU FEEL THIS WAY5. YOUR BELIEF THAT THE OFFENDER WILL BE USEFUL A LAW ABIDING CITIZEN, IF GIVEN THE OPPORTUNITY. YOU CAN ALSO DESCRIBE IMPROVEMENTS IN THE OFFENDERS ATTITUDE, BEHAVIOUR EFFORTS HE HAS MADE TO IMPROVE. YOU CAN ALSO MENTION THE KIND OF HELP YOU CAN PROVIDE, LIKE CLOTHING, TRANSPORTATION. OTHER KINDS OF HELP. SOME PEOPLE ARE WILLING TO HELP THE OFFENDING IN SOME WAY BUT DONT HAVE MONEY OR A JOB TO OFFER, A LETTER SHOULD STATE IF THEY OFFER TO SPEND TIME WITH THE OFFENDER DONG SOMETHING POSITIVE, OR WORTHWHILE OR THEY CAN OFFER ADVICE OR ENCOURAGEMENT. THIS KIND OF HELP IS VERY NECESSARY FOR SOMEONE JUST RELEASED FROM PRISON.WHERE TO SEND SUPPORT LETTERS.YOU SHOULD SEND YOUR SUPPORT LETTERS TO THE BOARD OF PARDONS AND PAROLES IN ....AUSTIN...., YOU MAY ALSO WRITE LETTERS DIRECTLY TO THE MEMBERS OF THE PAROLE PANEL WHICH IS VOTING ON THE CASE. AFTER THE REVIEW PROCESS HAS STARTED CALL THE ....HUNTSVILLE.... INSTITUTIONAL PAROLE OFFICE ON 936-291-2106 TO IDENTIFY THE REVIEWING BOARD MEMBERS NAMES, AND PHONE NUMBER. YOU CAN LEARN THEIR NAMES AND PHONE NUMBERS ONLY AFTER THEY HAVE STARTED REVIEWING THE CASE. THE OFFENDER MAY GET INFORMATION DURING HIS INTERVIEW OR MAY ASK ONE OF THE REGIONAL PAROLE OFFICES. YOU MAY ADDRESS YOUR LETTERS TO A SPECIFIC PERSON ON THE PAROLE BOARD, IF YOU WISH. IT IS ALSO ACCEPTABLE TO ADDRESS YOUR LETTERS TO DEAR PAROLE BOARD MEMBERS. THE LETTER WILL BE PLACED IN THE OFFENDERS FILE AND WILL BE READ MY MEMBERS OF THE PAROLE PANEL WHO REVIEW THE CASE.SEND LETTERS OF SUPPORT TO:TEXAS BOARD OF PARDONS AND PAROLESP.O.BOX 13401AUSTINTEXAS 78711-3401PHONE 936 291 3401BE SURE ALL LETTERS INCLUDE THE OFFENDERS NAME, TDCJ AND UNIT LOCATION, SEND LETTER TO THE BOARD OF PARDONS AND PAROLES, MAYBE SEND ONE TO THE INMATE, AND KEEP A COPY FOR YOURSELFPrison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-70858244578769886252009-04-15T06:43:00.000-07:002009-04-15T06:44:03.452-07:00Stop This ExecutionMichael Rosales is scheduled for execution tomorrow. Please call 4 him @ 512-463-2000<br /><a class="nolink">Posted by </a><a href="http://time-awareness.ning.com/xn/detail/u_30v9uj7x5dmqz">Terri Been</a><a class="nolink"> on April 14, 2009 at 2:16pm in </a><a href="http://time-awareness.ning.com/group/nomoredeath">No More Death</a><br /><a class="xg_sprite xg_sprite-back" href="http://time-awareness.ning.com/group/nomoredeath/forum">Back to No More Death Discussions</a><br />4/14/09Lubbock man scheduled for execution in HuntsvilleApril 14, 2009 05:50 PMLUBBOCK, TX (KCBD) - A Lubbock man is set to die Wednesday night inHuntsville after being sentenced to death for a 1997 murder.35-year-old Michael Rosales of Lubbock was sent to death row for the1997 beating and fatal stabbing of 67-year-old Mary Felder.On June 4, 1997, Rosales was in the process of committing burglary ofa habitation when he entered the home of Felder. Rosales claims hedid not know she was home, and he was subsequently discovered whilecommitting burglary. Rosales grabbed a kitchen knife from Felder'skitchen, stabbed her 137 times, and struck her with a hard objectresulting in her death.In 2004, the 5th US Circuit Court of Appeals granted a stay justhours before his scheduled execution.His execution is scheduled for Wednesday night at 6:00 p.m.<a href="http://www.kcbd.com/Global/story.asp?S=10180556&nav=3w6y">http://www.kcbd.com/Global/story.asp?S=10180556&nav=3w6y</a>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-88859906254120936412009-01-22T07:08:00.001-08:002009-01-22T07:08:26.970-08:00More from Reggie BlantonTHE CHAOTIC DEPTHS OF MY SOLITUDE:Entry (14th January 2009) I have largely felt discouraged from doing a lot of journal writing, like what I use to do for the DRIVE site, because it started to feel like an unfulfilling endeavor. The struggle I wrote about IS my life, not was; but IS. Granted I may not have articulated my struggle in a heart wrenching manner—no, no, I don't need to say it that way. Perhaps the bottom line is I wasn't persuasive enough. I couldn't shake society's conscience enough for them to see these flames of mine that melt flesh right off the bone. Too strong a metaphor? My neck burns right now. Unfulfilling indeed. Why expose the death, the decay, the blood stains, the horror, the dried up tear stains, the mucus, mu naked abused body, my soul to a people who merely find it entertaining reading as they stare, transfixed at their computer screen, sucking the food off their finger tips, in their cozy homes; safe, secure, maybe. Maybe living. But who knows this? Any part of this? I almost said "Nevermind, because it's about me anyway" but it's not just about me; its about us. It has always been about us, only "us" haven't realized this much; with the exception of a few. A small few. Ha! They just brought me a food loaf to eat for the lunch I turned down because spoiled food was on the tray. I'll explain in a minute. I guess what I'm trying to say is, the overall response of the people (outside these ghastly tomb walls, as well as those banished a prisoner in this wilderness of death) to the DRIVE movement had "wounded" (see poem with same title) me deeply. Maybe one day I will feel encouraged to expound upon my wounds. Nevertheless the pain made me yank my hand back away from sharing myself, everything I am, away from my journal writing, and I questioned my wound. And it spoke to me. I fought it, it fought me. It cried, I cried, We smiled at each other. Yet all the while, unbeknownst to you, the peeper in my window, my struggle continued. And for the meantime I feel motivated to let you peer into The Chaotic Depths of my Solitude. Perhaps my actions today was the result of my refusal to accept my chains, a refusal to accept being forced into this preconceived role the system needs me to play, not only out of need for their prisoner (those enchained, whether they are aware of it or not, physically or psychologically; and in this case, I'm even speaking of the pursued prisoner-to-be) to perpetuate the ignorance of the system uses to justify keeping their Frankenstein of a system alive and putrid, but alive. But the prisoner is also the mirror that reinforces the systems sense of self, of itself, when it looks into that mirror, at what it has made. Only it doesn't see it this way. They see no other way of looking at life; or death. (Shrugging my shoulders) It really just depends on how complex you believe this philosophical question to be. I know I have been thrusted into a line to die,"Die!" They scream with a crack of the whip "you have no self! Toby! Die!" They cry "Your spirit, the humanity of it, I will not tolerate! It may help you remember; help you rebel. Die!" They spit, spasming as if trying to cast a hex upon my soul; as if the gurney will arise, bolts flying from the floor as it brings itself to me. You would think I'm merely being creative, but I heard that certain racist organizations and other groups that want us dead "lay hands" on us everyday. Whatever "lay hands" is suppose to mean. "I hear that whipCRACK!!!!!SmokeCame from the slice in your skinBurning bright redLike crack pipes…." --excerpt from my poem "Free Style,!" Yeah that whip stings all sorts of epithets upon my Afrikan soil, my flesh, but no matter how hard they try, though I may fall to one Knee, bowing to no one, but the ONE, and maybe my Queen, they will not uproot my soul. They can't make me believe I'm guilty; they can't make me believe I deserve to live like this, fighting against a slow psychological and spiritual death, they can't make me believe I have no rights, that I deserve to die. I can never BE 999395. I AM life! I AM life! And life moves; it breathes, even if through chemical agents. And so I refuse passage, upon the property of my Humanity, to any oppressive, suppressive or repressive force. Well I refuse as much as possible because I'm hard pressed on every side of my BEing, and it's hard to defend yourself against mass misconception, media propaganda, the complicity of the judicial persecution system, Texas Department of Corrections inc., a reaper of death sentence that lurks over me, drooling, these vamirish sensory – depriving conditions, the psychological warfare this administration teaches its staff to wield against us daily, the numerous policies they violate daily, the spoiled, inadequate and ill-prepared food, systematic indifference, the reactionary suicide and homicide of fellow prisoners, their complacency, the pain of not being able to show Mama the full extent of the righteous man I've become, the pain of not being able to touch, smell, taste my Queen…. Should I go on? Sometimes some of these things snake their way through the aura of divine energy, I cultivate around myself through meditation, Hatha yoga and the liberating affect of struggling. Like right now, I have an intense headache from prolong exposure to chemical agents they doused me with a few hours ago. It was all in my hair, its on my walls, my floor, cell door, its pretty much over everything. And believe me when I say everything. Hold up, let me tie a sock around my head over my nose. Today, the floor officer awoken me to my lunch tray: a porkchop, I haven't seen in a long time, 2 biscuits, a boiled potato with gravy, green beans and beans. I was a lil happy, to see the porkchop, sick of the ground mystery meat, gristle and bone included, mixed with soggy over boiled noodles. I was just sitting down with my tray when my brother Obie Weathers, whos a few cages down from me hollered to get the officers attention. I was thinking to myself that something almost smelt spoiled. Then I heard weathers say the vegetables were spoiled. I smelled the tray and pulled my head back, almost ready to puke. Either the white beans (which are almost never cooked) or the green beans (which a lot of the times have stems in them) was spoiled. I also hollered at the officer and told him there was spoiled food on my tray, it was probably 11.30am. We waited and waited and waited. 