The dayroom in each pod is just a big open space where there are phones, showers and cells on each wall. On the far wall that is shared with another pod, there is a large TV which the speakers are blown out. It’s nice enough because from our cell we can see the TV and hear most of what is going on. It’s not ideal, but hey, it’s better than nothing.
I really don’t understand why we are only allowed 30 minutes out of our cells. It’s very difficult to choose between calling the people you love, getting a chance to be out of your cell and talk to other inmates and take a much needed shower each day. I guess a lot of these guys don’t have people to call and don’t care to take a shower all that often, so maybe that is the rationale.
This time of year the main things on TV are college football and NBA basketball. It’s okay with me and it is at least a distraction. John, my bunkie likes to make dumb bets with me over who’s going to win each game. Even though there’s nothing to bet on it’s a way to keep time passing and to just get through the day.