KKYIeeping You Informed Jan. 5, 2018

Clarence Hammond Hockey Game will aid Detroit police officer hurt on duty The fifth annual Clarence Ham- ing. What: Clarence Hammond Memori- mond Memorial Hockey Game will be The matchup honors the memory al Hockey Game to support the fam- Saturday, Jan. 13, and all proceeds will of Clarence Hammond, a Macomb ily of Detroit police Officer Waldis support the family of Detroit police corrections officer killed outside his “Jay” Johnson. MDOC Black Knights Officer Waldis “Jay” Johnson, who was home in 2012. His murder remains v. Detroit Police. shot while on duty in April 2017. unsolved despite receiving media atten- When: 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, The event will be held at the Dear- tion throughout the years. 2018 born Ice Skating Center (The Disc). In June, MCO renewed a promise Where: Dearborn Ice Skating Center The MDOC Black Knights will play with Crime Stoppers of Michigan to (The Disc), 14900 Ford Rd., Dear- the Detroit Police hockey team. give a $5,000 reward to anyone who born, MI 48126 Johnson was shot while responding provides information that leads to an Cost: $10 to a call of domestic violence. He suf- arrest in Hammond’s death. Contact For more info: email CTO Bolan at fered a traumatic brain injury, according Crime Stoppers at 1-800-SPEAK-UP [email protected]. to a media report, and is still recover- or 1-800-773-2587.

In Memoriam: FSA Braman and Officer Beins Around the state: ICF staff CFP Member Jeremy SRF CO Brian Beins passed find drugs in mail; Flu at KCF Braman passed away away Dec. 24. ICF staff found sealed packages of suddenly Dec. 20. Beins had 22 years with the state Suboxone Dec. 19 in papers marked as Braman had about and was well-respected, officers said. legal mail. three years with the state. A memorial service was held Dec. A lieutenant reviewed the mail and He worked the first two years at Bel- 29. noticed some pages sticking together. lamy Creek and the last year at the Between the pages he found another piece of paper with contraband folded inside. Forensic Center. Please keep Braman’s and Beins’ Several folded packets of Suboxone were A memorial service was held Dec. family, friends, and coworkers in your found, along with a light brown powder. 27. prayers during this difficult time. Rest The inmate who was supposed to re- in peace, FSA Braman and CO Beins. ceive the mail was sent to segregation. Other recent events at ICF: MCO members: Beat the winter blues with exclusive deals 12/31: Staff intervened in an inmate- Check out $5 ski rentals. Those interested in on-inmate fight in Unit 5 (level V). the updated lodging can receive $10 off the rate 12/30: Gang-related inmate-on-inmate MCO discounts of Lodge Rooms and $20 off the rate assault in Unit 5. page. There of two-bedroom condos (condos 12/29: Inmate-on-inmate fight in Unit are several require a 2-night minimum). Addi- 6 (level II). options for tional appreciation weeks are Febru- winter fun. ary 25-March 1 and March 18-22. Kinross visits have been canceled Pine Moun- MCO also has discounts for and transfers have been restricted due tain Ski Resort in Iron Mountain Crystal Mountain, Kalahari Resorts, to a flu outbreak. is offering specials during Public Great Wolf Lodge, and many more. Two KCF inmates are confirmed to Safety Appreciation Week January Contact Tara Nichol with MCO have Influenza A, and at least 10 others 7-11. During this time, MCO mem- Member Benefits at (517)485-3310 are suspected to have it. bers can receive $10 lift tickets and ext. 150 to get these deals now. MCO was told no staff members have reported symptoms.

From the Office of MCO President Tom Tylutki, SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 1/5/18 KKYIeeping You Informed Jan. 12, 2018

MCO reveals special 50th anniversary logo and commemorative coin MCO is proud to reveal a special logo in recognition of our 50 years of service to Michigan corrections officers and forensic security staff. “This logo symbolizes all the ad- vances we’ve made for our members over the decades, and reminds us to look with hope toward our next 50 years,” said Andy Potter, MCO Vice President and Chief of Staff. “Our membership numbers are the highest among state employee unions and we are engaging members about the issues important to them. After all these years, we are still solid, and we will carry on our legacy for future generations of members.” In honor of our anniversary, all Top left: The new 50th anniversary logo. Above left: The commemorative 50th anniversary members received a commemorative coin. Above right: This month’s value in the Move Forward campaign is Excellence. Look coin with the anniversary logo on front for this poster in your facility now. Click here to view the poster larger on our website. and the twelve professional values we you understand what our founders knew: that what started as a grassroots effort integrate into our daily lives on back. that when we work together, each of us is by a group of concerned officers is still Coins were mailed with the holiday pack- stronger than we would be on our own.” thriving. age and we encourage each recipient to MCO came into existence in 1968 As a part of our Move Forward cam- carry this coin and recall the foundation when a group of corrections officers paign, look for this special gold and black upon which MCO is built. met to form an organization that would logo on our website, social media channels “I hope, when you look at this coin, primarily focus on prison security and and in publications throughout 2018. you remember all the staff that came custody issues. This is more than a simple logo but a before you,” said MCO President Tom Ty- A lot has changed in 50 years. We symbol of what we believe in and who we lutki. “As you hold it in your hand, I hope should all be proud and humbled to say are as professionals and as colleagues. Around the state: staff assaults at ECF, DRF Briefly... An ECF prisoner assaulted two of- his right elbow and right knee. The Exchange Transfer List will be ficers and three inmates Tuesday. The inmate was sent to segregation. cleared next week. If you requested to be The prisoner was called out of his placed on the list before August 2017, your cell in 7-block (Level II) for a minor tick- A DRF prisoner threw a softball- name will be removed. If you do not want et review. He punched the first inmate size rock at a Trinity employee, your name to be removed, please email he encountered, then hit another inmate, breaking several of her teeth, officers [email protected] immediately. officers said. He picked up a mop bucket said. and threw it at another prisoner, hitting The assault happened during lunch Scholarship applications for the him in the head. lines Dec. 30. The inmate was standing in 2018-2019 academic year are now on Then he swung on a responding offi- the serving line and threw the rock at her the MCO website. Union Plus and MCO cer. Another CO intervened and was also when he got to the front of the line. offer scholarships for children of active punched. Both staff members were sent He was taken to segregation and later members. Don’t delay – the Union Plus to an emergency room for treatment. transferred. deadline is Jan. 31! MCO’s scholarship One officer suffered a bump on the head The employee also needed stitches, deadline is June 1. Good luck! and abrasions, and the other CO injured COs said.

From the Office of MCO President Tom Tylutki, SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 1/12/18 KKYIeeping You Informed Jan. 22, 2018

