Greetings Members, Families, and Friends!
We hope that you are well. The last 18 months have seemed to come and go without any warning. Our organization has been working relentlessly inside of Virginia D.O.C. to have voices heard and hopes restored.
It was back in 2024 when our last official newsletter was published and sent to our members. We were eventually banned from JPay for putting too big of a spotlight on the 2024 state election. That, in turn, motivated us to strengthen our 40 Strong Virginia D.O.C. voting block from the inside out for the 2025 election of now-Governor Abigail Spanberger. We did it!!!
While we do regret the gap in our newsletters, so much more was accomplished by getting on the ground level with our members. For so many years, it was all about the next event, fancy 40 Strong T-shirts, and gaining our membership. With our growth from our initial 40 members to now 5,000+ Strong, I think that mission was accomplished!
However, there has been an even greater sense of gratefulness in giving our members a voice on our "40 Minutes with 40" platform. The interviews have shown a view of Virginia D.O.C. that events and fancy T-shirts couldn't. Letting people tell their stories has been an absolute blessing to us this past year-plus.
So, as we return to our monthly newsletters soon, it is with great optimism that the stories being told will touch the hearts of our Governor, lawmakers, and so many others who hear 40 Minutes with 40.
It is our belief that the newsletters, events, T-shirts, fundraisers, and even 40 Minutes with 40 were all part of the plan. For that, we are extremely thankful.
Thank you!
40 Strong Family
Wednesday, November 6th, 2024
40 Strong Members & Families,
We want to give our gratitude to every one of you that gave us positive feedback on last months’ newsletter, and the superb topic submissions, poetry, and reflective pieces. We are restricted on space, so please note that all pieces will be published on our FB page @TheForty Strong throughout the month, future newsletters and to our website. Please encourage your loved ones to visit, like, share and comment. It broke us to only be able to include just a few of the pieces out of the over 100 sent in, but please know that we read, shared, and loved every single one of them, as did Virginia, the US and the world! We are so proud of each and every one of you and we will ensure your voices will continue to be heard.
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General Assembly Day and Governors Race
So we all know what January is right? Yes, The 40 Strong General Assembly Day is coming! The last 3 years, our General Assembly days have grown and grown. January will be no different. PLEASE get your friends and family ready to come and step with us for CHANGE. The date will be announced in December's newsletter. We want our members to be the voices of the day, LITERALLY. More info on that and our voting block choosing the new Governor next month.
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Keith L. Hill - 40S Director of Litigation
You cannot be overly anxious when filing post-trial motions with the court. Sure, you may have compelling issue(s) that deserve the court's attention--that is fine--but do not lose sight of procedural rules. Filing from within these shiny fences means you have to go the extra mile to make sure you stay on point by doing the following: know your issue(s); sit down with a law library clerk or paralegal as a sounding board and discuss your issue(s); be clear on the direction you want to take; make sure the prevailing caselaw or statutory law support your issue(s); keep your pleading short and to the point; do not just request the clerk to file your motion; make sure to prepare and mail a praecipe (request to the clerk to place your motion on the court's docket for a hearing); use your outside support system as your eyes and ears in keeping in touch with the clerk's office for you. You work the system; do not the system work you. If you encounter any questions or concerns, have TheForty Strong contact their Director of Litigation.
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Reflections from the Inside with Josh Horn
"Life is not about how hard you can hit. It's about how hard you can GET HIT and KEEP MOVING FORWARD. That's how winning is done"! -Rocky Balboa- Can any of you relate to this? How many of you felt like I used to? Like you've been pounded your entire life but never won. It never stops. But that is when the bigger picture comes in to play. Every time you get back up it's a victory. Because you could stay down. Let life Buffalo you. Or, you can make it punch its self out! You may say life will never punch its self out. Well you may be correct.... in that case PUNCH BACK! If you're down, RISE. Start by getting to a knee. While you're on a knee, bite life in its leg. Then get to two knees and bite life on the other leg! In the situation of life, an eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth is ACCEPTABLE and the only way to deal with life!!! If you choose no to go that route, then life will BEAT YOU TO YOUR KNEES and KEEP YOU THERE!!! IF YOU LET IT...Am I saying I have the answers to everything??? Not at all. Did I say it was gonna be easy? Nope. But nothing worth while COMES EASY! If it's easy, you probably stole it! And at the of the day there is no self pride in thievery!! Toughness ain't what you dish out, its what you can take! Keep on moving forward brother and sisters. Never stop getting up. Never stop growing and learning. And at the end of the day when life acts like a "mother", just look at it and say, " you're meaningless without the second part of that phrase"!!!! Hahaha. Just tell it " you be the mother, and I'll be the ******"! Its then that living with the punches life throws, begins to become harmonious and you'll become stronger, tougher and wiser. Before you know it you have RISEN and the punches life throws become irrelevant. And there is nothing better than going to sleep at night with ones self knowing, you gave it your all. EVERYDAY, and absolutely nothing can beat you down any longer. You know unequivocally, that you can make it! And you can have an absolute resolute mind. Defeatedness is no longer in your vernacular. JUST KEEP ON KEEPING ON.
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Second Look - M Morton - GV
There is an air of not only disappointment inside the VADOC but of hopelessness for those with life sentences or numerical life sentences under the new law. I have been incarcerated since 2001 with a sixty-one year sentence under the new law so I can speak from a unique perspective of a man with a (numerical) life sentence and no chance of relief except for a pardon or God forbid, geriatric parole. As far back as I can remember in my incarceration there has always been hope for those of us who fall into that life sentence category through the upcoming legislation each year when then "parole" bills were being presented to the General Assembly. This always caused a stir around the new year for those of us who have knowledge of how the VA General Assembly works bcuz we know there is a chance this is the year that it goes through. Then we have to be the "Grinch" when guys are spreading fake news that the parole bill passed and it is going into effect this July! I hated telling guys that the bill failed and what you may have read or your family may have read was the actual bill proposal which always reads as if it passed. If we are being honest with ourselves those parole bills never stood a chance but every year somebody kept proposing it. But even with this revolving door of chasing the hope of parole each session, year after year, it still gave us hope! Then going back a few years the EESC took the place of the hope for parole and guys put their emotional eggs into that basket. After a few years of heartbreak (and I mean literal heartbreak with the 2022 fiasco of Youngkin's budget amendment) that even went through and was put into effect this July but only for certain charges, excluding the more violent crimes, which if you have a life sentence, you probably have an ineligible charge. So then last year the new hope was the Second Look bill, I never saw so many incarcerated people join the fight with our "angels" on the outside, from writing letters to Congress people, to getting their families to write/email/call to support the bill. Even sending in videos through the 40strong and other organizations. The bill even passed a chamber of the general assembly which had all of us in the know so excited not only for that session but even when it got tabled we were 100% confident and committed that with another campaign like this year we could get those holdouts and obstructions to come along. And now we hear that the bill may/will not be presented this session, nor a parole bill just takes all the hope out of the VADOC! Those with life sentences for the first year that I can remember have NOTHING to hope for! This is egregious and it only sets back the minds of those who want to fight but now will potentially lose that drive and momentum from last year. Regardless of whether it will succeed, propose it and then you can see who is against it thus exposing them and giving us ammunition to go vote someone else in who will give it a chance. Shame on those who decided to tap out this session and remove the hope from the VADOC!
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Poetry - M Robinson - RO
If God is for me/what's the whole world against me?/They got me fenced in,/Deep meditation/My way of escaping/resisting temptation,/from ole habits I found comfort in/give me a moment,/to speak to the youth/
violence I don't condone it,/but I want you to shoot/shoot for the stars,/for there lies the truth/scars on my hands from giving flowers/Roses have thorns,/words have power/I spoke to god in a broken mirror/great man,/great dad,/great student,/Became a great Teacher/great listener,/success whisperer/I hear the pain in their laugh/never mind the soothsayers/they laid snares,/corrupt music in their eardrum/Sheila E. can make that purple rain/weather control,/
move the elements/think for a change!/If I could get you to think/Redemption is for the Redeemed,/Broken mirror half my image lost/Freedom isn't Free,/DISCHARGE ALL COST/#BottomGodVibes
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Education - M Theriault - LV
College courses are hard, which prompts every excuse in the book for not even attempting them. Well I graduated high school at the bottom quarter with a 2.2 GPA and just received my master’s in business administration with a 3.92 GPA. Here's how you can do this. First: plan to miss some rec, card games, and TV time. Dedicate a few hours EVERY day to study. Buy the textbook (used if possible) BEFORE the class starts and read ALL of it. Most homework comes from the questions at the end of chapters. so...do ALL of the questions before the class starts. This way you'll often have the homework done ahead of time and have looked harder at the concepts contained in the learning objectives. These are usually listed at the beginning of the chapter. If the objective says "student will be able to explain the terms of median, mode, and average", then there is often that same question at the end of the chapter AND on the test. Doing all the questions makes you study the stuff they write the test on. With this method I've finished classes in less than the 6-week time limit and my professors were forced to hold my final grade for a week before submitting it to the college. This is from the same "C" & "D" student in high school. Next, when you receive the course material, first look for the big assignment (usually at the end). Start looking for material you can use as reference. Read the newspapers & magazines in the library and take notes on the article with a correct reference. (Smith, J., Global Warming and its effects, Time Magazine, Jan. 2024). Check a citation guide (Usually MLA or APA style and available in the prison library) to learn how to cite your sources. This way when the big assignment comes up you have some sources lined up. If the college (like Adams State) offers a research library write and ask for material as soon as you can. Bonus points- check with DCE to type your homework. Spell & grammar check are lifesavers. Ask friends or family for newspaper or magazine subscriptions. Time, The Economist, Wired and any major newspaper will keep you supplied with current topics to work from. Buy a collegiate dictionary and a citation guide. The APA guide to citation teaches much more than citations and bibliography. If the professor writes a syllabus with good information, cite that too. If you have a conversation with the GED teacher, take notes and cite it. If you're writing about farming, cite your cellie who grew up on a farm. Cite the PBS program. Once you know what assignment you're working towards, stuff on that topic will stand out. College work is a skill you'll develop with use like basketball or chess. Remember, if you think you can do a thing, or you think you cannot do it, you're probably right.
I used my G.I. bill from the Navy and with 36 months of benefits, I've earned 3 degrees from prison with around $200 spent over 13 years from prison. (mostly stamps, pens, and paper). Bachelors in business and another in criminology/sociology, and an MBA. I'm not all that smart but diligence makes up for a lot and as an inmate I CAN afford the time to be diligent. So can you.
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Programming - E Howard - KM
So, I’ve been down about 14 years, and before that I had done about 4 years in DJJ. Throughout this, there has never been a time when I felt I could say the system was trying to help. My words have always been negative and disparaging when it comes to VA corrections in any form. Now, after years of hardships, blood, sweat and tears, I can finally say change has begun. Though things are far from 100% righteous or complete, there is hope. The new Director has essentially opened the door for us to help us. The system has recognized what we have for years - the people they bring in to try and change our cognitive thinking are strangers to us… our upbringing… our lifestyles, so we rarely accept what they bring to us like we would from a peer. The new focus is peer-initiated programming. You may have heard of the new Peer Recovery Specialist Program that inmates have been taking to become support counsellors. Its focus currently is on substance abuse but there are broader opportunities. VADOC is, at this point, looking at peer ran programming as a gift horse knowing that understaffing and gaps in connectability have been a serious issue in trying to fix problems. I’m now reaching out to you as my peers to ask that we take this opportunity and not squander it. If you’ve been down a while, you have seen the difference in the system through the years. One time when young dudes came into the system, they were mentored by “old heads” on how to do time and not let time do them. We’ve fallen far from that, and it may never be like that again. We have a new way forward to help each other. I want to help. I’m tired of complaining and want to be part of the solution, so I became a PRS and have begun writing a mentor program to help with cognitive thinking while incarcerated. The system believes that 6 months before you go home, re-entry will prepare you. We know that’s preposterous. Truly changing thinking takes time and begins with your thoughts and actions while in prison and that’s what my program will focus on. I would appreciate any input from my peers and am open to working with others who want to see change. If you have written a program or feel you could, that could be beneficial to your peers then now is the time to push it. You have examples of these programs popping up all around in the system (i.e R.N.C.C – Running Club, K.M.C.C – T.R.I.P.S, etc). All of these were designed by inmates for inmates. If you have a program, write it out and send a copy to your IPM & CHAP and a letter to Richmond detailing how your program can be beneficial. When writing these programs, remember to be honest with yourself about plausibility and security because these will always be the first hurdles you jump.
