The institution current framework demonstrates a deficiency in evidence-based rehabilitative…read moreprogramming and systemic conditions indicates that inmates safety and security are not prioritized. Critical improvements can be made by fostering integrated housing, optimizing facility management and safety, promoting demographic proportionality, ensuring equitable distribution of resources.

Trust me when I say there are prisons much worse than this one when you are visiting someone who is…read moreincarcerated. Unless you are from this area, it's basically located north of Bakersfield in the middle of desert "nowhere" close to dairy farms, corn fields and another state prison half an hour away. Make sure you've mapped it out ahead of time before going. North Kern State Prison is located in Delano, California. The facility acts as both a reception center, and a medium to minimum custody facility, as well as a transportation hub for when inmates are transported over a long distance through California. From L.A., you should leave before the sun comes up if you want to make it in time for visitation hours on Saturdays and watch for dense fog if you are coming down through Grapevine on the 99. It's pretty gnarly. The important things to remember if you must come here (and hopefully it won't be as an inmate) is to make sure to check their website and fully read the instructions of the Visiting Rules and Information. You have to be on the approved list before visiting and there are very specific rules to follow while you are there. If you do your homework, visits should be flawless.

Just returned from jury duty. It was an excellent experience, very well organized. Everyone…read moreinvolved were professional yet personable and clearly explained what would happen. They also were very accommodating for people with questions or issues.

I truly don't understand why people hate to go to jury duty. I thoroughly enjoy my time there and…read moreusually hope I get picked. I've been going for years and have noticed throughout the years they have done many things to help alleviate the "hurry up and wait" mentality that it use to have. The guy that's in the waiting area when you first get there is so friendly and informative. He's always super nice and willing to answer any questions you may have. Also, the ladies in the back are always smiling and friendly which is nice for those of us that don't mind being there. The addition of the shuttle for the jurors to and from the courthouse is the best idea they've ever come up with because that train is a pain in the you know what when trying to get back from a break on time. It also makes it avoidable to walk under the overpass where the homeless population love to hang out. Actually it seems like they may have cleaned that overpass up because I looked and didn't see any out there this time around. I love the many options available for food during your breaks. That is my favorite aspect of serving. There are so many new and exciting places to eat just on 18th and 19th streets alone. If you choose to venture farther there are even more! Just remember that it is your civil duty to serve and take it a day at a time while there and you will be just fine.