Prisoner's Soul -- Tom Lagana

Books on Consignment - Prison Ministries

2011-02-14T11:11:00.000-08:00

What if we sent your group 36 "Serving Time, Serving Others" and 24 "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul" -- That's how full boxes ship.

Then your group can sell them for $15 each or whatever you decide. Then pay us $5 for each book sold and return the rest (in sellable condition) to us here in Delaware. That way your group won't end up with books you really don't need. Your group would pay shipping and handling for the books to be shipped to you, and your group would pay the shipping costs for any returns to Delaware.

Interested persons may call Tom at 302-545-4261 or e-mail: TomLagana@yahoo.com to arrange.

What People Are Say About Serving Productive Time

2011-01-05T14:47:00.000-08:00

“Your book, Serving Productive Time, is an extremely helpful book. Seeing the obvious relief other inmates have achieved by writing the various letters and poems in your books have led me to utilize the same outlet. The amount of relief I have felt and the weight lifted from me is indescribable. The honest and true letters I have sent home at the advice of your books have without a doubt closed the gap on the distance between myself and my family and strengthened our bond while helping achieve the support needed on both sides during these trying times.”
Robert
Lackawanna County Prison
Scranton, Pennsylvania

A Steel and Concrete Christmas

2010-12-14T16:25:00.000-08:00

In memory of our contributing author, Rod Carter:
~~
A Steel and Concrete Christmas
By ROD CARTER
from “Serving Productive Time” (for a pdf version, see: http://www.TomLagana.com/images/Carter-Steel-Christmas.pdf )

It was the beginning of a three-and-a-half-year bit. I’d be spending my first Christmas in prison at age seventeen. As the judge at my trial said, “Slow down, young man!”

Prison provided me with the opportunity for introspection. Looking inward I thought, If I’m going to get out of prison and stay out, I need to make some changes.

Spending Christmas with five hundred guys can be brutal. Initiating festivities through seasonal flourishes, like Christmas trees, wreaths, or songs with stirring lyrics, was next to impossible.

The cell block was two tiers high. Each of the thirty cells had a bed, toilet, sink, desk, and chair, all in moldy green or queasy yellow. Our gray shirts and sand-colored pants were an ideal contrast to the navy blue staff uniforms. Over time, this lackluster sea of mind-numbing colors produced sensory deprivation.

The prison was home to cons serving out their allotted sentences. The usual tension mellowed at Christmas as an unofficial truce was struck between cons and officers. Some inmates and officers even went so far as to break the code of “No Fraternization Between Staff and Prisoners” to shake hands and converse. On any other day of the year, this would have been considered dangerous.

God showed no intention of neglecting us in this hostile environment. It was Christmas in prison—not merry, but Christmas nonetheless. Allow me to introduce you to a few of the guys who lived on my block.

René, a muscular French Canadian, was tattooed and scarred from head to toe from prison scrapes, street fights, and involuntary arrests. Closing in on forty, he tended to leave most of the squabbles to younger cons. Once he told me, “I’m like the old baseball pitcher. I throw as hard as I ever did, but it doesn’t go as fast.” Like most old pitchers, warriors, and convicts, René recognized the fact that he was no longer at the top of his game. He found a pen with his name on it and began writing his memoirs; he wrote himself right out of prison. René discovered salvation through a ballpoint pen. He eventually published his autobiography and received the governor general’s award for best Canadian book of the year.

Chris, a fine-looking, athletic man in his twenties, was into sports and excelled at baseball. He combed his dark hair straight back. His case received national attention. At fourteen years old, he had been the youngest person in Canada to be sentenced to the death penalty. His sentence was later commuted to life imprisonment. The institution arranged to place him in a stable workshop and to be lodged in a cell on a range that housed younger, less volatile inmates.

A few of the older officers had taken Chris under their wing, probably because they saw something within him that resembled their own children. They unofficially adopted Chris. No doubt that humanitarian act saved him from various assaults or worse. Because these officers, like many other Canadians, were convinced of Chris’s innocence, they were willing to take risks on his behalf. Several years later, Chris was released, changed his name, and relocated to a new province. He was released in the middle of the night to thwart roving news reporters. He married and lives an exemplary life.

I never saw him again, but I admire him for the Christmases he survived inside. Chris used to man the prison radio booth in the evenings. I appreciated when he’d play Bob Dylan’s music; those songs kept us connected with the community to which we would one day return.

D.J. paced inside his cell. As I looked in on him that Christmas morning, he was walking in circles, stopping on occasion to gaze at his mother’s photo. She had died in prison. He spent his childhood traveling through foster homes. As a troubled teenager, D.J. often spent time in jail. When I first entered prison, he took care of me, seeing that I had tobacco and papers until my first canteen arrived.

An important resource in my inner journey was our padre, a silver-haired former paratrooper. He established a special rapport with all of us, speaking each Sunday about responsibility, reconciliation, remorse, repentance, restoration, redemption, restitution, rebirth, and resurrection; they were lofty concepts, but when the padre spoke, we understood. Some of us grabbed hold of these concepts and began integrating them into our lives. Prison was a tough testing ground for practicing these principles.

The padre organized a Christmas Eve service. He recounted the Nativity with deep emotion and solemnity, and then we went back to our lonely cells. I wrote a letter home telling my parents about “the goodie bag” the prison gave us, which included butterscotch mints and a Christmas cake.

About 9:00 PM, D.J. lifted his harmonica and began playing “Silent Night.” His music guided us to a foreign town in another time. The cell block teetered on the edge of something supreme.

Although we were in prison, Christmas and its sacredness were not. We wept alone, because that’s done in private. That evening, no one screamed out in nightmare anguish. We slept soundly. That Christmas was simple and stunning, revolutionary and reverent.
~~

A Steel and Concrete Christmas. Reprinted by permission of Rod Carter. © 2007, 2008 Rod Carter from the book “Serving Productive Time: Stories, Poems, and Tips to Inspire Positive Change from Inmates, Prison Staff, and Volunteers” by Tom Lagana and Laura Lagana. See website: www.TomLagana.com
~~

Rod Carter was the director of the Restorative Justice Program at Queen’s Theological College. He was formerly regional chaplain for the Correctional Service of Canada for five years. An ex-offender, he received a criminal pardon in 1977. He is a contributing author in “Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul,” “Serving Productive Time,” and “Serving Time, Serving Others.” He died in his sleep in May 2010.
~~

For special discounts on our books, please e-mail: TomLagana@yahoo.com

Christmas Book SpecialServing Time, Serving Others

2010-12-06T05:42:00.000-08:00

While supplies last, correctional staff and volunteers may request a box of “Serving Time, Serving Others: Acts of Kindness by Inmates, Prison Staff, Victims, and Volunteers.”

For the box of 36 books, pay only $99, which includes shipping and handling within the contiguous USA.

For additional details and to arrange, please call 302-475-4825 or e-mail: TomLagana@yahoo.com

What People Are Say About Serving Productive Time

2010-11-02T16:32:00.000-07:00

I’m 18 years old and just finished reading your book “Serving productive Time.” I'm writing to say your book has helped me. I was arrested at the age of 16, and I am serving a 23-year sentence. I’ve lived a crazy life style since I was about 12 years old. I guess you could call it a “thug life.” I’ve been involved with gangs, drugs, guns, and much more. I have really wanted to be able to help troubled kids, so they don’t end up like me. I know what it’s like firsthand to be involved in the street life and also to go through the stress, pain, and sadness of being locked up. I would love to help kids understand how important it is to stay focused on the positive. I know what it’s like to see your loved ones hurt. Me and my family have shed tens of thousands of tears due to my actions. I guess I’m asking for your help to help me get my word out to these kids. Nobody and no family should have to go through this, especially kids.
Thomas
Washington State Penitentiary
Walla Walla, Washington

Books for Prisoners

2010-10-29T13:44:00.000-07:00

Attn: Chaplains, Counselors, Librarians, and Volunteers

While supplies last, correctional staff, volunteers, and sponsors may request a box of “Serving Time, Serving Others: Acts of Kindness by Inmates, Prison Staff, Victims, and Volunteers.” For the box of 36 books, pay only $99. This offer is available for shipments within the contiguous US and payable by check or money order. No purchase orders or credit cards for this offer. For additional details and to arrange, please call 302-475-4825 or e-mail: TomLagana@yahoo.com.

Books for Inmates, Staff, and Volunteers

2010-10-12T07:13:00.000-07:00

Attn: Chaplains, Counselors, Librarians, and Volunteers

Please share the following with anyone willing to help us fund and distribute more of our books to inmates, prison staff, and volunteers. Also ask about our seminar “A Winning Recipe for Success Behind Bars.”

Note: If your needs or budgets do not fit within the parameters of the following offers, let us know what your working budget is, and we'll let you know what is possible. Thanks.

These offers expire January 18, 2011.

Option A -- Order 18 Serving Time, Serving Others at $13 each = $234
With the above order, you will also receive another 18 of same title for FREE:
36 books = $234 ($6.50 per book)

Option B -- Order 36 Serving Time, Serving Others at $13 each = $468
With the above order, you will also receive the following for FREE:
24 books -- Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul
60 books = $468 ($7.80 per book)

Option C -- Order 36 Serving Time, Serving Others at $13 each = $468
With the above order, you will also receive the following for FREE:
33 books – Serving Productive Time (new in 2009)
69 books = $468 ($6.72 per book)

Option D -- Order 36 Serving Time, Serving Others at $15 each = $540
With the above order, you will also receive the following for FREE:
33 books - Serving Productive Time (new in 2009)
and 24 books -- Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul
93 books = $540 ($5.80 per book)

The above offers include shipping and handling within the Continental USA by standard ground transportation. For books shipped to Canada, Hawaii, and Alaska, add $50 per box.