New MCO video: Gratitude amid Adversity Corrections officers come from many and be someone someday, for different backgrounds and walks of life. her,” CO Miller said. But certain virtues – respect, humility, The day he graduated from the gratitude – unite them all. Michigan Department of Cor- In a new video, Michigan Correc- rections Training Academy in the tions Officer Jorge Miller talks about his David Bergh class was a proud gratefulness for the direction and values day for Miller. He said his primary instilled in him by his parents, who passed focus in his new career is custody away when he was a teenager. and security. Beyond that, he These are some of the same values hopes to guide inmates to prepare In a new video, Officer Jorge Share now: Michigan Corrections Organization is lift- for release and reintegration into Miller talks about how values ing up as part of Move Forward, MCO’s society. instilled in him by his par- campaign to elevate corrections and foren- CO Miller volunteered to tell ents guided his life and led sic officers in the criminal justice system his story because he knows how to his career in corrections. and celebrate MCO’s 50 years of advocacy. important it is to change the nar- This video was produced as MCO is changing the narrative on cor- rative on corrections work. MCO part of MCO’s Move Forward rections work by drawing attention to the always seeks permission from campaign. diverse and professional work expected members before sharing their of modern-day corrections and forensic stories. are setting good examples for other staff, officers. Many Michigan corrections officers inmates, and their community. Do you or Despite the adversity he faced, Officer share a sense of thankfulness for their one of your coworkers have an inspira- Miller made good choices. Now, he’s a parents, mentors, coworkers, and oth- tional story? MCO wants to hear from you corrections officer setting an example for ers who encouraged them to make good and lift up your stories. This is how we inmates and others. choices and do the right thing even when start to change the narrative on correc- “(When my mom died,) I told her that it was a challenge. There are many admi- tions work. Email MCO Communications I was going to make something of myself rable Michigan corrections officers who Director Anita Lloyd. Around the state: WCC, LMF staff assaulted Transfer lists updated A WCC officer was choked and suffered very serious injuries. The Exchange Transfer List has been suffered a broken ankle in a tussle Please wish this CMO a quick cleared. If you requested to be placed on the list with an inmate Jan. 19. recovery. Stay safe. before August 2017, your name was removed. If you A corrections medical officer was would like to be added back to the list, please email making rounds in pod 8 when the An Alger inmate punched a CO Anita Lloyd. prisoner jumped in front of him and several times hours after she wrote Many people leave the Department or get a trans- became hostile. The prisoner grabbed him an insolence ticket. fer without notifying MCO to remove their name the officer in a choke hold. Another The assault happened in the Level from the list. Clearing the list once a year means the CMO tried to break the hold but II Spruce unit Jan. 17. As she walked list is more useful and effective. couldn’t. A mental health worker out of the dayroom, he punched her made a radio call for help. A lieuten- in the face. She fell to the floor and The Closer to Home Transfer List is com- ant and a sergeant arrived and broke activated her Personal Protective De- plete and has been posted on our website. There the hold. vice as he continued to hit her. The is no set time for when those on the list will be This inmate has a history of as- inmate stopped when COs arrived. transferred. saulting staff, an officer said. The officer suffered bruising. Contact Karen Mazzolini at (517)485-3310 ext. If staff hadn’t responded and The prisoner, who has a history of 139 with any questions. broken the prisoner’s hold, this offi- assaulting staff and inmates, was For more on the different types of transfers, see cer could have lost consciousness and transferred, a CO said. Article 15, Part D of the MCO contract.

From the Office of MCO President Tom Tylutki, SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 1/22/18 bulletin Jan. 29, 2018 MDOC announces closure of West Shoreline Correctional Facility MDOC has announced the closure of West Shoreline Correctional Facility, tenta- tively scheduled for March 24. MCO leaders were notified this morning. Read MDOC’s announcement here. The MDOC states there was no single reason MTF was chosen for closure. A closure was long expected, although MCO officials didn’t know when or where. For years, the legislature has pushed for closures to achieve cost savings as the pris- on population declines. The state’s inmate population is now less than 40,000 – the lowest number in more than 20 years, according to the MDOC announcement. MDOC Director Heidi Washington has testified before the legislature as saying a closure would be coming when she felt the time was right. Read MCO’s article about comments she gave in Feb. 2017 to the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Corrections. Subcommittee Chair John Proos has brought up closures several times over the years. MCO President Tom Tylutki and MCO staff are heading to West Shoreline now to meet with members. The MCO Executive Board and staff will plan additional meetings with impacted members soon. Under the terms of the MCO contract, MCO officials will sit down with the Department to discuss the ramifications of this closure and to discuss a bumping area, with the goal of coming to a mutual agreement that will mitigate the impact to members as much as possible. This is a difficult process and will take several weeks. Like MCO has done in the past, we will work to ensure the West Shoreline closure goes as smoothly as it pos- Michigan Corrections sibly can. Organization SEIU Local 526M MCO will keep members updated on any develop- 421 W. Kalamazoo ments. Please watch our website, email newsletters, and Lansing, Mi 48933 517.485.3319 our members-only Facebook group. You can also sign 800.451.4878 www.mco-seiu.org up for text message alerts by texting MCO to 787753. [email protected]

From the Office of MCO President Tom Tylutki, SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 1/29/18 KKYIeeping You Informed Feb. 1, 2018

Calling all hockey enthusiasts! Play on an officer team MDOC announces closure Did you know there’s an all-new Coston said. “It takes your mind away of West Shoreline hockey team made up of MCO mem- from the negativity you might deal with As announced Monday, West Shore- bers? The team is in its first season and at work.” line Correctional Facility will be closed in is looking for players. All skill levels are CTO Josh Tullar plays on the team March. welcome. You just need to be in the and said they understand COs may not Read MDOC’s announcement and MCO bargaining unit or retired from the be able to make it to every game due to MCO’s bulletin. bargaining unit. The team has already mandates and rotating schedules. MCO Executive Board members achieved bronze sta- “I feel and staff were at the facility and other Muskegon prisons this week to meet with tus. Check out their like my members. More meeting dates will be an- stats. whole nounced. The team needs career I Like in the Pugsley closure, MCO several alternates missed out staff will prepare a detailed closure guide due to players’ work on stuff like for all affected members. schedules. Games are this because MCO President Tom Tylutki and on Monday evenings of the other Board members are meeting with and occasionally schedule,” the MDOC human resources director Wednesday evenings at the Midland Civic Tullar said. “So it’s really nice to be a part today to negotiate a bump region. This Arena. Many players practice during rink of this. When you can make it, you’re process is a negotiation done within the drop-in times. more than welcome to play.” confines of our collective bargaining Team Capt. Drew Coston, the MCO Coston would like to eventually have agreement. Tom has been MCO’s point SLF chapter vice president, said there’s a two teams, one for beginners and one for person through several closures and has strong sense of camaraderie on the team. intermediate players. experience in coming to an agreement “It’s good for officers to have hob- For information on fees and other de- that serves all members. We will keep all bies and be included in activities outside tails, email Drew Coston at dcoston11@ members updated as negotiations unfold of work because it’s a stress reliever,” icloud.com. and a plan takes shape. MCO also issued this press statement Around the state: KCF CO assaulted; fight at IBC Monday: An intoxicated Kinross inmate An IBC officer fired a warning “It’s unfortunate for corrections of- slapped a CO last week. shot to break up an inmate fight ficers any time a prison closure is an- Officers approached the Level II Tuesday. nounced, because their lives are affected prisoner on the yard because he seemed A Level IV inmate started wailing on so deeply. A closure is a time of uncer- impaired. He ran from officers and went another prisoner while on the big yard. tainty and stress for officers because to his housing unit. An officer stopped A warning shot was fired and officers on their employment, work location, living him in the unit, and he slapped her, of- the ground quickly responded. arrangements, childcare, and other critical ficers said. Another CO intervened. The Staff recovered a weapon from the aspects of day-to-day life are made uncer- responding officer sprained his wrist and scene. tain. We know it is a difficult process, but hasn’t returned to work. No staff were injured. One of the like MCO has done in the past, we will Staff issued the prisoner misconduct inmates had minor injuries. work to ensure the West Shoreline closure tickets for assault on staff, substance Thank you to all the officers around the state goes as smoothly as it possibly can. All abuse, and disobeying a direct order. The who responded to dangerous situations this week. inmate was transferred. these details that impact officers’ lives Stay safe. must be sorted out, according to MDOC Now more than ever, it’s important that all members stay connected with and MCO protocol, in the coming weeks. MCO. Sign up for text alerts now by texting MCO to 787753. Follow us: MCO will keep members updated every step of the way.” Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram

