ender929, I doubt shade is the only thing they're "casing out" lol....Sounds like a great thing for ex thieves & druggies. I think a thief and a druggy can turn their life around and change for the better so, I'm all for a program to help those kinds of ex cons better their skills. But murderers, pedos and rapists, be damned. They should all get the death penalty.

OK, I was wrong. Please forgive me. After doing a little research, the recidivism rate here is about 40 percent. I got this from an ADC report from 2010. Add in the few that continue their ways and don't get caught, you still probably have at least half that do not go back to their old ways. My apologies to those that do make it, and become contributing members of society. I guess there should be more programs like this. Just off the top of my head, I can think of 4 friends of mine that have been in prion; 3 have turned their lives around, and are hard working men that keep their noses clean. One not so much; he lost a good job that he had been at for around 14 years because he was promoted, and couldn't keep his hands out of the safe at work. He was fortunate, they didn't press charges, but he lost a good job. Now, he's trying to fake his way into disability. I reckon I was trying to be funny, and it backfired; again, my apologies to all. I stand corrected, and agree with all that this is good program, and I will repeat, there should be more like it.

Anyone who puts in a day's work in this heat on a job this hard will probably be too tired to get out and get into trouble. I'm sure there will be a few exceptions, but this has been record setting heat. Most of them will be grateful to grab a cool shower and chill in the AC at the end of the day, if they can afford it. I imagine most will be casing out areas where they can work in the shade though, at least I would be.

Speaking of giving people a 2nd chance; there is a grocery store in Jax that doesn't care if you have a record. In case you know anyone in this postion that needs a job, something to look into. Can't mention the name of course, but most of you familiar with Jax know which store I'm talking about. After you put in your ap, keep after them, they have a quick turn around.

Sounds like a good program.I think this is what ex-cons need to make a new and positive start.

You Butch are one of the success stories. But I'm willing to bet that most do not succeed in rehabilitation. I'm willing to bet facts and figures would show most go back and forth as far as the joint is concerned. I've done concrete work also; it is hot, hard work. I do pray for people like these guys; but it seems most often, my prayers don't keep them out of trouble. I've already mentioned my sister-in-laws old man on here; he's been in 4 times, and I've got a bet with the wife on how soon he'll be back in there. Most do not beat the odds as you did. As far as a win win situation; that depends on the individual, doesn't it?

If I was one of them trying to get something to use in rebuilding my life. While working in blistering heat. I think I could leave off the casing of houses. Think! If robbing houses was the interest I could leave off the work. I think it could be that win win. I've drug a little of concrete in my time. It's hot tiring work. A man has to be willing.

Wonder how many homes they are "casing" while building sidewalks.

Sounds like a win-win situation. The city gets much needed sidewalks, ex-cons working and they get to learn a trade. Much better than just giving someone money and no responsibility.