Purchase order and credit cards are possible. Make check or money order, payable to "Success Solutions" and mail to:
Success Solutions - Book Order
PO Box 7816
Wilmington DE 19803

E-mail your request to: Tom@TomLagana.com

Continued Blessings,
Tom
Co-author "Chicken Soup for the Volunteer's Soul,"
"The Quick and Easy Guide to Project Management,"
"Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul" and "Serving Time, Serving Others"
and now "Serving Productive Time”
Tom Lagana ~~ (302) 475-4825 -- PO Box 7816, Wilmington, DE 19803
Tom@TomLagana.com ~~ http://www.TomLagana.com
"Tom is a professional speaker, trainer, engineer, consultant, and author
. . . helping people become their best."

What People Are Saying About Our Books

2010-09-05T13:06:00.000-07:00

As an American incarcerated in Thailand, "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul" has given me renewed hope and strength over the feelings of hopelessness, loneliness, and despair. A fellow inmate gave me this book, knowing I needed this precious gift.
Joe
Bangkok, Thailand

I just finished reading “Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul.” I must say it was a very uplifting experience for me. It was also very touching. I can relate to a lot of stories in that book. I am currently incarcerated, and I’ve read a lot of self help books. This is one of the best I’ve read. I am on my way to finish my sentence and I’m kind of scared because I don’t want to end in a negative state of mind. This book is very helpful and it will help me outside. I recommend this to all. Thank you.
Richard
Southport Correctional Facility
Pine City, New York

It has been months since I read "Serving Productive Time," yet it still energizes and inspires me.
E.G.
Vaughn Correctional Center
Smyrna, Delaware

In all my years growing up or during my school years, I have never read a book all the way through—not even a children’s book. In here, we’re on lock down 90% of the time. My cellie got this book, "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul," so I finally gave it a try. Believe it or not, I read this book two times. To my surprise I couldn’t put it down. It was soothing to the soul. I don’t feel so alone any more. Being a gang member for 39 years I can finally say today I am set free.
M.L.
Centinela State Prison
Imperial, California

"Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul” has brought a lot of comfort to me in my surroundings of concrete, steel and the razor wire fences. From my reading, I have realized that I only read stories like my situation. I take each story very personally, not so much to understand what was written in the story, but to see more of myself, and my own path through life behind the walls, and its struggles of incarceration.
Steven
CSATF/State Prison at Corcoran
Corcoran, California

"Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul” has served me well over these last few years because it isn’t the kind of book you would read through it like a novel. I always trust my fingers to open its pages to the right spot to read something I need to see at that time. And it’s really kind of neat that somehow the “same story” can sometimes appear to be so different, depending on how I am feeling when I read it again.
Steven
CSATF/State Prison at Corcoran
Corcoran, California

Narrated from Serving Productive Time

2010-04-26T06:11:00.000-07:00

When Laura and I present our seminars behind bars, in the section on Forgiveness, I always tell my story about George, which happened while on a trip to Sedona, Arizona.

On Saturday, my friend, Wilson, and I met and I narrated this story, “Forgiving the Person I Hated the Most” from our book, “Serving Productive Time.” Although it’s not a perfect narration, below is the link to the results as an mp3 file.

Listen to “Forgiving the Person I hated the Most” (mp3 file)

Some correctional facilities have rules that books for inmates must be purchased and shipped directly from the publisher. Below are links to order books from our publisher, Health Communications, Inc. Please click on a book cover or the general link for other HCI titles. Thanks.

Click Here for other recommended books published by HCI.

Prison-Related Cartoons by Joseph P. Guerrero

2010-04-25T13:15:00.000-07:00

Cartoon reprinted by permission of Joseph P. Guerrero.

As authors of several prisoner-related books, we receive lots of mail from inmates across the county. Much of our mail is for requests of our books. Occasionally someone will write to simply thank us for our part in getting our books into the hands of those often forgotten.

In recent months, we received letters from an inmate, Joseph, in a Virginia jail. In his first letter, he shared: “Through Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul, I found hope in a seemingly hopeless situation.” – Joseph P. Guerrero, WTRJ, 2402 Godwin Blvd., Suffolk, VA 23434.

Joseph was so inspired by the cartoons in our books by Matt Matteo that he decided to try his hand at cartooning. Since then he has created and shared dozens of his cartoons with us. A few days ago he sent two cartoons that we love. See them at the top and bottom of this Blog. Note: Joseph would appreciate receiving some feedback from you, too.

Cartoon reprinted by permission of Joseph P. Guerrero.

New Mexico Visit

2010-04-19T16:57:00.000-07:00

My recent trip to New Mexico was simply amazing. Jane Davis recommended me as a speaker for the prison volunteer's conference on April 17, 2010. Jane is a contributing author in "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul" and "Serving Time, Serving Others." Although Jane and I connected about 1999, this was only the second time I saw Jane in person.

In between the conference and a prison visit, Jane brought me to her "One Heart Ranch" near Santa Fe. It's out in the middle of nowhere...truly God's land. Below are a few details about my trip, also documented at:
www.TomLagana.com/prisonvisits.html

Penitentiary of New Mexico (PNM)
Santa Fe, New Mexico
17 April 2010
Tom presented a seminar for about 20 men and 6 staff (including the warden) in the evening inside the gym. Jane Davis of HOPE-HOWSE (http://hope-howse.org), who volunteers at PNM, arranged the event and also facilitated a guided meditation and deeply shared her thoughts with the group as part of the seminar.

“Wow! Sometimes one wishes the day never ends. This was one of those days!! Thank you, Tom, for sharing so much of yourself with so many. I am bursting with joy from such a wonderful day and evening. I, personally, was rejuvenated today and thank you for this fact. It is a blessing knowing people like you are in my life!! Thank you and bless you!!!”
Jane Davis
Founder, HOPE-HOWSE

New Mexico Prison Volunteers’ Conference
Albuquerque, New Mexico
17 April 2010
Tom was the keynote speaker for this event for about 130 volunteers and staff at Grace Church. Our thanks to Jane Davis of HOPE-HOWSE for suggesting Tom to the organizing committee.

“You have touched my heart and soul with your presentation on how to get out of the ‘ruts’ and move on. This not only applies to those incarcerated but to all people of all walks of life.”
Shirley Compton, Blessings Unlimited
Retired Chaplain, New Mexico Women's Correctional Facility
Grants, New Mexico

"Thank you, Tom, for your inspiring day and vision. You touched so many hearts today from corrections’ volunteers, wardens, chaplains, and inmates. Come back soon."
Jane Davis
Founder, HOPE-HOWSE

Seminars for Federal Prisoners in Elkton, Ohio

2010-04-08T15:04:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday, April 6, my wife, Laura Lagana, and I presented two seminars in Lisbon, Ohio. About 400 men attended our morning seminar at FCI-Elkton (a.k.a. Top of the Hill) and 150 men came to our afternoon session at FSL-Elkton (a.k.a. Bottom of the Hill). The morning seminar of 400 men was the largest group of participants we’ve ever had in a prison setting.

This opportunity came about by an inmate at FCI-Elkton who told the warden about our books and seminars. The warden asked to meet us on the morning before the seminars. Seldom do we get to meet a warden or superintendent when we visit a facility. The inmate who helped make this happen attended our presentation, so we had the opportunity to meet him and ask him to say a few words to the 400 men that morning. This was indeed a special visit.

Feedback from seminars via letters from inmates there:
"Outreach like yours is so vital as to almost defy description. You and relatively few others ministering in this area have done so much to raise people's awareness of who prisoners are, as apposed to what they are."
- Noel, FCI-Elkton

“You inspired me to continue my goal of being active in prison ministry and to continue in my effort to co-author a ‘help’ book for other addicts and inmates.”
- Jack G., FSL-Elkton

"Prisontation" at SCI-Mercer

2010-04-08T05:34:00.000-07:00

On Thursday, April 1, my wife, Laura Lagana, and I presented our seminar “A Winning Recipe for Success Behind Bars” at SCI-Mercer in Mercer, (western) Pennsylvania for about 40 inmates and staff. It was nearly nine years since I visited there, and it was Laura’s first visit. She was pleased to finally meet Matt Matteo who has his cartoons included in all six of our books:
• Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul
• Touched by Angels of Mercy
• Chicken Soup for the Volunteer’s Soul
• Serving Time, Serving Others
• The Quick and Easy Guide to Project Management
• Serving Productive Time

Below is some feedback we received by mail after our presentation:
“I want to express my gratitude and admiration for your ability to introduce logic and common sense, as tools, to be used for the betterment of one’s self.”
- Mearl C., inmate, Mercer, Pennsylvania

The one-page handout we use as the basis of our seminar is linked below (pdf). Feel free to print, copy, and distribute to anyone interested. Thanks.

A Winning Recipe for Success Behind Bars (pdf)

Action shot at SCI-Mercer

A "Prisoner's Soul" Easter Story ~ God Works in Mysterious Ways

2010-03-29T11:17:00.000-07:00

On Easter Sunday 2002, “Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul” was finally available on Amazon.com and released to the public after only being accessible for nearly two years to prisoners through correctional volunteers, chaplains, teachers, librarians, counselors, and other willing staff.

Below is a link to one of the most powerful stories in our book, which is about what happened behind bars one Thursday before Easter.

Feel free to forward, print, copy, and distribute this one-page pfd file (in its entirety) to anyone appropriate.

“God Works in Mysterious Ways” by Mary Rachelski

Appreciating Volunteers

2010-03-24T12:54:00.000-07:00

National Volunteer's Week is April 18 – 24, 2010. Recognize and appreciate volunteers with copies of Chicken Soup for the Volunteer’s Soul or Serving Time, Serving Others. Quantity discounts and matching grants are available.

Also see the prison volunteer-related pdf file linked below with the story “Positive Influences” and cartoon from our books. Feel free to print and distribute as you see fit. Thanks.

http://www.TomLagana.com/images/PositiveInfluences.pdf

For more information and to arrange Laura Lagana and/or Tom Lagana as the speaker for your event, e-mail: Laura@LauraLagana.com or Tom@TomLagana.com

Books Directly from Publisher for Inmates

2010-03-17T07:17:00.000-07:00

Some correctional facilities have rules that books for inmates must be purchased and shipped directly from the publisher. Below are links to order books from our publisher, Health Communications, Inc. Please click on a book cover or the general link for other HCI titles. Thanks.