From the Office of MCO President Tom Tylutki, SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 2/1/18 bulletin Feb. 2, 2018 Brooks and Muskegon will be in the West Shoreline layoff unit Brooks and Muskegon correctional facilities will be in the layoff unit for the West Shore- line closure. MCO and MDOC negotiated the layoff unit this week. Officers at a facility in the layoff unit will be allowed to voluntarily transfer outside of the layoff unit before the bumping process begins. MDOC personnel will email an MCO Vol- untary Transfer Form to all officers in the layoff unit Feb. 6. Forms are due back at person- nel by 3 p.m. Feb. 15. After those members leave the layoff unit, the bumping process will begin. In the bump- ing process, the three facilities’ seniority lists will be combined, and all FTEs at Brooks and Muskegon will be filled according to seniority. Members who do not have the seniority to be placed at Brooks or Muskegon will be given a layoff slip and an Expedited Recall Form. The Expedited Recall Form gives members rights to return to Brooks or Muskegon as the MDOC fills vacancies at those facilities. On Tuesday, Feb. 6, MCO will hold meetings for members of all three chapters to discuss the closure process. We will answer questions and give everyone a packet explaining your options and the process. WHERE: Northway Lanes, 1751 Evanston Ave., Muskegon. WHEN: Feb. 6 from 12:45 p.m.-1:45 p.m.; 2 p.m.-3 p.m.; 4:45 p.m.-5:45 p.m.; 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Additional meetings will be scheduled over the next few weeks. All of this won’t happen overnight – it will take weeks. Your patience is appreciated as we all walk through this process. MCO leaders know that closures are painful and stressful for the members involved and their families. All Board members are COs. Most Board members have been through closures themselves and have Michigan Corrections experienced the worries first-hand. Leaders will do everything Organization possible to mitigate the impact as much as possible. SEIU Local 526M 421 W. Kalamazoo MCO will keep members updated on any developments. Lansing, Mi 48933 Please watch our website, email newsletters, and our mem- 517.485.3319 800.451.4878 bers-only Facebook group. You can also sign up for text mes- www.mco-seiu.org sage alerts by texting MCO to 787753. [email protected] From the Office of MCO President Tom Tylutki, SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 2/2/18 bulletin Feb. 7, 2018 Governor wants state employees to run food service Today, Gov. Rick Snyder recommended that the Trinity contract not be renewed when it expires this summer and that state employees again run prison food services. MDOC Director Heidi Washington issued a statement moments ago. “Budget language first approved in 2012 required the open bidding of our food service operations to reduce costs. That boilerplate language is no longer in place. While this is a request made by the governor today, it is not a done deal and adequate funding for this change still requires the approval of the Legislature moving forward,” Washington wrote in the statement. MCO members and leaders had voiced serious safety concerns about Trinity and Ara- mark throughout their contracts. These concerns led MCO to start a national conversation with other corrections administrators and unions. Poor food quality and quantity has created problems in prisons around the country. MCO members never backed off from our security concerns around food service chang- es. We frequently discussed it with legislators, the media, and MDOC administrators. Mem- bers banded together on this issue and spoke with one voice. This shows our advocacy and persistence can lead to positive safety changes when we work together. There are many unanswered questions about this transition back to state workers. When we have concrete details, we will share them with members. MCO believes that front-line staff are a resource and should be included in the conversation when these kinds of changes are made. We all know corrections is changing around the U.S. Innovations and new technologies are unveiled every day. As corrections officers and professionals, we should embrace and help inform where these changes work and where they don’t. We hope corrections administrators will invite more frontline staff and their unions to the table to help think through the Michigan Corrections Organization possible solutions. SEIU Local 526M MCO will keep members updated on any developments. 421 W. Kalamazoo Lansing, Mi 48933 Please watch our website, email newsletters, and our mem- 517.485.3319 bers-only Facebook group. You can also sign up for text mes- 800.451.4878 www.mco-seiu.org sage alerts by texting MCO to 787753. [email protected]

From the Office of MCO President Tom Tylutki, SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 2/7/18 KKYIeeping You Informed Feb. 12, 2018

Officer Elwanda Ray honored as MDOC 2018 CO of the Year Watch Livestream of The Michigan Cor- • David Rowley, St. Louis Correctional Facility Honor Guard raising rectional Officers’ Train- Officer Rowley has 23 years with the depart- special flag Friday ment and is a great role model for new staff, his ing Council has named The Honor Guard will Officer Elwanda Ray, nominator wrote. He articulately raises concerns be at the MCO headquarters an employee at Thumb and helped create new movement plans for medi- Friday to raise our special Correctional Facility, as cation and meal lines. anniversary flag and enjoy a the 2018 Corrections Of- CO Rowley is a veteran of the Army and ficer of the Year. Marine Corps. His extensive volunteer work has luncheon in celebration of “I’m humble and grate- included coaching, school functions, and helping the Honor Guard’s 30th an- ful because I truly, truly elderly neighbors with yard work. He is working niversary. CO Ray do love my job and what I on a master’s degree in professional accountancy. Members can go to our do,” CO Ray said. “I love Facebook group to watch that I can make a difference in someone’s life.” • Jerald Nugent, Cotton Correctional Facility a livestream of the Honor Officer Ray is a firm believer in the power of Officer Nugent, with 17 years with the Guard raising the flag. Watch a positive attitude. She is a mentor in her com- MDOC, “demonstrates excellence when perform- for the livestream to start munity, to coworkers, and to inmates in the Burns ing his duties,” his warden wrote in his nomination at about 11:45 a.m. Friday, B unit at Thumb. She hopes the lessons offenders materials. Feb. 16. We will also post a learn in prison will help them lead better lives after CO Nugent started a Veterans Day cookout at video of the flag raising on release. JCF to support Sweets for Soldiers, a program that YouTube and our website “Your attitude can change everything. You sends treats to service men and women. Nugent is after the event. don’t have to be negative,” CO Ray said. “(In my a veteran and an MCO Military Advocate at JCF. This month’s value in the unit), we say good morning. I encourage (prison- Move Forward campaign is ers), and hopefully that makes a difference.” • Tom Johnson, Absconder Recovery Unit Honor. In corrections, honor Finalists are: Investigator Johnson joined the ARU in 2015 means we hold ourselves • Peter Goodreau, Baraga Correctional Facility after years as a parole agent, probation agent, and to a high standard and hold Officer Goodreau is a Security Threat Group SAI drill instructor. Thanks to his prior experi- our careers in high esteem. team member and a former Emergency Response ence, he brought a wealth of knowledge to the The Honor Guard embodies Team member. He was instrumental in transition- job. Johnson’s volunteer work includes coaching ing a general population unit to segregation on these values and lifts up the baseball teams and mentoring at a county juvenile best of the MDOC. short notice. center. CO Goodreau uplifts coworkers and has Make sure to visit us Friday on Facebook, Twitter, earned the respect of both staff and prisoners, his Congratulations to the finalists and Officer Instagram and mco-seiu.org warden wrote in Goodreau’s nomination. He has of the Year Elwanda Ray! Read more about to see the Honor poster. 21 years with the MDOC. them and see photos at mco-seiu.org.

Men sentenced in drone drop; MCO advocates for drone restrictions near prisons The three men charged in the MTU Schafer said he hoped the legislature Read more on their sentencing. drone drop in August have been sentenced would address the issue of drones being MCO has brought attention to this issue in Ionia County 8th Circuit Court. used in conjunction with furnishing contra- over the past year and has met with dozens Jonathan Larawn Roundtree, Daryl band, because “clearly there is a huge safety of legislators across the state to discuss the Steven Marshall, and Patrick Corey Seaton issue to all penal institutions, including danger of drones. The House is consider- Jr. were sentenced by Judge Ronald Schafer, fellow inmates, staff and other people who ing a five-bill drone package that would the Ionia Sentinel-Standard reported. work there.” prohibit drone use near prisons. They are HB 5494, HB5495, HB 5496, HB 5497, Now more than ever, it’s important that all members stay connected with and HB 5498. To read the bills, go to the legislature’s website and search for each bill. MCO. Sign up for text alerts now by texting MCO to 787753. Follow us: MCO will continue to advocate for regula- Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram tions on drone use near prisons.