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Sentencing - D Annarelli - GR
Virginia is often found to be a national pariah where its judicial system is of concern. A PEW Charitable Trust survey put its wrongful conviction rate at 20%, approximately 4800 people currently, & that is one of the more conservative numbers. VA has the 9th highest incarceration rate & is 50th, DEAD LAST, in education even as it spends $1.5 billion (27% of the ENTIRE state budget) on its Dept. of Corrections. At the core of these issues -& so many more- is Virginia's excessive sentencing. Virginia's sentencing laws are often painted in very broad and vague stroke's. Too often dangerously misapplied. Too much discretion is vested in judges & too much more vested in prosecutors, neither of whom are held to standards and ethics as provided by BAR associations or Judicial Rules. Too many instances exist to cite, but even a cursory investigation would turn up more examples than you would hope or expect to find. Often, it is the ranges of statutory sentence ranges, combined with too vague crime descriptions, that lead to excessive sentencing. The crime of 'malicious wounding' is an excellent example. Malicious wounding has a mandatory minimum of 2 years, & a statutory maximum of 30 years. That is a wide range, & at the complete discretion of a judge. The charge can be levied for an injury where blood is drawn. From a paper cut or busted lip, to being stabbed or shot multiple times, if blood is spilled it's malicious wounding ..... at the discretion of a Commonwealth Attorney. Given the long history of heavy sentencing in Virginia, & an equally well-known disparity in sentences (i.e. 20 years for a busted lip in a bar fight vs. 5 years for 5 stab wounds), this explains in part the root of the problem. Another part of the problem is a lack of, default, retroactivity when crimes -or their penalties- are altered. I present two examples of this problem, referred to colloquially as the "old law/new law" discrepancy. The first example I offer is simp!e, cut & dry. Legalized marijuana. My research shows that Virginia is the only state to decriminalise/partially legalize marijuana & NOT release a single person. In fact, Virginia legislators wouldn't even consider allowing for review or reduction of sentences. That is not only atrocious, but it is the definition of 'despotic' (Black's Law Dictionary, 10th ed.). It is also a clear example, to my mind, of a residual problem that underlies the Virginia criminal justice system, plaguing it for centuries. The other example I put forward is a bit more nuanced but is no less one of poor policy regarding retroactivity of changed laws. Robbery. Robbery, which had a sentencing range up to & including life was a single charge. Recently, it was changed to reflect 4 degrees: Robbery 1 - 4. Robbery 4, & 3 carry maximum sentences of 5 years & 10 years respectively. Due to the lack of retroactivity, there are people who have now served 20 & 30 years under the old law, who would have served no more than 5 or 10 years max. That lack of retroactivity, (& Virginia's refusal to allow 'new law' as a legitimate justification for legal relief) is preventing these people from adjudicating their case & sentences. This means that some of these people will watch others come in on the same -or greater- charge and serve less time. This is a clear 8th amendment violation of cruel and unusual punishment, as well as a 6th amendment access to the court’s violation. There is exactly zero legitimate justification for such a lack of mechanism for review. I would say that any official attempting to justify this gross discrepancy would only further erode the legitimacy of a system in serious question. These are only 2 examples. There are, easily, dozens more, & legal scholars are regularly lambasting Virginia for its archaic policies and poor legislation.
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Leadership - A Jordan - Beaumont
In his book "Disruptive Thinking," T. D. Jakes states that "leadership is servitude." He says that you can't call yourself a leader "if you don't serve." He then states: "Good leadership is a service to humanity ---- not to ourselves. . . .In its truest form, leadership is service." Those of us who are running peer lead programs must understand this concept in it's purest form; meaning that our commitment to rehabilitation must extend beyond the allotted one per week for the program. Service for us means helping others in building strong moral characters. Leadership is about making our communities better, and the only way that a good leader can do that is through service. You don't have to be an eloquent speaker to be a good leader. You don't have to have the mind of Einstein to be a good leader. In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., "Everybody can be great . . . because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love."
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We will be sending pictures of the posts we do of everybody's submissions on our social media, and keep a look out for your piece in future newsletters. We wish we could have included them all, 10,000 characters is just not enough. As we approach December, please continue to communicate with us. Please keep speaking life into each other, and know that we are all in this together.
Kirsten, Chris & The Team
The40Strong.com
@TheForty Strong FB
Tikotk - 40strongwave
Wednesday October 9th, 2024
Members, Families, Friends, Advocates and the Broader Community,
Here at the 40 Strong, we send all our well wishes first to those all affected by Hurricane Helene, inclusive of our Western region facilities impacted with their loss of power, phones and visits. We have been receiving many emails regarding Second Look missing the 2025 session, with multiple emails coming through with letters to our Republican delegates and senators. Please note that we are passing these on, and they are making movement in the space. Your voices are powerful, and though we may not always be able to respond to every email (as we operate on a very small team), that we do see them, and ensure that your voices are heard. As an advocate, and director of education here, I wanted to also make a special mention to the robust conversations I have been having with our members regarding their programs, courses, and ideas surrounding expanding educational opportunities in facilities across the VADOC. It is my dream to create a space where you are in control and determining your own space and opportunities. Please, if you have been on the fence about engaging with us regarding your ideas, send them through. We love to hear them and support them wherever we are able. In addition, we are looking at partnering with a new litigation assistant and currently have this in the works – to provide you all with litigation advice that is valid and useful. Finally, we are also looking at having a volunteer translate our newsletters monthly into Spanish for our Spanish speaking members and are looking for expressions of interest to gauge the network that we would need to cater to – please respond to this newsletter and let us know.
As always, please know that we are here, with you, to support you, and encourage your growth. We are almost 3000 strong now, and value every one of you. Please continue to have those hard conversations, involve your peers, educate others, and advocate for yourselves. We have your back.
Kirsten & The Team at 40 Strong
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REFLECTIONS OF AN INMATE – 40 STRONG MEMBER JOSH HORN
Michael Jordan once said, " I can accept failure. Everyone fails at something. What I can't accept is NOT TRYING". Do you have enough TRY? Have you the intestinal fortitude to try against all odds? In the face of adversity? Trying doesn't always mean success. It's like getting a black eye. It doesn't mean you lost but, only that you stood in there. Often times we stop trying. I am guilty of this myself. We fall down and get tired of getting back up. It leaves bruises and scars inside and out. But we can't stay down. You have two options in life. Get up or stay down. Maybe it seems easier to stay down. But in the long run you make it harder by giving up. It will keep you up at nights wondering, what if? And then you find it hard to live with yourself. But by trying at least we can sleep at night knowing we had the guts to give it all we had whether we fail or not. What if our soldiers in the military just laid down? Not a war would be won. What if we all laid down in here? Not a thing would be accomplished. The man would continue to stick it to us. So rise up and try. Even if it just starts with YOURSELF. Let it be contagious. Encourage each other to keep trying no matter what demons we're facing. Lift your brothers up. It all starts with ONE VOICE but when it becomes all of us together that's when goals are accomplished. And even if we fail it doesn't mean the war is lost. Maybe the battle but not the war and by failing we learn what not to do the next time. But without trying we learn nothing at all. Not a way to succeed or fail. If at first we don't succeed, try again. Eventually the trying will pay off. It always does. Without trying there will never be success. So what will you do? Try or lay down? Give it all you got or, never accomplish anything because you let the man keep you down? Never stop trying no matter how big or small the goal!
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NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER – SUBMISSIONS NEEDED
As a team, we have decided to make November’s newsletter a ‘40S Members Takeover’ edition. The entire newsletter will be written by our members, for our members. There are 6 topics to choose from, and we ask that if you would like your submission to be considered, that you keep it to 300-500 words maximum. In the event that there isn’t room for your submission in the newsletter, all responses will be posted to our FB page – @TheForty Strong. We look forward to showcasing the writing talent we know that we have in our 3000 members and encourage you to take part in this initiative!
Topics to consider:
Sentencing
Second Look Missing the 2025 Legislative Session
DOC Employment
Education & Training
Parole
Leadership & Mentoring
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NEWS YOU CAN USE – 40 STRONG MEMBER JOSEPH GREENE
Topic: 53.1-202.3, ESC1/ESC2
Inmates that are trying to find out if they qualify to receive ESC1/ESC2 can request from their counselor a (SUMMARY AUDIT SHEET). This contains all street charges, jail credit time, when they became state custody, what good time earning levels they were receiving per year, their overall total sentence, and current release date. Families can also go to the VADOC website and request court and legal correspondence unit to inform their family's any information pertaining to ESC1/ESC2.
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THE FREEDOM WALK – SHANA HICKS
The Freedom Walk on October 12th at Portsmouth City Park from 11am to 1pm is a call for justice and reform. We are gathering to raise awareness about the unjust sentencing of Rudolph Turner and countless others who have been handed disproportionately harsh sentences. Rudolph has spent nearly 27 years behind bars, despite being rehabilitated, earning a college degree, and serving as a mentor to young men entering prison. This walk symbolizes our commitment to advocating for fair and humane sentencing, shining a light on the need for change in our justice system. Together, we stand for hope, second chances, and the belief that every individual deserves the opportunity for redemption.
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VICTIM IMPACT PROGRAM DOCUMENTARY
We have received note from many of our members regarding their involvement in the success of the VADOC Documentary on the Victim Impact Program. An email was sent out as detailed below as to the success of the documentary and we encourage you to let your families know to watch it on YouTube and register for the program! Congratulations and our absolute respect and joy to all our members that took part in the program and the documentary. This is such positive news to come out of the DOC and we look forward to more opportunities arising like this! Please note that Kirsten also shared all your individual feedback on the program & the documentary with Ms Leake, as she was excited to share this with her team and the development aspect. Your voices are powerful!
Dear Participant,
The VADOC Victim Services Unit would like to express our heartfelt gratitude for your participation in the Victim Impact Documentary in 2023. Your openness in discussing how crime affects communities played a crucial role in bringing national attention to our program. We are thrilled to share that, in June 2024, VADOC was honored with an EMMY Award from the Capital Emmy Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences. This recognition celebrates outstanding individual achievements in our region and receiving an Emmy, the gold standard in the television industry underscores the importance of your contribution. Thank you for helping us shine a light on this vital program for our Agency!
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RNCC 416-2-911 RUNNING CLUB – 40 Strong Member Douglas Johnson
Congratulations to the participants of the victim impact-related "416-2-911 RUNNING CLUB" program at RNCC! Due to the years-long waiting list for the Victim Impact Program at RNCC, incarcerated military Veterans took the initiative to start a running club in honor of the victims in their cases, their families, and their own families. The running club also doubles as an empathy-building, mentoring/peer-support program.
In the five months between 16 April and 11 September, the twenty-man Veteran and non-Veteran running club ran a combined total of 2055 laps (222 miles) around their A-Building Recreation Yard. On 9-11, they closed out their run with part of an Army running cadence.
Although program opportunities and mental health services may be severely limited while we are incarcerated, let us all continue to take the initiative in creating our own opportunities for our personal growth.
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PAROLE BOARD CONTACT DETAILS – Thank you to 40 Strong Member Mark Witt
Please note that any supporting documentation that needs to be sent to accompany parole packets can now be sent to the parole board general mailbox which is: vpbmail@vpb.virginia.gov
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RETURNING CITIZENS LUNCHEON– LEAGUE FOR SAFER STREETS – PAUL TAYLOR
Members of the 40 Strong, along with returning citizens attended the Returning Citizens Booster Luncheon on Saturday 28th September to celebrate success and stigma breaking in Richmond at the Marriot. The day was a huge success, with so many individuals celebrated, and connections made. We look forward to posting photos on our FB page and further events just like this one to continue to change the narrative.
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BENDING THE BARS – PAROLE THINK TANK
As preparation for our 2025 VA Parole Prep Programs, we are conducting Think Tanks! In order for your loved ones to take part in the think tank, or for you to participate yourself – you must be:
1) Infraction free for 5 years or more
2) held employment for 5 years or more
3) completed all offered programs and education opportunities and
4) been denied parole.
Once the programs are launched, ALL citizens eligible for parole are welcomed to participate. The purpose of the Think Tanks is to gather data about similarities of past hearings and design a program to overcome those barriers.
If you or your family are interested, please respond with your state number, make contact on (804) 929 0618, BendingtheBars@gmail.com or FB @Bending Bars.
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JUSTICE REIMAGINED WORKSHOP – OCTOBER EVENT – VIRGINIA JUSTICE ALLIANCE
The "Justice Reimagined" workshop, happening on Saturday, October 26th at the Glen Allen Library, is all about bringing the community together to tackle big issues like mass incarceration and the school-to-prison pipeline.
Doors open at 10:30 AM, and things kick off at 11 AM.
This event is perfect for anyone who wants to better understand how our criminal justice system works, why it needs serious reform, and how policies directly impact people's lives—especially youth. It’s also a chance to dive into the legislative process and figure out how everyday people can influence real change. You’ll hear from advocates and experts who are actively working on justice reform here in Virginia and walk away with practical tools to make a difference.
Whether you’re a concerned parent, student, educator, or someone passionate about dismantling mass incarceration, this workshop is for you. It’s a great space for those just starting to get involved, as well as seasoned advocates. The goal is to help empower everyday people to take action and help reimagine a justice system that’s fair, rehabilitative, and focused on equity.
If you're interested, reach out at 804-404-6080 or check out more details on the Virginia Justice Alliance website: VirginiaJusticeAlliance.org. Let’s come together and start making the changes we want to see.
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HOLES – SCOTT LEWIS
I had been in that hole for a very long time
In the dark and the damp, in the cold and the slime
The shaft was above me; I could see it quite clear
But there's no way I could ever reach it from here.
Nor could I remember the world way up there
So I lost all my hope and gave into despair
I knew nothing but darkness, the floor and the walls
Then off in the distance, I heard someone call; "Get up! Get ready! There's nothing the matter. Take rocks and old sticks and build up a fine ladder."
This had never occurred to me-had not crossed my mind
But I started to stack all the stones I could find.
When I ran out of stones, then old sticks were my goal
For one way or another I'd get out of this hole.
So I soon had a ladder that was sturdy and tall
And I thought, “I’ll soon leave this place once and for all!"
I climbed up my ladder; it was no easy chore,
For from lifting those boulders, my shoulders were sore.
I climbed up my ladder, but soon had to stop for my ladder stopped short-some 10 feet from the top.
I climbed back down my ladder and started to cry I'd done all I could do.
I gave my best try and in spite of my work, in this hole I must die
And all I could do was sit and think, “why?"
Was my ladder too short? Or my hole much too deep?
Then from way upon high came a voice, "Do not weep."
And the faith, hope and love entered my chest
As the voice said to me that I'd done my best He said,
"You've worked hard, your labors' been rough, but the ladder you've built is at last tall enough. Do not despair. You have reason to hope. Just climb up your ladder; I'll throw down my rope."