2pm came around and we still didn't get any relief, we wondered why were were the only two targeted and given spoiled food, or was everybody else accepting it? You'll be surprised at how many times I've seen dozens of prisoners accept these trays, without one thing to say; almost as if afraid to let another prisoner know they had accepted the lashing. The food situation has been an ongoing thing for years; and it has gotten worse; worse with the attitude of this administration. Take for example the day after Christmas, Weathers and I received dinner trays with Oh-my-gawd-make-me-wanta-puke spoiled vegetables on it. When we addressed it to the two floor officers passing out the trays, "Man, you mean to tell me you couldn't smell these spoiled trays?!!! They both said their sense of smell wasn't working. We requested to speak to the Sgt. Two sgts came to the pod, Sgt Williams and Sgt Turner. (coincidently, neither of their noses were working either! Can you believe that Sgt Turner said "you mean to tell me after all that good food we fed you yesterday, you're gonna complain?" However, Sgt Williams made sure Weathers and I was given a generous compensation for the spoiled meal. Here again was Weathers and I the only two out of 84 people that received spoiled vegetables, or did everybody else accept the crack of the whip, just being grateful in their sick mental state, not wanting to stir the Massa's anger? The absurd thing is that this food is even making its contaminated way out of the kitchen. Then when the pod officers get the chow cart (which keeps all the trays warm while they use "chow carriers" to carry the trays to the prisoners) they don't offer us a second line of defense by inspecting the food. What disturbs me is how officers, when I confront them about ill-prepared trays, sometimes say "hey I give y'all what they give us" or "Everybody got the same thing" If pod officers knew what we were suppose to get, what's suppose to be on those trays they bring to us from the kitchen, they wouldn't be able to use ignorance as a defense (which is probably why out of all the psychological warfare they teach these officers to use on us, they don't teach them what our trays are supposed to look like) when a prisoner complains about the adequacy of a tray. Further, it doesn't matter that everybody else accepted their tray or got the same thing. Im not going to accept an ill-prepared tray. And whether everybody got the same thing is irrelevant if the tray is missing some food. Part of the reason why I and a few others refuse to accept being treated like hogs being slopped is to take these lines of defenses away from the officers. Officers are not suppose to subtly encourage prisoners to accept the crack of the whip! Then when I'm the only one out of 14 prisoners that gets what we was only suppose to get in the first place, maybe my actions will act as a mirror showing them their true selves; maybe they'll also assert their humanity. Sadly, many react by lashing out at the mirror that reveals their sickness than to lash out at the system that tricked them into accepting being encouraged to accept slop! This is the mindstate I refer to as reactionary homicide. The next day, food from lunch was stuck in clumps underneath my dinner tray. What does this mean, besides that these trays weren't cleaned? A tray carrier holds 7 trays that slide in one above the other. The food stuck underneath my tray can easily fall onto the tray directly below it, contaminating it. Several days later the trays were missing either cornbread or bread. Again Weathers and I were the only ones, at least on our section, to address this issue. In doing so, we were compensated with an extra tray. But this was no Victory, 1) we shouldn't have had to address officers about trays missing food. The kitchen Sgt, Pope should be on top of his job. 2) Everybody wasn't compensated for what their trays were missing. And because we know that some prisoners just don't know what they are supposed to have, we are sure to discuss these matters over the run so everybody on the section can hear it. One particular prisoner below me that knows rules, policies, and procedure front and back had caught my attention with his silence, I hollered at him, asking him why he accepted an inadequate tray, He said he doesn't eat cornbread or bread. I thought it was a convenient response. So I waited till the next time cornbread was on the tray before calling his name, he ignored me at first, then when he answered I asked him if I could have his cornbread. I really didn't want it, I was just interested in what he would say. Surprisingly he told me "hell nah" because he was going to eat it. Maybe he was just hungry that day. The crack of the whip! I could go on and on all the way into the present, but I think you glimpse, so say the least, the complexity of this situation. Anyway 2 p.m rolls around and the floor officers were picking up trays. They like to call it "slopping trays" but I try to enlighten them by saying "you slop hogs, not human beings" That's what you do serve hogs slop, lest they feed their hogs corn. Be that as it may, other prisoners would have to say vigilant and persistently address these dehumanising comments if we hope for officers to break the habitual behavior. Im tempted to postulate that part of the reason we're having these problems with our food in particular, and with our treatment in general, is because of a perspective that many officers share that leads to such comments. When the floor officers came to my cage and I told them I was going to hold the tray and occupy the food slot (refusing to allow them to close it) because they already knew what the problem was and I was able to get them to see my spoiled tray in the same light they would see receiving spoiled food from a restaurant, not to mention sympathize with the fact Weathers and I hadn't eaten since breakfast, they didn't react harshly, spewing subtle threats. They understood and was happy to rest while we waited for the Sgt to arrive. Sgt Ludwig arrived, I immediately accepted the fact that I was going to end up gassed when it was all said and done. How he had even made Sgt in the first place--- well, I was going to make a mindless statement. Him making Sgt. Is not beyond my comprehension. You move up in rank by demonstrating you will patriotically stand to their "good old boy" system of complicity and play a lil dirty if you have to. Sgt. Ludwig has no communication skills. It doesn't matter what you have to say or how much logic there is to it, its always "hurry up" and some kind of indefinite resolution mixed with a direct order and a threat of being subjected to gas (chemical agents). He truly epitomizes the officer that would rather break a prisoner from standing up for himself and smile while doing it, than to resolve the situation in a way that purges the problem from the equation to avoid future problems. Should I tell you about the one time he told me he wanted to gas me in such a way that the "gas runs down your back and down the crack of your ass" I was only able to get him to divulge these desires to me by saying with a smile on my face "you like to gas people don't you? You wanted to gas me huh?" something like that. I handed Sgt Ludwig the tray to smell, hoping he wouldn't say his nose wasn't working. To my relief he agreed the food was spoiled. The he said he'll see about getting Weathers and I some extra food later in the evening at dinner. I asked why we couldn't get another porkchop tray. He said there was none. Once I brought up the officers dining room (ODR) which is the main kitchen he wasn't listening anymore. All the food that comes to Death Row which is located in 12 building of this unit, has to come from the main kitchen, ODR. This is where the food is cooked and stored. I told Sgt Ludwig there has to be something left in the refrigerator because Weathers and I was hungry and hadn't eaten since 3 in the morning. Before I could finish he said there was no refrigerator. Which is a lie. Before I couldn't finish saying he could get us some sandwiches (which they keep for those who missed their meal for some reason) Sgt. Ludwig said "Im just gonna gas ya!" as he walked off with a smile on his face. I wrapped my head in a sheet. It made me look like a ninja. I covered my eyes with some plastic, and waited, silently hoping some other officer with some sense would arrive. When Sgt. Ludwig came back with the camera woman, and a face mask with a can of gas in his hands, Cpt Lacox followed behind him. When I politely called Cpt Lacox over, he gave me an indifferent attitude and said what his Sgt says goes, denying me my right to access to my chain of command. Blind complicity. Sgt Ludwig started giving me 2 direct orders "to relinquish the food slot or chemical agents will be utilized" I turned my back to the food slot bracing myself. I head him position the canister at head level, I closed my eyes, held my head down some, and focused on my breathing. The Sgt Ludwig blasted the back of my head with a 5 second burst (though its supposed to be 3) of chemical agents. I could hear and feel the gas sizzle through the sheet and in my hair. I held my position contemplating how far I would allow it to go. When they called the 5 man riot team, decked out with helmets, elbow pads, knew pads, shin guards, and a point man with a shield, I let the Sgt have the slot back. Sgt. Ludwig closed my food slot, then said, "Offender Blanton, you've been subjected to a use of force. To decontaminate, use copious amounts of water…" Copious amounts of water? I was in my cage. All I had was a small sink. I had gas all over me, my walls, floor, etc. Decontaminate? Heres what the use of force plan, right off TDC's website, says about decontamination.Exposure to CS (type of gas used on me)a) Decontamination of individual: i. During the initial recovery period, the individual may be quite alarmed because he is unable to breathe normally. He should be encouraged to remain calm and reassured that once recovery starts, it will occur quickly.ii. Move the affected individual to uncontaminated air (preferably facing into the wind if necessaryiii. Individual should remove contact lenses and be cautioned not to rub his eyes; in cases of severe irritation, the victim should irrigate his eyes with water (i.e by cupping water and splashing it on the face) or a one percent solution of sodium bicarbonate;iv. If chemical agent residue is found on any individual's clothing, the clothing must be removed to obtain complete relief;v. Generally an individual exposed to cs may shower immediately. However if CS dust particles are on the skin, as evidenced by a slight burning or tingling sensation when moist, showered should be delayed for about six (6) hours. When these individuals do shower they should use soap and avoid harsh rubbing of the affected areas.vi. In cases of gross contamination of the skin, the affected areas (except around the eyes) should be flushed with ethylene glycol or five (5) percent solution of sodium bisulphate, rinsed with water, and a steroid or antihistamine ointment applied. (b) Decontamination of Area:i. Ventilate the contaminated area;ii. Affected surfaces are to be washed with a five (5) percent solution of sodium hydroxide in equal portions of ethanol and water, and then rinsed with clear water.. There's a reason for all these safety precautions, none of which were followed. These cages are sealed up with plexi-glass over the screens on the door. The circulation is so bad inside these cages that you can see the lint floating in the air throughout the cage. Some days worse than others. Either way I was left in the cage about the size of a walk in closet, with chemical agents all over the walls, door, floor and myself. Even when the nurse came to ask me if I was alright, and I said I couldn't breathe, I was left in this contaminated cage. Left to think about my burning neck. Left to think about my throbbing headache. Left to think twice about being bold enough to assert my human right to decent meals. Left to ponder the crack of the whip. Obie Weathers also occupied the food slot. He was also subjected to chemical agents in the same way, he was also left in his contaminated cage; left to ponder the crack of the whip. As for how I was compensated for the spoiled meal, I was given a cold food loaf, which is nothing more than sliced pieces of bologna and mixed vegetables cooked into some harsh cornbread. Do I need to say it was cold because it came from the main kitchens refridgerator. Nevermind it wasn't fresh, nor consisted of what was on the tray per policy, or that they were using food as a punishment. If any of you feel Obie Weathers and I have been mistreated in any way, please share our story with others and encourage them to make a complaint to the TDCJ ombudsman at:P.O Box 99HuntsvilleTexas 77342-0099Telephone number (936) 437 8035Fax number (936) 295 8712With everything I amReg "Omari" Blanton©2008 by S. Stafford & Reginald Blanton. All text, pictures and graphics are copyrighted. Text, Picture, and graphics, unless otherwise agreed upon, cannot be copied, transferred, produced or saved without prior written permission of the publisher.IF ANYONE WISHES TO USE THIS PEACE OF WRITING, PLEASE KEEP ALL THE WRITING AS IS WITHIN THIS MESSAGE, THANKYOU<a href="http://www.myspace.com/freereggieb" target="_blank">www.myspace.com/freereggieb</a><a href="http://www.myspace.com/we_r_not_giving_up" target="_blank">www.myspace.com/we_r_not_giving_up</a>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-84185420642218323032009-01-13T08:13:00.000-08:002009-01-13T08:14:56.494-08:001st Execution of 09 in Texas1st US execution of 09 in Texas - Curtis Moore<br />(Execution tomorrwow...urgent action needed.)Posted by Terri Been on January 13, 2009 at 10:54am in No More Death Back to No More Death Discussions Despite the crime Curtis committed, he is a human and deserves the right to live. Saturday, my family and I had the priviledge of meeting Curtis' loved ones while we were visiting @ Polunsky. I understand the pain and distress they are going through being the "final" days of is life, and feeling powerless to prevent his murder.