From the Office of MCO President Tom Tylutki, SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 2/12/18 KKYIeeping You Informed Feb. 22, 2018

Move Forward: The value of Honor in corrections In corrections, the term honor can tions Organization – Move Forward take on many forms. From high standards Campaign. to personal achievements, honor is re- The honor poster depicts the Michi- garded and sought after by every member gan Department of Corrections Honor of our profession. Guard, which celebrates its 30th an- To many, honor is earned and at times niversary this year. The Honor Guard comes with great sacrifice. To acknowl- was formed in response to the slaying of edge these contributions, honor is this corrections officers Josephine McCallum month’s value in the Michigan Correc- and Jack Budd. Read more about how the Honor Guard started. Now Honor Guard members from across the state, many of whom are COs, console the families and co-workers of fallen corrections staff throughout the United States. They volunteer their personal time to show solemn gratitude This month’s value in the Move For- for those who have made the ultimate ward campaign is Honor. View the Jeremy Tripp, Government and sacrifice. poster on Instagram. Political Affairs director, talks to the At times, we in corrections may not change the image of corrections and re- Honor Guard at a special anniver- always feel honored or appreciated but it’s up to us to respect each other, honor write the narrative that is falsely depicted sary luncheon hosted by MCO Feb. in television and movies. If we don’t do it, 16. The Honor Guard also raised our accomplishments, and encourage each other to strive for this noble distinc- no one else is going to do it for us. MCO’s anniversary flag. See video Look for this honor poster and others of the flag raising on YouTube. tion. By honoring our coworkers’ good deeds, as well as our own, we can begin to in the series in your facility soon. Mark your calendar for UP Crisis Fund Golf Outing Bellamy Creek officers the UP Golf Outing! WHEN: Friday, July 20. Registration dressed out by prisoner starts at 9:15 a.m. Shotgun start at 10 The UP Golf Outing returns this An IBC inmate threw feces on two of- a.m. ficers last week, drenching one of them to his summer! Join us Friday, July 20 at Pic- WHERE: Pictured Rocks Golf Course, tured Rocks Golf Course in Munising. shoulders. E10240 County Road H-58, Munising, The COs were preparing to escort a segre- Additional details are in the box at right. MI 49862 gation prisoner back to his cell after a shower. The downstate golf outing, held near COST: $70 for 18 holes with dinner. When they approached him in the shower Lansing, will be in August. Info on that SIGN UP: Go to mco-seiu.org for a outing will be shared soon. form you can print and fill out. Mail area, he threw a container with feces and The UP Golf Outing and traditional the form and check to MCO Crisis water onto the officers. One CO’s head was downstate golf outing raise money for Fund, 421 W. Kalamazoo, soaked and the other had some fluid on his upper body. The inmate received two assault the Crisis Fund, which helps MCO Lansing, MI 48933 tickets and was transferred to another facil- members facing catastrophe. To those TO SPONSOR OR GET ity. Officers thought he may have been upset who support the Crisis Fund, thank you! MORE INFO: Contact Tim Fleury at timfleury@ about a sexual misconduct he received the day outlook.com before from another CO. Photos were taken for evidence, and the Now more than ever, it’s important that all members stay connected with prisoner could possibly be prosecuted. MCO. Sign up for text alerts now by texting MCO to 787753. Follow us: What’s going on at your facility? Email Commu- nications Director Anita Lloyd at anita@mco-seiu. Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram org. Thanks, members. From the Office of MCO President Tom Tylutki, SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 2/22/18 KKYIeeping You Informed March 2, 2018

Around the nation: Pennsylvania Officer dies after assault; updates from AMF, ICF, ARF A Pennsylvania corrections officer Baraga COs uncovered several related. The assaulted inmate suffered died Monday from injuries he suf- weapons last week. minor injuries. fered in a prisoner assault 11 days After a prisoner dropped a weapon earlier. as he was walking into a shower stall, A Level IV Gus Harrison inmate Sgt. Mark J. Baserman worked at officers shook down his cell and found covered his cell window and threat- State Correctional Institution-Somerset. 10 plastic weapons in a locker. The ened to harm his cell mate, but a He was a member of the Pennsylvania weapons appeared to be made from a staff squad extracted both inmates State Corrections Officers Associa- TV’s plastic cover. The prisoner was in a with no reported injuries. tion. MCO sent a card and flowers to Level V unit’s reintegration wing, mean- The prisoner wouldn’t obey staff his union to express Michigan officers’ ing he had been in segregation and was orders to uncover his window. After he condolences. being eased back into general popula- threatened to slit his cell mate’s throat, a Baserman was at a desk in a hous- tion. squad was called in. ing unit when an inmate punched him Also last week, officers found a The inmate who made threats went several times in the head and stomped toothbrush sharpened into a weapon. It to segregation. on him with heavy work boots, accord- was hidden inside a cable outlet cover in Good job to the staff who inter- ing to media reports. Another officer an inmate’s cell. vened quickly to prevent possible intervened, and the inmate assaulted Another Level V inmate had sharp- violence. him before turning back to Baserman. ened the arms of a pair of glasses and The prisoner may have attacked stashed them in a cell vent. Staff found Last week’s story about a dress Baserman because he took a towel the them during a routine search. out at Bellamy Creek was picked up inmate had hung in his window, block- Great job to AMF officers who dis- by the Ionia Sentinel-Standard and ing the view of his cell. covered this contraband. CorrectionsOne. Earlier this week, it Services are planned for March 7. was the most read news article on Cor- Please join us in wishing peace for ICF staff responded to an inmate rectionsOne. This illustrates the reach and Baserman’s family, friends, and cowork- assault that involved two weapons. impact of the KYI. Let us know what’s going ers. Two Level V prisoners attacked on at your facility. Email Communications Rest in peace, Sgt. Baserman. another inmate on the Unit 5 yard Director Anita Lloyd at [email protected]. Wednesday. Officers say it was gang- Thanks, members.

In Memoriam: Agent Dana (Taylor) Brye MTF closure update: layoff/bump Probation Agent now-closed Western Wayne Cor- notices to be issued Monday and former CO Dana rectional Facility in 1998. She also Layoff/bump notices will be distributed to officers Brye passed away Feb. worked at Women’s Huron Valley in the West Shoreline layoff unit Monday, March 5. The 27. before becoming an agent. MDOC human resources director will deliver letters to Brye’s name was Keep her family, friends, and affected MTF staff in person Monday. Affected LRF and Dana Taylor when she worked colleagues in your thoughts. as an officer. She started at the Rest in peace, Agent Brye. MCF staff will get notification from their HR office. MCO staff will be in Muskegon Monday and Tuesday Now more than ever, it’s important to meet with members and answer any questions. Facebook that all members stay connected with They will be at MTF Monday from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. and from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the room across the hall MCO. Sign up for text alerts now by Twitter texting MCO to 787753. Follow us: from the CO lunchroom and the deputy warden’s office. YouTube Tuesday they will tour MCF from 10 a.m. to noon. (Don’t visit social media from state Also Tuesday they will be in the LRF conference room computers.) Instagram near the employee entrance from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