Click Here for other recommended books published by HCI.

Fundraising Opportunity

2010-03-14T11:04:00.000-07:00

Is your group having an event or fundraising opportunity? Consider selling our books on consignment.

We would send a full box of any of the following titles to you. Your group would keep about half the retail cost of the books, send us $7.50 per book sold, and return the remaining books in re-saleable condition. These titles retail at $14.95.

- Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul (24 per box)
- Serving Time, Serving Others (36 per box)
- Serving Productive Time (33 per box)
- Chicken Soup for the Volunteer’s Soul (24 per box)

For additional details and to arrange, please e-mail: Tom@TomLagana.com

What People Are Saying About Our Books...

2010-03-13T11:13:00.000-08:00

"After reading your book, Serving Productive Time, I have been inspired and motivated to live a better and positive life. I even made a TO DO LIST of goals and things that I need to improve, including getting a Bible and finding my relationship with God. I’m an 'Underground Rapper,' and I used to write and rap about 'negative' things that wouldn’t motivate anybody except for people that do not appreciate life. But your book gave me motivation to send a 'positive' message that will hopefully inspire my listeners to have hope, appreciate life, and for them to know that they are not alone. I think that you two are angels! You’ve touched my heart and changed my life. God Bless You."
- Jeremy, Emporia, Virginia

“I hate the life I’ve led and all the people I hurt. In this bad point in my life, Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul encouraged me to look forward to a better future.”
– Joshua, Florence, Arizona

"I want to take this time to thank you both for being wonderful ambassadors for Christ, and using your time and God-given talents to truly be a conductor of change for many men and women throughout this country."
- John Schmidt, Smyrna, Delaware

“I’m not the same person since I read Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul. It continues to inspire me and other inmates here.”
– Benjamin, Taber City, North Carolina

"Your books are my only way of feeling the Lord's presence in my cell. Thanks for helping me know that I'm not all alone."
- Kelly, Richmond, California

“It’s hard to maintain hope when all around me, all I see is darkness. But when I begin to feel this way, I simply pick up the book Serving Time, Serving Others, and I’m reminded that even in prison miracles do happen . . . that kindness overshadows the dark, and that I cannot ever give up hope.”
- Glenn Wright, FCC-Petersburg, Virginia

"We ordered lots of Serving Productive Time, and we're 'eating it up.' These short, inspirational stories from people 'who have been there' are very helpful to our men and women in King County Jail. With the level of stress, fear about their futures, and the lack of distracting programs, our inmates find the Serving Productive Time, Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul, and Serving Time, Serving Others books to be 'Life Savers' or 'God-Sends.' We are so grateful for them!"
- Patrice Eilers, OP – Seattle, Washington

“The stories in Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul made me feel better, grateful, and not so sad with self-pity. Thanks for remembering us in prison with this book.”
- Kevin, Cumberland, Maryland

“Through Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul, I found hope in a seemingly hopeless situation.”
– Joseph, Suffolk, Virginia

Graffiti Magazine

2010-03-09T04:09:00.000-08:00

Our thanks to the folks at Graffiti Magazine for synergizing with us. They have posted some work from our books and will continue to update their website with new material.

Graffiti Magazine gives opportunities for anyone touched by incarceration to submit their work for publication. See their submission guidelines and consent forms on their website:
http://www.graffitimagazine.com/

Laura Lagana - Keynotes at Women's Retreat

2010-03-05T13:41:00.000-08:00

My wife, Laura Lagana, will be the Keynote Speaker at the New Covenant Women's Spring Retreat on Saturday, April 10 from 9:00am to 4:30pm at the Presbyterian Church of the Covenant in Wilmington, Delaware 19809. For more info:
Click here for Flyer (pdf file)

Encouragement for Prisoners

2010-03-03T11:14:00.000-08:00

Each week, Laura and I receive dozens of letters from prisoners, and we answer them all. Many ask us to send them books, some submit their work for a possible future book, and others simply write for advice or to get things off their chest.

Recently we received letters from two men who are reaching out simply for encouragement. One is incarcerated in Wisconsin and the other in West Virginia.

Anyone interested in sending an occasional note or card will be greatly appreciated. It can be a one-time correspondence, simply signed “Someone Who Cares” or you may sign it however you like.

We recommend that you NEVER share your home address when responding. If you do not have a post office box or an office address to use, you may use our PO Box address below, however we will not be forwarding mail to you that we receive.

This project is simply to encourage inmates who are reaching out. To participate, please e-mail Tom@TomLagana.com asking for the name and address of an inmate who needs encouragement.

Thanks for making a difference.

Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul
PO Box 7816
Wilmington, DE 19803

Guided Self-Love Meditation – Saturday, March 6 at 10:30 am -- North Wilmington

2010-02-26T13:03:00.000-08:00

Note: 13 people attended this meeting. Our thanks to Wilson Cheung for facilitating.
~~

Our next meeting will be mainly a guided, healing self-love meditation, which I experienced several weeks ago and want to share with others. Although I’m hosting this event, it will be facilitiated by Wison Cheung.

Meeting details: Saturday, March 6, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm at the Brandywine Library (1300 Foulk Road) on the second floor in Room 209 A & B. Arrive at 10:30 to start prompy at 10:45 am.

The meditation will last about 45 minutes with some discussion before and after. There will be plenty of chairs to sit on, but also feel free to bring a pillow, mat, or towel if you would like to sit on the floor. For more details about Wilson's meditations, see www.wakundama.com/meditations.html

Also invite others who may be interested, and please RSVP by e-mail: Tom@TomLagana.com

Note: Our following meeting will be on April 24 – same time and place -- topic to be announced in April.

“Prisontations” in Florida and Virginia – February 2010

2010-02-17T08:33:00.000-08:00

We returned yesterday after 19 days on the road. Laura and I presented seminars for about 350 men and women in several jails and prisons in Florida and Virginia. We also dropped some of our books off at correctional facilities we happened to pass in our travels so that staff there can make them available to the inmates they serve.

We had many interesting and varied experiences on this trip both inside and outside the razor wire. In addition to our “prisontations” listed below, we witnessed two launches from the Kennedy Space Center—one was the last night-time launch in the Space Program.

Our trip started one day earlier than expected to avoid the snow and ice storms in Virginia and The Carolinas. Packing so quickly to get out of town fast meant forgetting a few things, but we managed. We also missed both blizzards at home in Delaware. Fortunately we are blessed with wonderful neighbors who plowed our driveway and sidewalk so we could get inside our home.

Below are some details (in reverse order) about our experiences behind bars this month:

Mecklenburg County Jail
Boydton, Virginia (population 469)
15 February 2010
Presented 8 mini-seminars for a total of about 112 men and women. This was a unique experience, as we spoke to the inmates in a narrow hallway outside their cells through the bars. Ironically, it was well received. Much appreciation to Penny Patton and Morgan Moss, founders of the “Community Model Association of America (CMAA),” who oversee the programs at the jail and who sponsored our presentations and books for the inmates. For more details
click here to see a pdf file with an article about this jail visit.
Note: The article on Feb. 24, 2010, entitled "Library, Sheriff bring 'Chicken Soup' to prisoners" is from the South Hill Enterprise (www.southhillenterprise.com).

Baskerville Correctional Center
Baskerville, Virginia
15 February 2010
Book drop for the chaplain who will make our books available to the inmates there.

Brevard County Jail
Cocoa, Florida
10 February 2010
Book drop and met with one of their counselors who agreed to make our books available to the inmates.

Brevard Correctional Institution
Cocoa, Florida
10 February 2010
Presented a 90-minute seminar for about 100 males. This prison is designated as a Youthful Offender facility housing more than 1,000 males between the ages of 19 and 24 years old. Our group included new entries and those headed for re-entry in the next few months. They were a challenging group.

Martin Correctional Institution
Indiantown, Florida
3 February 2010
Presented an hour seminar for about 40 men and volunteers in the chapel after their Catholic Eucharistic service and blessings of throats. Our thanks to the Catholic Chaplain who funded dozens of our books for the men at this facility, as well as Okeechobee Correctional Institution.

The Palm Beach County Central Detention Center
West Palm Beach, Florida
2 February 2010
Presented a 2-hour seminar for about 100 male and female inmates in the Substance Treatment and Recovery Program (STAR), aka The Drug Farm. This is a structured, intensive, therapeutic treatment program for substance abuser. Managed by strict military discipline, the STAR Program offers a supportive clinical setting conducive to promoting a personal process of recovery for each inmate. Several times the inmates responded, "Sir, Yes, Sir." This group was one of the best we’ve experienced in more than 100 presentations behind bars. Programs like STAR should be in more facilities. Quite impressive.

WANTED: Sponsors for Books for Prisoners

2010-01-27T15:25:00.000-08:00

Although each month we are able to send hundreds of books to prisons, jails, and youth detention centers, we continued to receive book requests from chaplains, librarians, counselors, teachers, staff, and volunteers so they can make our books available to the prisoners they serve.

When someone has a budget or funding available, we work with them to send as many books as we can. Others simply don't have the resources.

Below are several recent book requests that we have not be able to supply, YET.

- A teacher at Franklin Correctional Facility in Malone, New York requested books for an inmate veterans' organization at the prison.

- A chaplain at Tarrant County Jail in Fort Worth, Texas.

- A caring Sergeant at the Leavenworth County Jail in Leavenworth, Kansas has requested at least one copy of each of our books for their book cart to make available to the inmates she helps there. Thanks to a generous person who responded to our Craigslist posting for this, we were able to send 3 of each of our prisoner-related books to this jail.

- A chaplain at Clarinda Correctional Facility in Clarinda, Iowa has requested our books for the inmates he ministers to.

- A chaplain at the Max Security Unit in Tucker, Arkansas has requested 100 of our books for the men he ministers to.

- A chaplain at Douglas County Detention Facility in Castle Rock, Colorado has requested 20 to 30 of our books for the men and women there for their reading club.