<br /><br />My family and I will be outside of the captiol in Texas tomorrow @ 5:30pm to show support for Curtis. PLEASE use your voice and call the Board of Pardons and Paroles, and the Governor.<br />BPP: (512) 406-5852 Fax (512) 467-0945<br />Governor (512) 463-2000<br />You can also send a letter on behalf of Curtis directly to the governor via e-mail at this site:<br /><a href="http://www2.governor.state.tx.us/contact/">http://www2.governor.state.tx.us/contact/</a><br />BELOW IS AN ARTICLE ON CURTIS.<br />Jan 13, 20091st US execution of 09 in Texas<br />HUNTSVILLE (Texas) - CURTIS Moore's first run-in with the criminaljustice system came at age 12 as a runaway and he kept getting intoworse trouble as he got older.His rap sheet showed convictions for theft, robbery and weapon anddrug possession that earned him prison terms. In an era ofovercrowded Texas prisons that abbreviated sentences, he repeatedlywas released, then returned to prison with parole violations.He finally ended up on death row, convicted of the slayings of threepeople during a pair of drug-ripoff robberies more than 13 years agoin Fort Worth.Moore, 40, was set to die Wednesday evening.He'd be the first condemned inmate executed this year in the US andamong six to die in Huntsville over 15 days in the nation's mostactive death penalty state. Two are set for injection next week.Moore's appeals were exhausted and lawyers cited his possible mentalretardation as reason the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles shouldcommute his sentence to life in prison.Moore already made one trip to the Huntsville death house. In 2002,less than three hours before he was to receive lethal injection, theUS Supreme Court stopped his scheduled execution so claims from hisattorneys that he was mentally retarded and ineligible for executioncould be reviewed. In October, the high court refused his appeal,clearing the way for Wednesday's execution date to be set.Moore was arrested for a pair of shootings Nov 30, 1995.Roderick Moore, 24, who was not related to him, and LaTanya Boone,21, were found shot to death in a roadside ditch across from a Texaselementary school. Their bodies were found by an off-duty policeofficer.The same night, Darrel Hoyle, 21, and Henry Truevillain Jr, 20, werefound shot and burned by firefighters summoned to put out a car fire.Truevillian was dead but Hoyle survived and helped lead police to thearrest of Moore and his nephew, Anthony Moore, then 17.The three men were abducted after agreeing to meet Curtis Moore andhis nephew at a stable where Roderick Moore boarded and trainedhorses. Then Boone was abducted from the apartment she shared withRoderick Moore, her boyfriend.Testimony at Curtis Moore's trial showed the shootings culminated adrug ripoff, that he doused Hoyle and Truevillain with gasoline andignited them as they were bound and in the trunk of a car parked in adeserted lot.Hoyle regained consciousness six days after he was attacked and gaveinformation that led authorities to Anthony Moore, known on thestreets as 'Kojak,' and that Curtis Moore drove a pink truck.Curtis Moore was arrested about two weeks later, his hands and armsstill showing burns suffered when authorities said he tried to keepHoyle from fleeing the flames.'Curtis was trying to push him back in the trunk,' said Joetta Keene,who prosecuted Moore.'Everybody got burned, including Curtis,' George Gallagher, who wasone of his trial attorneys, recalled. 'That was hard to get around.'At the punishment phase, prosecutors were able to show jurors Moore'sviolent past.'He had a huge criminal history,' Keene said. 'He kept giving us moreevidence. He stabbed a guy in jail.'Moore blamed his nephew for the slayings and said he tried to rescuethe victims from the burning car. But he acknowledged holding them atgunpoint, ordering them hog-tied and stuffed into the trunk of the car.Anthony Moore pleaded guilty to two counts of murder under a pleaagreement and is serving two life prison sentences. -- AP<br /><a href="http://www.straitstimes.com/Breaking%2BNews/World/Story/">http://www.straitstimes.com/Breaking%2BNews/World/Story/</a>STIStory_325535.htmlPrison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-15962294528611441752009-01-10T13:36:00.000-08:002009-01-10T13:38:12.606-08:00Please sign this petition<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpjJmc3ChAmpRJ-EYpfB_tL0Hw1VoTBxQSns09MHjRVAoujFwHKPBa-unyhGj3jM9Q4Mr1hzYp4SHyfpH8ebp7hApqImegu4PVenSLDlYAFY-EfS3UCaKxvwA694dhPSmj3xjffLKacTE/s1600-h/blind.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5289782316831211666" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 104px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 140px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpjJmc3ChAmpRJ-EYpfB_tL0Hw1VoTBxQSns09MHjRVAoujFwHKPBa-unyhGj3jM9Q4Mr1hzYp4SHyfpH8ebp7hApqImegu4PVenSLDlYAFY-EfS3UCaKxvwA694dhPSmj3xjffLKacTE/s320/blind.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>This death row inmate gauged out his eye and ate it, in his cell. Please sign this petition to save the life of this mentaly ill inmate.</div><div><a href="http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/No-Executing-Mental-Patients" target="_blank">http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/No-Executing-Mental-Patients</a> </div>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-68021640202280173502009-01-08T06:46:00.000-08:002009-01-08T06:48:33.692-08:00Reggie Blanton, Texas Death Row, New Year's<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQbmUUIIADW1Hb5_DYCD_qagOYBy3FzGguhoCTkoc0iT-Pt3d6hipOGqySWS2COx02_nj5ymxWoGWAlKT-iLl6f-V_tZLnns0zsdhJSM07uGaaDqPFqlOzE_DMvkkZzY4aYu5ARrtypm0/s1600-h/reginald.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5288934566704686962" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 215px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQbmUUIIADW1Hb5_DYCD_qagOYBy3FzGguhoCTkoc0iT-Pt3d6hipOGqySWS2COx02_nj5ymxWoGWAlKT-iLl6f-V_tZLnns0zsdhJSM07uGaaDqPFqlOzE_DMvkkZzY4aYu5ARrtypm0/s320/reginald.jpg" border="0" /></a> MESSAGE FROM REGINALD BLANTON<br /><br />Received today 7th January 09<br /><br />First of all Happy New Year to you all. Sending all my supporters that has been with me all along in the struggle with me, Love and best wishes for 2009. And I hope that you will continue to help me in my fight to save my life. To those of you that are New to my struggle, Thankyou, and I encourage you to read up on all my case information on my myspace page.I know that my Wife Sandie, has put out on the Yahoo group a message about MLK Jr Day, in which I am asking you if any of My supporters are going to attend any rallies for that Day, if so please could you download my new Flyer from my myspace page <a href="http://www.myspace/" target="_blank">www.myspace</a>. com/freereggieb the new flyer's link is in the about me section on the myspace page, and hand a few of those flyers out for me. I need to draw more and more people to my myspace page, to view all the information about my case. As my myspace is the only main source where my information will be inputted. And any new information Sandie will also send out in my Yahoo support group.If you understand Capital punishment law, or death penalty law rather, please offer us your service, I have done extensive research into my own case; I understand how the law applies. Everything any organization that may wish to lend us assistance can find just about everything they need to know about my case right here on my myspace page, Most of the information here is what my lawyers have filed in my briefs and writs. This my myspace page deals with facts, not fiction. These are the issues we have been raising in the courts.My baby Sandie, she is not American legal minded, but shes learning, her concern is to get my voice out there and to fight for my Life, and to network for me. She is in constant contact with me and with my Mama. Between my Baby, My Mama and myself we have a triangle of communication. Sandie understands everything Im trying to do strategically, because of all this she is the Sole woman that I have given the green light to make minute decisions without first consulting me. I trust her 110 percent. I say this to say any of you can accept what my baby may say in emails, blogs, etc as being my own words. Time is off the essence and this is the only way that we can ensure campaign matters flow smoothly.Sandie is also my Power of Attorney of my affairs shared with Mama, this has been notarised and signed. Also Sandie has sole copyright of all my writings, photos, media etc. Also notorised and signed. If anyone would like to use any of my writings please contact Sandie, as the copyright will have to be applied.