From the Office of MCO President Tom Tylutki, SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 3/2/18 KKYIeeping You Informed March 13, 2018 Sign up now for Benefits for Life plans Bellamy Creek CO The 2018 Benefits for Open En- over effective May 1, 2108. No action punched while rollment started March 12 and runs is needed to keep your current cover- signing call-out slips through March 30. Benefits for Life age. An IBC prisoner punched an of- plans are optional benefits in which Eligible employees are encouraged ficer in the face March 6 in a Level employees pay 100% of the cost of to visit www.BeneiftsforLife.org to IV segregation step-down unit. coverage. Such optional benefits include review existing coverage, make changes, The CO was standing next to a enhanced accident insurance, supple- or enroll. Remember to select Register podium in the Unit 5 common area mental term life insurance and more. instead of Login when visiting the en- as inmates approached to get their NEW FOR 2018: MetLife will rollment site as usernames and pass- be the new provider of Supplemen- words from prior years are no longer call-out slips signed. One prisoner tal Term Life Insurance, Accidental valid. If you would like further infor- handed the CO his pass, and as the Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) mation or prefer to enroll by phone, officer was signing it, the inmate Insurance and Legal plans with new call the Benefits for Life Call Center at punched him on the side of the face. enhanced coverage limits. If you are 888-825-8395, Monday-Friday 9 a.m. – The officer fell back, and the inmate currently enrolled in any of these plans, 6 p.m. punched him again. A nearby officer your coverage will automatically roll- - Information provided by MCSC immediately stepped in, and another CO called for help on the radio. Changes coming to MCO mass email system The assaulted officer went to a MCO is switching to a new mass appearance of our emails and website hospital for treatment. Luckily, he email system, effective April 1. All forms in the next few weeks, and you only suffered bruising. The respond- links in emails from MCO before may possibly run into some techni- ing officer also went to a hospital for April 1 may no longer work after cal difficulties. If you experience any a shoulder injury. that date. If you have links from our issues, please report them to anita@ The inmate was transferred to emails that you’d like to access in mco-seiu.org. another prison. Officers said it may the future, please bookmark them We are doing prep work to ensure have been gang related. now. Remember, you can access KYI this transition goes smoothly, but we Corrections officers can be as- archives at http://www.mco-seiu.org/ may not be able to anticipate every saulted at any time. Be especially publications/kyi/ and find lots of possible technical problem. That’s why cautious when your hands are busy, archived information by searching on we ask that you report any issues as and always stay near your partner. our website. soon as possible. Great work to the officer who im- You may also notice changes in the Thank you for your patience. mediately intervened in this assault. Stay safe. Prison dog training program helps corrections officer’s family CO Rick Benson and his wife, Ericka Benson, struggled for months to find a service dog for Ericka. That changed when CMO John Hassen, a Michigan Corrections fellow officer they met through MCO, introduced Organization them to Stiggy’s Dogs, a program that allows SEIU Local 526M Michigan prisoners to train service animals. 421 W. Kalamazoo Watch to find out how their story unfolds! Watch now Lansing, MI 48933 517.485.3310 Now more than ever, it’s important that all members stay connected with MCO. 800.451.4878 Sign up for text alerts now by texting MCO to 787753. Follow us: www.mco-seiu.org Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram [email protected]

From the Office of MCO President Tom Tylutki, SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 3/13/18 KKYIeeping You Informed March 27, 2018

Around the state: MTF now closed In Memoriam: West Shoreline closed last week The cell has its own shower, and main- McCallum and Haight as scheduled. tenance needed to check the tempera- In late March, we remember two Fifty-seven officers didn’t have ture. When the officers opened the slot Michigan corrections officers who made the seniority to stay in the layoff unit. in the prisoner’s door to cuff him for the ultimate sacrifice this month years They were given layoff notices and the escort, he threw feces on them. ago. expedited recall forms. Forty-eight of Evidence photos were taken. The Josephine McCallum was murdered those officers were granted transfers. incident was handled properly at the Notices were issued last week. The facility level, members said. at the former State Prison of Southern other nine officers didn’t apply for Michigan in Jackson on March 24, 1987. expedited recall. ICF staff did a great job re- McCallum was the only officer in the MCO posted frequent updates on sponding to an inmate’s medical activities building when she was brutally our website and Facebook group dur- emergency March 15. attacked and left to die. She left behind ing the closure. We also held several They quickly noticed the prisoner a husband and son. meetings in Muskegon and handed out was slurring his speech, and they called George Haight, a gatekeeper, was a closure packet with tons of resources for a nurse. Officers then retrieved a poisoned by an inmate March 27, 1893 to help families through the process. wheelchair and AED. They assisted at the Michigan State Penitentiary in MCO leaders and staff know health care staff throughout the inci- Jackson. Haight ate tainted food pre- closures are never easy. All of MCO’s dent. Nice work, ICF officers. pared by an inmate. Haight was survived Executive Board members have expe- Also that day, staff found five by a wife and five children. rienced a closure first-hand. Thanks, contraband razor blades and a piece McCallum, Haight, and two other members, for sticking with MCO of sharpened metal in Unit 5, a Level Michigan corrections officers who have throughout this process. V unit. Thank you to the officers who died in the line of duty – Earl DeMarse got these dangerous items out of the in September 1973 and Jack Budd in A Baraga inmate dressed out unit. December 1987 – are honored on two officers, hitting them with feces Other events at ICF: MCO’s Fallen Officers’ Memorial. on their shirts and pants. March 16 – Two-on-one inmate as- Read more about Michigan’s fallen The COs were escorting the sault on the Unit 3 (Level V) yard. corrections officers. inmate, who has a history of staff as- March 20 – A two-prisoner fight Remember McCallum and Haight as saults, from a segregation cell March 9. broke out in Unit 3 (Level V). you go about your day. May all our fallen officers rest in peace. MCO VP recaps food service struggles for C1 In a column published by CorrectionsOne, MCO Vice hanges coming to President/Chief of Staff Andy Potter summarized the C problems Michigan prisons experienced under priva- MCO mass email system tized food service and how MCO leaders and correc- Remember, MCO is switching to a tions officers spread awareness of security concerns. new mass email system, effective April 1. “I urge any corrections administrators reading this All links in emails from MCO be- to recognize that front-line staff are a resource, not a Photo by Dave Wasinger/ Lansing State Journal fore April 1 may no longer work after roadblock, and should be included in the conversation that date. If you have links from our when solutions are explored or operational changes emails that you’d like to access in the are made,” Potter wrote. Read the column now. future, please bookmark them now. CorrectionsOne is an industry leader in corrections news and training. Look for more columns from MCO in C1 in the coming months. Remember, you can access KYI archives at http://www.mco-seiu.org/publica- Now more than ever, it’s important that all members stay connected with MCO. tions/kyi/ and find lots of archived in- Sign up for text alerts now by texting MCO to 787753. Follow us: formation by searching on our website. Read more about this change in the Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram March 13 KYI. From the Office of MCO President Tom Tylutki, SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 3/27/18 KKYIeeping You Informed April 5, 2018 Move Forward: the value of character in corrections Your character tells a story about Character is vital because we must who you are and where you’ve been. rely on each other when stressful or We’re not born with character – it’s dangerous situations arise behind the instilled in us from a young age and walls. shaped by our families and our experi- “In a prison, we have to be ences. vigilant and prepared, knowing that Character is this month’s value in anything could happen at any time,” the Michigan Corrections Organization said CO Tim Fleury of Alger Cor- – Move Forward Campaign. Through- rectional Facility. “If you have faith out the campaign, we’ll introduce a in your partner’s character, you know shared value of our membership, ac- they’ll be at your side and have your companied by a unique poster, every back. That makes all the difference. month until Labor Day 2018. We must have character because At the academy, our fellow recruits we are trusting each other with our and trainers help us to develop our lives.” character as we learn the high stan- Why is character important to dards required by a career in correc- you? MCO wants to hear from you tions. When we get to the institution, and lift up your stories. This is how This month’s value in the Move For- our supervisors, co-workers and men- we start to change the narrative on ward campaign is Character. View the tors help us to sharpen those skills and the corrections profession. Email poster now on Instagram. bring character to all aspects of our MCO Communications Director work. Anita Lloyd.

