Interview: with a Prison Guard

Interview: with a Prison Guard

 

Beings that I am in the Criminal Justice Field, I decided to do an interview with someone in that field, someone who gets to deal with the everyday criminal on a daily basis.

  My interview is with a Prison Guard who wishes to remain anonymous, for his own protection. He was a very friendly, and very informative person. I think everyone should benefit from what all I learned today.

Q. How long have you been a prison guard?
A. For a little over 3 years.

Q. Did you go to School to become a prison guard?
A. No, but they did give me training. And with that training came diplomas, and credentials. It was like an academy, and it was a lot of learning and training, and it does help.

Q. What do or did you like about your job?
A. The respect. The inmates will test you, see what you are capable of- and you have to show them that you aren't going to put up with it. After that, they will respect you. Don't get me wrong, it isn't a friendship- never is it a friendship. You have to understand, you are changing their lives, you are trying to make and guide them into being better people. The respect, you also get from the other guards too.

Q. What didn't you like about your job?
A. You worry about getting hurt, after all- they are dangerous criminals. They might put a hit out on you, and even if they do, and word will get out- your supervisor will move you to another area. And although they do put a hit out on you, still- they can respect you.

Q. Have you ever been hurt by an inmate?
A. Never! I block them when they try to get a hold of my shirt, sometimes I might have to push them to make them move, but never have I been hurt.

Q. Have you ever made friends with an inmate?
A. (Loud and sternly) No way! You have to fake like you are cool with them, like you trust them, but you don't. Never underestimate them.

Q. Are you furthering your education?
A. Yes, I am going to School. I am pre-med.

Q. Have you worked for more than one institution?
A. Yes, the private ones are always better.

Q. What would you advice people that pen pal with Prisoners?
A. They are con artists. They want you for money. Be careful, they can get you to believe anything.

Q. Have you learned anything from your job, out of the ordinary?
A. I can con people too. It is true what they say, you go in innocent, if you truly are- such as myself- a prison guard. I was innocent. I learned from them, how to con people. I can make anyone believe anything, just like them!

Q. What do you think of prison food?
A. (Laughing) It's not exactly something you crave, trust me. Once I had seen a few unwanted items in their food. I was sure glad that I didn't have to eat it!

Q. Any advice for the people that aren't criminals yet?
A. Just sit there and think, "What would I do, if I was locked up?" If you really think about it, it isn't a pretty picture; it isn't something you will want for yourself, or for anyone. Trust me; you don't to end up there.

And this concluded my interview with the Prison Guard. I found him quite helpful and informative. He was very open and honest, and he brought a lot of insight into a job, that a lot of people are fearful of.
 
As I read this, to you the reader, this probably seems dull and boring. But to me, I found it insightful. This job, as I stated before, deals with the everyday common criminal. It is meant for a person that is strong both physically and mentally.

To this prison guard, I thank you for taking the time out, to let me interview you. I wish you safety and happiness in all your life's ventures.

Interview: Dog Breeder's Insights Into Her Job & LifeStyle

This is Tyrah Cranfill

A Dog Breeder's Insights Into Her Job and Lifestyle

Deneale K. Williams, Yahoo Contributor Network
May 27, 2008

I thought it would be quite educational to learn from a dog breeder. So I interviewed someone who could give me the insight and details to help those who may be interested in becoming breeders themselves or those interested in buying from a breeder.

 

 

 

I interviewed: Tyrah Cranfill of Florida. She is a 28-year-old stay-at-home mom and breeder.

Q. How long have you been breeding dogs?
A. Eight years now.

Q. What made you want to breed dogs?
A. I am a stay at home Mom, and I wanted to help my Spouse with the income.

Q. What all have you bred?
A. I have bred Pit Bulls in the past, and I am currently breeding Doberman's and Boston Terriers. However, this will be my last litter of the Bostons.

Q. Why Doberman's?
A. I want to better the breed. Some people are only in it for the money, and don't care what they breed.
Q. Why Boston Terrier's?
A. Also to better the breed. But they are smaller then the Doberman's and I thought it would interest those that don't want something as big as the Dobies.

Q. Why Pit Bull's?
A. Again, to better the breed. However, I no longer breed them.

Q. How often do you breed your dogs?
A. Only one litter per year. This is better on the health of the breeding dog, as well as the quality of her puppies.