**PLEASE NOTE**I am seeking more signatures on my petition, you can find my petition banner on my myspace page, and also a link on sandie's page please try to forward my petition to all that you know that may sign.The sample Clemency Letter which is in my blogs section on my myspace page. This sample letter was written by a lawyer, so please note it is a sample letter only and you can use your own words. From Now on please send the clemency letters either to <a href="mailto:reggieblanton%40hotmail.com" rel="nofollow">reggieblanton@ hotmail.com</a> or <a href="mailto:lawofparties%40hotmail.com" rel="nofollow">lawofparties@ hotmail.com</a> clemency letters can still be sent to my Mama's email, however Mama's email and computer is always playing up, so please send to the emails above. Also send any clemency letters by snail mail to the P.O Box stated in the blog about my clemency letter on my myspace page. There is a reason why we do not want the letters dated, nor sent straight to the board, PLEASE DO NOT SEND STRAIGHT TO THE BOARD, as at a later date, other letters will need to be sent to the board, and for now the clemency letters are being collected in bulk at the above emails. It is important that the details on the clemency letter are followed. If at a later date this is changed, then Sandie will let you all know. To those that have posted the clemency letter on their websites or pages, please change it to the Original One that is on my blogs section where its headed Clemency letters Required, Please copy that blog, if you want to add it to your websites or myspace pages, and please keep my myspace link on there as well as sandies.We need to know where you all are, and what each other is doing in the campaign to help. Please also let Sandie know of anything that you intend on doing. If you are unsure of doing something, please contact Sandie on my myspace page. I need my support group to stay close, a circle so that we are not all spaced out not knowing what each other is doing for the campaign.A FEW PERSONAL SHOUT OUTS To<br />Dee, Happy new Year to you, Thankyou for all that you do, I appreciated all the help that you have given.To Jason, Kathy, and all from the CEDP Denton Branch, Happy new year to you all, and I really do appreciate the help and what you all do.To Antwan (Governor of Crunk) Thanks again for doing the song for me, it was awesome, and great to hear you and your wife at Kdol beginning of 08, it was great to hear the shout out from you. Happy new year to You, to Monica and the kids. May you have great success in your music.TO THELMA, yes you Thelma ha Hey Sue, Glad to hear that things are getting back to normal for you. Good luck for 2009. Thankyou again for being a moderator on my yahoo group and helping Sandie out.To Toni 4 prison reform. Happy new year, thankyou for the info that you gave sandie to send to me, much appreciated, I haven't read it all through yet, but I will. Thanks also for being a moderator in my yahoo group. Happy New Year.GABRIEL AND CARO. Sending much love to you both, happy new year.To Rebecca ( Ducki) To my newest penpal, thanks for being a friend, and thankyou for helping Sandie out. I know she really does appreciate your help. Happy New Year.To SB. The other SB, Hi Manu Hey girl how ya doing. I know you and Sandie are close, but no you can not marry her, shes mine. (smile) Seriously though Im glad she has a good friend in you.MY Queen. Baby I am missing you so much, I cant wait to see those New years Eve Pics, now with you and my step daughter together, lawd have mercy. One day il see that for myself. Yous two together are badddddddd news (smile). It still leaves a smile on my face, when Mama telephoned you, Mama wrote to me and told me, Tasha had not long had baby liam home, it was quite late, and Liam must have woke up, and Tasha came running down the stairs and all Mama heard from my stepdaughter Tasha was "that just aint right" yes I sure like that saying. Baby I know its been a hard few years for you, I know this, With your health, the other, and all the criticisms you get by doing what you do, Yet you still keep going love, you still keep fighting the fight for me. Give Kye a kiss and hug from me. I love you my Queen. To MY Stepdaughter Tasha Ok Tasha, Please give my grandson a hug from me. I suppose a hug for you too madam (smile) Your Mum sent me the photos of the recent ones of Liam, he has come on so well Tasha, you are blessed to have that Child, Its so hard to believe that Liam was born 12 weeks early, and he is doing so well. It was a nice birthday present for me, I mean my birthday is the 3rd June, your baby was born4th june 08, my sisters baby girl was born 4th june 08 your moms birthday is 5th june, And your mom and my mama became nannas the same day, this is something we will celebrate every single year. I hope I get home to see little Liam grow up, Please always tell him that grandpops Reg thinks of him often.To all on my myspace page, and my yahoo support group, Happy New Year.Reg (omari)1981- ????Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-34532434680908273862009-01-07T14:24:00.000-08:002009-01-07T14:25:07.144-08:00Rob Will, Texas Death RowLivingston, TX<br />Tuesday, December 23, 2008<br />6:47 PM<br /><br />I woke up earlier and did some nice yoga/ meditation, centering my mind and relaxing my body. I didn't do any writing yesterday. What I did I do?...<br /><br />…Engage in a dreadful amount of sleep deprivation. I got up yesterday and found out that there was no hot water. So, I had to make myself stay awake in order to speak with a sergeant about the problem when he came around. Normally, we're woken up on a consistent basis, day and night. It's impossible to sleep for more than an hour without being pulled from your sleep by a variety of noises: count time(!), clean-up crew, chow-time(!), scream-talking(!) by other inmates, beating on doors, slamming gates, slamming doors, etc!, etc!, etc! But, I wanted to absolutely make sure I was awake so I didn't miss the sergeant, therefore I read and read till he came around. I find it hard to write when I'm in an extreme — meaning more than normal — sleep deprived state, so I didn't write at all yesterday.<br /><br />I read Neil Gaiman's "Odd and the Frost Giants" which is an alright little book, it's basically a retelling of tales from Norse mythology. It's something I'd give my son and stepson to read. Then, I started on "American Goods" by Gaiman. I thought I'd be more impressed by it than I actually am. I'm ¾ into the book and I'm a bit disappointed… I think I'll go ahead and kick back and read some more of the book for a while…<br /><br />Thursday<br />Christmas Day<br />4:52 am<br /><br />An apple and an orange… We only get fresh fruit twice a year, on Thanksgiving and Christmas. I just got up about an hour or so ago for breakfast and ate my orange and apple. I finished Gaiman's "American Gods" and it was actually pretty good. It started raining so I had to pick up all my stuff off the floor because my cell leaks very bad. I had a stack of legal papers on my desk so I figured I'd just do some more reading. I picked up Neil Gaiman's "Neverwhere" and finished it in one sitting. It's better than his "American Gods".<br /><br />So, I finished reading "Neverwhere", washed some clothes, cleaned up a bit and got some rest. Last time I wrote, I was thinking of writing about what I'd like to be doing if I was out there right now, along with writing about what I am doing in here. However, I think it's important to talk about what's been going on around here lately…<br /><br />Things have been bad. Things have been very, very bad. I'm quite sure everyone in the industrialized world has heard about the wretched antics of Richard Tabler, the Texas Death Row inmate who called Texas state senator John Whitmire from a cell phone and threatened him. That was around early October. We went on lockdown shortly after that and the gates of hell were opened…<br /><br />"Abandon all hope, ye who enter"<br />Years ago, I saw some illustrations of Dante's Inferno, perhaps, by Gustave Dore, but I can't exactly remember. If Dante were alive today and had intimate knowledge of the happenings here over the last two months, I'm sure he would include descriptions of Texas Death Row in his depiction of Hell. And, Dore would draw the images when he did the illustrations (or whoever did the illustrations I saw).<br /><br />And what would these images look like? How would these images be described with words? ... The human animal learns through study, observation and experience. I've found it hard to properly describe this environment with only words. However, people on the outside can't actually experience this environment so, by describing my experiences I hope to allow people a window of study and observation. I actually had a calendar with many specific events marked down but it was (quite conveniently) thrown away during a shakedown…<br /><br />Yes, shakedowns. Usually, we have a major lockdown/shakedown once a year. We have regular cell searches and shakedowns all the time though. The main difference between a major shakedown and a regular shakedown is that during a major shakedown the entire unit is on lockdown and we're only allowed showers three times a week and we're given Johnny Sacks instead of trays.<br /><br />Since the Tabler Incident shakedowns have been straight up out of control. They've put the entire unit on lockdown three separate times and they've searched — meaning examined thoroughly and ravaged — our property a seemingly countless number of times. Staff have been arbitrarily destroying people's property with sadistic glee and confiscating property for no warranted reason. They've been giving people unwarranted disciplinary cases which have been resulting in excessive amounts of restrictions. Hold up, cold Christmas tray time…<br /><br />Twice a year we get decent meals, on Christmas and Thanksgiving. First, they'll bring a cold tray — which consists of desert items, pickles, etc. — and then a hot tray with a little Turkey and some stuffing, "hot" items. The cold tray they served us today was the absolute worst ever. They usually will give us some pickles, olives, celery, and onions on our Christmas cold tray. Not this time. It's really almost comical how they keep finding ways to fuck with us, all of us, in retaliation for the Tabler situation. I can just imagine whoever was in charge of deciding what would be on the Christmas tray this year saying: "They don't deserve any goddamn pickles, celery or olives and onions this year!! They should all suffer for the stupid shit Tabler pulled!!"<br /><br />Later, I think I'll detail certain instances of more-than-normal oppression but for now I think I'll do some reading and wait for this hot tray to come around. I've been on a fiction spree and I think I'll continue it with Gaiman's "Stardust". Christianity borrowed the birthday of the Persian — and later — Roman God Mithras for the birthday of Jesus, so I'll sign off by saying Happy Birthday to Jesus and Mithras!<br /><br />Death to Complacency<br />Life to Free Thought<br /><br />Rob<br /><br /><br />*I haven't abandoned all hope, but it seems like a lot of people here have…-- <a href="http://www.freerobwill.org/" target="_blank">www.freerobwill.org</a><a href="http://www.myspace.com/freerobwill" target="_blank">http://www.myspace.com/freerobwill</a><a href="http://www.drivemovement.org/" target="_blank">www.drivemovement.org</a>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-69466968418796387482009-01-07T08:57:00.000-08:002009-01-07T08:59:14.120-08:00Save Jeff WoodJeff Still faces Execution...urgent action still needed!<br /><br />By Terri Bean<br /><br />Jeff Wood is a man who is currently awaiting execution, in Texas, for a murder he did NOT commit!Jeff was convicted under a law called the Texas Law of Parties even though he was NOT the shooter in the crime, and even though he was not even present when the murder took place. Further, Jeff had NO knowledge that a murder would even take place.The actual shooter in this crime, Daniel Reneau, has already been executed for this crime by the state of Texas back in 2002.<br />The UNDISPUTED FACT is Jeff did NOT kill anyone, but he came hours away from his scheduled execution back on August 21st, 2008 before federal judge, Orlando Garcia, granted a request to DELAY his execution.Judge Garcia granted the stay request submitted by Wood's attorneys to delay the execution so they could hire a mental health expert to pursue their arguments that he is incompetent to be executed.Federal judge Orlando Garcia stayed the execution, finding that Texas violated Wood's constitutional rights by refusing to provide Wood with a lawyer to help him argue that he is too mentally incompetent to be executed.SADLY, Jeff STILL faces his execution, and the media still refers to him as “condemned inmate Jeffrey Wood.”