Sergeant assaulted at Marquette Support the MCO Crisis An MBP inmate punched and responded. Without this CO’s quick Fund this summer cut a sergeant March 28 in what response, the injuries could have been Join us for the downstate or UP officers believe was a gang-related much worse. The prisoner was trans- Crisis Fund Golf Outing this summer! attack. ferred that afternoon. The UP outing will be Friday, July The sergeant was monitoring the Another prisoner was locked up 20 at Pictured Rocks Golf Course in staff desk while G-block (Level V) for stopping to watch the assault. Munising. was let out for yard. An inmate came The sergeant was taken to a hos- The downstate outing will be Fri- up to the sergeant, punched him in pital for treatment and released later day, Aug. 17 at Ledge Meadows Golf the face, and cut him with a sharp- that afternoon. Course near Lansing. ened piece of metal on the side of his Officers said the sergeant may have Pricing, signup, and sponsorship face. been targeted because of his work to information is on the MCO website. If Luckily, there was an officer in the identify gangs and curb their activity you don’t golf, please consider spon- unit who saw the assault and quickly in prisons. soring a tee or a cart. The crisis fund supports members Now more than ever, it’s important that all members stay connected with facing a catastrophe, whether it’s an MCO. Sign up for text alerts now by texting MCO to 787753. Follow us: on-the-job injury, house fire, sudden illness, or other disaster. To those who Instagram Facebook Twitter YouTube support the fund, we thank you!

From the Office of MCO President Tom Tylutki, SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 4/5/18 KKYIeeping You Informed April 19, 2018

Around the state: gang fights rattle SLF, MBP, ICF RUO/CMUO Update About 50 inmates have been in- one CO in the side of head and bit his The Michigan Supreme Court volved in gang-related fights at St. leg, an officer said. The prisoner ran. will take up MCO’s challenge of Louis over the past week. Another CO chased him and suffered the RUO/CMUO abolishments. The Level IV prison was placed on minor injuries while trying to restrain No hearing date has been sched- lock down Monday. Twenty inmates him. uled. have been transferred and others have This prisoner had four previous MCO has been fighting the been placed in segregation. The lock- convictions for staff assault. Officers abolishments since 2012, first down remains in effect. believe he should have been in segre- through the Civil Service Com- The fights stem from two gangs gation instead of a general population mission and now through the trying to control the use of phones housing unit. courts. See a timeline of our past and JPay machines, which allow Also that day, six inmates were in- actions. inmates to send emails and purchase volved in gang-related yard fights. One We’ll continue to keep mem- store goods. of the prisoners had a weapon. bers updated. The skirmishes started April 12 in The Level V units were locked fifth inmate approached and started Unit 5. Officers broke up the dispute. down due to the fights. assaulting one of the inmates. On Sunday, nearly 20 inmates in During the commotion, dozens of Unit 6, the segregation step-down Several gang-related fights have inmates in the unit came out of their unit, were involved in fights at meal broken out at ICF over the past cells to watch. The unit was locked times. week. down. The next day, 15 Unit 2 inmates COs responded to three fights and Only two officers were assigned to were involved in yard fights. Officers assaults April 13. The first was on the this unit at the time of the fights. found weapons in the area. More Unit 3 (Level V) yard. About an hour prisoners took part in additional fights later on the Unit 4 (Level V) yard, an Great job to the officers who responded to that day, prompting the lock down. inmate stabbed another prisoner sev- these dangerous situations over the past week. No staff injuries have been re- eral times with a 6-in. piece of metal. Stories like these are why MCO says correc- ported. A tower officer fired a warning shot, tions officers have Michigan’s toughest job. Corrections officers handled the and the prisoners stopped fighting. Thank you, members, for your professional situation well, MDOC spokesman Later that day, a Unit 5 inmate (Level service to keep prisoners and the public safe. Chris Gautz told the Detroit News. V) slashed another prisoner with a “It’s a real testament to their pro- weapon. fessionalism and their ability to do the On April 12, two inmates punched Now more than ever, it’s important job they’re trained to do,” Gautz said. another prisoner in Unit 4. that all members stay connected with MCO. Sign up for text alerts A Marquette inmate assaulted What started as a conflict be- now by texting MCO to 787753. two officers April 14 as he was tween two Thumb inmates grew Follow us: walking out of his cell. as three more inmates joined in a The prisoner was housed in the fight Monday. Level V G-block. The altercation started between two Facebook Twitter Officers were moving the prisoner prisoners in the Burns Unit, which is to another cell, but he didn’t want to Level II. Two more prisoners jumped Instagram go. He smashed his TV and punched in, and an officer separated them. A YouTube

