Readers: I am extremely passionate about The Innocence Project and wanted to share a letter I recently received about a life changing policy that was introduced to legislation. Please share with others as this is going to change many lives. The letter reads: July 13, 2012 292 EXONERATED Rachel, I’m writing to let you know about important news from Washington that I know you’ll be excited to hear. Yesterday, lawmakers in both houses of Congress introduced legislation that will help prevent wrongful convictions by bringing reliable, science-based standards to forensic evidence. Leaders of both the Senate Commerce Committee and the House Science Committee took a tremendous step towards improving the criminal justice system by introducing legislation that would ensure that forensic sciences are based on the best science. The bills would put experts working at science-based agencies in charge of conducting research to ensure that forensic science disciplines have a strong scientific backingand are governed by consistent and meaningful standards. The bills are designed to address problems that were outlined in a 2009 National Academy of Sciences report that found that, with the sole exception of DNA evidence, none of traditional forensic science disciplines – including hair microscopy, fingerprint, bullet and bloodstain analysis – have been scientifically validated. This has resulted in practices that both hamper law enforcement’s ability to solve crimes and that have led to wrongful convictions. Faulty forensics have contributed to a staggering 50% of the DNA exonerations. I am especially thankful to the lead sponsors of the two bills, Sen. John D. Rockefeller and Reps. Eddie Bernice Johnson, Donna Edwardsand Daniel Lipinski. The Innocence Project urges Congress to act quickly to pass this legislation and to develop and support mechanisms for the practical implementation of the resulting research and standards. In justice, Madeline deLone Executive Director Innocence Project

PSI Columbus

At PSI Columbus, we are making great efforts to reach Central Ohio. You may have already seen our patrol vehicles in route providing quality services to our clients. We pride ourselves in professionalism and quality. Our image sets us apart from our competition. In fact, you may have already mistaken us for your local law enforcement.

You get what you pay for. Are your current services working for you?

Wrapping Up January!

Well this has been a great month and a great start to 2012. Lots of progress made with meshDETECT (Prison cell phones) and Patrol Services International (PSI Columbus). I truly enjoy the work that I do and cannot wait to look back in a few years and smile about all the hard work that has paid off.

I had no idea I'd have the opportunities I have now after finishing my PhD. Like I always say, "everything happens for a reason." I'm a firm believer in this and do my best each and every day. It's great to be a part of these growing companies. There is so much in store for the future...possibilities are endless.

I hope all of you are off to a great start thus far.

Stay tuned...

Adios, 2011!

Wow! 2011 has been filled with so many ups and downs. I have learned a great deal about the justice system this year and have continued thinking about law school. It's a big decision and would be life changing, but I have decided to put it on hold for another few years.

I have met so many great people this year and have had several opportunities come my way that I will forever be thankful for. And thanks to facebook, twitter, and linkedin, I have reconnected with many I have lost touch with over the years. This in itself is a blessing.

I am ready to end 2011, but ready and excited to start 2012. This year will be the most memorable yet! Filled with personal and professional growth, new adventures, and much needed changes...2012, here I come!

Thank you all and have a happy, healthy, and prosperous NEW YEAR!

For those of you who struggle with writing...

Over the years, I have written thousands of pages to earn my degrees. Now I am helping others do the same. Consider these tips for improving your writing skills:

1. Read good writers.

2. Practice writing daily.

3. Know your audience and constantly ask yourself "who cares?" when you are writing.

4. Replace "is," "are," "was," and "were" with more creative words or phrases.

5. Research your knowledge and give credit to others' ideas. For professional and academic purposes, avoid using personal opinions unless you can support it with facts.

6. Keep paragraphs short.

7. Be consistent throughout your writing.

8. Do not use contractions. Spell it out!

9. In the beginning, start with a question or short, powerful statement to grab readers' attention.

10. Keep the meat in the middle.

11. In the end, leave the reader with something to think about and end with an impact.

12. When proofreading, read aloud so you know how it sounds. Does it flow well? If it doesn't sound right, it probably isn't.

Now, get to writing. Don't forget to be creative!

Patrol Services International Referral Incentive

Patrol Services International is offering a referral incentive through January 31, 2012. Any current or new client that refers another and they become a client will receive a $100 gift card! This is an amazing incentive to give as a gift this holiday season or to do your own shopping with. Please contact me via email at: rblankenship@patrolservicesintl.com to learn more about PSI and to become a client. 'Tis the season for an increase in robberies/burglaries so get the protection you, your home, your business, your customers, and your family deserve.

We only use monthly agreements; no long term contracts needed. Our quality services speak for themselves. For more information on PSI, please visit our website at www.patrolservices.org.

Thank you and Happy Holidays!

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