<br />Currently, Jeff’s competency is being evaluated by professionals hired by his lawyers. The results from the evaluation and a petition for Jeff will be filed by his lawyers on January 20th, 2009. Once this happens, a competency hearing will be scheduled.Kenneth Foster was in a similar situation last year, and his sentence was commuted to life after 17,000 people used their voices to express their concern over the INjustice known as the Law of Parties. The 17,000 people petitioned, called, faxed, and wrote to the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles as well as Governor Perry and members of the Texas Legislature.<br />We can save Jeff from death too, but right now less than 1,500 people have signed his online petition, and we need NUMBERS!You CAN make a positive difference by signing the petition and writing to the governor, the legislature, and the board of paroles.Your help is DESPERATELY NEEDED!!! NOT A RESIDENT OF TEXAS???? That doesn’t matter; you can still help prevent this man's execution. It has worked before and it can work again, but we all have to work together. So use your power (your voice) to make a difference! Write, sign, call and Spread the word! Tell everyone you know!You can sign Jeff’s petition here:<a href="http://www.thepetitionsite.com/2/save-jeff-wood-from-the-executioner">http://www.thepetitionsite.com/2/save-jeff-wood-from-the-executioner</a>You can write the governor, legislature, and board of paroles here:<a href="http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/223/t/7156/campaign.jsp?campaign_KEY=25043">http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/223/t/7156/campaign.jsp?campai...</a>PLEASE send a copy of your letter to the Governor and the Board of Pardons and Parole to Jeff’s sister, Terri, at the following e-mail address: mystrus@hotmail.comBOTH of these steps are of the utmost importance!!!!Below is another useful link to the Texas Moratorium Network. At this site you can learn more about Jeff’s case, Kenneth Foster’s case and other cases as well:<a href="http://www.texasmoratorium.org/">http://www.texasmoratorium.org/</a>Case Summary:Full name: Jeffrey Lee WoodDate of birth: 8/ 19 /74Convicted: Killing a convenience store clerk during a January 1996 robbery in Kerrville, TXConvicted under: The law of parties.Previous record: NoneCo-defendant: Daniel Earl Reneau (executed on 06/13/2002)Short case summary: At approximately 6:00 a.m. on Jan. 2, 1996, while Wood waited outside, Reneau entered the gas station with a gun and pointed it at Kris Keeran, the clerk standing behind the counter. Reneau ordered him to a back room. When he did not move quickly enough, Reneau fired one shot with a 22 caliber handgun that struck Keeran between the eyes. Death was almost instantaneous. Proceeding with the robbery, Reneau went into the back office and took a safe. When hearing the shot, Wood got out of the car to see what was going on. He walked by the door and looked through the glass. Then he went inside, and he looked over the counter and ran to the back, where Reneau was. Wood was then ordered, at gun point by Reneau, to get the surveillance video and to drive the getaway-car.Outstanding facts:• Wood suffers from mental and learing disorders. He was abused and beat severely and repeatedly as a child. He is submissive to dominant behavior because of such.• At arrest Wood was forced into interrogation by the police and did not have council present. Wood was kept awake the entire time. He was refused sleep. He eventually confessed saying it was a planned robbery. He later revoked this statement.• Wood was found not mentally fit to stand trial. He was admitted into a mental hospital and a couple of weeks later was found 'trial ready'• At trial, Wood was not satisfied with his representation. Wood asked to represent himself, but wasn't allowed to do so. The judge found him not capable of doing this. The judge however, did not argue Wood when Wood said he would then order his attorney's not to do anything. Result: Jeff had no witnesses during the punishment phase of his trial on his behalf.• The victims father is against the death penalty and actually campaigned to keep the actual gunman Reneau alive.There are many additional facts that might be of importance, Jeff's mental state being the most important factor. There are mental health records that date back all the way to his childhood.For additional RELEVANT FACTS please visit: <a href="http://www.freewebs.com/savejeffwood">http://www.freewebs.com/savejeffwood</a>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-57272050904916147122009-01-07T08:49:00.000-08:002009-01-07T08:51:07.532-08:00A Plea to save death row inmates life Reggie PerkinsGreetings friends and activists<br />You all feel Reggie shouldn't be facing a death sentence, but we are in Texas.The procedure for killing by lethal injection has in multiple executions been extremely painful; such that the US Supreme Court had to argue the case Baze v. Rees last year, but it cowardly decided to allow lethal injections to proceed.In this final appeal for clemency, I ask all of you to do the following:-<br /><br />If you’re in the USA, contact Rick Perry (Gov. of TX) using the form at <a onmousedown="'return" href="http://governor/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://governor</a>. state.tx. us/contact/-If you’re outside the USA, email publicrecords@ governor. sta-Fax the Office of the Governor at (+1)-(512)-463- 1849-Phone the Office of the Governor on (800)-252-9600 if you’re in TX, or (+1)-(512)-463- 1782 if outside of TX/outside of USA-Phone the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles on (+1)-(512)-406- 5852-Fax the TX Parole Board on (+1)-(512)-467- 0945-Email the TX Parole Board at bpp-pio@tdcj. state.tx. usIf you are not sure what to say when phoning, keep it short and simple,------------ --------- ------<br /><br />I am calling to voice my concern about the upcoming executions of Reginald W. Perkins (TDCJ's inmate number #999407)I would list his very low IQ which is the sign of a diminished intelligence, which I understand means that a death sentence should not, under Texan law, have been handed down and also important mitigating factors that seem to make it only reasonable to grant clemency : abusive mother, horrible childhood that contributed to a very poor start in life for Reggie.I urge you to grant a commutation of Mr. Perkins death sentence"].I am grateful for your consideration of this matter.------------ --------- ----Please forward this widely<br />Together in struggle<br />Thank you for your neverending support,<br />Myriam StubbeCFTJ chairwomanPrison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-83810023590079446812008-12-04T07:13:00.000-08:002008-12-04T09:05:39.471-08:00Greg Wright, 15 min. after execution<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU4a8S4vp2LazcGKNqc0SSKMGWmm-LsbiY7tilNAC5ExJ0Rw-kQRnOt-xlz2DYbLOjSsPVITxnbctAfhS0TsI5tyk7HnHD163dOOghCpzjsRRs_y4GuvGfDiZuPPJRXVyv6tCGM3pUNk8/s1600-h/gregwright.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275953579089465970" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 320px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 240px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhU4a8S4vp2LazcGKNqc0SSKMGWmm-LsbiY7tilNAC5ExJ0Rw-kQRnOt-xlz2DYbLOjSsPVITxnbctAfhS0TsI5tyk7HnHD163dOOghCpzjsRRs_y4GuvGfDiZuPPJRXVyv6tCGM3pUNk8/s320/gregwright.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq4ObzekKJe2-2UhbRs5n5cmYQwvq96G9GOwcN5RJ7C89D9YqjjzU2oMcO6DaSFeKLrmxw_ZFy88NOQf99oeISwsBlhVf4X8YxXySvtc7iHoVPi6ZzCmxGE6P8_wr3uCdO_L0CzlRooeGZ/s1600-h/gregwright.jpg"></a>This photo of Greg Wright 15 minutes after his execution on Oct 30, 2008 in Texas is from Bente Hjortshoj. She is standing on the left. She wrote this caption to the photo:<br />"The first time we touched you Greg...you were still warm...you looked at peace...as though you were just sleeping and would wake up soon....it was sooooo hard to see you like this though you were finally free..this is just about 15 minutes after the execution...sooo surreal....BUT dearest Greg.....Me and Connie kept our promise to you and for that we are glad...but it was tougher than we thought.... we did it out of love and respect for you!! LOVE YA LOADS!!!!".Bente Hjortshøj has given permission for the photo to be distributed around the internet, "me and Connie decided to publish all pictures to show the world the cruel and unusual punishment and its horrible consequences". </div>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-35639866837207735422008-12-03T08:21:00.000-08:002008-12-03T08:22:23.008-08:00Hell Hole News By Hank Skinner (Death row inmate)HELL HOLE NEWS<br />HELL HOLE NEWSNovember 25, 2008Well, it’s been another lovely two weeks under the guns of senator Whitmire’s little inquisition. This fellow is a real turd. It must really make him feel powerful to attack and smash on death row prisoners who’re restrained and defenseless. Who’ve done nothing to deserve it. We were put on lockdown yet again, for 5 more days, searched, strip searched, wanded, scanned, strip searched again, had all our property confiscated, even our mattresses and bedding. We were put in empty cells with vents blowing ice-cold air all night and left like that until 2:30 AM the next shift. Now many of the guys are sick. Ol’ man Woody was trying to talk to the rank about his property while in cuffs and being held on the run by two field force officers with another behind him. They tried to jerk his eyeglasses out of his hand and slammed him face first into the wall. Captain Bryant walks up and tells him “what the f---k is your problem?” Woody tells him what’s up and the captain gives him grief, the field boss tells Woody “you need to shut the f—k up” and they slammed him again then dragged him to F-pod level III. I’m told Lieutenant Duff even was shocked at Bryant’s actions and said “what’re you lockin’ him up for?” Bryant supposedly said, “What, did I stutter or something?” This is typical of the sorts of unnecessary uses of force going on here now. Woody says they upgraded him to Level II, now.The property officer, D. Smith is continuing her depredations on death row prisoners’ property. Confiscations unfounded, for reasons not even listed on the form, calling new property “altered” etc. I’m told she’s making a killing at the flea market selling prisoners books, boots, fans, radios, hot pots. Selling the radios to some electronics shop in Livingston.Meanwhile, the media continues to print Michelle Lyons’ lies and half truth issued from TDCJ’s public information office. They’re issuing false, aggrandized and/or embellished statements about criminal matters they allege occurred as if they’re absolute truth or fact instead of the as yet untested and unproven allegations they are. Even death row prisoners accused of new crimes are entitled to the presumption of innocence guaranteed by the U. S. Constitution unless and until they are convicted in a court of competent jurisdiction by a jury of their peers. Michelle Lyons, who used to be a