I was already going to vote for you, but when Josepha threatened me if I didn't... I voted FAST! Seriously, these have been great posts. I ask my fellow Seraphic readers: Isn't it great that a FICTION writer does such extensive research? Research that put Robert in harm's way? He puts James Frey to shame. (On the other hand, the outcry over Frey is a little over the top in a time of war... but that's another topic).

Jake:

Confession. If I had known there was going to be a, what to call it: a coffeee-break? I probably would have said: this is a job for somebody else, or done my research from the internet.

I can get that cranky without my coffee....but not that cranky. ;)

As a former dog owner, I can attest to the unconditional love and support a pooch is able to give.

I owned a boxer....the best breed alive...but Im obviously prejudice. Rocky was natuallly protective and nothing...and I man nothing would have gotten near my family. Even 2 fine LAPD officers were impressed with his protective skills.

But, he was lovable and really a 4 legged teddy bear.

I miss him greatly....and one day, hopefully, in the not too distant future, a boxer will grace my life again.

"I ask my fellow Seraphic readers: Isn't it great that a FICTION writer does such extensive research?"

In answer to Jake's question, I must ask another question...wasn't this a non-fiction piece? Nonetheless, Robert's extensive research is brave and impressive.

Robert, I held my breath the whole time I was reading this. Thanks for relaying this experience to us.

And, from now on, when someone wants me to make coffee...I'll jump!

Lance:

The funny thing is, I'm not a big animal lover. But I was mightily impressed with this program. And when the women have to give up the dogs they have trained for over a year, well, it just breaks their hearts. And I understand the bond perfectly, I'm just too busy being attached to human beings.

That was a tense, tense moment... I really thought something was going to happen! Did you witness an actual fight while you were there?

Irina:

Yes, witnessed one fight, on the yard. I was whisked away very quickly. And the fight was ended with admirable efficiency and no bloodshed.

Randi:

I'd like some coffee, please, fat free milk, no sugar. No, make that Latte. And I want it NOW!

Shall I drink it for you too?

Randi:

No, deliver it to my office, please. Before Shabbos. Thank you so much.

Wow. Wow. Wow.

(or for the sake of the pet program: Bow. Wow. Wow.)

Can't wait for the next installment in this captivating story.

Pearl:

As everyone who reads this blog knows, I'm no bleeding heart liberal. But the Prison Pet Program is wonderful. It keeps the inmates busy doing fine and useful work that provides a real service to people who need it and it might even rehabilitate them just a bit. Emphasis on "might." Glad you're enjoying the series. Woof-woof.

Not that anyone cares, but boxers have horrible gas, oy.

Robert, I am enjoying this tale.

Jack:

Thanks so much. I didn't realize when I started it how much I had bottled up inside of me. The short time I spent visiting the women's prison left a huge impression on me.

Robert, I absolutely love this series of posts. The writing is visceral and unsentimental.

Hi Robert,
Although off topic, I'm sure I'm not the only one wondering this...when does the "10 year old" picture contest begin? I'm looking forward to my new Seraphic Cap.
Can I get you a cappuccino this morning?

Rochelle:

Thanks so much. Writing about this experience--Warner Brothers raw is the only way to go.

Randi:

The last of the 10-year old pics arrived on Friday. And let it be known that Seraphic Secret readers are not only clever by a-dorable.

Contest to commence once my prison sentence ends--probably by mid week.

I'll have a cafe mocha, straight up, thank you sooooo much.

Robert...not surprised that Seraphic readers are a-dorable!...looking forward to more of this series and to the contest.
Your mocha is on the way.

Randi:

Remember, no sugar!

It occurs to me that I may have seen the other end of the Prison Pets program.

We have a young lady in my church, about 15 years old, who has a service dog. This young lady is intelligent, attractive, fun, and equipped with a pair of utterly useless legs, due to severe spina bifida. Her dog appears to be a golden retriever mix and is about the most mellow and well-mannered animal I've encountered. The dog always wears a "Do Not Pet Me -- I'm Working" doggie vest, or I would find it irresistible to try to make friendly with the dog. I settle for letting the young lady tease me instead. (Apparently I need to lose some weight, and get some Grecian Formula.)

I believe this dog may have come out of the prison program. I can try to verify this if y'all are interested.

What? No requests for coffee cake or biscotti to accompany that cafe mocha?

Is this pet program exclusive to this particular prison you were at, or is it found around the country?

Kent:

Yes, I would be interested to know if your friend's dog is out of the prison program. Please do let us know. As always, good to hear from you, Kent.

Pearl:

I'm gonna pss on the biscotti, thanks. Too many calories for this aging bodies.

The prison pet program has gone nationwide. It started in one prison, was a huge success and spread like prairie fire.

BTW, Robert, did you perhaps get yourself a pair of handcuffs when you were doing your research in the prison...? You ALWAYS seem to be chained to your computer, regardless of the time of day. (Okay, Shabbos and Yom Tov, you're on strike!)

Pearl:

No, steel handcuffs, but they use these these plastic-cuff thingees. Which I use to build my Succah.

I'm gonna pss on the biscotti

Were they really that bad. ;) Ok, bad joke and juvenile but it kind of fits the whole prison theme.

Jack:

Whoops. Pass, I meant, pass. I should proof my comment more carefully from now on.

Robert,
As usual I am riveted and sitting on the edge of my seat and waiting to find out what happens next. You always write with such colorful descriptions that it is as if we were there with you (thankfully not, I don't think I could stomach it, you brave soul!).

The dog training programs are wonderful - I have seen in documentaries that it seems to help prisoners with empathy & to experience unconditional love. If it helps just a few people, it's worth it. I plan on checking out your movie when I can find a copy.

By the way, I had never heard of Sun Tzu and the Art of War - it sounds very cool. I'm curious to know if the U.S. Military studies it. I'd be also curious to know if their statutes can be employed in everday life, like dealing with the DMV(know thy enemy!).

Have a great night :)

Rachel

Rachel:

I don't know how brave I am, CO Cindy had my back and she was a true warrior.

The pet program is a true Kiddush Hashem. I have met some of the disabled people who have received the dogs, and oh my, are their lives made easier and of course filled with love.

Sun Tzu's "Art of War," though written over 2,000 years ago is still studied in every war college and its principles of diplomacy, strategy and tactics are as relevant now as when written. Yes, CEO's study it.

Every literate person should study it for it can help guide us through the conflicts of every day life. There are no less than four translations out there to choose from. It is a monumental work.

Ariel Sharon knows it by heart.

The other great classic of war literature is "On War" by the Prussian General Von Clausewitz, and it is as important as Sun Tzu's work. They differ on many points, but these two works are probably the only complete philosophies of war ever written for they investigate every aspect of total conflict. These two books will never lose their relevance.