I climbed up the ladder, then climbed up the cord.
When I got to the top, there stood the Lord.
I couldn't be happier; my struggle was done I blinked in the brightness that came from the sun.
I fell to the ground, His feet did I kiss.
I cried, "What can I do to repay thee for this?"
Then He looked all around Him. There were holes in the ground.
They had people inside and were seen all around.
There were thousands of holes that were damp, dark and deep.
Then the Lord turned to me, and He said, "Feed my sheep."
Then he went on his way to help other lost souls, and I got right down to work, calling down to the holes; "Get up! Get ready! There's nothing the matter! Take rocks and olds sticks and build up a fine ladder."
It was now my turn to spread the good word, the most glorious message that man ever heard.
That there is one who is willing to save one and all
And we've got to be ready when He gives the call
He'll pull us out of the hole that we're in
And save all our souls from death and from sin
So do not lose faith; there is reason to hope
Just build up your ladder; He'll throw down His rope.
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LAWRENCEVILLE PAROLE & VETERAN PROGRAM – UPDATE VIA MS LEAKE
We are pleased to note that Kirsten was able to have a productive conversation with Ms Leake to follow up on many of the inquiries coming from our members regarding the parole eligible and veterans’ program that was initiated at LVCC this year.
Thus far, updates are positive regarding the implementation of enhanced menus & beds, additional programming, guest speakers (from those incarcerated and legislative decision makers, including those on the parole board), and inmate-led programming such as mindfulness, domestic violence, and art therapy.
The programs at LVCC are designed to prepare for parole and release, and for this reason, the placement of housing at LVCC is permanent. However, Ms Leake has advised me that there will be a waiting list opening in the next coming months that eligible people will receive communication regarding on their Jpay.
The criteria, as it stands – for qualification to LVCC is good behavior for 4 years, and a security level 3 or less. Ms Leake expressed that their aim is the open this to security level 4, but for now, these are the qualification parameters.
We really look forward to further updates from not only our members, but the DOC in terms of the success and progression of the programs and encourage all those that are presented with the opportunity – to take VADOC up on the offer, to better your chances at parole preparation, and consideration for release.
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THE BIG PICTURE STRATEGY – THE 40 STRONG TEAM
We often times get emails of appreciation and testimonials of change and our members doing great things. These stories motivate us and keep us fighting even when it gets hard. The opposite of that is knowledge of violence and other actions that are counter-productive to our fight. We are asking for influencers, leaders, mentors, big homies, Imams, and everyone else without influence to support non-violence throughout DOC. There's recently been a couple incidents from Greensville on the news that were violent acts. We don't need no extra ammo for anyone to be bringing up as we fight for more change. Then most of the issues we hear about be frivolous and can be avoided. BIG change is coming as soon as 2025 and 2026, and we need everybody to help us avoid backlash or obstacles from violence. We are asking for help on this. Thank you and we appreciate you all.
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GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2025
We are beginning to gear up for our 2025 General Assembly Day in January. Over the last three years our General Assembly days have been growing and growing! Last year we had families, friends, and advocates cone out and we went all over the General Assembly building spreading the word of Second Chances. The Delegates and Senators were very courteous and took time to hear our concerns. Please get your families and friends geared up for January as we will be announcing the date of our 2025 General Assembly Day and objectives. LET’S GO!
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Legal & Litigation Advice - Keith L. Hill, 1059964
If you committed your crime(s) for which you are incarcerated after July 1, 2002 and was sentenced to an active term of imprisonment that was not suspended, you may able to return to the Circuit Court for resentencing. There was a radical change to Supreme Court Rule 1:1 now Rule 1:1(a), (b), (c) & (d) effective January 1, 2022. If you were not sentenced to post-release incarceration (18.2-10(g) and post-release supervision (19.2-295.2(A), you are sitting in prison without an effective (final) sentencing order authorizing your custody in prison. Your sentencing order misstep would fall under Rule 1:1(b) because there is something left to be done by the court, that is, imposition of post-release incarceration and post-release supervision, therefore, your sentencing order is not final, but interlocutory. Kellogg v. Green, 295 Va. 39, 45 (2018). The "leaves nothing to be done phrase" in Rule 1:1(b) means nothing left for the court to do, not the litigants--meaning you. Monroe v. Monroe, 302 Va. 387, 398 (2023). Don't turn this new Rule into a missed opportunity.
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TEAM ROC & REFORM ALLIANCE JOB FAIR
The VADOC and The 40 Strong are committed to supporting the upcoming Job Fair hosted by Team ROC and Reform Alliance on Friday, October 18th between 9am - 5pm at the Greater Richmond Convention Center in Richmond, VA. This event is designed to support individuals with a criminal justice background in securing employment or finding promotional opportunities.
IN CLOSING….
We hope that October’s newsletter is uplifting, informative, and well rounded. This is a time, as always, that we need to band together and be having these hard conversations. Make a change, albeit small, in the environment you can influence. Influence those around you for positive change and continue to breathe life into yourself and others. There are plenty of positive things to take out of this newsletter, however, as always, if there are any specific questions you have or feedback that we can take on board, please feel free to send these through. We have tried to answer as many of the frequent questions that come through as we could – and hope that you are able to share this with your broader community.
Kirsten
40 Strong Director of Education & Personal Advocate
The40Strong.com
Facebook @TheForty Strong
Tiktok - 40strongwave
The40Strong.com
Facebook@TheForty Strong
Tik Tok 40strongwave
Dear Members, Families, and Friends,
We are happy to be hoping everyone is well. The break during August was much needed after almost four years of planning, meetings, events, and pushing for our members. Well, I wouldn't exactly say a break cause we've been busy with the Fair Parole Hearings and Second Look campaigns. We will have more on the progress of both inside the newsletter. Thanking everyone who sent in a Parole Hearings and Second Look campaign story. We have them all and we're going over them and getting them out. The road to reform is long and winding and many people will never fully understand the sacrifices. The ability to inspire is not just a phrase or slogan, it's a life need. To provide hope or a voice could give one that little bit they need to fight another day. So when we sign up each day to fight this fight for our members and the men and women of Virginia DOC, we do so with a pure heart and honest intentions. Our members have come home to work with us and do events with us. We recently had a member who was invited to speak with Governor Youngkin but more on that later. We are hoping to be able to hire our members in the near future but more on that later. As for now, we all must continue to get better and keep ourselves in position for greatness! This also applies to us in society, because mistakes can quickly happen, so staying aware and focused is always the mission. Please enjoy the newsletter and share it with somebody. ____________________________________ Fair Parole Hearings Campaign
Our Fair Parole Hearings Campaign has been a great success so far. We've been educating the public on the need for increased approvals for an aging prison population. We've been highlighting stories to Delegates and Senators who have shown interest as well. Many of you can remember us asking you to write legislators and even Lt. Governor Winsome Sears about Fair Parole hearings over a year ago. We just had 100's of our supporters send in letters. Every single action matters! Last week Governor Youngkin appointed former Commonwealth Attorney Phillips Ferguson as a fifth member on the board. This can be pivotal for those needing that crucial 3rd vote of approval. Our commitment to this will not waiver. Please stay encouraged, focused, and ready. When the opportunity comes we need you out here living your best life! Leave any bitterness or frustration behind and we know it's been a journey. I do feel however that the time is coming. Please have your family, friends, and those around you to support the Fair Parole Hearings Campaign on our website The40Strong.com and Facebook@TheForty Strong
Please note: The new parole rule states the following according to:53.1-136 #9 Ensure that each person eligible for parole receives a timely and thorough review of his suitability for release on parole, including a review of any relevant post sentencing information. * this part here is NEW LAW as of July 1st [If parole is denied, the basis for denial of parole shall be in writing and shall give specific, individualized reasons for such denial to such inmate.] Specific and Individualized is clear language._____________________________________
Second Look Outlook
So one thing we don't do is keep anything from y'all. It's our responsibility to give you what the word is and why that word is. So we are being told that Delegate Don Scott is leaning against bringing Second Look up at the 2025 General Assembly. This is not etched in stone but we've already begun our own strategizing. Of course his thoughts are concern of 2025 being an election year as well as Governor Youngkins' hesitance to sign reform bills into law. Delegate Scott believes the power for major change is in next year's governor's race.Delegate Scott did mention that if we could get a Republican to sponsor the bill that would be great. So that's where we will start until a decision is made. Please send us a powerful one page email asking a Republican lawmaker to support Second Look. We will forward it to their email with our own push behind it. There were several Republicans who supported reform legislation last year so we will start there. Apply your request to your own situation and we will push together. In the meantime, we will still be highlighting Second Look stories on our website The40Strong.com and Facebook@TheForty Strong* If you would like to start a Second Look letter campaign at your facility to Republican lawmakers to get a Second Look patron just let us know. _____________________________________
40 Strong Pardon Petition Service
We have officially started offering pardon services. We will not be accepting all applicants because we want to give 110% to each petition. We do intend on using our relationships with Delegates, Organizations, Employers, etc... to strengthen and see each petition to success. Please have your family reach out for a Pardon Petition application at:40strongpardons@gmail.com ________________________________________ 40 Strong Pod Classes
We kicked off our 40 Strong Pod classes at Deerfield this week. Our education Director Kirsten created the idea and it took off! So, one of our members reached out in hopes of teaching a group of people Spanish in his Pod but needed the books. So we went to our social media outlets and got the books paid for by our supporters and those books are on the way to Deerfield as we speak. The best part is we raised enough for 20 people for the class instead of 10!!! The ability to educate is right where you stand! If you have the knowledge to teach a class be it Spanish, Business, Financial Literacy, Parenting, Creative Writing, etc... Send the class you'd like to teach, qualifications, books needed, and number of students you have and we'll look for support. PLEASE be informed and ready to effectively teach your class with structure and care._______________________________________
DO SOMETHING
As we get closer to the 2025 General Assembly, what are you doing to help reform? Will you write a letter, get your family involved, tell someone around you? Being charge free and going to school is good but there's something greater in you! We NEVER judge our members or none of that-----we know the Realities of prison. We understand the survival of it and having to eat--- that's real! Regardless of whatt, you should ALWAYS be doing something to invest in YOUR life!The success comes with the planning, action, and results. Have room to grow NEVER think you know it all----foolish pride is the enemy of growth. Stay encouraged and know that help is on the way!
Special Note: The one thing we shouldn't be doing is crossing those who stand in the trenches with us. If someone dedicates time to you, their money to feed you or make you are able to communicate, don't abuse that. Solid people are hard to find and if someone stands in your worse of times honoring that to the best of your abilities is right thing to do. Solid people are not exchangeable they in fact are rare. Solid is As Solid does .
Free-----40S.______________________________________________________
40 STRONG FAIR PAROLE HEARINGS CAMPAIGN
Our website The40Strong.com is currently supporting Fair Parole Hearings with a candidate every month. We have been getting families and the public to send emails to Lt. Governor Winsome Sears and Parole Board Chairwoman Patricia West asking for Fair Hearings. We were very sad to learn that Nobody was granted parole in July and want that to change. We stand in the fight for ALL our members and we know your stories. We are optimistic that the program at Lawrenceville for the parole eligible will produce more approvals and we are following it closely. PLEASE have your family and friends support Fair Hearings by going to The40Strong.com and our Facebook@TheForty Strong __________________________________________________ TRY SOMETHING NEW AND DIFFERENT!! Request for Art Project participants for those in Richmond, VA with loved ones behind the walls. From artist Marcia who believes that HANDWRITING IS ART?! Note: prior sewing skills are not required since we will use a basic stitch with needle and thread that is easy to learn.
From the artist: "I have been thinking about a novel project that would involve an original handwritten story (1 paragraph or less) or an essential handwritten sentence of a woman currently incarcerated in Virginia. Her original handwritten words are subsequently hand embroidered with gold thread by a loved one on the outside. It would be an artistic collaboration between loved ones to lift up the voice that is too often not seen. Artist Marcia will provide materials and instruction on gold embroidery. Instructions will be in Richmond, VA, most likely at the Main Public Library. After 2 or 3 sessions participants can do the embroidery on their own but may continue to meet until their embroidery project has been completed. This is slow, meditative work that employs love and care. Of course, final work is for participants to keep.” If interested, contact Marcia directly: handwritingisart@gmail.com
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40 Minutes With 40 Strong
By: Kirsten Knights
Second Look Reality ....
2 interviews voices from inside
Tuesday September 10th 8pm
You want your families to support Second Look tell them to tune in to get educated!!!!
____________________________________________________ FACEBOOK LIVE WOMEN'S TAKEOVER By: Sam Harris
On SEPTEMBER 12TH at 7pm we will have a Special Edition Women's Takeover Facebook Live. PLEASE have your friends and family support as we will highlight some of the most Powerful voices in Reform who happen to be women. Save the date and PLEASE support! This is an especially important show because member and recently released Sam Harris will be the host. Sam was recently invited to a press conference by Governor Youngkin where the governor signed an executive order to provide resources to returning citizens. Sam was able to speak to the governor about Reform and we are so proud of what our members are doing in society. Tell your family and friends to support this live._____________________________________________________ 40 STRONG REENTRY VISION
We are currently looking at starting The 40 Strong Trucking and eventually house restoration to offer our members jobs once released. We are also pursuing other interests that will assist with the serious task of Reentry. If you are expecting release in the next 18 months and would like job placement please reach out. PLEASE include the area you'll be returning to. Our Reentry Vision also includes financial Mentorship, Career Training, Investing and more! WE WILL HAVE MORE ON THIS IN UPCOMING NEWSLETTERS.________________________________________________________
Richmond, Charlottesville & Arlington OnlyDid you get billed for being in court? If you had a Public Defender or a Court-Appointed Attorney, and got convicted, you got billed for that representation. The Legal Aid Justice Center is working to change the system in Virginia so that everyone has access to legal defense without being burdened with debt. Your story can help us do that! If you would like to share your story, please reach out to 40 Strong. Please note that sharing your story with LAJC does not mean they will be able to represent you in a legal matter.______________________________________________________ RALLY FOR ROBERT GLEN FORD CASESMessage from Angela Antoine to our members
I am writing to invite you to the Forgotten Robert G. Ford Cases Rally, a significant event aimed at bringing attention to unresolved cases that have deeply impacted our community. This rally will take place on Sept 28 at Towne Point Park Norfolk, VA, and is organized to advocate for justice and raise awareness about these long-neglected issues.