Q. Is breeding a good source of income?
A. When you have a litter ready to go, don't count on them all selling at once, and having that money all at the same time. Don't get me wrong, there are rare cases where that may happen, but most likely not. A lot of money and time goes into the breeding, the raising, and getting them ready to sell. Personally, I have the pups wormed first, shots and advantage on them. They have been temperament tested, and I am able to give the Quality Health guarantee. Pricing varies on what it is you are selling, and if they are AKC or not. The income is there, yes. But you also need to look at the up keep as to what you have invested and are spending. Sometimes the two do not match up. But it is however, nice to sell and finally get some of your investment back. Again, do not always count on getting your entire investment back, and selling them all at once.

Q. Are there "set in stone" asking prices?
A. It depends on the lineage, health records, wormer, shots, flea care, and the AKC factor. My Doberman's are $800 with the quality health guarantee. Those that have show dogs, can ask more. A Doberman without papers usually sells from $400 to $550 with the guarantee. My Boston Terriers are not papered and they sell anywhere from $300 to $500. When you are looking to purchase, be sure to find out, what all is in the asking price. I can and will take a deposit and work with you on the payments, depending on the situation. I know coming up with that kind of money is not easy. I want my puppies to have a good home, that is one of my goals.

Q. So what is in your Quality Health Guarantee?
A. My puppies have had their shots, their wormer, Advantage put on them, (most of the time, I give you an Advantage to take home with you.) and I also am going to give you a puppy starter kit, which include a sample of food, and shot records, amongst other things including coupons. For my Doberman's I am also giving you AKC papers, and can give you the lineage. I can be contacted if you have any problems, or concerns; after you have taken your pet home. I also have references of others that have purchased from me before, and can vouch of my quality and care.

Q. Is there a different price for a male or female?
A. No. However, other breeders may have restrictions to keep the Champion Blood Line free of mix breeding and what not. They will of course tell you that up front, usually.

Q. Where do you prefer to advertise to sell your puppies?
A. I like the Florida Today Newspaper and www.QualityPets.com

Q. What do you feed your pets?
A. The puppies I feel Iams Smart Puppy and the older dogs I feed Purina 1.

Q. Are your pets familiar with Children?
A. Yes, I have a four year old who walks them, carries them around and plays with them. I also have them tested for Temperament, just as I did when I purchased my dogs.

Q. What should people look for in a breeder?
A. Someone who knows the lineage, someone who is familiar with Van Wilder-bees testing, (VW) Look for someone who knows the breed, and doesn't do inbreeding, and over breeding; and be certain they know what they are doing. Ask for references, and don't be afraid to ask questions. Be sure you can get hold of them after your purchase too!

Q. What do you think of Pit Bulls?
A. I think they get a bad rap. How they act, and how they are, depends on how they are raised. They need a lot of attention and care. It is important to know where your Pit Bulls are coming from. Don't be afraid to ask the Pit Bulls breeder, if they fight them, and/or what all they do with theirs, if anything other then breeding. For those of you buying Pit Bulls, using it as a weapon, or training it to fight other Pit Bulls and people, it is YOU who are giving the Pit Bulls the bad name and reputation.

Q. Do you prefer Advantage or Front-line?
A. Advantage, it works for us, Front-line does not.

Q. How can a breeder, and even a pet owner save a few bucks?
A. You can now buy your pets shots from Farm Stores. Then you can give your pet the shots yourself. It saves you a few extra bucks, rather then having the Vet do it. The Farm Stores can usually even teach you the proper way to administer the shots.

Q. Can you offer any further learned advice?
A. Yes, one thing I learned about being here in Florida, verses other climates, is that the worms in the feces, do not die outside. In the Northern States, the temperature cools down, and eventually the worm will die. This includes ring worms, heart worms, hook worms, pin worms, and most any other. Here in the warmer climate that doesn't usually see a cooling down, the infestation will continue to live in your yard. This causes it to go from pet to pet until you yourself get rid of it. The way to do this, is lime powder, and/or bleach. The lime powder cuts down on flies and diseases. When bleaching your yard, yes the grass is going to die off. But it should come back eventually. The goal is not nice grass, the goal is health of the pups. Also consider cleaning up seen piles of feces.

Q. Have your pets ever had Parvo?
A. No, but I know people who have had it. I did also learn all I could about it, just in case. It is an air born disease, if your neighbor has, your pets can get it. Your best bet is to vaccinate. And once a yard has Parvo, it always has Parvo. Shots can be given anywhere within the first few months to one year. But know the sooner the better. Once your pet gets Parvo, it's done. It is a very sad, and depressing disease that can sneak up on you at anytime, and you will never know in advance, because a majority of people are not going to send out a notice, "My dog dies of Parvo." It is embarrassing, and they don't usually want any ramifications from it.