- A teacher at the Greenhaven Correctional Facility in Stormville, New York would like to have some of our books for her students.

- A chaplain at Warren Correctional Institution in Lebanon, Ohio

- Assistant chaplains at Snohomish County Corrections, Washington State

- A drug counselor at the Department of Corrections Community Supervision Office in Chehalis, Washington

- A chaplain at Scioto Juvenile Correctional Facility in Delaware, Ohio

- A prison ministry serving women at Allegheny County Jail in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

- A chaplain at Pendleton Correctional Facility in Pendleton, Indiana

- A Case Manager from Wyandotte County Re-entry in Kansas City, Kansas

To be added to this list or to help us find sponsors, please e-mail: Tom@TomLagana.com

Continued Blessings,
Tom Lagana, co-author "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul," “Chicken Soup for the Volunteer’s Soul,” “Serving Productive Time,” and "Serving Time, Serving Others."

http://twitter.com/prisonersoul

Ask Local Libraries to Make Our Books Available

2010-01-27T06:50:00.000-08:00

Please help us serve those who have a loved one behind bars by checking to see if our books are available at your local libraries. If they are not, please request them. Below are the titles and ISBN numbers.

Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul -- ISBN-13: 978-1558748361
Serving Time, Serving Others -- ISBN-13: 978-1886068063
Serving Productive Time -- ISBN-13: 978-0757307829
Chicken Soup for the Volunteer’s Soul -- ISBN-13: 978-0757300141

Thanks for making a difference.

Inspiration for Prisoners in Palm Beach County

2010-01-24T08:51:00.000-08:00

The week of February 1, my wife, Laura, and I will present a self-improvement seminar based on our books for the men and women at The Drug Farm and the inmates at Martin Correctional Institution in Palm Beach County.

If you know of any church, group, or individual who would help sponsor some of our books, we will match the donation with additional books to leave at these facilities.

We are also open to speaking for other groups while we're are in the area.

Seminar Overview: "A Winning Recipe for Success Behind Bars" is a 60- to 90-minute interactive and dynamic presentation, which focuses on tools and life skills that will boost self-confidence, provide direction through positive goals, and demonstrate the benefits of effective communication, responsibility, and competent leadership. It is based on the values and principles in our books: "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul", "Serving Time, Serving Others”, "Chicken Soup for the Volunteer’s Soul," and our latest book, “Serving Productive Time.”

Interested individuals and groups may e-mail Tom@TomLagana.com or phone 302-475-4825 for additional details.

Please forward this info to anyone willing to help sponsor and distribute more of our books for inmates. Thanks.

Book Request for Drug Program in Washington State

2010-01-19T06:28:00.000-08:00

A drug counselor at the Department of Corrections Community Supervision Office in Chehalis, Washington has requested donations of “Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul” and similar inspirational books for the clients in her program.

For each donation of $25, we will be able to send three of our prisoner-related books to this counselor or any correctional facility of your choice.
- Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul
- Serving Time, Serving Others
- Serving Productive Time

For additional details, e-mail Tom@TomLagana.com
Thanks.

Follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/prisonersoul

Women's Prison Book Project

2010-01-17T12:43:00.000-08:00

Today, our prison volunteers packaged two boxes of books for the Women's Prison Book Project. It was the combined energy of three area churches in Wilmington, Delaware, which don't officially have a prison ministry. The books will ship this week by Media Mail. Great synergy.

Click here for the Book Request Form (pdf file)

Spanish Books for Prisoners

2010-01-14T12:58:00.000-08:00

Although we have received some requests, asking for our books to be available in Spanish, we have received as many letters from inmates telling us that they have used our books to help them learn English. Below is one of those we received:

"I was incarcerated in the USA, Los Angeles county jail and Chukawalla State Prison. My name is Jorge, I’m from Mexico. I was incarcerated in the USA in 2001 and released in 2003. Sir, I would like to say thanks to you, for that great book that you do something in it, I have no words to tell you because my English is very bad, to tell you the true I learned English reading this great book, “Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul.” Sir, the stories in this book, helped me to change my life’s direction. When I read it, I found so many things I needed to hear that nobody told me before. When I got out from jail I was a different person because of your book. As soon as I was released in February, I started going to school. In 3 years, I graduated from high school, and now I’m doing my best to get a degree in the university. I just wanted to say ‘Thank you’ for the things you do to help others make a difference in their lives. Thanks so much."
-- Jorge

When we receive requests for books in Spanish, we offer them discounts on about a dozen of the "Chicken Soup for the Soul" titles that we can obtain for them at a quantity discount.

FREE Book Swap is this weekend -- North Wilmington

2010-01-13T07:18:00.000-08:00

Drop off is from 9 am - 7 pm on Friday, January 15th

Swapping is Saturday from 9 am - 1 pm and Sunday from 9 am - noon.

PLEASE spread the word and bring a friend or two or three.

Concord Presbyterian Church
1800 Fairfax Blvd
Wilmington, DE 19803

Corner of Foulk and Murphy Roads

Seminar: Being Your Best in the New Year

2010-01-12T06:40:00.000-08:00

Participate in a seminar that will inspire us to be our best in this new year. Activities include introductions to get to know each other better, setting SMART personal goals, and a guided meditation and/or silent meditation to encourage us to focus on visualizing our goals.

Seminar Details: Saturday, Jan 16, 10:30 am to 12:30 pm at Brandywine Library (1300 Foulk Road) on the ground floor in Café (on left side of entrance). Arrive at 10:30 to start at 10:45 am.

Tom Lagana is a professional speaker, trainer, engineer, consultant, and author. He is co-author of "Chicken Soup for the Volunteer's Soul," "The Quick and Easy Guide to Project Management," "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul," "Serving Time, Serving Others" and “Serving Productive Time.”

Feel free to invite others who may be interested, and please RSVP by e-mail your intention to attend. Thanks.

Matt Matteo Inspires Other Inmates

2010-01-08T10:27:00.000-08:00

As authors of several prisoner-related books, we receive lots of mail from inmates across the county. Much of our mail is for requests of our books. Occasionally someone will write to simply thank us for our part in getting our books into the hands of those often forgotten.

In recent months, we received letters from an inmate, Joseph, in a Virginia jail. In his first letter, he shared: “Through Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul, I found hope in a seemingly hopeless situation.” – Joseph P. Guerrero

Joseph was so inspired by the cartoons in our books by Matt Matteo that he decided to try his hand at cartooning. Last week when Joseph wrote again, he asked that we share an example of his work with those who follow us. Joseph would love to hear from you, too. See his address below.

Sketch reprinted by permission of Joseph P. Guerrero.

Community News features "Dear You" Story

2010-01-04T13:10:00.000-08:00

Below is a link to a recent article in the Community News in Wilmington, Delaware with the story, "Dear You" from our newest book, "Serving Productive Time."

http://www.communitypub.com/brandywine/x1820917923/-Dear-You-Christmas-notes-from-prison

Holidays Blessings and a Joyous New Year

2009-12-19T08:14:00.000-08:00

Below is the Christmas Card that Matt Matteo sent to us this year.

Sketch reprinted by permission of Matt Matteo.
Matt Matteo is a writer, painter, cartoonist, and prisoner from Derry, Pennsylvania. He continues to improve his work and himself by contributing to many publications, including Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul; Chicken Soup for the Volunteer’s Soul; Touched by Angels of Mercy; Serving Productive Time; and Serving Time, Serving Others. He welcomes mail at #BS-7345, 801 Butler Pike, Mercer, PA 16137.

Fr. Jackson Spoke about Being a Prison Chaplain

2009-12-16T08:51:00.000-08:00

Last evening, about 25 people attended Fr. Jackson’s presentation as part of “Theology on Tap.” Fr. Jackson is assigned as the Catholic Chaplain in Smyrna, Delaware at the “Vaughn Correctional Center,” formerly know as Delaware Correctional Center (DCC).

After lots of questions and answers, I had the opportunity to say a few words about our prison ministry and ask the attendees to donate some of our books for the men at the prison. Each donation of $5 allowed an attendee to personally hand Father a book.

Fr. Jackson left with at least 11 of our books, including:
• Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul
• Serving Time, Serving Others
• Serving Productive Time

In May, “Church of the Holy Child” in North Wilmington, donated a box of 33 “Serving Productive Time” books to Fr. Jackson.

We also gave Fr. Jackson dozens of Christmas cards that were donated by several church groups in our area, including “Church of the Holy Child” and “Trinity Presbyterian Church” in North Wilmington.

The event last evening was held at:

Catherine Rooney's Irish Pub and Restaurant
1616 Delaware Avenue (Trolley Square)
Wilmington, Delaware

Presentation at “Fiske Academy at Camelot”

2009-12-14T07:19:00.000-08:00

Our thanks to everyone who participated last evening (December 13) in the event at “Fiske Academy at Camelot” in Wilmington, Delaware in cooperation with Prison Ministries of Delaware, Prison Fellowship Ministries, Gideons International, Church of the Holy Child, and Success Solutions. Eleven volunteers participated in the event with the 27 at-risk boys between the ages of 10 to 18 years of age. As special thanks to Fay Whittle for arranging the event.

Countless other volunteers, who were not present physically, helped us with their donations of books, Christmas cards, words of wisdom, prayers, etc. The smiles, laughs, and appreciation from the boys were priceless.

After the event, seven of the volunteers shared their experiences over a delicious meal at nearby Lamberti’s Restaurant on Philadelphia Pike.

May you and your loved ones continued to be blessed during this holiday season and the New Year.

Note: December 13 is also a special day for another reason: In 1969, (40 years ago) Laura and Tom became engaged to be married.

Books for Youth at the Scioto Juvenile Correctional Facility

2009-12-01T11:44:00.000-08:00

A chaplain at the Scioto Juvenile Correctional Facility has requested donations of our books for the youth incarcerated there.