Your presence at this event would be invaluable, given your role in local government and your commitment to community welfare. The rally will feature:
- Speeches from key community leaders and activists
- Testimonies from families affected by the unresolved cases
- Opportunities for local officials to engage with constituents and discuss potential solutions
The Forgotten Robert G. Ford Cases Rally is more than just an event; it is a call to action. By attending, you can help amplify the voices of those who have been unheard for too long and work towards meaningful change.
We believe that your participation can make a significant difference in highlighting these cases and pushing for the necessary actions to resolve them. Please let us know if you can attend or if you would like more information about the rally.
September 28th 10am-12pm Towne Point Park 113 Waterside Park Norfolk, Virginia _______________________________________
UPCOMING EVENTS!!!
Here are some great events you'll want to get your families involved with. We will be there and hope to meet your family and friends.
I DESERVE A SECOND CHANCE
RALLY FOR RUDOLPH TURNER
Saturday, September 7th 1pm-4pm Denbigh Community Center 15198 Warwick Blvd. Newport News, Virginia
* This will be BIG for those seeking Second Chances _______________
ACLU Virginia Need A SECOND CHANCE Community Engagement Day
Saturday September 14th 11am-4pm Richmond Public Library 101 east Franklin Street Richmond, Virginia 23219
This exhibition will run from September 6th through September 30th with the Community Engagement on the 14th. The exhibit's first night will be Sept. 6th from 6pm-9pm. We will be there on the 14th as will other great organizations and advocates to help your family. _____________
Paul Taylor's Returning Citizens Event. LUNCHEON WITH PURPOSE PLEASE reach out to us for Link to get tickets. THE40STRONG@GMAIL.COM
Richmond Marriott
500 East Broad Street Richmond, VA 23219 United States
THIS WILL BE IMPACTFUL!_____________________________________
Inthrive Film Festival Richmond!!! Saturday October 19th 12pm-5pm
Richmond First Baptist Church 2709 Monument avenue Richmond, Virginia 23220
We will have presentations on The Journey Of Reform. Your families and friends will have a great time._______________________________________
A message from Kirsten Director of Education 57% of people incarcerated in state prisons have never participated in education programs, 75% of incarcerated people are illiterate, and formerly incarcerated individuals are less likely to have received high school and college educations. With significant waiting lists and rigorous exclusions to program participation, we identify a gap in educational provisions for our incarcerated members across the entire prison system in Virginia. With wins in reform on the horizon, and more and more people coming home to their families and communities, we have formulated a specific mission in terms of providing education in non-traditional and innovative formats. With pilot programs being embraced by our members in facilities throughout the State, we have uncovered an eagerness to learn and a sense of hope. Throughout the United States, over 125,000 incarcerated people have never been offered the opportunity to participate in educational programs throughout their incarceration. This is not and will never be okay. We hope this will assist with employment opportunities post release, an uplift in mental and physical health, and increased positivity. With your support, I envision an environment where we can reduce prison violence and invest in our incarcerated loved ones through critical thinking, access to education, social development, and leadership opportunities.
PLEASE CONTINUE TO EDUCATE YOU!_______________________________________By Cianna Morales (WHRO-NPR Hampton Roads)
'There's so much talent incarcerated in here,' Sheriff Rocky Holcomb said.
In a mix of harmonies, solos and rap, three Virginia Beach jail inmates performed for an audience of deputies, city officials and media in the city jail Aug. 15.
“Get your surfboard, something to work towards, I was raised different,” Jonathan Jones and Marc Austin rapped. “I was raised different,” Zykiah Barnes sang in a refrain. “I mentioned a switch of my ways, listen, I’m kicking back through fiction. We can flip The group calls themselves BDO — short for Beat da Odds — and the verses are from their original song “Not a Number.”
______________________________________ Legal Advice from Mr. Sample
Comprehension is an important step in working on your case. This is your life, don't pretend to understand because of your pride. There I absolutely no way you can effectively challenge your convictionif you can't fully comprehend what you are reading. So, what can you do to increase your comprehension? Invest in a good dictionary and a good legal dictionary. If you think that educating yourself is expensive, wait until you see the cost of ignorance. Please take some time to brush up on the laws of English. Simply knowing the difference between the words " and " & " or " in a statute can be the deciding factor in winning or losing your case. Punctuation is another very important area to brush up on. Just to give you an idea of how important language is consider this.. The Virginia Supreme Court has ruled that if a statute is poorly constructed or ambiguous there should be a lenient interpretation. In other words, viewed I the light most favorable to you. That said, gather your paperwork, get your statutes, pull out your dictionaries and gain understanding. _______________________
In Closing.....
We hope that you enjoyed September's newsletter. We believe that more great things are coming but we have to be in unity and solidarity. Please know that next year's Governors race will decide huge factors in Reform for the next 20 years. Please build your vote support team now from Ptown, The Beach , Lynchbirg, Norfolk,Rich!ond,Chesterfield, Henrico, Alexandria, The Newz, Roanoke, Franklin, Hampton, Danville, No.Va, Fredericksburg, Hopewell, Petersburg, Charlottesville, Farmville, Chesapeake, Arlington, Martinsville, Suffolk, Waynesboro, South Boston, Manassas, Arlington, Franklin, Williamsburg, Surry, and so on. Its only 14 months away---- be on point! Have a great September and our best to you and those you love.
Chris 40 S 40 Strong Advocate
Kirsten 40 S.40 Strong Director of Education Personal Advocate
The40Strong.com
Facebook@TheForty Strong
Tik Tok 40strongwave
WELCOMING ALL NEW MEMBERS!!!
July 10, 2024
Dear Members, Families, and Friends!
Happy July with hopes that everyone is well. All is well with us just excited about the July 1st releases. To see the results of hard work is not only gratifying but also humbling. THE TIME IS NOW!!!! If you been sitting around loafing and joking WAKE UP! Get that GED, complete that program, complete that trade. The numbers are in and Virginia leads the nation in reducing prison population. Why is that??? Look around you, nobody wants to come back unless their crazy! We are looking to start jobs programs next year where we can hire our members once their released. This will take time and planning but we're up for the challenge. We are looking to gain relationships with businesses all over Virginia that will partner with us to hire our members. So, this is not just about getting Second Chances, its about NEVER COMING BACK! I’m enclosing an article about the population reduction to inspire you. Never give up!
According to the Justice Department, Virginia's prison population decreased by 10.5% from 2021 to 2022, which was the largest decline in the country during a time when the national prison population was increasing. This was the first time Virginia's prison population had declined since 2009, after four decades of growth.
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — The population of Virginia’s state prisons experienced the largest decline across the United States between 2021 and 2022, according to new data released by the Department of Justice (DOJ).
According to the DOJ, only seven states saw a population decline in state correctional facilities, with Virginia leading the pack with a 10.5% decrease.
While California’s state prisons were down the highest number of total prisoners with 3,800 over the same time, its percentage decrease was far less at 3.8%. Even then, Virginia state prisons saw the second-highest decline in number of prisoners with 3,200.
The nine states with the highest decreases in prison population, 2021-22
State Population Difference 2021-2022
Virginia -10.5%
Oregon -5.2%
California -3.7%
New Mexico -3.6%
Massachusetts -2.4%
New Hampshire -1.9%
Iowa -1.0%
Arizona -0.1%
Data: Department of Justice
According to the DOJ, the majority of states saw an increase in their prison populations, with 9 states and the Federal Bureau of Prisons adding over 1,000 persons each — totalling 22,900.
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EARNED SENTENCE CREDITS RELEASES
Congrats to all those being released in July and months coming. Stay on point do not forget the pain of all you went through. We need you in society making a difference and staying out there. Do no try to play catch up or keep. If people out here doing the same things when you left STAY AWAY FROM THEM!!! We have an extensive Re-entry Resource list on our website: The40Strong.com. PLEASE find time to volunteer or talk to some young people in your neighborhood and connect with your family.
*Please contact Taj with The Humanization Project to speak on what Earned Sentence Credits release has done for you to help other charges be added!
Taj@thehumanizationproject.org
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FAIR PAROLE HEARINGS INITIATIVE
We have been watching the Parole approval rates very closely this year like every other year. It's very obvious that Fair Hearings are NOT being conducted. We are very concerned about Fishback men and women still being denied a Second Chance after having errored trials. How are men and women who've served 25,30,40+ years and doing right not getting these chances? We are launching a FAIR PAROLE INITIATIVE to highlight those who have done everything possible for Freedom, but still lack that Second Chance. Here's info:
#1 Write us a short version of how long you've been in, ALL accomplishments, how many times you've been turned down, how long charge free etc..
#2 What is your most common reason for denial?
#3 What is your home plan and plan once you're released?
PLEASE specify if you're Old Law, Geriatric, Juvenile, or Fishback. We need great template people for our Facebook and our website. This is a VERY serious problem, and we have to approach it as such.
* If your family has a good picture of you that we can add to profile on website please have them send it to our email
with your name and state #
In the meantime, keep fighting! Keep taking classes, working, and staying in position. We will continue to get updates from Lawrenceville about the progress and process for parole eligible.
WE WILL SPEAK FOR YOU!!!!
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The next stop is Southside Virginia Community College. We did Northern Virginia now this will be 1hr from Richmond 40 minutes from Petersburg. Everyone who contributed to George Mason's event will have their poetry and spoken word highlighted again. If your family would like to attend or come out to read your work have them email us: The40strong@gmail.com
WE WILL BE HERE WITH GIVEAWAYS AND TSHIRTS!
INTHRIVE FILM FESTIVAL AT SOUTHSIDE!!!!!!
Saturday August 3, 2024 12pm--5pm
Southside Virginia Community College
109 Campus Drive
Alberta, Virginia 23821
* The critically acclaimed documentary Calls From Home will be shown with other great short films. Lit!!!!!
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PARDON PETITTION SERVICE
We will be offering Pardon Petition Services
beginning August 1st to increase the doors
for Second Chances. Please have your family
reach out to us for an application. As you
pursue other forms of freedom its vital to stay
in position.
For a Pardon Petition Contact Us:
The40strong@gmail.com
AFFORDABLE
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US Attorney General
Merrick Garland
950 Penn. Ave
Wash., DC 20530
202-353-1555
202-252-7566
US Dept. of Justice
202-514-2002
Va. Attorney General
Jason S. Miyares
202 N. 9th Street
Rich., Va. 23219
804-786-2071
Va. Secretary of State
Kelly Gee (R)
P. O. 1475
Rich., Va.
804-786-2441
Governor of Virginia
Glenn Youngkin (R)
Winsome Earle-Sears Lt. Gov. of Va.
1111 E. Broad St.
Rich., Va. 23219
804-786-2211
Glenn.Youngkin@governor.virginia.gov
US Supreme Court
1 First Street NE
Wash., DC 20543
202-479-3000
Va. Supreme Court
100 N. 9th Street 5th Fl.
Rich., Va. 23219
804-786-2251
Clerk of Court Muriel-Theresa Pitney
Chief Deputy Clerk William B. Tsimpris
Deputy Clerk I Lesley Smith
“. Clerk II Jody James-Wood
“. Clerk III Melissa B. Layman
Subject Matter: Utilizing your Creative Writing to Impact Communities in Society.
The 40 Strong Advocacy Group would like to build a platform that would give those who are sincerely working towards change and Rehabilitation an opportunity to reach back out to society in a positive way through creative writing. Our team would like to collaborate with those writers who can provide a since of direction for the youth in our communities. The 40 Strong will be hands on with publishing, editing and illustrations for Self-help, Mentorship and Mental Health projects.
Our communities in society are in need of more Mentorship and Leadership from those men and women who were once apart of the problem now they are part of the solution. Their are many of those incarcerated in the Virginia Department of Corrections who have the creativity to create a project that would encourage, influence and motivate the next generation to become the best version of themselves. However they do not have the support or the means to publish a project that could potentially help our communities.
The 40 strong will be your voice and the quality of material that we are promoting will only be for Self-help, Mentorship and Mental Health Projects "No Urban Novels" we do not want to glorify what lead many of those to incarceration. Our goal is to expand the fight for freedom for those incarcerated in the VA DOC to show their impact on society through creative writing.
Those men and women who are interested can send their manuscript via JPay to be evaluated for approval, once they are approved by our team we will send out a contract to the author that will discuss royalties and etc. along with an initial payment to begin the project.. The 40 strong will market your project through social media and other outlets were books are sold. A percentage of the proceeds will go towards the Author and a Charitable Organization of your choice. The goal is to create a project that we can show to those legislatures on why their are many of those incarcerated who should be considered for a Second Chance.
We want to touch on topics such as Peer Pressure, Influencers, Drug Addiction, PTSD, Domestic Violence, Gang Violence, Entrepreneurship, Recognizing risky situations, Setting a Goal, Managing Stress, Anxiety and Sadness. These are just a few topics that we can brainstorm our creativity to create a project that will potentially help our society.