From the Office of MCO President Tom Tylutki, SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 4/19/18 KKYIeeping You Informed April 27, 2018 MCO Central Committee will elect new Board at May 10 meeting The MCO Central Committee will The Central Committee is made up of Below are the nominees. Listed after elect a new Executive Board at its May 10 the chapter president, vice president and each name is the nominee’s currently held meeting in Lansing. other leader delegates from each chapter. office(s). Duties of Board members can be Information on Central Committee is in Results of the election will be an- found in Articles 10 and 13 of the MCO Article 12 of the MCO Constitution and nounced May 10. To hear the results first, Constitution and Bylaws. Bylaws. join our MCO Facebook group. PRESIDENT TREASURER • Dave Pasche – MTU President • Byron Osborn – URF 2nd Vice Presi- • Paul Jensen – ICF President • Tim Fleury – LMF Chief Steward dent & MCO Executive Board Member at • Ed Clements – AMF 1st Vice Presi- • Gabe Justinak – OCF President Large dent & MCO Executive Board Member at • Marcus Collins – DDC President – MCO Executive Large • Bill Henderson • Latese Walls – WHV President Board Treasurer • – RMI President RECORDING SECRETARY Kacy Datema – WHV Vice VICE PRESIDENT • Cary Johnson – JCF Chief Steward & • Voncha Henderson • Brent Kowitz – SMT Vice President & MCO Executive Board Member at Large President MCO Executive Board Recording Secre- • Mark Dunn – ECF President tary MEMBER AT LARGE • Lorraine Emery – IBC Chief • Ray Sholtz – SLF 2nd Vice President & (5 positions to be filled) Steward MCO Executive Board Member at Large • Scott Waggoner – ARF President & • Phillip Fleury – CFP President MCO Executive Board Member at Large Important budget Around the state: gang fights at ECF, AMF update: Senate wants At least twenty inmates took part Thirteen Baraga inmates were yet another closure in gang-related clashes Tuesday and moved to segregation for fights and MCO leaders and members are Wednesday at the Oaks. assaults this week. completely opposed to Sen. John The fights involved inmates from One fight, involving two members of Proos’ recent budget recommenda- Units 2 and 3, both Level IV. Both units rival gangs, broke out on the Unit 6 (Level tion for the Michigan Department of were locked down. V) yard Wednesday. As officers respond- Corrections. The first fight started after a prisoner ed, another prisoner ran out of the unit to Proos, Chair of the Senate Sub- approached a member of a rival gang join the brawl. committee on Corrections, has from behind and punched him in the Then on the Unit 4 (Level V) yard, a proposed a corrections budget that head. gang fight started near the phones. Three undercuts the governor’s proposal by The next day, another prisoner hit an inmates received tickets for fighting, and $25 million dollars. Under the Senate inmate in the back of the head, and seven six more were cited for failing to disperse recommendation, these cuts would more prisoners joined in the fight. when officers told them to return to their be achieved by closing yet another Officers intervened in these alterca- cells. unspecified prison, reducing funding tions quickly and escorted prisoners to There was also an assault on the Unit 5 to train new corrections officers, and segregation. No staff injuries were re- (Level V) yard Wednesday. eliminating transition costs to return ported. A few inmates needed stitches and A weapon made from a metal outlet food service from a private vendor had minor injuries. cover was found in Unit 4 Thursday. back to state employees. MCO sup- ports the governor’s recommended Now more than ever, it’s important that all members stay connected with MCO. budget. Sign up for text alerts now by texting MCO to 787753. Follow us: Read more on our website and contact your legislators to let them Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram know this proposal is dangerous. We’ll keep you updated. From the Office of MCO President Tom Tylutki, SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 4/27/18 KKYIeeping You Informed May 3, 2018 Move Forward: The Value of Recognition MCO honors Corrections Officers of the Year with new awards For correctional officers, recognition munity. by MCO Chap- is rarely a motivating factor in performing As union brothers and sisters, it ter officials and one’s duties or acting to ensure the safety is up to us to recognize the achieve- we encourage of an institution. ments of our colleagues and praise all members Recognition is this month’s value in the the quick thinking and heroic to participate. Michigan Corrections Organization – Move actions of our co-workers. As an Like all correc- Forward Campaign. Throughout the cam- organization, MCO is taking de- tions officers, paign, we’ll finitive action to lift these these award introduce qualities up and honor recipients do a shared those who have earned the a difficult job value of our distinction at their facility protecting the member- of “Corrections Officer of people of the ship, ac- the Year.” state of Michi- companied For the first time ever, gan and deserve by a unique MCO will be issuing (aside CO of the Year Elwanda Ray our thanks. poster, ev- from the MDOC) custom with her award from MCO. ery month awards, created and designed MDOC gives awards to all The until Labor to recognize the outstanding COs of the year and other MDOC’s exceptional employees, Day 2018. men and women who have Employee but MCO wanted to give In proven, through their actions, Appreciation officers a special award Michigan, to be of the utmost integrity Banquet was that brings to life the brave the “Cor- and character. work corrections officers held May 2 rectional Facility award winners perform. We appreciate and and drew a Officer of will receive a customized honor the achievements of record-break- the Year” is wooden box, engraved with officers. See more banquet ing crowd of the highest This month’s value in the Move the MCO logo. The inside of photos on Flickr. more than 400 recognition Forward campaign is Recogni- the box will commemorate people. an officer tion. Click here to view the poster the award winner’s name, Gov. Rick can receive, larger on our website. year and facility and include a Snyder made an appearance and congratu- yet it is rare- custom coin created to honor this lated MDOC staff on their work to reha- ly sought exceptional achievement. bilitate inmates and keep the public safe. out or promoted due to personal humility The statewide officer of the year will Snyder recently signed a proclamation mak- and strong feelings of simply doing ones receive a superior cast resin upright that sits ing the first full week of May Correctional duty. This selflessness is also reflected on on a black painted wood base and is refer- Officers Week in the State of Michigan. a national level. A simple internet search enced on the recognition poster displayed Officer of the Year Elwanda Ray and all would return very little in terms of awards at your facility. Next to the male/female facility COs of the year were honored. In and recognition for corrections officers officer is a glass piece to recognize the her remarks, Ray encouraged staff to take yet many distinctions are bestowed upon awardee’s name and facility. pride in their work and uplift each other. others within the law enforcement com- Awards will be presented at the facility “I challenge you, as you go back to your facility, if you think morale is down, what Now more than ever, it’s important that all members stay connected with MCO. can you do? You?” Ray said. Sign up for text alerts now by texting MCO to 787753. Follow us: MCO leaders and staff would again like to congratulate all facility officers Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram of the year. You should take pride in this great professional achievement.

From the Office of MCO President Tom Tylutki, SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 5/3/18 KKYIeeping You Informed May 10, 2018 New Executive Board selected at Central Committee meeting Please join us in congratulating the newly elected MCO State Executive Board! Central committee delegates selected Board members at their meeting Thursday in Lansing. Here are the results. For each position, top vote getters are listed in bold.

• President – Byron Osborn, URF (57 votes) MCO Director of Political and Government Affairs Jeremy Tripp swears in the new Executive President – Bill Board. From left: Tripp, Trustee Gabe Justinak, Trustee Scott Waggoner, Trustee Marcus Collins, Trustee Dave Pasche, Recording Secretary Cary Johnson, Vice President Ray Sholtz, Trustee Mark Henderson, SRF Dunn, President Byron Osborn, Treasurer Ed Clements. MCO President (38 votes) Byron Osborn votes) go into effect in January. MCO leaders and • Vice Presi- • Trustee – Dave Pasche, MTU (52 staff have been researching the implica- dent – Ray votes) tions of the changes and will be visiting all Sholtz, SLF (60 votes) • Trustee – Mark Dunn, ECF (53 chapters and sharing more info soon. Vice President – Brent Kowitz (35 votes) votes) Duties of Board members can be • Trustee – Marcus Collins, DDC (47 found in Articles 10 and 13 of the MCO • Treasurer – Ed Clements (59 votes) votes) Constitution and Bylaws. Treasurer – Paul Jensen, ICF (34 votes) The Central Committee is made up of See the complete list of those who ran the chapter president, vice president and • Recording Secretary – Cary Johnson, on our website. other leader delegates from each chapter. JCF (unopposed, 79 votes) The new Board will continue the Information on Central Committee is in important work of the previous Board Article 12 of the MCO Constitution and • Trustee – Scott Waggoner, ARF (56 to engage members and build relation- Bylaws. votes) ships with allies. They are also tasked with Thanks, members, for your continued • Trustee – Gabe Justinak, OCF (55 navigating Civil Service rule changes that support. Around the state: inmate brutally assaults officer, breaking several bones A Gus Harrison inmate attacked broken arm, and a concussion. The other segregation. two officers Sunday near the officers’ officer had a back injury. Officers immedi- Another officer was assaulted by an desk in Housing Unit 1, a Level II unit. ately responded. inmate Saturday in Housing Unit 4, a Level The prisoner approached the COs The prisoner was upset about a mis- IV RTP unit. while they were near the officers’ desk and conduct ticket one of them wrote. Also last week, an inmate spit on an punched them. One of them suffered a Both COs were treated at a hospital officer during an escort. broken nose, lacerations from his glasses, a and released. The inmate was taken to Once again, we’d like to recognize May 6-12 as Correctional Officers Week. Now more than ever, it’s important that all members stay connected with MCO. MCO produced a special video to shine Sign up for text alerts now by texting MCO to 787753. Follow us: light on the dedication of corrections officers. CorrectionsOne reposted our Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram video to spread the word. Thanks again, corrections officers!

From the Office of MCO President Byron Osborn SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 5/10/18 KKYIeeping You Informed May 25, 2018 Around the state: gang violence at ICF; ECF COs save officer’s life ICF officers dealt with a few job of researching these inmates’ gang have saved this officer’s life. After he gang-related fights last week. affiliations and the sources of their was taken to a hospital, medical staff The combat started when a suspect- disputes. Keep up the good work. even called the prison to commend the ed gang member in Unit 5 (Level V) staff. stabbed a suspected member of a rival Officers at the Oaks saved a CO’s Several officers and other staff gang. The weapon was a steel rod made life when they revived him with an members have been nominated for from part of a locker. AED after a serious heart attack. lifesaving awards. In another incident, two other The officer collapsed May 13 in The officer is expected to make a prisoners from the same unit used a housing unit 3 while passing out food full recovery. weapon to assault an inmate. trays. Officers and other staff imme- This story reinforces the fact that ICF staff responded quickly to diately responded and used the AED. COs are well-trained first responders. these fights. They’ve also done a great Their training and quick action may Excellent work.

