Our hearts are overwhelm by this generous response

 It hasn't even been 24 hours since I went public with our fundraiser. Look at the progress. 

Let's bring those prison bars down.

This spring three events, that seemed completely unrelated, connected in a most peculiar way.

 

Hello, friends

As many of you know, my son is in prison.

James has been behind bars now for over seventeen years.

 

My darkest times began the day I sat in a courtroom after his trial and heard these words, "...guilty of first-degree murder."

 

Stunned, I asked how could this be true?

 

I did not believe my son's part amounted to murder.  It seemed clear James' employer threatened or deceived or unfairly obligated him to her.  Something inside kept urging me to hold to the hope that one day more of the truth would be revealed and that James would be let go for the time he'd already served.

 

Still, my prayers, pleading and trusting didn’t bring any action. I eventually resolved within my heart – no matter what…I would trust in Father’s goodness.

 

This spring three events, that seemed completely unrelated, connected in a most peculiar way. It appears the answers to my seventeen-years of prayer are being revealed. I felt nervous to hope; afraid to believe. Soon it was too obvious…Father was at work on James’ behalf. He’d been working all along, but His works were hidden until now.

 

After all these years, I believe we are finally at a pivotal point.

 

 

Recently, I met a man who has been instrumental in helping deserving prisoners gain their freedom.  He offered to read the entire transcript from James' trial.  After doing so, he told a friend of mine that in the hundreds of cases he has reviewed, he's come across only ten prisoners who have truly suffered a grave injustice.  He said, "James Fagone is one of those ten." He is working to get James the right sentence he deserves.

 

Although I have done my best over the past years not to ask friends or family for money, I am humbly asking anyone who may be so inclined to donate a little something to help us pay for the work this man is doing. Each dollar will add significance to pay for his travel, lodging, food, legal assistance, notary fees, and time. Can you help me reach a $12,000 goal?

 

I realize this is a particularly challenging time financially for many. But, if you are able to spare something, here are the ways you can assist:

 

PayPal  -  alongtheway58@gmail.com

If you send it to a "friend" PayPal won't charge a process fee

Zelle  -  559-281-8410

Venmo  -  Username:  Ralaine-Fagone

Check:  245 Silverbow Dr., Victor, MT  59875

Thank you so very, very much.

 Sincerely,

Ralaine Fagone

If you would like to follow this fundraising effort I will give a weekly update right here
until we reach the goal.

 

Note: I want to encourage those of you who have waited, trusted and grew weary believing. When you ask our Heavenly Father for help, He hears you. You may not see relief for years. I know that’s not what you want to hear. But, lift your eyes above your circumstances. You may catch a glimpse of Father working from another unexpected direction. Or, while waiting you will be empowered with strength to stand; Strength that develops you into a mature son or daughter of The Highest One.

Carrie Padgett's Book Review on Burden of Promise

Read Review Here

My Grand Opening contest has drawn a name

It’s Time To Talk 

By Ralaine Fagone

The media requests asking for an interview began the day my son James was arrested for murder. Over the years I repeatedly declined to speak, fearing the community would judge my faith and parenting skills. I determined when I was ready I would share my story, my thoughts, and my lessons on what I learned. The story has been told, so here I am, the time has come.  Friends, it’s time to talk. 

Do I need an Attorney?

 Believe it or not your future can be determined by one short word “do.” 

I wrote in my book Burden of Promise: When Tragedy Becomes a Teacher about the day James was taken into custody and questioned about a murder.  After one detective quoted the Miranda rights, my son responded, “Do I need an attorney?” 

That one short word “do”, asked as a question, changed James’ life. Without the benefit of counsel James told the police all that he knew or could remember about the horrible crime he’d been drawn into. If James had said, “I need an attorney”, all questioning would have stopped and with legal assistance, he could have revealed his knowledge as a witness for the state. His cooperation would have resulted in a more just sentence. Instead he is now serving life in prison without the possibility of parole.

If an officer approaches you with specific questions, you should first ask, “What is this regarding?” If it is a routine inquiry, be helpful so they can go on their way keeping the peace. 

However, if this contact involves an offense, ask “Am I a suspect?” or “Am I free to go?” If you aren’t free to leave the conversation, you are either under arrest or temporarily detained as a means to keep you and the public safe. 

Resist the nervous urge to explain yourself or give an opinion. If the questions noted above, regarding your detainment cause the officer to hesitate, it’s time to say, “I want an attorney.” Even innocent people with nothing to hide are wise to ask for counsel.  The words, “I want an Attorney” should stop further questions. If not, refuse to answer any questions until counsel arrives. 

Please Remember 

“You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney.”[1]

Be clear in saying you want a lawyer. James hoped to get helpful direction when he asked, “Do I need an attorney?” It could be taken as a request for legal advice, which the officer wasn’t obligated to give. 

Our communities rely on the police to keep us safe and secure. I’m thankful for their presence and sacrifice. These public servants are called upon at times to become adversarial when their focus is on solving a crime. The same officers that help you, can also hurt you. It is up to you to know and exercise your rights.  Ask for legal counsel. Remember your future may be determined by one little word.  

---

[1] “You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be provided for you. Do you understand the rights I have just read to you? With these rights in mind, do you wish to speak to me?” 

Coming Next: I will blog about how to prepare your children for the time they encounter the police. Sign-up and follow my blog so you don’t miss any helpful information. 

Upcoming Events

Monday, August 26th -2019, 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. 

Ralaine will talk a bit about her book and answer questions. Books will be available for purchase and/or signing if you'd like. Please come.

Wednesday, August 28th -2019, 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. 

Ralaine will talk a bit about her book and answer questions. Books will be available for purchase and/or signing if you'd like. Please come.