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Members Making It Happen
Convict Care is a small movement started by an incarcerated person meant to provide the tools people doing time all over the world need to make the most of their bids. The first book, Convict Care- Thousand Dollar Hustle is a step-by-step guide that teaches you as an inmate how to achieve financial independence while serving time ANYWHERE. I, David Hosley utilized these tools on a super max and a maximum-security prison and stopped being a bum. I started to make contributions to my own family and take care of myself. You can do the same thing, all from prison. Start by going onto Amazon and looking up Convict Care. Order yourself a copy and don't forget to address it to the central mail distribution center:
Your name and #
C.M.D.C
3521 Woods Way
Statefarm, VA 23160
Support the movement by ordering a copy to help you become the best version of yourself. The first step to success is saving self!
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SECOND LOOK STORIES
If you think your situation is PERFECT for Second Look let us know. Must have 15 years served, a great institutional history, work history, programs and been affected by blatant over sentencing. The better the aesthetics the more attention we can get and support. PLEASE have picture (with family at visit is great) because this will be on our website and we want to humanize mistakes and hope. Please give us a brief on why you'd be perfect for our Second Look campaign!
* If your story is highlighted it will be on our public website, social media platforms, and lawmakers to gain more traction on Second Look – tell your family and friends to head to our website to keep up to date on our Spotlight Second Look members. This months’ Second Look Campaign is Jimmy Baggett.
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40 Strong Facebook Live!!!
JULY 19TH 7:30PM-9PM
Hosted By: Kirsten
Re-entry Realities and Parole Truth
Please have your family and friends join us for a very important Facebook Live as we interview Returning Citizens and those who've been waiting decades for parole. Please save the date and get people to support.
Facebook@TheForty Strong
Greensville's Juneteenth Celebration
We are happy to announce a great event at S-3 that highlighted the unity and talent at Greensville. The show was planned and organized by those at Greensville and supported by Warden Coleman, Assistant Warden Springs and staff. There was singing, spoken word, poetry, education, laughs, music, skits, and plenty of UNITY! Many 40 Strong members attended, and it was a great way to celebrate Juneteenth. Let's keep showing the best of you are!
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BIG EVENTS COMING!!!!!!!
KETCHMORE KIDS WEEKEND
AUGUST 4TH NEWPORT NEWS
King Lincoln Park
600 Jefferson Ave
Newport News USA
1pm-sunset
Fun, Food, Games, Huge Giveaway at event
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RIHD MOBILE TOUR SCHEDULE
August 10th 1:30-4pm
Pearl Bailey Library
2510 Wickham Ave
Newport News USA 23607
August 17th 1-4pm
Varina Public Library
1875 New Market rd
Henrico USA 23231
August 24th 12-4pm
Charlottesville Public Library
201 east Market Street
Charlottesville, VA 22902
I DESERVE A SECOND CHANCE
Rally for Rudolph Turner
Saturday September 7th 1-4pm
Denbigh Community Center
15198 Warwick Blvd
Newport News USA
Shana Hicks, Dr. Iris Wright, Bilal Muhammad
PASS THESE EVENTS ON!!!!!
NEWS YOU CAN USE
New Book Project courtesy CFJ
A new service is available that will offer you free books. Please send a request asking for one book, dictionary, composition notebook, or religious text per month. Please include your general areas of Interest whether that be fiction, nonfiction, reference, or religious texts. When writing please use your full name ID number, facility and address. Here is the info motion to contact:
Virginia Tech Prison Book Project (0227)
115 Major Williams Hall,
220 Stranger Street
Blacksburg, Virginia 24061
Books Behind Bars
1600 Gordon Avenue
Charlottesville, VA 22903
DC Books to Prisoners
P.O Box 34190
Washington DC 20043
KEEP ON READING!!!!
RIHD Summer Program
RIHD is having FREE fun events for kids on the weekends and year-round in Richmond. This includes Ice Skating, Day trips and more! Please have someone reach out to RIHD to get your kids involved.
Donald " Don " Allen
RIHD Ambassador and Youth Leader
M-F 8-5 804-426-4426
*Tell them 40 Strong sent you!
Thanks to everyone who supported
Hear Her Voice Blog the movement for women. Please have your family/friends check it out at: HearHerVoice.com
If you're going back to Richmond please tap into this Peer Based organization.
Education and Training, Group Support,
Community Referrals, and More!!!!
The Strivers Program
2916 Chamberlayne, Ave
Richmond, VA 23222
www.where-we-help/Thestriversprogram
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Legal and Litigation Tips
We’d like to thank Mr. Sample for offering to give some legal Tips in.our monthly newsletter to help with the arduous fight of Litigation. We are looking to have a new Director of Litigation soon because we know how much in means to you all. Let's get on with the tip of the month!
The most important thing that anyone fighting their case pro se has to learn is to emotionally separate themselves from the case. You have to look at it as if you are doing research for someone else. This is a very difficult thing to do, so difficult in fact that even attorneys are discouraged from representing themselves. Haven't you heard the old saying, " An attorney who represents himself has a fool for a client! "However, if you can learn this skill, you are well on your way to being a true litigator. You will be able to focus on real legal issues instead of floundering around in anger or despair. Here's a tip to get you started; treat it like a project: #1 Make a plan #2 find your issue #3 do your research #4 choose your remedy and file your papers to the court. GOOD LUCK and don't forget to check your emotions at the door!
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In Closing.....
We will be back at you guys in September to allow everyone time to rest and recharge. A huge thanks to Chris, Kirsten, Nairobi, Netta, Uhuru, Jessica, Harley, Nasir, and the rest of the team. The way you give of yourselves without complaint is Amazing! While we take this time to recharge, please focus on what's next. We all know that the General Assembly is coming fast (January 2025), so, start getting your family and friends on point. You might as well get your stamps and envelopes cause we will be writing Delegates, Senators, and others. Please continue with work, programs, and finding ways to get better. Do a recap of the newsletter to support the Parole Initiative, Inthrive Film Festival, Facebook Live, RIHD Summer Fun, and more!!! The work starts NOW for Victories in January! One more thing, DO NOT LET YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY MISS THE FACEBOOK LIVE!
Chris 40 Strong
The40Strong.com
--
Kirsten Knights
Personal Advocate & Director of Education
The 40 Strong
Greetings Members, Families and Friends!
WE ARE HAPPY ABOUT THE EARNED SENTENCE CREDITS VICTORY!!! Of course, we all remember the heartbreak of 2022 when the amendments by Governor Youngkin stopped mixed charges Earned Sentence Credits from becoming law. Now just 2 years later this will be law on July 1st! This is expected to release 800-850 people immediately and 1,000's more in the future.
This was achieved by hard work and a REFORM COMMUNITY that stood tall. We are thankful for the families that came out, voted, participated, emailed, questioned, and cheered. We get several emails a day from your families looking for information. We love to help them learn more on how to help you. So, with Earned Sentence Credits passing I think we all know what the next step is----- REENTRY!!!! We need everybody returning to society ready to leave and be that pillar to the community and your family. We have never lied to y'all or have it any way but across the table; WE HAVE TO MAKE REENTRY A SUCCESS! This allows for Second Look, 21 under parole, and other things possible. What the First Wave does in July will affect reform for the next 5-10 years. We canceled our Stonewall event to focus exclusively on Reentry Resources.
*WE will have ALL Reentry Resources on our website The40Strong.com on June 20th and will keep it updated! FREEDOM IS PRICELESS!
This newsletter will have REENTRY info to help. If someone around you is going home soon share the info. We will post a more completed list on our website: The40Strong.com on June 20th to help assist you further. Do not be afraid to reach out to places like the Salvation Army, O.A.R, Virginia Cure, and even YMCA/YWCA. Just like reaching out to your families church or place of worship. Be a VOLUNTEER when you can MANY jobs originate from volunteering or community service. We are just really excited about the results that continue to show the hard work. We still have to stay focused. There are still many men and women in Virginia DOC without that chance. We want Parole to be more attainable.
STARTING JULY 1ST PAROLE REFORM
#1. The board will only be required to have 3 of 4 votes to approve a parole application. This is GREAT NEWS that could be the reason for a second chance.
#2. The Parole Board must notify you of their decision via in person visit ( face to face), or via video visit.
This will make huge impact on the possibilities so stay encouraged!
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Earned Sentence Credits Confirmation
When the earned sentence credits news first broke two years ago, I was personally devastated. It felt like the organization had let everyone down. I know that may sound crazy but that's how it felt. It gets very difficult trying to impact the organization from behind the wall and it shows you the limitations on you. However, there was nothing in me that said this was gonna be the end of it. So after days of little sleep and mental anxiety, the word VOTE popped in my head. The next day the Virginia DOC voting block was ignited. When I heard that the Delegate Majority was debating the budget with Governor Youngkin I thought of those votes. I thought of hitting the yard and passing out flyers. I thought about telling everyone around me to get their people to vote. I thought about winning!!! So it was the numbers that permitted debate which brought change. NEVER underestimate the power of votes! Now to those going home
PLEASE stand on business out there so others like myself can follow.
Free (founder)
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SECOND LOOK PUSH
For those of you that have family members who are active Prison Reform and criminal justice advocates, this is just a quick reminder regarding the upcoming Second Look Recap 2024, and workshop on the next steps moving forward. SIP (Sisters in Prison Reform), Nolef Turns, and the Humanization Project will be conducting this free event June 8, 2024 1-4pm at the Richmond Public Library- 101 East Franklin Street Richmond, VA 23219. Food, drinks, and some very helpful education will be provided at this event. The event is free, and all are not only welcome but encouraged to attend, but you will need to register ahead of time at the link below. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdJR2b27yaCV6JDRg4jbeOYmqXwEaqvkD02Z5ieTaR4Q5JTQA/viewform?usp=sf_link&usp=embed_facebook As a quick back story; I first began my advocacy journey December 2023 by signing up for a training course regarding Second Look. I had no political background or experience with advocacy or lobbying. However, I did have something in common with each of you. I had someone very dear to me in VADOC, and I wanted to help. From that day on, I continued to learn , I showed up, and I made my voice heard. That’s really all that’s required to advocate for not only your loved ones, but everyone affected by incarceration in Virginia. I’m proud to be donating my time and knowledge to my 40 Strong Family, and continuing to build bonds with our other selfless organizations and individuals that are making a difference. Please consider joining in the fight, and encouraging your family and friends to do so as well. I hope to see many familiar faces as well as new ones on June 8th.
Jessica D 40 Strong
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NEVER STOP WORKING!!!!!
If you're looking to recieve Second Look or Parole in the future don't stop working! Here is a great skills school that offers a collection of programs that have been respected by the Parole Board and others. The courses do cost ( respectable fee ) but the benefits are enormous. You can write them or have your family contact them to get a brochure. Keep Pushing!
ACCI LIFESKILLS
165 N.FREEDOM BLVD,STE 5B
PROVO,UT 840604
PH#800-316-0246
FAX#866-550-9132
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Founder Free Speaks Commentary
After almost 3 1/2 years of doing the work I had no idea how tired I was. I can remember arriving at Greensville almost 2 weeks ago still exhuberant from the great news on the victory of EXPANDING EARNED SENTENCE CREDITS. It was a little bit surreal after all of the strategy, networking, events, emails, action calls and everything else over the last two years. Did I ever doubt that we would win---- NOT AT ALL! There's something sobering about men and women being told that they would in fact be reuniting with their families, only to be told a couple weeks prior to that July 2022 date that
they wouldn't be. It was painful and heartbreaking to say the least. However, I used that pain, and those tears to fuel motivation. So when I arrived here at Greensville I came with the baggage of many sleepless nights and the fatigue of reform. When I laid my head on my pillow the first night here I slept like I hadn't slept in years! I would do the same the next night, and the next night and nights after that. Now, after almost two weeks here I feel somewhat like myself. It feels like I was in isolation at Lawrenceville almost. With Lawrenceville being privately owned, it was hard to tell what influence 40 Strong was really having in Virginia DOC. It wasn't until I was moved in population that it became crystal clear. I was greeted with so many hugs and smiles from members that it overwhelmed me. I TRULY HAD NO IDEA!!! Nevertheless, I gave hugs and listened to the stories of hope and newfound belief. Then the other day when I heard the nurse call 7 men to sign discharge papers of upcoming releases unbeknowst to them, it was surreal again. Many had release dates next year, or 2026 and even 2028. Their faces said it all! So yes the hard work was paying off by us and all the organizations and advocates on the ground. This is a pivotal moment in Prison Reform in Virginia. Now, the focus shifts to the fight for Second Look in General Assembly session 25. I still believe and the motivation is there. As I look aroung Greensville I see aged faces who've been here for decades begging for the chance for a Second Chance. I see the eyes of men who want to reunite with their familes. So the story continues... I am thankful for this journey and for our close to 2500 members that we give hope. I am humbled to serve and believe that Second Look is next. Lets GO!!!!
Free 40 Strong
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The WellnessWarriors group- Who we are?
An idea born in 2021 when one of us became more aware of the truth about the conditions our
inside communities faced and a passionate desire to find a way to improve it with tools one
couldn't have taken away, A Warrior Within US Project began a 21-day mindset-reset beta
program, it received positive reviews however soon after- the project was temporarily put on
hold to deal with and handle a re-entry situation, we share that for true transparency because it
was a situation that took another year and a half of focus. So, fall of 2023 excited to pick up
where we left off we began creating a focus group dedicated to wellness & mindset, with goal of
an inside newsletter and outside workshop. We have grown to a solid diverse group with
members from Virginia, Florida, Missouri, West Virginia and even The Caribbean, our group
includes the formerly incarcerated, a mom with a degree in psychology, A Neurodivergent Yoga
instructor and a few of us with existing wellness geared programs or groups. All passionate
about the betterment of our communities youth to adult both inside and outside those walls. Our
goal here is to provide information, resources, tips and guidance to help improve the mental and
physical health and also one’s mindset. Together, we aim to create a positive impact and
promote overall wellness within correctional facilities and at re-entry to assist in reintegration.