Q. Can I list your email for people who may have questions to reach you?
A. Yes of course, I would be glad to help others!

Q. Any last words?
A. Yes, thank you for interviewing me. I hope that this helps other breeders, as well as people considering on becoming a breeder. Pets are a wonderful thing, and after all, they do say that "Dogs are mans best friend." I know that my pets, are very much a part of my family, and for the rest of you, I hope you feel the same way about your pets. Love them, adore them, and they will do the same for you!
This concludes my interview with Miss Tyrah. It was definitely a learning experience for me. I didn't know anything about any of the breeds she shared with me today, and they say it is good to learn something new each day! Thank you Tyrah for this opportunity to interview you. It was truly my pleasure!

Published by Deneale K. Williams

Interview: Kennedy Space Center Tour Bus Driver

12

An Interview with a Kennedy Space Center Tour Bus Driver

Deneale K. Williams, Yahoo Contributor Network
Jul 1, 2008

I decided to get details regarding driving the tour buses at Kennedy Space Center. Driving for a place that famous has to be interesting, and I wanted to know. So here are the details, I hope you enjoy this as much as I did getting the information!

 

 

 

I interviewed: David Williams, Sr.

Q. What is it you do with Kennedy Space Center?
A. I am a tour bus driver.

Q. Is all that you do all day is drive?
A. No, I also point out the places, and things, and tell the people about them.

Q. Is this your first bus driving job?
A. No.

Q. Did you like your other bus driving jobs?
A. No

Q. How many years have you been with KSC?
A. Two years now.

Q. Do you like it?
A. Yes, I love it.

Q. What made you want to become a tour bus driver?
A. Well, they were hiring at the time, and I knew quite a bit about KSC because of my prior job, so I thought I would give it a shot.

Q. What do you like best about your job?
A. The teaching part of it. Every day and every bus ride is different. The people, the wildlife we pass along the way, NASA itself, other bus drivers, and even famous people come to KSC, it's never a dull moment. You never know what might happen on your next turn. You meet many people from different walks of life too, it is not a dull and boring job, like you might think!

Q. What is the worst thing about your job?
A. Not getting enough hours, and being a junior driver. The job is so fun, sometimes at the end of the day; you don't want to go home. Oh, and another thing that is bad, is the rude people who talk over top of you as you are doing your speech. It isn't just me they are punishing; believe it or not, people do want to hear what the driver has to say.

Q. Is your job an easy job?
A. Yes and no. Yes, it's easy driving. It isn't a strenuous job, no physical labor-but on the same token, you have to learn all the facts and know them. It is challenging. You have to pay attention to the Customers, and their safety, you know basic road hazards. You have to know what symbolic lights mean and how to react if we are being held up or terrorized. There are a lot of rules; it is a very strict facility. And we have to be nice, even to the rude people.

Q. Were you, or are you a NASA space buff?
A. Not before my family and I moved to Florida. I mean I knew Neil Armstrong landed on the moon, but being in Florida and living on the Space Coast I learned-even before I started driving for KSC.

Q. Is there a Union at KSC?
A. Yes

Q. How many years have you had your bus endorsement?
A. For 11 years now.

Q. How many people fit on the buses?
A. It ranges from 54 to 63 with the capabilities of carrying up to 2 wheel chairs.

Q. Did you think you were going to like this bus driving job?
A. No, not really. I didn't think I would be able to memorize everything. And I don't really like public speaking. But here I am, no regrets!

Q. Have you met any famous people?
A. Yes, astronauts like Al Warden and John Glenn as well as others!
 
Q. Have you met any non space famous people?
A. Not to my knowledge.
 
Q. Have you ridden the new Shuttle Launch Experience ride yet?
A. Yes, and it is awesome. Everyone needs to try it. It does not cost extra to ride it either; the price is included in your Admission ticket!

Q. have you rode on other people's buses?
A. Yes
Q. Do you get tipped?
A. I get offered tips but technically we aren't supposed to accept them. If people insist we can and do take them. I get offered and tipped quite a bit, and complimented all the time.

Q. Do you hope to advance in your current position, or is there even advancement opportunities?
A. In this particular job, there is no advancement, you just move up in seniority. Each slot in seniority is based on hours to be worked. The more you work, the more money you make, with raises and hours. But yes, I do hope to advance eventually.