Thanks to the generosity of several sponsors, we were able to send a copy of each of the following books to this chaplain.
- Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul
- Serving Time, Serving Others
- Serving Productive Time

For each additional donation of $25, we will be able to send another 3 of our books to this facility's library or any correctional facility of your choice.

For additional details, e-mail Tom@TomLagana.com
Thanks.

Holiday Blessings...

Free Seminar -- Nurturing Your Mind, Body, and Spirit

2009-11-23T13:38:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, December 5th from 10:30 to Noon, there will be a meeting on the second floor (Room 209B) in the Brandywine Library at 1300 Foulk Road in Wilmington, Delaware facilitated by Tom Lagana. Join us for inspiration, guided meditation, and spiritual exercises that will nurture your spirit, increase your self-esteem, and help you realize what you want to see show up in your life.

Please invite others who may be interested and RSVP by e-mailing Tom@TomLagana.com

Several of our books will be available for sale at these meetings to help support our prison ministry. They also make excellent Christmas gifts and can be personally autographed.

Special Project:
Our prison ministry corresponds with hundreds of inmates each year. When planning your Christmas and holiday cards this year, please write some words of wisdom and encouragement in a card for a prisoner. Our prison volunteers will address and mail the cards. You may sign your first name if you like, sign it “Someone who cares,” or leave it blank. Please leave the envelope blank, unsealed, and place a stamp on it, and bring to the meeting above. New or used inspirational, soft-cover books may also be donated, especially “Chicken Soup for the Soul” titles.

Please send positive energy and pray for those often forgotten souls behind bars that they will know that someone cares about them and that they will be inspired to become productive members of society.

Christmas Story to Reprint -- Dear You

2009-11-18T06:27:00.000-08:00

The following story is available to re-print in your newsletter, magazine, or newspaper. Those interested may e-mail: tom@tomlagana.com for a Word file version. The pdf version is linked at:
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/Lagana-DearYou.pdf
~~

Dear You
By Tom Lagana
from “Serving Productive Time”

One cold November morning, I stopped by the emergency room of our local hospital to see if they could use my volunteer services. My official volunteer day was Thursday, but since I was already downtown that Saturday, I thought I’d offer to help out.

As I entered the triage area, one of the nurses waved and called out to me. “Tom, I need to see you after I check on my patient. I’ll be right back.”

“Sure, Nicole,” I answered. “I’ll be here.” I couldn’t help but wonder, What did I do now?

Minutes later she reappeared and explained, “I’m glad you’re here today. My nine-year-old daughter decided to do a project on her own. It has to do with the Seven Corporal Works of Mercy.”

Out of the blue, I had a flashback of my Catholic school days. “Sure, I remember them well. The nuns made us memorize them in grade school.” I rattled them off in my head: Feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless, visit the sick, visit the imprisoned, bury the dead.

“Then you know that one of the corporal works is to visit the imprisoned. A few months ago, I recall your mentioning that you also volunteer at the prison. I want to ask you for a favor. My daughter wants to make Christmas cards for prisoners, but she doesn’t know how to go about getting them to the inmates. Can you help us?”

“Of course. I plan to visit the prison before Christmas anyway, and I’m sending letters to inmates in other states. Her cards will be a welcome gift for everyone who has to spend Christmas behind bars.”

“Thanks, Tom. She’ll be thrilled. I can’t wait to tell her.” Then Nicole disappeared into another room to tend to her next patient.

The following Thursday, when I reported for my usual ER shift, thirty-one handmade Christmas cards were waiting for me, just as Nicole had promised.

Early the next morning, I sipped my coffee and read the cards with my wife, Laura. Each one-of-a-kind, handcrafted card was created on construction paper of various colors of the rainbow. They moved us to tears.

Dear You,
God watches over you all the time. If you turn your back on Him, He’ll still be there and still protect you.
J.M.

Dear You,
You know how when you meet somebody, but you can’t trust them? Well, you don’t have to know God to trust Him. He’ll never turn you down.
J.M.

Dear You,
You don’t have to impress God. I’m saying that because usually people think they have to. Life is about making mistakes and learning from them.
J.M.

Dear You,
God has a plan for everyone. Maybe this wasn’t His plan for you, but this is just the beginning. Everything will be okay.
J.M.

Dear You,
I have faith in everyone. Maybe you did some stuff wrong, but everyone deserves a second chance. Even though I don’t know you, I believe in you. For Christmas, will you do something for me? Pray to God. Merry Christmas.
J.M.

Dear You,
Never call yourself a failure. Yes, maybe you messed up in the past, but we all mess up. Hey, God is always there. Merry Christmas.
J.M.

Dear You,
You probably think badness is all around you. Well, look beyond the badness and see God standing there saying, “I love you.” If you try hard, maybe you can see the same thing. Don’t worry. God never takes a break.
J.M.

One week after sending out some of the cards, the responses began rolling in from inmates. Have a look at a few examples:

The first thing I want to do is tell you that I thought the Christmas card from the little girl was absolutely priceless! It warmed my heart when I got this, and I’d have to say that it was the best Christmas card I’ve ever received. Please be sure to tell her that I said, “Thank you.” I showed it to several of the guys around here, and then sent it home to my parents.
Dave LeFave (Colorado)

That card from the little girl made me feel good. What a wonderful heart she must have to be so kind. In these places you learn to put your emotions in a box, but her card got through that wall I’ve built. It felt great to get behind that wall for a bit and feel the warmth she put there. I couldn’t have asked for a better Christmas gift.
Charles Carkhuff (California)

The card from the little girl was so touching. Enclosed is my handmade thank-you note for the little girl who took the time and effort to make it. Please convey my gratitude to her mom as well.
John Schmidt (Delaware)

A nine-year-old made thirty-one cards like the one you gave me and wanted them all sent to prisoners? Wow! Must be quite a little girl to be so altruistic so early in life. When I was nine years old, I was busy dreaming about Luke Skywalker, not asking prisoners to pray. Makes me wonder what she’ll become.
Matt Matteo (Pennsylvania)

Matt Matteo also enclosed an original drawing depicting an inmate on his knees, praying fervently in his cell. When I saw it, I was filled with emotion. Then, after turning the illustration over, I saw this notation:

Dear You:
Thank you for believing in me and for believing in giving second chances. I really value the card you made for me.
Thank you,
M.M.

Sketch reprinted by permission of Matt Matteo.

~~
Dear You. Reprinted by permission of Tom Lagana. © 2009 Tom Lagana from the book “Serving Productive Time: Stories, Poems, and Tips to Inspire Positive Change from Inmates, Prison Staff, and Volunteers” by Tom Lagana and Laura Lagana. See website: www.TomLagana.com
~~
Tom Lagana is a professional speaker, trainer, author, engineer, and volunteer. He is a recipient of the Jefferson Award for Outstanding Public Service in Delaware and coauthor of “Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul.” He and his wife, Laura, are coauthors of “Chicken Soup for the Volunteer’s Soul,” “Serving Time, Serving Others,” “Serving Productive Time” and “The Quick and Easy Guide to Project Management.” They present and facilitate workshops, programs, and seminars for inmates and volunteers across the United States. He many be contacted at P.O. Box 7816, Wilmington, DE 19803, phone 302-475-4825, e-mail: Tom@TomLagana.com, or website: www.TomLagana.com.

Comments from Inmates in Maryland and Virginia

2009-11-13T11:52:00.000-08:00

“The stories in Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul made me feel better, grateful, and not so sad with self-pity. Thanks for remembering us in prison with this book.”
-- Kevin
Cumberland, Maryland

“Through Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul, I found hope in a seemingly hopeless situation.”
– Joseph
Suffolk, Virginia

Book Special for Christmas 2009

2009-10-14T05:26:00.000-07:00

Books for Inmates, Staff, and Volunteers – Christmas 2009

Attn: Chaplains, Counselors, Librarians, and Volunteers

Our sixth re-printing of “Serving Time, Serving Others” will be ready to ship in November.

Please share the following with anyone willing to help us fund and distribute more of our books to inmates, staff, and volunteers. These offers expire January 18, 2010.

Option A -- Order 18 “Serving Time, Serving Others” at $13 each = $234
With the above order, you will also receive for FREE:
18 books -- “Serving Time, Serving Others”
36 books = $234
For orders shipped to Canada, Hawaii, and Alaska, please add $50

Option B -- Order 36 “Serving Time, Serving Others” at $13 each = $468
With the above order, you will also receive for FREE:
24 books -- Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul
60 books = $468
For orders shipped to Canada, Hawaii, and Alaska, please add $100.

Option C -- Order 36 “Serving Time, Serving Others” at $13 each = $468
With the above order, you will also receive for FREE:
33 books – Serving Productive Time (new in 2009)
69 books = $468
For orders shipped to Canada, Hawaii, and Alaska, please add $100.

E-mail your request to: Tom@TomLagana.com

Note: If your needs or budgets do not fit within the parameters of the above offer, let us know what your working budget is, and we'll let you know what is possible. Thanks.

Continued Blessings,
Tom
Co-author "Chicken Soup for the Volunteer's Soul,"
"The Quick and Easy Guide to Project Management,"
"Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul" and "Serving Time, Serving Others"
and now "Serving Productive Time”
Tom Lagana ~~ (302) 475-4825 -- PO Box 7816, Wilmington, DE 19803
Tom@TomLagana.com ~~ http://www.TomLagana.com
"Tom is a professional speaker, trainer, engineer, consultant, and author
. . . helping people become their best."

Laganas Visit Nashville Jail -- Oct. 7, 2009

2009-10-10T15:20:00.000-07:00

While in Nashville, Tennessee we presented two seminars (one in the morning on the 5th Floor for the General Population for about 40 men and one in the afternoon on the 3rd Floor for 10 men who are part of the Special Needs group) at the Davidson County Criminal Justice Center.

The entertainment and sites in Nashville are amazing. It's a must-see place.

Seminar at Carroll County Jail -- New Hampshire

2009-09-22T11:41:00.000-07:00

It's seldom we meet the administration of a correctional facility, let alone have them attend our seminar, but that’s what happened recently at Carroll County Jail in Ossipee, New Hampshire.