Tools you have within you just waiting to be realized & utilized, Tools that no one can take from you.
Education is empowering! – Wellness Warriors Editorial
To empower yourself in the advocacy of your health care & mental health care with knowledge of common medications is important. Advocating for proper evaluations, check ups and medicine is within your right. Wellness Warriors has provided a general overview of 10 categories of the most commonly used physical & mental health medications prescribed within Correctional facilities, keep in mind some overlap.
Example: •Ability is an antipsychotic but it is often also used for mood stabilization
•Seroquel- depending on ones physician could be used to treat agitation, mood and also those with sleep or memory disorders
•Gabbapentin, though most often used for nerve pain, has been used for moderate general pain, and an anti seizure therapy and also off label for anxiety..
1. **Antipsychotics**: These medications are used to treat conditions such as schizophrenia/effective, bipolar disorder, and severe depression w/psychotic features. - Risperidone (Risperdal) - Olanzapine (Zyprexa) - Quetiapine (Seroquel) - Aripiprazole (Abilify)
2. **Antidepressants**: These medications are used to treat various types of depression and anxiety disorders and fall under a few catagories. The difference matters because some meds are not to be taken with SSRIs or MAOIs. •Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs): -Fluoxetine (Prozac) -Sertraline (Zoloft) •Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs): -Venlafaxine (Effexor) -Duloxetine (Cymbalta) •Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs) -Amitriptyline -Nortriptyline •Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) -Phenelzine (Nardil), -Tranylcypromine (Parnate) •Antidepresent/Anti Anxiety: -Lexapro(increases seratonin)
3. **Mood Stabilizers**: These medications are primarily used to treat bipolar/mood disorder. - Lithium - Valproate (Depakote) - Lamotrigine (Lamictal) 4. **Anxiolytics** These medications are used to treat anxiety disorders. •Benzodiazepines: -Lorazepam (Ativan) -Alprazolam (Xanax) - Buspirone (Buspar)
5. **Pain relievers/Analgesics** -Gabbapentin(Neurontin) -hydrocodone (Vicodin) -oxycodone (Percaset) •Anti inflammatories(Arthritis, Injury etc) - Naproxen (This could be prescription or over the counter as Aleve) - Ibuprofen (both prescription strength 600&800mg or over the counter 200mg)
6.**Antihypertensives** Medications that help lower high blood pressure. -Lisinopril -Amlodipine 7.**Antidiabetic drugs** Medications used to manage diabetes and regulate blood sugar levels. - Metformin(type 2 diabetics) -Insulin (type 1 and 2 diabetics)
8.**Anticonvulsants** Drugs that help control seizures in conditions like epilepsy. -Neurontin (gabbapentin) -Phenytoin
9.**Antacids** Medications that help reduce stomach acid and treat digestive issues. -Nexium -Prilosec
10.**Antibiotics** Drugs that help fight bacterial infections. -Amoxicillin -Pencillan -Doxycycline -Clindamycin Some side effects to the different meds above are weight gain, upset stomach, excessive sleepiness, brain fog/memory issues, digestive issues, rapid movements and more please make sure to report any adverse effects to your nurse/physician, Helpful definition: Seratonin:is a brain chemical that affects mood and emotions, influencing feelings of well-being. Imbalances can lead to conditions like depression and anxiety, treated with medications that increase serotonin levels. We hope this helps empower you in navigating and advocating your healthcare, if there's another medicine you need information on, please let us know.
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IMPORTANT NUMBERS
Chesapeake Law Library
298 Cedar Road
Chesapeake, Va. 23322
757-382-8301
Va. Appeal Court
Clerk John Vollino
109 N. 8th Street
Rich., Va. 23219
804-786-5651
Alexandria Law Library
530 King Street LL34
Alex. Va. 22314
703-746-4077
Library of Congress
Dr. Carla Hayden appointed by Pres. Obama
101 Independence Ave, SE
Wash., DC 20540
202-707-5000 or 8000
VA. DOC ADA
Barry. Marano@vadoc.virginia.gov
6900 Atmore Drive
Rich., Va. 23225
804-763-9960
DOJ ADA
US Dept. of Justice
Disability Rights Section
950 Penn. Ave NW
Wash., DC 20530
800-514-0301
VA DOC Ombudsman (s)
1100 H Street NW
Wash., DC 20005
202-506-3333
VDSS OCR Office
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REENTRY PROGRAM PROVIDERS
Colonial Comm. Corr. Transitional Services
4093 Ironbound Rd., Suite B
Williamsburg, VA 23188
Phone: (757) 564-2311, FAX: (757) 229-8963
Email: hal.diggs@jamescitycountyva.gov
Northern Neck Reg. Jail Reentry &
Transition Services
P.O. Box 1090
Warsaw, VA 22572
Phone: (804) 333-6005; Fax: (804) 333-6029
email: awalker@nnrj.state.va.us
Northwestern Regional Adult Detention
Center
143 Fort Collier Road
Winchester, VA 22603
Phone:(540) 535-3851, Fax: 540-524-6192
Email: jwhitley@fcva.us
OAR-Arlington, Alexandria, Falls Church
1400 N. Uhle Street, Suite 704
Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (703) 228-7030; Fax: (703) 228-3981
email: ejones@oaronline.org
OAR-Fairfax
10640 Page Avenue, Suite 250
Fairfax, VA 22030-4015
Phone: (703) 246-3033; Fax: (703) 273-7554
Email: doverton@oarnova.org
OAR-Jefferson Area
750 Harris St., Suite 207
Charlottesville, VA 22903
Phone: (434) 296-2441; Fax: (434) 979-4038
email: psmith@oar-jacc.org
OAR-Richmond
3111 West Clay Street
Richmond, VA 23230
Phone: (804) 643-2746; Fax: (804) 643-1187
email: sdimick@oarric.org
website: http://www.oarric.org/
STEP-UP, Inc.
5900 E. Virginia Beach Blvd., Suite 102
Norfolk, VA 23502
Phone: (757) 588-3151; Fax: (757) 587-4507
Email: sbrandt@stepupincorporated.org
Virginia CARES, Inc.
108 Henry St., NW, 3rd floor
Roanoke, VA 24016
Phone: (540) 342-9344; Fax: (540) 342-9427
Email: afisher@vacares.org
Arlington – SCA Community Reentry Program
Offender Aid & Restoration of Arlington
Elizabeth Jones Valderrama
(703) 228-7441
Statewide – VADOC Career Employment Reentry Project
Cleon Ross
(804) 887-8344
Richmond – Enhanced Vocational Training, Career Planning and Job Placement Program
Bart Blanks
(804) 646-5438
Local – Community Based Re-entry – WOMEN
Jennifer Jacovitch
(540) 434-1690
Local – Comprehensive Corrections TTA
Hank Heflin
Virginia’s Reentry Portal: https://virginiareentry.org/
Virginia Reentry Resources: https://www.reentryessentials.org/virginia.html
Virginia Reentry Programs: https://www.felonyrecordhub.com/programs/virginia-reentry-programs/
Virginia Reentry and Assistance: https://exoffenders.net/reentry-programs-assistance/virginia/
Virginia Career Works – Northern Region - https://vcwnorthern.com/jobseekers/reentry-resources/
Tap Into Hope - https://tapintohope.org/program/reentry-program/
Loudon County - https://www.loudoun.gov/4929/Re-Entry-Services
Norfolk Reentry Council - https://www.norfolk.gov/3508/Prisoner-Re-Entry-Council
Medicaid and CHIP in Virginia - https://www.medicaid.gov/state-overviews/stateprofile.html?state=virginia
DC Central Kitchen
2121 First Street SW Suite 140
Washington DC 20024
202-234-0707
Coordinator Jeffrey Rustin
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Companies That Hire Felons
Ace Hardware, Macey's, Domino's, AT&T, Wendy's, Best Western, Dollar Tree Kohl's,
Walgreens, Dennys, Huddle House, Family Dollar, Kmart, Caterpillar, Goodwill, Lowe's, Chick-fil-A, Chili's, Red Lobster, Menards
Pilot Flying J, Walmart, Home Depot, Pepsi,
Greyhound, Great Clips, Papa John's, Sprint,
Ashley Furniture, Goodyear Tires, Sam's Club,
Dairy Queen, Steak N Shake, I Hop, Golden Corral, Pizza Hut, Buffalo Wild Wings, KFC,
General Mills, Blue Cross Blue Shield
* As we find out more we'll post on our website.
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In Closing......
PLEASE share all the info in the newsletter especially the REENTRY and Second Look details. PLEASE have aomeone ahow up Junw 8th at The Richmond public library as the push for Second Look 2025 begis.The key to our continued success is Truth, Accountability, and Actions. What we do from here will affect our progress at the 2025 General Assembly. We only have 7 months so PLEASE BE ON POINT! Go home and reconnect with life and it's simplicity. DO NOT forget the pain, disappointments, and frustration on Incarceration. Our next stop is Second Look and we all have to Stand on Business! We are happy to announce that Nairobi X has launched a women's website for the movement titled
Hear Her Voice.Blog
PLEASE have your mothers, wives, daughters, neices etc... support the women's voices that are the backbone of the movement. We are now over 2500 members and growing! If you are going home Love your family, Enhance your community and give back! You'll never imagine the joy of giving back until you feel it. Let's keep pushing and moving forward in Progress!
Chris 40 S
The40strong@gmail.com
The40Strong.com
TheForty Strong@Facebook
Kirsten Knights
Personal Advocate & Director of Education
The 40 Strong
Jessica Davis
Personal advocate & Chapter Leader
The 40 Strong
We still have a few tables left for our Manassas events and we are so thankful for your continued support. In spite of everything that's happened with Governor Youngkin and the vetoes, we believe that we are one governor's race away from sweep and reforms. That means we intend on challenging the next candidates for Governor on their stance and position on criminal Justice reform. We also intend on continuing to build a consensus with the current delegate/senators to build a framework of those sweeper reforms coming January 2026.
May 1, 2024
Greetings members families and friends!
We hope that everyone is well and we send you and yours nothing but the best. This is the May newsletter and we are going to provide you with some information that will be helpful, and there will be more information coming on the budget amendment and vetoes. Unfortunately we would not be able to say anything affirmative until after the special session in the middle of this month. Please refrain from gossip and rumors and only seek to find real information that you can pass on to others.
We are so happy for everyone who showed up at The Inthrive Film Festival on April 14th at George Mason University. It was a beautiful event and all of our members poems were displayed too much admiration. We are also excited about the upcoming event in Manassas on June 1st from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Stonewall Park. We have all the info in the newsletter and we are hoping that your family and friends can show up and support!
We are very excited about the recent victory for the ACLU and regards to the Vasquez case and earned sentence credits. It has been ruled by the Virginia supreme Court that Vasquez must be immediately released because his urn sentence credits were held back from him. We are told that the Vasquez case was anything involving attempted, solicitation, or conspiracy to murder. We do not want to speculate who this applies to or what cases will be eligible for this, we have been told by doc that time is being recalculated and there will be new updates sheets passed out in the future. In the meantime please stay patient, and more information will come out following the special session later on this month.
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DOC Health and Wellness Approach
The whole month of April we had an initiative reaching out to doc to request that they take a more health and wellness approach to operations. It is our belief that if the men and women have more recreation, meditation classes, yoga classes, poetry/art contest etc... that an increase in morale and behavior will follow. We also have to take accountability with our behavior and reducing the violence and facility incidents that cologne better conditions. We will continue to reach out to director Dotson and DOC staff to try to the facilities more safe and conducive to Rehabilitation. We are so thankful to all your families and friends who's reached out to us to send in their email about Health and Wellness. If you guys have ideas on this issue you can reach out to your Warden or send it to us to be considered
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MANASSAS WE COMING!!!!!!
If your family is in Northern Virginia, Central Virginia, DC, Richmond etc .. tell them to come on out because we will be in Manassas on June 1st. This will be a community event full of great speakers, DJ, games for kids, food, resources, swimming pool, giveaways, other great organizations and more!!!! You already know 40 STRONG are no joke, so tell your family to come out and enjoy!
Saturday June 1st 12pm-6pm
Stonewall Park
8300 Stonewall Rd.
Manassas, Virginia 20110
*We will be in DC, Richmond, and Norfolk coming up!
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RE-ENTRY RESOURCES FOR RETURNING CITIZENS
LOC Family Services
Farmville - (434) 547-2545
Colonial Community Corrections Transitional Services - Williamsburg & Surrounds
(757) 564-2311
Northern Neck Regional Jail Reentry & Transition Services - Richmond & Surrounds
(804) 333-6006
OAR - Arlington & Surrounds
(703) 228-7519
www.oaronline.org
OAR - Fairfax & Surrounds
(703) 246-3033
www.oarfairfax.org
OAR - Jefferson Area - Charlottesville & Surrounds
(434) 296-2441
www.oar-jacc.org
OAR - Richmond & Surrounds
(804) 643-2746
www.oarric.org
Step-Up Inc. - Chesapeake & Surrounds
(757) 588-3151
www.stepupincorporated.org
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Inthrive Film Festival
We are so thankful for everyone who supported us at the Inthrive Film Festival on April 14th. We thank the families who came out to recite our members poetry, and all those who loved the presentation that we presented. We would like to thank Sincere, Angel "Poppy" , Deuce, Brother Khalid, and other return citizens who came out to support. We will be getting those letters out to those who participated and we would like to thank everyone again for being a part of such a great event! Inthrive will be headed to Emporia and a couple other stops so stay ready!