reporter for a small time newspaper, should know to use works like “accused”, “alleged” or “believed” in making allegations against prisoners in this fashion. Lawsuitswill follow her slanderous and libelous words, which also constitute s blatant denial of due process.All of this, merely in effort to lick Whitmire’s boots and cater to his campaign of hate. What’s more sad is that Whitmire, a politician and lawmaker, is encouraging TDCJ heads and investigators publicly to violate the law and violate not only prisoners’ rights but the citizens’ rights too. You voters out there need to wake up and see this clownish buffoon for what he really is.For all you visitors, the Ombudsman’s office issued a statement saying that “due to reasonable suspicions” that a visitor may smuggle contraband into the unit, all visitors will now be searched. This is100 % illegal and in direct contravention of controlling federal and supreme precedents.In the first place, the “reasonable suspicion” standard is what’s applied to prisoners outside of random cell searches, which require no suspicions. This standard is applied to prisoners only, because “criminal convictions and lawful imprisonments permit some limitations on constitutional freedoms, compatible with incarcerations.”However, free world citizens (visitors) retain the full panoply of constitutional rights and protections. The constitutional guarantees of the fourth amendment protect citizens from all unreasonable, suspicionless, searches and seizures. Before TDCJ or any other law agency can search you, there must be individualized suspicion amounting to probable cause. TDCJ cannot lay a blanket of suspicion on all visitors because of the actions of one or, TDCJ’s otherwise unfounded beliefs. In short, their “new policy on visitor searches” seeks to treat you as if you are convicted prisoners and you should not stand for it! It’s egregiously violative of your constitutional rights. You should all get together and hire an attorney to file suit on TDCJ and or call your local ACLU office for assistance. That’s what they’re there for.Thanks to ilanziv.wordpress. com and executionchronicles .org for pointing out the obvious about the recent accusations leveled against me and Mark. I’m not sure about the cover up, but I’m of the opinion it’s definitely retaliation against me and Mark for our writings. There’s virtually no doubt of that. As to the things I’ve alleged in my previous Hell Hole News articles, I have proof of them otherwise I’d not have written it. You should see the inept, inane responses TDCJ officials (V. L. Brisher, Lindy Richey and Kevin Mayfield) have made to my grievances at Step 2. They’re merely quoting policy, not making any substantive factual responses to the evidence at all. Of course I know the policy already – I’m alleging direct violations of the policy resulting in violations of my constitutional rights. They’re making such non-responsive answers because they well know they cannot answer on the merits, unless it were to concede the validity of my claims and rule in my favor -- which, of course, they’re not about to do. Deny, lie, deny, and deny some more. It’s the TDCJ way.I’ve read in the papers that Whitmire was very rude to witnesses, interrupting, overtalking them, being belligerent and asking non- material question. Some think he just doesn’t know how to run a decent hearing. I think otherwise. I think he’s using these tactics to limit the record and prevent any witness who testified from revealing the truth about his little inquisition -- like him, it’s a shame.Best regards to all,Hank<a href="http://www.hankskinner.org/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.hankskinner.org</a>999143 Polunsky UnitH W Hank Skinner3872 FM 350 SouthLivingston TX 77351-8580Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-12458845925404518212008-12-03T08:17:00.000-08:002008-12-03T08:18:05.426-08:00Terri Been, Sister of Death Row Inmate Alleges "The Guards Sold Cell Phones to Death Row Inmates"Read about it here:<br /><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1247474/terri_been_sister_of_death_row_inmate.html?cat=49">http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1247474/terri_been_sister_of_death_row_inmate.html?cat=49</a>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-23615166934780098992008-11-19T10:50:00.000-08:002008-11-19T10:53:09.562-08:00Terri Been Speaks Out About Texas Visitation On Death Row<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqmoNzF8LAzdz6OTHnepEXwPuBrnmLPAk3zVAj-PMcOMjUn996tMziSsrKUAoryBrhBJ5Kus9XNqkFiXN16QIygxHY1R5nVNPPt1Btere9nI5jK7ErZCnGGtT-OKKk-FsbLv-Hk7-5HWM/s1600-h/terri.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270443224824945890" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 50px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 97px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqmoNzF8LAzdz6OTHnepEXwPuBrnmLPAk3zVAj-PMcOMjUn996tMziSsrKUAoryBrhBJ5Kus9XNqkFiXN16QIygxHY1R5nVNPPt1Btere9nI5jK7ErZCnGGtT-OKKk-FsbLv-Hk7-5HWM/s320/terri.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Subject: Polunsky visitation with Jeff</div><br /><div></div><br /><div>Yesterday’s visit to my brother was bitter sweet to say the least. Overall the visit went well, but it was very emotional and degrading!!! The lockdown has taken its toll not only on the overall policy at Polunsky, but on the spirit of the inmates as well.I have visited the Polunsky unit MANY times over the course of my brother’s incarceration, but never have I experienced the overwhelming sense of complete and absolute dread that I felt there last night. Now don’t get me wrong, I have experienced dread there before…as my brother came within hours of his execution, and we said what we thought would be our final goodbyes to him, which has crippled and destroyed me emotionally; BUT the dread that I am talking about now reaches further than just those who have an execution date. The dread that I am talking about is a thick blanket that wraps around you and suffocates you when you walk into the visitation room…which you literally feel!The tone for the evening was set when you pulled up into the facility. In the past we have always had to jump through hoops just to get into the place, but things are far worse now! Guards are now required to do “complete car checks” instead of the normal “pop the hood and trunk” checks. Visitors had their purses gone through, their glove compartments torn apart, bags/luggage in the car were rummaged through…you name it…it was searched. Did it stop there? Hell no; round two started at check in!!Now, I’m going to flashback to the summer to give you a full picture of the nightmare we call check-in @ Polunsky, so please bare with me here: Imagine, if you will, having to make a run to the local Wal-Mart 3 different times to purchase clothing and shoes just to be allowed into Polunsky. This has happened on numerous occasions and to various visitors…and this literally is no joke! (My sister-in-law, Kristin, and I have experienced this for ourselves.) This past summer we were scheduled for a normal 2 hour visit to see my brother; Kristin had quite literally just gotten off of the plane from overseas two hours before the visit was to take place, and come to find out that the airlines had lost all of her luggage (which she did not get back for almost a full week) so all she had was the clothing on her back. She was not happy because she wasn’t going to be able to “dress up” for him, and due to time restrictions…she decided to make do with what she had on. Havingmade the trip to the US on several occasions, she learned a few valuable lessons; one being when you’re on a plane for 17 hours you wear “comfortable clothing”. The comfortable clothing that she was wearing was indeed appropriate, but the guard on duty felt that it was a little too form fitting; so we were sent to Wal-Mart…and mind you we are already late because of plane delays. Kristin grabs a baggy Mickey Mouse T-shirt, because there should be NOTHING wrong with a cartoon character T- shirt…or so you’d think. So we get back to Polunsky, where we are turned away again because of the Mickey Mouse Logo…which has been adopted by the Mexican Mafia (one of the most powerful prison gangs in the US). On our second trip to Wal-Mart she purchases a plain black T-shirt; and with her new T-shirt on we walk back into the unit, but were turned away…yet again, this time for her shoes!!! After purchasing a new pair of tennis shoes, we were finally allowed in, but with allof the trips back and forth to Wal-Mart, we had less than an hour visit. Check in…sounds extreme doesn’t it? Well it can be and has been for MANY people!!! But…it has gotten worse, so in addition to the metal detectors and the wardrobe scrutiny we have always had to go through lets add the following: pat-downs/body searches, and counting your money down to the quarter. Waiting in line to be searched sucks…so if you know somebody who is going to visit, you may want to tell them to get there a little earlier than normal…because you will be searched. Think I’m kidding, ask the black lady a few people ahead of us in line that had to take off her “weave” and have it searched! You may also want to tell them that they will be patted down! Okay, let me rephrase that…you will be rubbed down and felt-up. I have gone through several pat searches in order to get into federal buildings before, but I have never experienced one quite like I got @ Polunsky this night! When you walk in the door…you are now required to take off you shoes and socks so they can be searched. The metal detectors have new settings, and are picking up what seems to be everything; so ladies if you have jewelry…you might be better off leaving it in the car, because you will pass through the damn thing for every ring, necklace, or earring…not to mention belts. Some ladies even had to cover their breasts with their arms/hands to get through because the underwire in their bra kept setting off the alarm. “Pat-downs” now consist of the following for women: a lady using her two hands to rub the entire length of your leg. Each leg will be rubbed twice: one sweep covers the front/back and includes your ass-cheek, the second sweep of the leg covers the inside/outside, which includes a backhanded rubdown of your “downstairs privates”. The search also includes having each breast examined by hand…starting on the inside of each breast, and cupping around to theoutside. It is an absolutely humiliating experience, and is absolutely NOT necessary in my opinion!I risked not being able to see my brother because I gave them hell about the new procedure. I told them I understood such procedures for those who were allowed contact visits, but Death row families NEVER get to touch or come in contact with the inmates, and that it was the corrupt guards who were causing this nightmare, and we should not be subject to sexual harassment just to get to see our loved ones because they are self-serving and money hungry. I actually said several other things to the guards that were not exactly polite or worth repeating, but at least I said my peace.You are allowed to take $20 dollars into the unit, however we did not get to take in the full amount of $ because both change machines were down. Luckily, I knew somebody coming out of the early visit that had some change left over; which gave us an additional $7 dollars, but we were not even close to $20. MANY people did not get to take in any money because there was no change…and I tell you that was cruel and was done on purpose! These men had gone months with Johnny bags! Remember the lockdown was not the only time they were getting these…just weeks before they were restricted to these bags because of the hurricane that hit…so we are talking almost two months on Johnny bags. My brother had lost at least 25 – 30 pounds since I had seen him at the end of August. I spent EVERY bit of change I had with the exception of 1 nickel on food for my brother. 