Although only 8 male inmates showed up, that’s 13 percent of their population, since there are only about 60 men and women at the jail. (None of the female inmates signed up to attend.) Five staff and administrators also attended our presentation. Many times, the presence of the administration would stifle the inmates’ participation, but that didn’t happen there.

Our contributing author, Lynn Durham, from New Hampshire also shared the presentation with us. The rapport and connection with the inmates was intense and heartfelt. That seldom happens at such a deep level. Perhaps it was because it was such a small group, and we had more than two hours together. After the seminar, the superintendent bought 36 of our books, which was totally unexpected. These included "Serving Time, Serving Others" and our newest book "Serving Productive Time."

The next day, we received messages from both the superintendent and captain with the following feedback:

“Again, thank you for contacting us and requesting this. I along with the Captain called the inmates that you met with back into the visiting room after dinner and spoke to them to get their thoughts. All the inmates thanked us for allowing this to happen and all had positive feedback.

I asked the inmates to put some of their thoughts on paper, to which they did. The Captain will be typing those comments up later today and sending them to you via e-mail so you can see how the inmates responded. All the inmates enjoyed receiving a copy of the book. I also informed them that we will be receiving 24 more.

I will be bringing the inmates' comments to the County Commissioner's Meeting with me next week so they can see how this impacted the inmates. As I said yesterday, if you are back in New Hampshire and wish to do this event again, please feel free to contact us.”

“Thanks again Tom, Lynn, Laura for what you do on a daily basis and including our facility in it. Below you will find comments made by the inmates you spoke to today.

John O.
“The class today was very informative. I left feeling lifted and ready to finish my bid on a positive note. If I apply what I learned today I more than likely will not return to prison.”

Ronald B.
“I really believe that the group meeting with Lynn, Tom Lagana and his wife Laura Lagana was very informative, uplifting and positive. It got me to look at myself in a much more positive way. They were very entertaining and I never lost interest at all. Could be a great inspiration for the younger inmates who have had a tougher time in life than I have.”

Phil B.
“I really enjoyed the seminar 'The Winning Recipe for Success.' They were wonderful speakers with an awesome and powerful message . . . a message that is of great importance to youth and adults serving sentences in the justice system. They were very motivational and made the experience extremely enjoyable. Thank you for allowing us to participate in this experience.”

Michael M.
“I really enjoyed listening to them speak. They definitely had some positive things to say that really gave me a better outlook on what I need to do while I am incarcerated and that is to use this time to really reflect on what I am going to do with my life.”

Louis D.
“Got a lot out of class. Came in with a lot of hate and negative attitude and learned how to focus energy in a positive way. Life is short to keep on going on mad and angry. Learned that I could get more out of life by learning not to have a negative outlook.”

Michael A.
“I think that the class was very helpful it gave me a positive outlook on the time I must serve, to keep a positive mood and to treat others with kindness and a good attitude. It was also encouraging. I would recommend this class for future inmates to consider.”

Eric B.
“I felt the seminar was very informative and very beneficial with a lot of useful life skills put into practice in daily life. I can make a positive change.”

Inside Out Review of Serving Productive Time

2009-09-01T04:20:00.000-07:00

Prison Fellowship's Inside Out has reviewed Serving Productive Time in their August 2009 on-line issue. Please see the link below:

http://www.prisonfellowship.org/inside-out/august-2009/12146-book-review-serving-productive-time?showall=1

Also see the pdf version at the link below:
http://www.angelfire.com/de/lagana/images/PFM-Review.pdf

Below is an excerpt from a recent letter we received:
“I was reading your book called Serving Productive Time, and let me tell you that I loved all the stories, especially about the little girl that made 31 handmade Christmas cards for inmates. I can’t believe that a nine-year-old could do something like that. I am so proud of that little girl.”
Sol, inmate
West County Detention Facility
Richmond, California

Recently, we presented seminars at three prisons near the Catskill Mountains of New York State on the same very long day. In all more than 200 men and staff attended our sessions at the following institutions:
- Green Correctional Facility (morning)
- Coxsackie Correctional Facility (afternoon)
- Hudson Correctional Facility (evening)

Seminars for Inmates at Greene, Coxsackie, and Hudson Correctional Facility

2009-08-16T10:40:00.000-07:00

Please pray for the inmates that will attend our presentations on Wednesday, August 26, in New York State...that we will say the right words, and they will hear what they need to hear. In our experience, inmates have thanked us for saying something that we don't recall mentioning. I think it's a God thing.

If you know anyone willing to sponsor some of our books so that we can leave them for the prisoners' use, please ask them to e-mail: Tom@TomLagana.com

Sue Ellen Allen Wins PEN Dawson Award

2009-08-05T12:21:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to Sue Ellen Allen who recently won the Dawson prize for memoir by PEN American Center Prison Writing Contest. PEN is a very prestigious organization of writers. They have a program that supports writers in prison, and they send out free handbooks to encourage writing.

To read her work entitled, FEAR, which is part of her prison journey, please see:
http://www.pen.org/viewmedia.php/prmMID/3610/prmID/1622.

Sue Ellen Allen is a contributing author in our new book, "Serving Productive Time." Her story in our book is entitled "It’s Never Too Late."

Sue Ellen Allen is an author, speaker, and activist. Being in prison with stage 3B breast cancer was a strange blessing—the defining moment of her life. Despite the odds, she survived. Now her motto is, “Been there, done that. How can I help?” Contact her at sueellenallen@gmail.com

Barnes & Noble Book Event

2009-07-26T06:14:00.000-07:00

The recent book event at Barnes & Noble was amazing. Four ex-inmates who are in our various books were there an each had a time to share with the audience of about 30 people.

No correctional staff showed up. We had some prison volunteers and many people who had loved ones behind bars. It was a very touching and emotionally charged evening.

Our associate pastor and our new pastor even showed up. After it was over, our pastor told me that our church will sponsor another box of books for the inmates in our area.

One of the ex-inmates who has a story in "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul" was there, and he sent a check a few days later to also sponsor a box of books for our local prisons. A woman in the audience, who I met by chance a few weeks before, sent a note after the event with a $50 bill and wrote, "Get as many of your books into the hands of those who need them." Funny that we didn't even ask for donations or sponsors at the event.

Brandywine Hundred couple offer hope for those behind the razor wire

2009-07-11T03:58:00.000-07:00

Below is a link to a recent article in the Community News in Wilmington, Delaware about our new book, "Serving Productive Time."

http://www.communitypub.com/people/x488831073/Brandywine-Hundred-couple-offer-hope-for-those-behind-the-razor-wire

Click here for a pdf file of Article.

Barnes & Noble Discussion & Booksigning, Wed. July 15, 7 pm, Wilmington, DE

2009-07-08T12:27:00.000-07:00

Discussion and Booksigning
Wednesday, July 15 at 7 pm
Barnes & Noble Bookstore
4801 Concord Pike
(Next to Concord Mall)
Wilmington DE 19803

Local authors and speakers, Laura and Tom Lagana, are here to discuss their newest book, "Serving Productive Time." Their book is for those who have been incarcerated, have loved ones in prison, who work or volunteer in a correctional facility, who have been a victim of crime, or for those who understand that we all share the responsibility of helping others. Their other books include, "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul," "Chicken Soup for the Volunteer’s Soul," "and Serving Time, Serving Others."

Voices of Hope -- The News Journal -- "Serving Productive Time"

2009-07-08T10:04:00.000-07:00

Below are links to a recent article in The News Journal in Wilmington, Delaware about about our new book, "Serving Productive Time."

http://www.delawareonline.com/article/20090615/LIFE/906150315/1005&referrer=NEWSFRONTCAROUSEL

Click here for Word file of article.

The Record Eagle -- Traverse City, Michigan -- "Serving Productive Time" in the News

2009-07-08T09:59:00.000-07:00

http://www.record-eagle.com/features/local_story_185192800.html

Also see the pdf version at the link below:
http://www.angelfire.com/de/lagana/images/Record-Eagle.pdf

Collection is for inmates, prison staff

TRAVERSE CITY -- Traverse City native Laura Hayes Lagana and her husband, Tom Lagana, have put together a collection of stories, poems, cartoons and quotations for inmates, prison staff and volunteers.

"Serving Productive Time: Stories, Poems, and Tips to Inspire Positive Change from Inmates, Prison Staff, and Volunteers" is published by Health Communications of Deerfield Beach, Fla., and includes two stories from a correctional officer in Washtenaw County as well as stories from inmates in Adrian, Kincheloe, Lapeer and Muskegon Heights.

The Laganas have also co-authored "Chicken Soup for the Volunteer's Soul," "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul" and "Serving Time, Serving Others." The couple hopes to send at least one book to every prison, jail and youth detention center in the U.S.

For more information, go to www.tomlagana.com.

The Dialog -- Serving Productive Time

2009-06-15T05:19:00.000-07:00

Below is a link to a recent article in the Catholic newspaper The Dialog in the Dioceses of Wilmington about our new book, "Serving Productive Time."

Click here for a pdf file of Article.

Corporal Carla Wilson in Serving Productive Time

2009-06-10T11:36:00.000-07:00

Congratulations to our contributing author, Carla Wilson, for her coverage in the Ann Arbor Chronicle. To see the article, see the link below:
http://annarborchronicle.com/2009/06/08/j-block-at-the-washenaw-county-jail/

Also see the following article:
http://www.ewashtenaw.org/news/2009/applause_5-26-09.html

In additional to the articles, see the following:

Corporal Carla Wilson, LMSW, of Ypsilanti, Michigan, a correctional officer at Washtenaw County Jail, is a contributing author in a newly released book entitled Serving Productive Time: Stories, Poems, and Tips to Inspire Positive Change from Inmates, Prison Staff, and Volunteers, published by Health Communications, Inc. in Deerfield Beach, Florida.

Serving Productive Time is a follow-up book to Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul and Serving Time, Serving Others by co-authors Tom Lagana and Laura Lagana who reside in Wilmington, Delaware. Laura is a Traverse City native and spent her early childhood in Ann Arbor.