* To all those who submitted poetry or spoken word work, your voice will be on display at all of our upcoming events and we are excited about that._________________________________________
40 Strong Giving!!!!
During the month of April in which we celebrated our third year anniversary, we continually found causes to support. On behalf of our members we donated $200 each to two prisoner led organizations
20/20 Clear Vision Ministries and Prisoners Rights Clinic. We found it important to support these two prisoner-led organizations because of our own founding by DOC prisoner Free. Please get your families to follow these two organizations on Facebook and let's support each other!
We also donated $150 on behalf of our members to support the men at Norway fundraising for the Victims Network. We absolutely love the idea and on behalf of our members $150 donation was made. There is no movement without giving.
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NEWS YOU CAN USE
It was recently brought to our attention by one of our original members William White Jr. who has been fighting his conviction for over 22 years that the Commonwealth may have been committing Constitutional violations related to the filing of numerous individuals confined in the department of corrections arrest and search warrants related to their criminal convictions. By law under Va. Code 19.2-54 the magistrate who issues your arrest or search warrant has 30 days to file what is known as the affidavit of probable cause. This document is used to obtain your arrest warrant by having a police officer present evidence of probable cause in a sworn affidavit to a magistrate detailing what evidence the Commonwealth has to believe you committed the offense(s) you are charged with. By law 19.2-54 states that the magistrates failure to file this affidavit of probable cause within the required 30 days invalidates the warrant. This means you may have been arrested and tried for a crime in which the state never had a valid arrest warrant. This violates both the fourth and fifth amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Which under the fourth amendment states that "no warrant shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation (or an affidavit in this case) and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be searched." This means the Commonwealth must have a valid affidavit of probable cause to support each arrest or search warrant. In the case of the arrest warrant if this affidavit was not filed in the Circuit Court where you were convicted within 30 days from the date your arrest warrant was issued. Your Constitutional rights were violated and your arrest warrant is most likely invalid. This is where it gets interesting because without a valid arrest warrant it is likely the Commonwealth never had jurisdiction over your case(s) and did not legally have a right to enter any judgments or orders against you. Simply put it could mean your sentencing order is likely void (or void ab initio which means from the beginning) because the Commonwealth never had jurisdiction to enter a sentencing order in the first place because you were denied due process under the fifth amendment and deprived of life and liberty without a valid arrest warrant. Without proper jurisdiction over your case there is a possibility your conviction can be vacated by filing a Motion to Vacate or Habeas Corpus in the Circuit Court where you were convicted. For those of you who are willing to put in the work you can fact check all of this information like I did and see it in black and white for your self. For those of you who have filed a Habeas Corpus in the past QUIT LISTENING TO RUMORS!!! There are men who will tell you you can only file one habeas corpus. THIS IS NOT TRUE!!! When it comes to filing a Habeas Corpus in state and federal court you can file MULTIPLE Habeas Corpus application or petitions!!!! The law says until you've had an evidentiary hearing granted NONE of your Habeas Corpus applications or petitions legally qualify as a "first" Habeas Corpus. So stop listening to rumors and put your own work in!!!! Don't just read the law. STUDY the law because there are always exceptions to every rule. For those of you who have filed a Habeas Corpus and had an evidentiary hearing don't give up. You can still file a Habeas Corpus in federal court by filing a motion under U.S.C. 2244 and request permission from the court to file a successive Habeas Corpus. I'm including a section below with several cases you can use to fact check this article and the information I've provided because we deal in proofs.
Cases challenging the affidavit:
1.) Franks v. Delaware, 438 U.S. 154
2.) United States ex rel. Irons v. Montanye, 520 F.2d 646
3.) Wilson v. Russo, 212 F.3d 781
(*the law for the search and arrest warrants is the same)
Cases on jurisdiction
1.) Matthews v. Commonwealth, 216 Va. 358
2.) Rook v. Rook, 233 Va. 92
3.) United States v. Cotton, 535 U.S. 625
4.) Evans v. Smyth-Wythe Airport Comm'n, 255 Va. 69
Successive Habeas Corpus Cases
1.)Sanders v. United States, 373 U.S. 1 (1963)
2.) Green v. Reynolds, 57 F.3d 956, 957-58 & n.3 (10th Cir. 1995)
3.) Slack v. McDaniels, 529 U.S. 473 (2003)
Also study Va. Sup. Ct. Rule 1:1 which control a courts jurisdiction and has an exception which allows you to challenge the court's orders after 21 days when it lacked jurisdiction. See Mathews above. All of this information can be obtained from your prison law library.
I have had 10 people including myself request their affidavits from Circuit Courts across the state and out of 10 people the state had zero affidavits related to the arrest warrants. These are the facts what you do with this information is up to you.
Written by: William White Jr.
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EDUCATIONAL UPDATE WITH KIRSTEN
Happy May 40 Strong Family!
I'm excited to provide updates and some key information you can use this month. We have had a lot of members reach out asking for specific colleges and universities that accept Pell Grants - so I wanted to make sure this was included in the newsletter update for this month.
Don't forget that you need to complete FAFSA forms for the Pell Grants in order to get Federal Funding for any study. From there, you receive an amount in grant, and can further apply for scholarship funding after you establish your standing with the school itself.
The colleges in Virginia that accept Pell Grants are: Virginia State University, Norfolk State University, Radford University, Old Dominion University, George Mason University, Virginia Commonwealth University, Longwood University, University of Mary Washington, Virginia Tech, James Madison University, William & Mary, University of Virginia, Christopher Newport University, Virginia Military Institute.
In terms of our College Guild Study Group pilot that we are running at 3 facilities (so far - stay tuned for more!) - we have 17 students being run by 3 study group leaders right now, and the quality of work coming back is outstanding. We are extremely excited to look at the positive educational and personal impacts these classes have, and move into a broader educational offer to our members and beyond. If you have any suggestions in terms of educational content we could look at, or you or anyone you know have classes they have designed - we are on the lookout to introduce member designed programs into our curriculum, so please do reach out!
FACEBOOK LIVE - THURSDAY MAY 9TH - 7:30PM-8:30PM
Following the success of our first Facebook Live in April, we are hosting another Live Thursday May 9th from 7:30pm. We have one spot available from 8:10pm-8:30pm for a member to call in and speak on an area of interest (think excessive lockdowns, health & wellness, program access) - so if this is something you'd like to be a part of, please use that reply stamp and make sure you let Kirsten know that you'd like to be part of the Facebook Live to speak to a broader audience and have your voice heard. We only have 8 days to iron this out and make sure we can tee up the times and agenda, so do not hesitate to reach out.
Whilst we can promote and communicate the issues that you all send to us, the power comes from your voices and experience. Last month, the interaction from our audience and the conversation that ensued post our guest members speaking was reformative and positive. The broader audience loved hearing from our members and have asked that we make this a permanent thing.
Please remember: you DO NOT have to be a seasoned public speaker to speak at the Live. We are here to support and guide you with prompts and conversation based on our pre-agreed topic. We understand nerves, and are here with you every step of the way.
Other than those two pieces of information, I'm loving connecting with you all each month, and look forward to hearing more from all of you as we strengthen our now over 2000 member strong family. All human, all equal.
Kirsten
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In Closing....
Thanks for the support and commitment to progress. Our sole purpose of what we do is to unite, inspire, and create second chances. We represent this every day in the representation of our members and we expect our members to do the same. In matters of self change we must for ourselves to self analyze. Are you becoming better as a person? Are you providing leadership to your children, family, and community? What is your purpose? We expect greatness out of our members. I wake up every day with the cause of progress on my feet. This is not physical fight so why are we fighting?!
This is about humanity in our eyes! So when we fight for you with words , actions, events, research, etc.. we want that returned in positive behavior, growth, and development. 40 Strong members do not crash we become better! Facebook live 5/9 7:30---- Chesapeake 5/25 -----Manassas community event June 1st 12pm-6pm. All info is in the newsletter---- SO ACTIONS speak the intent. Our best to you!
A very special wish and a happy mother's Day to all of our members that are mothers. In honor of mother's Day we will be giving five special edition baskets to five deserving mothers. Please write in 200 words or less why your mother should receive a basket. All letters due by Monday May 6th at 6:00 p.m..
Chris 40 S.
The40Strong.com
the40strong@gmail.com
Dear Members, Families, and Friends!
Greetings and respects to everyone in the same to your family. We are still in the fight and I'm so thankful for all the members who reached out to say they were standing tall. So many times we can get lost in the simple battles that we lose intend to think that we're not making progress. The fact remains that those 22 bills that were vetoed, did actually make it to Governor Youngkin'sdesk. So let's not get arrogant or miss the moment cause the work is being done. If one man chose to stand in the way of progress that's not our fault! We all did our best with our members standing tall so the journey continues. Here's what's next.... The General Assembly plans to have a special session to strategize what's next and see how to proceed. NOTHING IN REGARDS TOEARNED SENTENCE CREDITS HAS PASSED. WE ALSO WILL UPDATE THE FINAL OUTCOME OF ALL BILLS AND SPECIAL SESSION DECISIONS ON MAY 1ST. PLEASE do not entertain gossip or rumors until everything is finalized. In the meantime let's keep pushing for progress. We've got about 9 months to prepare for General Assembly session 2025. The key to 2025 is that it will be the 30 year Anniversary of the Governor George Allen abolishing parole. We are very concerned about our OLD LAW men and women receiving FAIR and TRANSPARENThearings. This 30 year Anniversary of the Abolishment of Parole in 2025 will renew our drive for Second Chances. If you are Juvenile, Fishback, New Law, or Geriatric we hear you! We need you to work with us as we are working for you. That means continue with the education and programs. Look to assist your facility leaders as we begin fundraisers in May to show our value to our community. Move with pride as a 40 Strong Member ----- we are not a gang but we are a movement! Become better fathers and mothers, spouses and friends, mentors and people. Dig deeper for the best is coming! The truth is that next November 2025, the Governor's race will take place and you will have a say in the race. It will be your family that decides the next Governor of Virginia as we did Delegates and Senators last November. This may be the only answer to avoiding vetoes and getting sweeping reforms. However, we gotta be in position with our actions. If you read these info packed newsletters every month and don't do nothing the shame is on you because YOU know your plight. You know the seriousness of missing your freedom and family. So, if we're moving forward let's do it together. Have your family/friends tune into our first Facebook live on April 11th at 7:30 pm, have someone support our upcoming events, and get a t-shirt for a loved one. We are only as strong as our bond with one another. The 40 Strong team will stand for you, and we need you standing with us! Our best to you -----
Angela 40 S
Virginia lawmakers are scheduled to meet to consider the governor's amendments and vetoes on April 17.Author: Eugene Daniel (WVEC)Published: 6:56 PM EDT April 1, 2024Updated: 7:06 PM EDT April 1, 2024VIRGINIA, USA — Virginia House Speaker Del. Don Scott, D-Portsmouth, says he's not surprised by Governor Glenn Youngkin's recent sweep of vetoes, including bills related to a minimum wage increase, gun control and marijuana sales, which are key priorities for Democrats.
"Nothing that he did was unexpected," said Scott on Monday.
The Criminal Justice Bills Vetoed
* Please know that there were 22 bills vetoed but all were not pertaining to those incarcerated or on supervised release. We are sending the most important bills to you, and we will have a final wrap up in May.
HB 45 Earned Sentence Credits; incarceration prior to entry of final order of conviction ( jail time).
HB 77 Robbery; conforms certain provisions of the code of VA to the degrees of robbery offenses, etc...
HB 161, Individuals experiencing or reporting overdoses while incarcerated; disciplinary procedures. ( so those that are experiences and overdose will not receive charge for reporting)
HB 250 Law Enforcement Officer; interrogation practices and battery against a Law Enforcement Officer ; Prosecution of an individual.
HB 449 Juveniles; juvenile correctional centers, eligible for parole
Hb1515 Discovery; electronic means
HB 1420/ SB 23 Juveniles; adjudication of delinquency.
SB 144 Nolle Prose que dismissal without prejudice prior to preliminary hearing; subsequent indictment.
HB1252/SB 505 limitation on sentence upon revocation of suspension of sentence; technical violations.
HB614, Community service work in lieu of payment of fines and costs; work performed while incarcerated.
SB 80, decreasing probation period; establishes criteria for mandatory reduction.
Education Update with Kirsten
Happy April 40 Strong Family! I am excited to come to you with a 40 Strong College Guild Club update. We are currently piloting study groups in three facilities – Pocahontas, Red Onion, and State Farm Women’s. Our study group leaders are taking an important role in this, providing not only mentorship and important development feedback, but facilitating invaluable learning opportunities for students within the DOC that may not have been previously accessible. Whilst we do only offer 2 tertiary unaccredited courses currently, our view is to expand this and in turn, offer it across more facilities as time goes on. We are also in talks with a member who has designed a re-entry focused program, to coordinate this into a curriculum to have this as part of our offering. We believe that inmate-designed programs are some of the most powerful tools at our disposal and encourage you all to share if this is something you’d like to also be part of. Thank you to everyone for staying encouraged and enthusiastic about the study groups, and I look forward to coming to you with updates and movements on the wider rollout of these initiatives.