2 hamburgers, three bags of chips, 2 snicker bars, a salad, 3 dr peppers, 5 beef jerky sticks, and a piece of pie were all gone in less than 3 minutes of receiving them. Seriously…no joking; he was quite literally starving and inhaled the food! I am thankful that I was able to provide him with that, but there were many others there that were hungry that got nothing…and I feel so bad for them. So my second piece of advice is to make sure that you have change before you get to the unit…Do NOT count on the machines to be working! Also…if youfeed your inmate like we do…you may also want to take the early session because they only have 1 machine now that serves “food” (sandwiches, salads, juice, pie, etc.) and nearly all of the food in that machine was gone from the 1st visit.I’ll not even get into the property that was taken away or destroyed from these inmates.Needless to say, the visit was absolute chaos! New Policies, new procedures, and new hours to call and make reservations to visit...the list goes on, but the important thing here is that nobody is handling it well…including the staff! The only good thing that happened that night was in addition to getting to see my brother, my kids and I had the privilege of talking to several other inmates during our visit. (which is strictly forbidden, but we did it anyway.) We spoke with two of this week’s condemned inmates: Robert Hudson and Rogelio Cannaday. We told them that we had signed their petitions, and that we had written letters to the governor on their behalf. We also told them that there were a great many people who were fighting for them, and that we all would be calling the governor’s office this week in a continued effort to fight for their lives. They were very grateful and sent their thanks.I could go on, but I have written a book here already! If you are pen-pals, or friends with any of these guys…they need our help in more than one way. Yes we want to fight to save their lives, but we need to fight for their rights inside as well. They also need financial contributions if you can afford it, as most of these guys have nothing left from all of the property raids and shake-downs. Their fans, hot-plates, radios, typewriters, and other various properties were taken and destroyed. Some people may be thinking that these inmates don’t need a radio, but I say different; that is their only link to the outside world other than any visit they may get. Complete Isolation leads to insanity…and being without this contact to the world will only cause more pain and suffering. Please keep these guys and their families in your prayers!--------------------</div>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-20637787544089851032008-11-19T10:36:00.000-08:002008-11-19T10:37:00.943-08:00Reggie Blanton Speaks Out On Texas Death RowBANDWAGONEERS I'M TALKING TO YOU Out of all my writings, how many of you can recite the title of one piece I've written without looking it up either on my myspace page or the Drive site? And I'm not talking about my super-personal piece dedicated to my Wife, "Whats' love got to do with it?" I mean and I'm seriously asking y'all, how many can refer to anything I,ve ever said that has left an impression on you? Am I that superficial? Are my thoughts that inconsequential? I ask these things because anybody who has taken the time out of their mundane lives to give my words a glance will sense one thing about me, at the very least I'm a Man, imperfect, striving for perfection, what does this mean? That men are a dying species amongst boys? I'll tell you what it doesn't mean. It doesn't mean I'm a prison number, It doesn't mean I'm a Death Row prisoner. It means I'm a Man not constricted to these damn bars, concrete and steel that the system preaches is necessary to encage the beast I never was and never can be—because I'm a man. "Imperfect striving for perfection, a Man does not exist lest he is conscious of the principles that dictate his life, allowing the universe to flow through him, as opposed to him blindly resisting its flow, reinforcing the dictum:. "A hard head makes a sore ass" Yes, I'm not talking about donkeys. I'm talking about men with principles which means a disciplined man. I'm as disciplined as the samurai, blade slicing through the fabric of time, while engaged in battle. And I bleed like you do, and will bleed for whatever I believe in as my physical scars, from years of protest while here on Death row, demonstrates I'm a man with a mind, no longer a puppet blindly reacting to the viciss, cudes of life. A man that won't "mind" if my manhood is not respected. Not a primitive bet-not-step on-my kicks manhood. No, That's boyhood masquerading as manhood. By manhood I mean my essence everything that makes me who I AM I AM!So what does all this mean? Well….What do I mean? What is MY damn value? What da hell do I matter? I know the answers to these questions, but do you have answers to these questions? No, don't say "oh, but you're Gods creation "or"The bible says…." If you're saying this, then shouldn't you be convincing Christians to embrace our campaign with something more than lip service? Besides these type of responses are too general, maybe you'll say "well, the Death penalty is wrong."To that I will ask why? And if you can't recite specific injustices in my case then why are you my "friend"? You don't know me! Because if you did then you would know I would have a problem with a person who says they support someone or is fighting for a cause they don't understand or know anything about.If this is you, what kind of person are you? I'll answer that for you: The kind of person that will decide whether you will either keep being the reason why a small handful of people will continue to carry on their shoulders your part of the load, or get some more principles.And I, Omari Huduma, aka Reginald Blanton approve this message!Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-40332877128352226872008-11-19T10:32:00.000-08:002008-11-19T10:34:59.172-08:00Reggie Blanton Speaks Out From Texas Death Row<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmidQO3_q05lIZXsYPi0FxpibkM27P5YtD2tyR8jeJgeiQoiuSojlDrzEHU2jwd7WzVoAFIQiuXXBDPgSybpRuzCpdGpGZnSbpgTyOLPVh9-_T9C4aKHgZoBQFq6uDrHQLtJSOKav0Xgk/s1600-h/reginald.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5270438867442549314" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 215px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 320px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmidQO3_q05lIZXsYPi0FxpibkM27P5YtD2tyR8jeJgeiQoiuSojlDrzEHU2jwd7WzVoAFIQiuXXBDPgSybpRuzCpdGpGZnSbpgTyOLPVh9-_T9C4aKHgZoBQFq6uDrHQLtJSOKav0Xgk/s320/reginald.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><div></div><br /><div>THE PITCH:(The breakdown of an example pitch)<br /><br />Organizations act like they don't want to take a position until the 11th hour, the last minute, while everyone is left scrambling to do something, anything to save a mans life; and not just a man in every sense of the word, but an activist, an intellectual, convicted for a crime he did not commit, and it's disturbing—no, sickening, that this man sits on Texas Death Row; silenced by the media; silenced by the myriad (or abundance of) organizations that were suppose to have been erected for men like Reginald W Blanton; silenced by a broken Criminal Justice system; even silenced by his own court appointed attorney that refused to represent his legal interests.Over the course of the year Reginald Blanton was represented by State Habeas attorney Scott Sullivan, Our Brother Reginald wrote his attorney letter after letter after letter diligently seeking to have what amounted to, innocence claims filed in, not his attorney's appeal (his attorneys life isn't in danger) But filed in Reginald's appeal. Yet his attorney refused to file his claims, and not because they had no merit, since most of his claims were supported by overlooked evidence in his actual trial; and never mind his federal attorney saw enough merit in these claims to attempt to resuscitate them, to no avail, since as a result of his previous attorney neglecting his legal responsibilities to Reginald, not exhausting these claims at the appropriate stage of appeal, ALL Reginald's innocence claims were procedurally barred, and this is only half of it.Reginald Blanton's appeal now sits in the Supreme Court and if something is not done soon another innocent man will be murdered by the state of Texas.Please contact [insert name] with the campaign to Free Reggie B, at [insert site] This is the type of message that was left on the answering machine of the NAACP branch in San Antonio, TX, that evoked them to return our phone call. It's not just about facts, it's about overall presentation, presentation is everything. What I want to do is point out a few things about what you just read above. First, you can't just read the words; you have to imagine how they're said in your mind. Notice the general style. Its short, it's urgent. It's to be said with energy, not like the way that professor taught his class on that TV show, the wonder years. The first paragraph is called a "hook" designed to grab the listener's attention by the collar, saying "You have to listen to me! The first paragraph brings about a sense of conviction in the listener, "These organizations y'all contacted should be ashamed, "should be the listeners thought, They should feel like they can't cower from the task at hand, instead , choosing to stand up, being the leader their organization most likely claims to be. The first Paragraph, also individualizes me in that, it gives me somewhat a face: "and not just a man in every sense of the word, but an activist, a poet an intellectual, convicted for a crime he not commit" Though there are many injustices to reference in my case, the second paragraph probably highlights the most drastic of them and it reveals the utter failure of the criminal justice system in all its elements: Trial, prosecution, defense and appeal. It contrasts the system's incompetence, indifference, even insidiousness, with the, so called, criminal's innocence and helplessness. It paints a picture of me, caught in the web of the adversarial process, struggling for my life against a plasma thirsty spider; that was supposed to help me?!! "Only with the power of the people are we able to achieve justice or receive justice---It is not because of the justice of the court"—Huey P Newton. In addition, it should disturb anybody to hear what sounds like a defense attorney working with the system against his own client! Furthermore, the statement acts in, then gets cut. Its closing places back into the center of the listener's attention the fact that time is of the essence and a life is in Jeopardy. The closing being