About two years ago, Wilson submitted a story to the Laganas. During a telephone conversation with Tom Lagana soon after she had submitted her story, Wilson happened to mention that she worked as a correctional officer. She peaked Lagana’s curiosity when she said, “I also facilitate a guided meditation every morning for the inmates under my supervision.” Because the Lagana’s also incorporate guided meditations into their inmate seminars across the country, Tom Lagana wanted to witness Wilson in action at Washtenaw County Jail.

On Memorial Day weekend in 2007, Tom Lagana flew to Detroit to conduct a seminar for Wilson’s inmates. Following his presentation, Wilson facilitated her guided meditation for the men in her unit. Lagana was so incredibly moved by the meditation that he asked Wilson to document each step. Two years later, “Beyond Your Outdate,” Wilson’s meditation, appears in the newly published book, Serving Productive Time. Although the story that Wilson originally submitted is not included in this collection, another story entitled “The Artist” is, as well as other words of wisdom by Wilson.

Wilson’s career as a correctional deputy spans more than sixteen years. She applies her talents as an inspirational speaker and guided meditation facilitator in jails, prisons, churches, and educational institutions. In addition, she offers phone counseling for professionals and anyone coping with a loved one’s addiction or incarceration. Wilson is at work on her first book, What If I’m Right? She may be contacted via e-mail at cwilson@connectionprinciple.com or by visiting her website: www.connectionprinciple.com.

Inspiration for Prisoners in Minnesota (Books & Seminars)

2009-05-01T07:09:00.000-07:00

Hope all is well with you.

We are preparing our schedule to present seminars for inmates, and we now have an associate in Minnesota. Correctional Staff and others may submit a request for a seminar at a specific correctional facility, church, ministry, or other location. Please e-mail the following information to Tom@TomLagana.com or robnnc@yahoo.com

Name of Facility:
Address of Facility:
Contact Name and Position:
Contact Phone Number
Contact E-mail Address:
Is there funding available for travel expenses?
Is there funding available for books?
Is there funding available for an honorarium?

Seminar Overview: "A Winning Recipe for Success Behind Bars" is a 60- to 90-minute interactive and dynamic presentation, which focuses on tools and life skills that will boost self-confidence, provide direction through positive goals, and demonstrate the benefits of effective communication, responsibility, and competent leadership. It is based on the values and principles in our books: "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul", "Serving Time, Serving Others”, "Chicken Soup for the Volunteer’s Soul," and our newest book, “Serving Productive Time.”

To reserve either or both of the following book specials, e-mail: Tom@TomLagana.com

SPT – Special – 33 books for $238
33 Books -- “Serving Productive Time: Stories, Poems, and Tips to Inspire Positive Change from Inmates, Prison Staff, and Volunteers."

STSO / PS - Special
Receive a FREE BOX of 24 "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul" books
when you purchase 12 copies of "Serving Time, Serving Others."
For $259, you will receive 36 books.

The above specials include shipping and handling within the Continental USA.

If your needs or budgets do not fit within the parameters of the above offers, let us know what your working budget is, and we'll propose what is possible. Thanks.

Reserve your books by e-mailing Tom@TomLagana.com or by calling 302-475-4825.

Please make check, money order, or purchase order payable to "Success Solutions" and mail to:
Book Purchase
PO Box 7816
Wilmington, DE 19803

Feel free to copy and distribute the following files as you see fit.
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/SPT-1-page.pdf
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/SPT-Ad.pdf
http://www.TomLagana.com/images/PS-STSO.pdf
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/PS-Recipe.pdf
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/OrderForms-2009.pdf
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/SPT-Sponsor-Letter.doc
http://www.TomLagana.com/images/Crossroad.pdf

We look forward to your reply.

Please forward this message to anyone you think may be willing to help schedule inspirational seminars for the incarcerated. Thanks.

All the Best,
Tom

Co-author "Chicken Soup for the Volunteer's Soul,"
"The Quick and Easy Guide to Project Management,"
"Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul" and "Serving Time, Serving Others"
In mid-2009 look for our new book “Serving Productive Time”
Tom Lagana ~~ (302) 475-4825 -- PO Box 7816, Wilmington, DE 19803
Tom@TomLagana.com ~~ http://www.TomLagana.com
"Tom is a professional speaker, trainer, engineer, consultant, and author
. . . helping people become their best."

"Serving Productive Time" Books -- Ready to Ship

2009-04-25T05:19:00.000-07:00

Our publisher has informed us that although the official release date for “Serving Productive Time” was July 1, 2009, full boxes (of 33 books each) are ready to ship now. The cost is $238. Please see the Order Form linked below and order a box or more of this worthwhile book.

For orders less than 33 books or substantially larger orders, e-mail Tom@TomLagana.com for a quote on the number of books you prefer.

Please note: Checks and money orders sent to us will not be deposited until the books are shipped. When necessary, we will accept purchase orders.

Please make check, money order, or purchase order payable to "Success Solutions" and mail to:
Serving Productive Time
PO Box 7816
Wilmington, DE 19803

Credit cards are usually not acceptable, but for large orders, arrangements can be made through a third-party. Credit card purchases will only be accepted in cases where that is the only viable alternative for payment.

Single copies may be ordered directly from our publisher using the link at www.TomLagana.com by clicking on the cover of our book.

Please consider asking churches, service groups, and individuals to help sponsor books for you to use in your ministry and/or to send some books to a chaplain, counselor, teacher, or librarian at a correctional facility in your area. If you would like a sample letter to use to ask for a sponsor, the Word file is linked below. Feel free to edit to suit your needs.
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/SPT-Sponsor-Letter.doc

Below are links to three 1-page PDF files. One gives details about our book, another is a 1-page sample of the contents, and the third is an order form. We have begun mailing hard copies of these flyers when we reply to our constant stream of correspondence from prisoners. Feel free to print and distribute these pages as you see fit.
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/SPT-1-page.pdf
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/SPT-Ad.pdf
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/OrderForms-2009.pdf

To view a sampling of stories, see the pdf file below:
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/SPT-Sampler.pdf

We look forward to sending books to the inmates you minister to. We hope to facilitate a seminar for the inmates in your area.

Please share this message with anyone you think would benefit by its content. Thank you.

New: Also see Tom's Blog at http://prisonersoul.blogspot.com

To keep up-to-date with our projects and receive prison-related stories, please subscribe to our free "Prisoner's Soul" e-mail newsletter by sending a blank message to:
p-soup-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

Continued Blessings,
Tom
Co-author "Chicken Soup for the Volunteer's Soul,"
"The Quick and Easy Guide to Project Management,"
"Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul,"
"Serving Time, Serving Others"
and now, “Serving Productive Time”
Tom Lagana ~~ (302) 475-4825 -- PO Box 7816, Wilmington, DE 19803
Tom@TomLagana.com ~~ http://www.TomLagana.com
"Tom is a professional speaker, trainer, engineer, consultant, and author
. . . helping people become their best."

How to Request Sponsors for “Books for Inmates”

2009-04-14T09:10:00.000-07:00

Hope this finds you doing well. Thanks to everyone who has pre-ordered books already. To help get more of our books into jails, prisons, and youth detention centers, we are asking everyone to send e-mails and/or letters to churches, service groups, ministries, and individuals to sponsor a box of books for the inmates in their local correctional facilities.

Below are links to two 1-page files. One is a PDF file of our order form. The other is a Word file with a typical letter requesting funding that you may edit and tailor, to ask churches, service groups, and any group or individual to sponsor a box of books for the inmates in your area. If you prefer to have the files sent to you as attachments, send me an e-mail requesting that.
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/OrderForms-2009.pdf
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/SPT-Sponsor-Letter.doc

We can send the books wherever the sponsor desires. If someone wants to sponsor a box of books, but isn’t able to facilitate the distribution, we will contact appropriate staff at that facility who are able and willing to accept the shipment and get the books into the hands of inmates. We don’t tell staff how to distribute the books. Some will place them in various libraries, others will use them in a program, and some even give the books to inmates to keep. We simply trust that the books will get to where they’re supposed to be. God will take care of it from there.

We welcome your questions, comments, and especially creative ideas to help inspire those incarcerated. Thanks for making a difference.

Continued Blessings,
Tom
Co-author "Chicken Soup for the Volunteer's Soul,"
"The Quick and Easy Guide to Project Management,"
"Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul," "Serving Time, Serving Others"
and "Serving Productive Time" available July 1, 2009
Tom Lagana ~~ (302) 475-4825 -- PO Box 7816, Wilmington, DE 19803
Tom@TomLagana.com ~~ http://www.TomLagana.com
"Tom is a professional speaker, trainer, engineer, consultant, and author
. . . helping people become their best."

A Chaplain's Request in Texas -- Books for Prisoners -- TDCJ Lane Murray Unit

2009-04-08T06:18:00.000-07:00

A Chaplain at the TDCJ Lane Murray Unit has asked for help in getting more of the following books there. Can you ask the local churches to sponsor some of these books so that she can use these with her inmates? The books are:
- Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul
- Chicken Soup for the Volunteer's Soul
- Serving Time, Serving Others
- Serving Productive Time (new)
New and used copies are available at Amazon.com or Barnes & Noble. Even just one copy sent to the chaplain is appreciated. Please send the books to:

Chaplain Garcia -- Chaplain's Office
TDCJ Lane Murray Unit
1916 North Hwy 36 Bypass
Gatesville TX 76596

Quantity discounts are also available:
Receive a FREE BOX of 24 "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul" books when you purchase 12 copies of "Serving Time, Serving Others."
For $259, you will receive 36 books. This price includes shipping and handling of both boxes. Send check or money order payable to "Success Solutions" and mail to:

Books for TDCJ Lane Murray Unit
PO Box 7816
Wilmington DE 19803

Reserve books by replying to this posting or by phoning 302-475-4825.