Q. Is there a big turn around on drivers?
A. Yes and no. Lower end seniority drivers can't handle the less hours so a lot of times they leave. But those that stick around with the small amount of hours in the beginning will eventually get more hours if they remain. Some drivers have been here for over thirty years. You just have to be patient, it is a slow and painful start, and trust me; it isn't easy paying your bills on a tiny pay check!

Q. If someone asks you a question about NASA and KSC can you answer them?
A. Yes
Q. Has anyone ever asked you a question that you couldn't answer?
A. Yes. You direct them to the information center. If they can't answer your question, they will take down your name and address, and research it, and mail the answer to you. I personally research it as well, this way I am prepared for the next time!!

Q. Have you ever been scared, hijacked or terrorized during work?
A. No, not yet, and thank God!

Q. Can you tell us something customers say about you?
A. They say I am very informative, very thorough, understandable, and I make learning fun. I am entertaining. I make it so they are learning and don't even now they are doing it.
Thank you David, for this interesting interview. I do hope this helps anyone who might be interested in joining Kennedy Space Centers Tour bus drivers. I know I like to ride the tour buses when I go to KSC, and I like to have a good time when doing so! After all, it is supposed to be fun!

Published by Deneale K. Williams

Interview with Associated Content's Producer: Pen Name: "Pure Writing"

My Interview with AC's Content Producer: Pen Name: Pure Writing

                 

Deneale K. Williams, Yahoo Contributor Network
Jul 30, 2007

I found "Pure Writing" one day, when I was bored, and wanted to see what other people were writing about. I read a lot of his articles, and found them original and worth subscribing too. Then I noticed he was willing to be interviewed, and I thought that was perfect because, I needed insight about A.C. as I am, of course new here.

 

So we decided to do the interview process over the phone, on July 26^th 2007, after 8pm. So allow me to begin:

Q. Who or what led you to Associated Content?
A. Firstly, I started with Helium. The money with them was not good, and someone, and I can't remember who at this time, but they told me to give A.C. a try, that they paid out, and much more then Helium. So here is where I came, and I have been here since!

Q. What do you like about A.C.?
A. The money, although it doesn't seem like a lot, it is gas money, money for my books for School, whatever.

Q. How long have you been a member?
A. Since February 10, 2007

Q. What advice can you offer other members here at A.C.?
A. Don't write just for money. If you have good material, you'll get paid. Write because you want to be heard! Writing here, often- you will find your niche, we all have them!

Q. Do you really see money from A.C.?
A. Yes, I mean when you first start, like you, it's not a whole lot, but eventually-it will be. People will read what you have to say, they aren't going to always leave a comment, but they are going to read. Just like you did.

Q. Why don't you use your real name?
A. (He chuckled) Later, I will reveal my real name. Maybe in a year, or less, I don't know. I am shy!

Q. Do you know what is a good topic, or seller for articles?
A. Personally, I think that they like it when you write about those small, and personal places, like in your own hometown-those neighborhood restaurants, and stores- things like that, they really like to hear about things like that.

Q. What do you like writing about?
A. My life experiences, things that happen through out the day. Things that are on my mind, things like that.

Q. Did you ever think that you would actually make money with A.C.?
A. Honestly, I know there are a lot of scams out there. But, no-I honestly didn't think I would be making money from my writings. I'm glad I am, I enjoy it!

My interview with Pure Writing made me feel better about Associated Content. You see, I was led here by my sister, Amy Lynn. And as you can tell, I haven't been here long. When I seen that Pure Writing could be interviewed, I thought this would give me another person's opinion, not just my little sisters.

Don't get me wrong, I value my sisters' opinion, but we come from a family that writes a lot, so I obviously know she is talented! I hope you understand. It is nice to know, and hear from others. And it is even more awesome, that we have a place, like Associated Content, that gives us the fame and fortune that we all need. It isn't too often that you get a positive place like this, it's not a scam, and it is here to help us improve and become someone that others listen to!

Thank you very much, Pure Writing for taking the time to let me interview you, and learn from you. I found this interview a wonderful learning experience, and I hope that others read this, so they too can know-we are all wanted here on A.C. and that we are all glad to be a part of Associated Content!
And thank you, to Associated Content, for making a place for all of us, that have something to say, and need someone to listen!

Published by Deneale K. Williams