so short only intensifies the point. "And this is only half of it." This line not only lets the listener know there's more but you just said there was more corruption to what the listener had probably already deemed enough corruption. It rightly intensifies the sense of injustice. Then you have "please contact [insert name] with the campaign to Free ReggieB "besides the necessity of leaving contact info by saying "…with the campaign to Free reggieb " you are bringing a sense of legitimacy and organization to the table. Sad to say, People only seem to want to get involved when they know others are. Finally there is No "Thank you for your time or any other happy closing because there is nothing to be happy about. It punctuates the overall message—that this is a serious matter that can't be slept on. This is only a pitch, not the pitch. And it's of the kind that is suitable for answering machines of various organizations we are trying to contact. It's a different story when you are actually talking to a person for the first time. However, the same poetic and energetic style (don't be dull, be creative) can be utilized. And remember there's a thin line between evoking a sense of urgency and repelling people out of your own sound of panic, Presentation is everything, ; which includes word usage, delivery (voice pitch and flow) etc. You don't have to be Malcolm-x or Cynthia Mckinney to speak on the manner above. It's valuable to listen with an analytical ear to how activist, poets or politicians give speeches, using descriptive words and voice fluctuates depending on the nature of their point, such as speaking slowly and softly when addressing something sad or about love or speaking faster with passion, intensity to punctuate points that should evoke anger, disgust or emergency. Nevertheless, you may find all the inspiration you need to speak in a persuasive fashion reaching deep inside yourself to those motions you feel as a result of knowing what the system is doing to me. Speak from there and people will feel the energy you radiate. Anybody who understands the general points about as well as my case through the following pieces. (My case profile/or Interview with Dee (an overview of my case)Justice Denied/contradicting Justice (Ruling in which Federal judge agrees the D.A racially discriminated against an African American potential juror in my case)The Care Package (story of what took place between the attorneys that failed to represent my legal interest)State Bar Grievance against Scott SullivanSo please read up on all these, they are all in my Myspace Blogs so you will be equipped with what they need to speak on my situation in a persuasive manner. How many of you have read either an article or book and walked away with enough understanding about what you just read to speak on it to a friend? Well that's the same way the above articles, or any of my pieces for that matter, should be approached. Keep in mind my case Profile (The Ongoing Investigation into …) this you will have to View all blogs and scroll down in my blogs to see that one) has subtitles constructed" which covers everything leading up to my trial, Next there's During Reginald's trial" which of course covers my trial and finally there's "On my appeals" which covers critical points in my appeal, These subtitles should make easy reference to any part of my case should you find yourself asked certain questions about my case you cant answer from memory. As for the contact Info if you can't put your own because of scheduling, it is always safe to put "Reginald's Wife Sandie, then put her email address (<a href="mailto:reggieblanton@hotmail.com">reggieblanton@hotmail.com</a>).Please notify Sandie of any organizations you've contacted and what, if any their response was so she can keep everybody in our campaign on point and updated.This was a general breakdown of why the message was spoken in that fashion to give each one of you, as individual leaders in our cause the tools you need to win more people to our cause. In closing I leave you with the powerful words Of Dr. Martin Luther King,Jr: "Human progress is neither automatic nor inevitable. Every step toward the goal of Justice requires sacrifice, suffering and struggle, the tireless exertions and passionate concern of dedicated individuals without persistent effort; time itself becomes primitive forces of irrational emotionalism and social destruction. This is no time for apathy or complacency. This is a time for vigorous and positive action"Everything I amOmari Huduma(The Highest Service)</div>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-33812943081369238032008-11-04T15:21:00.000-08:002008-11-04T15:22:38.299-08:00ExecutionGreg Wright was murdered by the state of Texas on October 30, 2008 despite a confession from his co-defendant, a passsed polygraph test, and DNA testing.Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-8779401212277462622008-10-24T07:03:00.001-07:002008-10-24T07:05:57.449-07:00Greg Wright<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwHT0aPxF7mc9rzOAAZ5vsgW2Hepy9hHmMbCOhgK3U7-IiaWqLXmzBC_POi-JWPO6Vztdo6m_gZD9WE7LEnigV5JS6oO2ZLk5k1CTE57udrHDCkjetHcd7TSCEWuWvxYdKmoh1TPSYEoM/s1600-h/Greg110106d.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5260721022764252002" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; WIDTH: 117px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 158px" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwHT0aPxF7mc9rzOAAZ5vsgW2Hepy9hHmMbCOhgK3U7-IiaWqLXmzBC_POi-JWPO6Vztdo6m_gZD9WE7LEnigV5JS6oO2ZLk5k1CTE57udrHDCkjetHcd7TSCEWuWvxYdKmoh1TPSYEoM/s320/Greg110106d.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div></div><br /><p>Greg Wright is scheduled to be executed on October 30, 2008. He has proven his innocence and another man has confessed. The crime scene investigator was a fraud, and is a fugitive on "America's Most Wanted". Read more:</p><p><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1137336/gregory_e_wright_sceduled_for_execution.html?cat=17">http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1137336/gregory_e_wright_sceduled_for_execution.html?cat=17</a></p>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-34173711666428465962008-09-16T15:26:00.001-07:002008-09-16T15:27:24.004-07:00Hurricane Ike and Texas PrisonersDid the State prepare for an emergency?<br /><a href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1042140/hurricane_ike_and_texas_prisoners_did.html?cat=17">http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1042140/hurricane_ike_and_texas_prisoners_did.html?cat=17</a>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-88409079140913380382008-09-08T15:21:00.000-07:002008-09-08T15:23:25.862-07:00Remembering The Attica Prison Riot of Sept. 9th 1971<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh99cfpLbZz6ocG6EuRszmzKOvwO7dkmpCelniYE77XbqcBoQC1z-DoIMs1-yI609KeOcogSGOhRWzBlHMfHhKUENDSdQx_ObZ7ZBo3Rp5Wkd1RpPYRyiP-5L-YY1Z6BDLiLLTF7giARgM/s1600-h/288275_46948270.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5243779461379840098" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh99cfpLbZz6ocG6EuRszmzKOvwO7dkmpCelniYE77XbqcBoQC1z-DoIMs1-yI609KeOcogSGOhRWzBlHMfHhKUENDSdQx_ObZ7ZBo3Rp5Wkd1RpPYRyiP-5L-YY1Z6BDLiLLTF7giARgM/s320/288275_46948270.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Anniversary article remembering Attica..Read on</div><div><a title="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1018996/remembering_new_yorks_attica_prison.html" href="http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/1018996/remembering_new_yorks_attica_prison.html">www.associatedcontent.com/article/1018996/remembering_new_yorks_attica_prison.html</a> </div>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8413027827585597709.post-44911931947155126022008-09-04T09:07:00.000-07:002008-09-04T09:32:48.961-07:00Open Letter to Governor Rick Perry<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitbcQJ4pZC3-N8Z4Rh06JSFpEMdIySx0o6pCNCyHW4pQcSfY_1dctXrY_a6EuaCwpNUAxyAs2BHmJJ1eF1KruLFA8irqDqbL4_-SnjZmXWHPSrrSeWEd8hBZEZDqpU07SoXTVHvndqjec/s1600-h/Greg110106d.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5242198749824288866" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitbcQJ4pZC3-N8Z4Rh06JSFpEMdIySx0o6pCNCyHW4pQcSfY_1dctXrY_a6EuaCwpNUAxyAs2BHmJJ1eF1KruLFA8irqDqbL4_-SnjZmXWHPSrrSeWEd8hBZEZDqpU07SoXTVHvndqjec/s320/Greg110106d.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Open Letter to Texas Governor Rick Perry<br /><br />Please Grant Clemency To Gregory Wright<br /><br />Dear Governor Perry,<br /><br />I am writing to you today just days before the scheduled execution of death row inmate Gregory Wright. I have immense concerns about this man being executed.<br /><br />Although I am not a citizen of Texas, and don't vote or pay taxes there, I am however a citizen of Massachusetts, of the United States. I was born here, raised here, vote and pay taxes in this great country.<br /><br />Massachusetts does not have the death sentence,and we have not executed anyone since 1947, when we executed two innocent men Nicola Sacco and Bartolomeo Vanzetti. And I must add that Massachusetts is not a state with a high murder rate.<br /><br />As an abolishonist, I have been watching Texas and other states that do execute. I noticed one thing imparticular, more stays of execution and clemency have been granted to Texas inmates by the Texas Board of Parole and Pardons, and yourself lately. This shows me that Texas is a state that is willing to admit when they are wrong, and willing to give the inmates there a fair chance for justice.<br /><br />Gregory Wright's family paid for his DNA testing. The results were "inconsistent with the biological material found on the pair of jeans" that were worn by the victim. He also has proved his innocence again by willingly taking a polygraph test and passing it. Along with all the inconsistencies in his trial and case, if anyone really reads and understands his case, it shows strongly that he is an innocent man. That he did not kill anyone.<br /><br />There has been no rallies for Greg. No videos. No marching down the streets. He sits quietly on death row, leaving his fate in the hands of the Lord, with his wife and friends. He is not a dangerous man, he is an innocent man. He has studied religion and law while incarcerated.<br /><br />So today I am asking you to review his case. And if you find that in your mind there is any doubt at all that this man did not commit this murder, please do the right thing. Please do whatever is necessary to stop the execution of Greg Wright. Please don't allow Texas to do what Massachusetts did years ago, and execute an innocent man. Because once a person is executed, there is no way to undo the wrong.<br /><br />Thank you for your time and consideration<br /><br />Doreen (Dee) Hawk </div><div> </div><div>Everyone is urged to contact the following:</div><div>You can e-mail Governor Rick Perry at his website: <a title="http://www.governor.state.tx.us/contact" href="http://www.governor.state.tx.us/contact">http://www.governor.state.tx.us/contact</a><br /> phone: (512) 463 2000 fax: (512) 463 1849<br /><br />other Texas contacts:<br /> Pardons and Paroles phone: (512) 406 5852 fax: (512) 467 0945</div>Prison Writings, Interviews, and Arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02483620737360925624noreply@blogger.com0