Feel free to copy and distribute the following pdf files as you see fit.
http://www.TomLagana.com/images/SPT-Ad.pdf
http://www.TomLagana.com/images/SPT-1-page.pdf
http://www.TomLagana.com/images/PS-STSO.pdf
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/PS-Recipe.pdf
http://www.TomLagana.com/images/Crossroad.pdf

One Book Can Make a Difference

2009-04-03T07:28:00.000-07:00

Even though more than 150,000 copies of our books are in circulation in jails, prisons, and youth detention centers, we continually receive mail from inmates, as well as chaplains, teachers, counselors, and librarians requesting our books for the inmates they serve. They simply do not have the money to purchase our books.

If you are willing to send just one book to one of the persons requesting one from us, please reply and I will e-mail you an address to send one of our books. Please specify if you prefer to send a book to an inmate or to a staff person. You may order a book through Amazon or to order a copy of Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul directly from our publisher, click on the cover below:

Below is an excerpt from a story in our upcoming book, Serving Productive Time that quotes Adam who wrote to me after reading one of our books:

“I sold Ecstasy for only four months . . . but I got busted. After being drug-free for twenty-nine years, I screwed up my life, and now I’m facing a sentence of up to twenty years,” he explained. “When I went to prison, suicide was a very real option. Soon after I was locked up, my mom sent me a book—Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul. I read it in one day. It was then that I realized that I could make it.”

Thank you for helping to make a difference.

Book Request from the Chaplain at Pendleton Correctional Facility

2009-04-01T06:38:00.000-07:00

A chaplain at Pendleton Correctional Facility would like donations of “Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul” and "Serving Time, Serving Others" books for the inmates incarcerated there.

New books may be ordered through Amazon and other sources and sent to:
The Chaplain's Office
Pendleton Correctional Facility
4490 West Reformatory Road
Pendleton, IN 46064-3395

For details on quantity discounts and free books with a purchase, contact the co-author, Tom Lagana through website: www.TomLagana.com or call 302-475-4825.

Pre-Order -- Serving Productive Time

2009-03-30T16:34:00.000-07:00

Our publisher has informed us that although the official release date for “Serving Productive Time” is July 1, 2009, we will have full boxes (of 30 books each) ready to ship in early June (possibly sooner). The cost is $216. Please see the Order Form linked below and order a box or more of this worthwhile book.

Please note: Checks and money orders sent to us will not be deposited until the books are shipped. We will hold the checks or money orders until then. When necessary, we will accept purchase orders.

Credit cards are usually not acceptable, but for large orders, arrangements can be made through a third-party. Credit card purchases will only be accepted in cases where that is the only viable alternative for payment.

Please consider asking churches, service groups, and individuals to help sponsor books for you to use in your ministry and/or to send some books to a correctional facility in your area.

Below are links to three 1-page PDF files. One gives details about our book, another is a sample of the contents, and the third is an order form. We have begun mailing hard copies of these flyers when we reply to our constant stream of correspondence from prisoners. Feel free to print and distribute these pages as you see fit.
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/SPT-1-page.pdf
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/SPT-Ad.pdf
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/OrderForms-2009.pdf

We hope you share this message with anyone you think would benefit by its content. Thank you.

National Inmate Resource Directory

2009-03-26T12:18:00.000-07:00

Click here for coupon for the "National Inmate Resource Directory"

Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul

Need Your Help Marketing New Book for Prisoners

2009-03-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

Your help is needed to create an awareness and buzz on the Internet about a new book to help inspire inmates to prepare for a successful release and become productive members of our society.

It's the follow-up book to "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul" and "Serving Time, Serving Others." The title of this new book is "Serving Productive Time: Stories, Poems, and Tips to Inspire Positive Change from Inmates, Prison Staff, and Volunteers." It will be officially released on July 1, 2009. The Foreword is by MARY V. LEFTRIDGE BYRD, deputy secretary, Washington State Department of Corrections. The book is being published by Health Communications, Inc. and is already listed on Amazon and Barnes & Noble websites.

Your creative ideas to get the word out will be greatly appreciated, as well as your help to implement them.

Although there is no pay for your help on this project, the co-authors will gladly give you a reference based on your help. If you are in a position to sell books, there is an opportunity to make some money this way, as the authors will give you a substantial quantity discount for you to resell them. That of course is optional.

Your response is appreciated. Thanks for helping to make a difference.

Help Prisoners Prepare for Release

2009-02-18T03:39:00.000-08:00

Not everyone is cutout or willing to volunteer in a correctional facility, but anyone can help the incarcerated prepare to become productive members of our society even without ever stepping behind the razor wire.

As co-author of the prisoner-related books "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul" and "Serving Time, Serving Others" and the upcoming "Serving Productive Time" available July 1, 2009, we receive thousands of requests for books by inmates and staff who contact us. Still there are many who have never heard of our books or read them. Our goal is to have our books available to everyone locked up in a jail, prison, or youth detention center. Just one book in a housing unit is usually shared by dozens of inmates.

Below are some ways you can help, but also consider other creative ideas you may have.

1. First of all, I suggest that you read "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul" and "Serving Time, Serving Others” to become familiar with what the inmates will read to help them. This will also allow you to see the potential benefits of your efforts. Our books are available on Amazon and other websites or see my website: http://www.TomLagana.com for links to our publisher. Notice the reviews that our readers have said about our books.

2. If you know of someone who is incarcerated, send them a copy of our books, or suggest to their loved ones that they send our books to them.

3. Help us to get funding for books to the correctional chaplains, counselors, teachers, and librarians who have requested our books but do not the resources to purchase them. When books are purchased from Success Solutions, we can match whatever someone sends with an equal amount. The books retail for $14.95, so for every $15 that is sent, we can send two books to them instead of one. Whatever amount sent, we'll match that and pay the postage to send books to correctional staff for the inmates’ use.

4. Contact churches and service groups in your area to ask them to sponsor some of our books to help those incarcerated prepare to become productive members of our society. They may send a check or money order directly to Success Solutions with the shipping details. Purchase Orders are also possible. Our books may also be sent directly to volunteers who can get our books to the inmates they serve.

5. Help us spread the word about our books and work with prisoners. Research where the jails, prisons, and youth detention centers are in your area or elsewhere. Then call, write, or e-mail the warden, chaplains, counselors, teachers, and librarians and suggest that they obtain our books for their inmates. Or send me the e-mail addresses of people to contact.

6. If you are posting a Blog, please mention our books. See my Blog at http://prisonersoul.blogspot.com for suggestions to share on other blogs and in any e-mails you send about our books. Below are a few suggested phrases to include. Other may be found in our newsletters: To subscribe to our newsletters, send a blank message to: p-soup-subscribe@yahoogroups.com

7. Receive a FREE BOX of 24 "Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul" books
when you purchase 12 copies of "Serving Time, Serving Others."
For $259, you will receive 36 books. This price includes shipping and handling of both boxes. Send your shipping details, e-mail, and phone number with your check or money order payable to "Success Solutions" and mail to:
Success Solutions -- Book Purchase
PO Box 7816
Wilmington DE 19803
Reserve your books by contacting Tom@TomLagana.com or by phone 302-475-4825.

8. Feel free to copy and distribute the following PDF files as you see fit.
http://www.TomLagana.com/images/SPT-Ad.pdf
http://www.TomLagana.com/images/SPT-1-page.pdf
http://www.TomLagana.com/images/PS-STSO.pdf
http://www.tomlagana.com/images/PS-Recipe.pdf
http://www.TomLagana.com/images/Crossroad.pdf

We appreciate your help.

Continued Blessings,
Tom

Co-author "Chicken Soup for the Volunteer's Soul,"
"The Quick and Easy Guide to Project Management,"
"Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul" and "Serving Time, Serving Others"
"Serving Productive Time" available July 1, 2009
Tom Lagana ~~ (302) 475-4825 -- PO Box 7816, Wilmington, DE 19803
Tom@TomLagana.com ~~ http://www.TomLagana.com
"Tom is a professional speaker, trainer, engineer, consultant, and author
. . . helping people become their best."

Self-Study Guidebook for Inmates

2009-02-02T08:58:00.000-08:00

A Guide to Serving Productive Time is a 30-page self-study program designed for inmates who have a sincere desire to commit to making positive changes in their lives. They can put their “time” to productive use by learning skills that will help them on the inside while serving their sentences, as well as on the outside when they re-enter our society.

Correctional staff may receive permission to copy and distribute 12 copies of the Guidebook (sent to them as a pdf file), 3 copies of Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul, and 3 copies of Serving Time, Serving Others for a total cost of $144.

Loved ones may receive the pdf file and permission to print one copy of the Guidebook to send to someone incarcerated. The cost is $15. Quantity discounts are available.

Make check payable to "Success Solutions" and mail to:

A Guide to Serving Productive Time
PO Box 7816
Wilmington DE 19803

To reserve your order and for additional details e-mail: Tom@TomLagana.com
or call 302-475-4825

Click here for a pdf flyer with more details about the Guidebook.

About Jerry Gillies

2009-01-31T13:21:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my new blog. Although I have an Amazon blog on the pages of my books, Chicken Soup for the Prisoner's Soul, Chicken Soup for the Volunteer's Soul, and Serving Time, Serving Others, this blog will be more interactive and frequent about our work with prisoners.

One of our contributing authors, Jerry Gillies, recently e-mailed me about his blog and so I thought it might be a good idea to have one, too. My wife, Laura, and I had the pleasure of meeting Jerry in person when we presented a seminar for the inmates at Folsom Prison on October 21, 2004.

Below is Jerry's bio that we are planning to print in our new book, Serving Productive Time, which will be available July 1, 2009.

Jerry Gillies is a former journalist (NBC-New York) and author of six books on personal development, including the bestselling Moneylove and the upcoming The Great Escape. For more than twenty years, he conducted seminars and lectures across the United States, Canada, England, and South Africa. He stories are also in Chicken Soup for the Prisoner’s Soul and Serving Time, Serving Others. Recently paroled from Folsom State Prison, he can be contacted via e-mail at JerryGillies@gmail.com or website www.JerryGillies.net.