40 Strong Facebook Lives with Kirsten
We will be holding our first 40 Strong Live on Facebook April 11th from 7.30 pm – 8:30 pm EST. We have Kirsten and Uhuru hosting this, with Joshua Hairston speaking on Parentification, Dual System Use, and Common-Sense Reform, and Ashleigh Dye speaking on women-specific facility and personal issues. We are also doing a member spotlight on 20/20 Ministries, an organization founded by one of our members – Verlie Word. Please have your family and friends follow us on Facebook, and tune in. If this sounds like something you’d like to be involved in through either being present on the live or being part of our member spotlight – please let us know, as we intend on holding these once a month. There is power in all your testimonies, and we look forward to utilizing our presence to showcase your voices on a broader scale.
LISTEN TO ME --- DO NOT LET YOUR FAMILY ANS FRIENDS MISS THIS! ITS FOR YOU BY YOU LITERALLY. 4/11 7:30PMTheForty Strong @Facebook
April 6th Is 40 Strong Day!!!!
We are celebrating our 3-year anniversary in April by nominating April 6th as the official 40 Strong day for our members. We are asking that you use Saturday April 6th as a day of kindness and peace. We want our members to set the example at facilities and to lead by example. Please take the Saturday out to fix something to eat or to offer food to someone who does not have and to teach at least one person about the 40 strong. We thank everyone for the hard work that has been put in this last 3 years and we can promise you that more change is coming!!!! One last thing.... Please send us a short note and express how the 40 Strong has impacted you since becoming a member. We are planning to put out the 40 Strong book in 2025 and some of these comments may be featured. Stay focused!!
Angela 40 S
Inthrive Film Festival!!!
Thanking everyone who've submitted poetry or spoken word submission for The Inthrive Film Festival. We've notified our participants and their poetry will be on display at the event. There will be some great short films and real stories. PLEASE GET YOUR FAMILIES TO COME OUT AND SUPPORT!!! There will be over 20 organizations, returning citizens, filmmakers, etc.... The 40 Strong will have a 20-minute presentation to highlight our members voices and the realities of incarceration. GET FREE TICKETS!!!!!!!!!
* PLEASE have your family go to our website The40Strong.com and click the TAB that says FILM FESTIVAL then click find out more----- once on the Inthrive Film Festival main page just scroll down to Free Tickets request how many they'd like and register ------- That's it!!!* Or they can always go to the40strong@gmail.com fir tickets
Let's Go Northern Virginia, DC, Maryland. We came within driving distance!
Inthrive Film Festival April 14th 12, pm-5pm
George Mason University VanMetre Auditorium Mason Square3351 Fairfax Dr. Arlington, VA 22201___________________________________________Upcoming Events
May 27th 11am-3pm
B.E.A.C.H. Foundation Presents Career Day New Mount Olive AME Church1953 Campstella road Chesapeake, Virginia 23323
-----Guest Speakers Include-----Jerry Hamilton retired Navy vet and owner of Seven Hundred Club Clothing Cedric Humes former Virginia alumni and former NFL player Dr. Katia Hall owner of Alpha psychiatric services and many more speakers!!!!* We will be here with the table set up and please have your families come out to this career day with much information!
June 1st 12-6pm Manassas Virginia the 40 Strong Family Day! We will announce the location in the May newsletter, and this will be a great event for your families, friends, and kids to come out and learn a lot and have fun. We will have food, games, gifts, and prizes! If there's one thing that y'all know about us, is we love to get out in the community and fellowship with your families.
July Richmond and Alexandria.
Happy April Birthdays!!!!!!
In honor of the month of April then our3 year anniversary, we will be having gifts and prizes for the families on our website and Facebook throughout the month of April. We are also claiming April 6th as the official 40 Strong day throughout Virginia DOC. Please take this Saturday to fellowship with other members and find at least one person to tell about the 40 Strong movement. If you are able, PLEASE feed or offer assistance to one person who is in need. Please also use April to mentor to someone younger than you. We thank you for going so hard with us this first three years and let's keep going!!4/6 Officially 40 Strong Day!!!! Health and Wellness Initiative
We started our Health and Wellness initiative on April 1st and will run it until April 30th. We will basically be reaching out to DOC and others to speak on the conditions and to ask that a more health and wellness approach be used in the future. We are asking for less confrontation and Punishment and more programs and healing experiences. Whether that be more outside rec, gym rec, peer led groups, yoga classes, and movies daily etc... We really feel that Director Dotson needs to let go of the old way of operations and create a more healing and rehabilitative model. If you have any ideas on how to make Virginia DOC more geared towards Health and Wellness, please reach out and we will be forwarding letters to the director and other administrators. We need y'all to help us by monitoring your behaviors and helping to create that peaceful environment that you will be able to thrive and become better in.
April Is Second Chances Month
We are excited that Virginia officially acknowledges April as second chance this month. In light of that we are asking that our members write a one-page letter expressing what a second chance would mean to you. Please email your letters to us and we will be posting them on our Facebook, Website, and sending them to legislators. Thank you. 2024 Parole News
We try our best to keep our parole eligible members updated on parole news. Here's something that gives a closer look at Parole Board Chairman Patricia West. We will remain optimistic until the numbers show in a few months.
RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) – Days after moving to block Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s pick to lead the Virginia Parole Board, Senate Democrats reversed course and confirmed her appointment.
On Feb. 5, the Democrat-controlled Virginia Senate moved to reject a Democrat-led Senate committee’s decision from Jan. 30 to remove Patricia West’s appointment as Virginia Parole Board chair from a joint resolution with several of Youngkin’s appointees to key state posts.
West said that she felt Democrats were initially hesitant about her nomination because they were unfamiliar with her, telling 8News that she met with leaders to introduce herself. This included discussions with Senate Majority Leader Scott A. Surovell (D-Fairfax) and House Speaker Don L. Scott Jr. (D-Portsmouth), she said.
“Once I was able to talk to them and tell them about myself, I think that’s what changed their minds,” West told 8News in an interview.
READ MORE: Senate Democrats move to block Youngkin’s pick for Virginia Parole Board chairWest told 8News she believes Democrats were able to assess her thoughts on parole and trusted her when she said that she was going to be “fair” with her parole decisions, a view she said she also expressed to Youngkin before taking over the role last September.
Youngkin appointed West, a former Virginia Beach circuit court judge, as parole board chair after the former chair, Chadwick Dotson, took over as the director of the Virginia Department of Corrections.
The state’s parole board, which has the authority to grant, deny and revoke parole and other powers, can have up to five members but currently only has four members.
West told 8News she’s looking forward to having a full parole board and hopes to bring stability to it, acknowledging that there is a current “backlog” because it was down to three members and saying it has been “kind of a mess.”
These are the current Parole Board members according to the Parole Board website and reports.
Honorable Judge Patricia West, Chairman Lloyd Banks, Vice-Chairman Michelle Dermyer, Member Samuel L. Boone Jr., Member 40 Strong T Shirt Spring Sale!!!
PLEASE support the organization by purchasing our Limited-Edition Anniversary T shirts. Please have your family reach out to us to buy a t-shirt all proceeds being used for the newsletter and upcoming events. Here is our cash app information and PO box. If they order by cash app, please tell them to put the size, name, and address on the FOR line. All shirts are $20 + $2.50 shipping. Thanks for the support!!!!Cash App: 40StrongdonationsForty Strong pops up
The 40 Strong p.o. box 6731Chesapeake, Virginia 23323
* We will be starting the 40 strong clothing on our website coming in May News You Can Use
Patricia West is the current chair of the Virginia Parole Board. West is a former judge and state director of juvenile justice. You can contact her by email at patricia.west@vpb.virginia.gov, or by phone at (804) 674-3081
Organizations to Assist Your Kids
Prison Fellowship Angel Tree A nationwide program that gives Christmas gifts to children in the name of incarcerated parents and also sends children to summer camp and hosts sports camps. Local church volunteers usually purchase and deliver gifts. *44180 Riverside Pkwy, Lansdowne, VA 20176
Milk and Cookies Children's ProgramA free program that serves residents of Amelia, Caroline, Charles City, Chesterfield, Colonial Heights, and Dinwiddie counties in Virginia.*804-643-2401
OAR Collecting Toys for Children of Incarcerated ParentsA program that allows people to purchase gifts for teens via OAR's Amazon wish list, or purchase gift cards and drop them off at OAR's office. OAR also sets up toy donation boxes at businesses, faith communities, and civic organizations during October.*1400 N Uhle St UNIT 704, Arlington, VA 22201
Re-Entry Services
*Phone: 540-342.9344Email: jcarter@vacares.org Fax: 540-342-9427
Mailing Address: Virginia CARES, Inc. P.O. Box 13206Roanoke, VA 24032-3206Physical Office Location: Virginia CARES, Inc.108 Henry St. NW Third Floor Roanoke, VA 24016
*Total Action for Progress302 2nd Street SW, Roanoke, VA 24011
540.777.HOPE
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In Closing......
We would like to thank you again for reading on April newsletter and we hope that it was information that you needed. Please don't forget our Facebook live next Thursday April 11th at 7:30 p.m. please have your family go to our Facebook at: TheForty Strong
Please don't forget the Inthrive Film Festival on April 14th at George Mason University please have your family email us if they would like tickets. We will be notified all of our facility leaders that were chosen on April 15th and please continue to progress. We all know that the days are not easy dealing with, but you have control of the narrative and you have control of what happens next. Please stay inspired and we leave you with kindness.
Angela 40 S.The40Strong.comTheForty Strong@Facebook.comthe40strong@gmail.com
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Dear Members, Family and Friends,
Great energy to all!!! The time to vote is closing in. With less than
2 1/2 moths remaining we have to narrow our focus on voting on November 7th. Thanks to all who offered to volunteer for our voting initiative. We are pushing harder as November 7th approaches. Please note: ALL ELECTED OFFICIALS MUST BE VOTED ON IN THIS YEAR'S ELECTION! That means that ALL seats will be voted on. You should also know that due to redistricting there are more seats available that can flip the numbers for reform. We are happy to introduce D. Truth's section this month. D. Truth is a community activist, advocate and 40 Strong member.
* D. TRUTH'S TRUTH *
Big Love and Respect to all my comrades. I'm not a long speaker but I speak truth... What are we doing? What are you doing? You cannot be dissatisfied without action! We need to first get our families and friends to show up at the people's tribunal in October. Then we need to be voting on November 7th to flip these numbers. This movement is for real! When you get your newsletters pass it on. If you can't write it out and get it copied, then let someone read the newsletter off your JPay.
Hold each other accountable and stop hurting each other. If you are a leader, Big Homie, or person of influence, don't let nobody under your watch do nothing goofy to get late. It's all good until you wake up at Red Onion or Wallens ridge sick. If you have children out here, check on them. Be that influence for your sons and set that example for your daughters. Being real is not just a moniker---- it's a lifestyle! SOLID IS AS SOLID DOES. I thank 40 strong for letting me be a member, and I try every day to make things better for the men and women of doc. Please do YOUR part and make sure that you stay in position for the freedom that you say you want. Do not be afraid to be great. Much love and Peace!
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HEAR HER VOICE
We are sending a big thanks to Nairobi X for starting a blog on our website called Hear Her Voice. We want to edify the voices of All our women members. Their voices are already being posted on the website in the Hear Her Voice blog section.
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📷 Big Event Coming
PEOPLE'S TRIBUNAL ON VIRGINIA'S PRISONS, JAULD, & DETENTION CENTERS
OCTOBER 7, 2023, 10am-4pm
Greater Richmond Convention. Center
403 North 3rd Street
Richmond, Virginia 23219
Hosted by Phil Wilay to and Virginia Defenders for Freedom, Justice & Equality
PLEASE SHOW UP ON THIS MONUMENTAL DAY IN REFORM!
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REINSTATE PAROLE📷
The time to Reinstate Parole is NOW!! Parole was abolished in 1995 creating a problem for all to be treated equally. Virginia has too many laws: old law, new law, juvenile, fishback, earned sentence credits, geriatric etc... We are now pushing for the Reinstatement of Parole and making it retroactive. It's time!!! We salute Freedom Over Everything for always pushing the Parole Now narrative. Now to make it a reality we must vote on 11/7 to get the numbers and then push legislators to deal with this. There's no way that in 2023 that Virginia cannot offer 1 law that's fair to all. Reinstating Parole and a Good Time system of 10/30, 20/30, 30/30 is fair to all. Please have your families log onto The40Strong.com and sign the petition to Reinstate Parole. The petition is at over 23,000 signatures and growing. Please have your family go to the website the40strong.com and click the parole now link to sign and forward it to others! 📷
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📷 COMING SOON
📷The 40 Strong gift shop will be available soon. Affordable and quality items for you to send to your family and friends.
📷50 Dope Poems Book III: Life, Love, and Hustle Coming Soon!!!!
📷 Thanksgiving Holiday giveaway to 40 of our members!!! Details coming in October Newsletter.
📷We are excited about the upcoming Virginia Supreme Court hearing for Antoine Anderson on September 9th. We are so appreciative to our partners at The ACLU Richmond for standing on our behalf. Asking that all our faith members stay in prayer for this very important ruling 📷
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****** Donate Now******
We are now over 700 members and counting! Our team of volunteers has been working hard for close to 3 years creating change and representing you. Thanks to the one donation for $7 we've received so far. We appreciated it so much that we took the $7 he donated and sent him $20 back for his faith in us.
The 40 Strong
P.O. Box 6731
Chesapeake, VA 23323
Your family and friends can also become a member by clicking on the website and hitting the tab
Join us and Become a Member!
THE40 STRONG. COM
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Thank you all for the support and help in this fight for right. Please stay tuned for a Special Edition Voters Newsletter mid September. Happy Birthday to our members celebrating a September birthday.
Angela
40 Strong Communication Director
* PLEASE HAVE YOUR FAMILY VISIT THE WEBSITE@ THE40 STRONG.com
TO READ THE LATEST NEWSLETTERS, VOTING INFO AND MORE.
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