Briefly... Catch the MDOC Among the many issues that Black Knights June 9 MCO advocates on, none is more The MDOC Black Knights hockey important than correctional of- team will play Michigan State Police in ficers being recognized for their a special matchup to support the family work as professionals. of a former corrections officer who House Bill 5849, which MCO passed away in March. has prioritized and supports, would Joe Leahy started as a CO with the add local and state corrections offi- MDOC in 1997. He worked at SAI, cers to the definition of “peace of- Huron Valley Men’s, and Woodland. ficer” for the purposes of carrying Corrections staff from OCF and AMF par- He was a member of the Emergency ticipated in the Peace Officers Memorial and administering life-saving drugs Response Team and the Honor Guard. such as opioid antagonists. Service in Crystal Falls during National Police Week. Thank you, officers, for representing He was working for the Texas Depart- Read more on our website, the MDOC. See more photos on Flickr. Pho- ment of Criminal Justice when he died. including a letter of support from tos courtesy of CO Jason Nelson. Please join the Black Knights for the bill sponsor Rep. Patrick Greene. hockey game and in supporting Leahy’s Don’t delay: MCO Scholarship deadline is June 1 family. Don’t forget, the deadline for MCO Incomplete applications will not be Scholarship applications is June 1. considered. What: Hockey game to support Mailed applications must be post- MCO offers scholarships for mem- family of former MDOC CO Joe marked by that day. Print an application bers’ children who will enter or return Leahy. MDOC Black Knights v. Michi- from our website. Online applications to college this fall. Twenty scholarships gan State Police. must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. June of $750 each will be awarded. Good When: 2 p.m. Saturday, June 9, 2018 1. Complete the online application. luck! Where: Ann Arbor Ice Cube, 2121 Oak Valley Dr., Ann Arbor, MI 48103 Now more than ever, it’s important that all members stay connected with MCO. Cost: $10 suggested donation Sign up for text alerts now by texting MCO to 787753. Follow us: For more info: email CTO Bolan at Facebook Twitter YouTube Instagram [email protected].

From the Office of MCO President Byron Osborn SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 5/25/18 KYIKeeping You Informed June 1, 2018 Michigan Supreme Court examining briefs in RUO/CMUO lawsuit As announced in the April 19 KYI, that concern the scope of the Court of MCO has been fighting the abol- The Michigan Supreme Court is con- Appeals’ review. ishments since 2012, first through the sidering the RUO/CMUO case. The state’s attorneys now have the Civil Service Commission and now MCO’s attorneys filed a brief opportunity to submit a brief to the through the courts. See a timeline of with the Supreme Court May 18. The Court. Once their brief is submit- our past actions. Supreme Court asked for briefs that ted, the Court could make a ruling or We’ll continue to keep members address three complex legal questions schedule oral arguments. updated.

Brooks staff find drugs, revive inmate after overdose MCO Crisis Fund Golf Brooks officers found a bag of sus- In Level IV Eastlake unit, an inmate Outings coming up pected drugs in a pocket of the pool reported his cell mate was unrespon- Don’t forget to sign up for the UP table earlier this week. sive and blue. Officers went to the cell or downstate Crisis Fund Golf Out- The bag contained packets of sus- and found the prisoner with no pulse. ings this summer. pected heroine, Suboxone, and possibly They immediately started CPR and Join us at Pictured Rocks Golf other drugs that were sent to the state called for health care staff. Narcan was Course in Munising July 20. Registra- police for verification. An investiga- administered, and the prisoner was re- tion is $70 and includes 18 holes and tion of who placed the items is still in vived. He was taken to the hospital for lunch. progress. treatment and was back in the facility Or if you live downstate, join Officers found the contraband in within 48 hours, officers said. us at Ledge Meadows Golf Course the Level II Baldwin unit. Great work to all the officers, health In another incident at Brooks, staff care staff, and other staff who had a near Lansing Aug. 17. The traditional saved the life of an inmate who appar- hand in saving this inmate’s life. downstate outing is in its 22nd year. ently overdosed. Find more details and sign up information on our website. Summer is here! Enjoy the season with MCO’s exclusive discounts The crisis fund supports members Are you ready for some sum- facing a catastrophe, whether it’s an mer fun? MCO’s Member Benefits on-the-job injury, house fire, sudden Department has you covered with illness, or exclusive discounts for water parks, other disas- hotels, car rentals, and more. Check ter. To those them out at mco-seiu.org/discounts. who support The FireKeepers Casino 400 at the fund, we Michigan International Speedway is thank you! June 10th. MCO members can pur- to 35% at Michigan Adventure. chase $40 Center Grandstand tickets We also have discounts to Kala- or $75 gets you a Grandstand ticket hari, Great Wolf Lodge, Soaring Eagle Michigan Corrections plus admission to an all-you-can-eat Waterpark and Resort, Best Western Organization picnic two hours prior to the race. Splash Universe, and much more. SEIU Local 526M Cedar Point and Michigan Adven- To get more details or use these 421 W. Kalamazoo ture parks are open for the season! deals, contact Tara Nichol with the Lansing, MI 48933 517.485.3310 MCO members can access dis- MCO Member Benefits Department 800.451.4878 counted tickets that you can print at at (517)485-3310 ext. 150. Your www.mco-seiu.org home. Cedar Point tickets are up to membership will be confirmed be- [email protected] 45% off, while members can save up fore details are given. From the Office of MCO President Byron Osborn SEIU Local 526M al:MCOPS/NSO 6/1/18 KYIKeeping You Informed June 7, 2018

MCO In-Depth: Corrections PTSD study, prison closure are in MDOC budget By Jeremy Tripp that an unnamed correctional facility close proposed reducing this amount. Director, Government and Political Affairs sometime during the fiscal year that begins • Conference includes $50,000 to fund For the past few months, MCO has October 2018. a study to examine Post-Traumatic Stress reported about the ongoing debate over At a projected savings of $19.2 million, Disorder among correctional officers. the 2018-19 corrections budget. MCO argued against this proposal on the House subcommittee had originally in- In April, MCO Presidents signed onto grounds that closing another prison could cluded at the request of MCO. letters opposing the various budget pro- jeopardize the safety and security of the • Conference includes $13.2 million in posals and asking legislators to reconsider MDOC and a facility closure should be transition costs to end private food con- their position. handled responsibly and not forced if bed tract and return to state-run food service. With the House and Senate differing space did not warrant such an action. In The Senate had cut all transition funding in in their recommendations, the budget was the face of our opposition, the conference its budget. sent to conference committee where mem- report opted to recommend a closure. • Conference removes Senate provision bers of both chambers were selected to In addition, the budget also included requiring MDOC to require their health settle their differences and come up with a several gains for corrections staff that care provider to privatize prison nurses. joint recommendation. members should be aware of and were The corrections budget was passed MCO weighed in heavily throughout at the top of MCO’s priority list during with all members of the conference voting the process, meeting with legislators and discussions. yes. advocating for major budget items. • Conference includes $4.9 million in Read our full In-Depth on the MDOC On Tuesday, the conference report was one-time funding to train 359 new correc- budget on our website. MCO will keep released and includes a recommendation tions officers. House and Senate had both members updated. Around the state: CMO assaulted; MTU inmates uncooperative in emergency A WCC inmate on POA watch least five pieces of dangerous contra- tive and argumentative with unit officers punched an officer in the head several band. when given direction to return to their cells times when the CMO opened his cell Staff also found marijuana twice in that after being let out to use the restroom. The door to give him toilet paper. timeframe. On June 1, the visiting room situation was not resolved until shift com- The serious assault happened June 1 officer saw a prisoner retrieve something manders entered the unit and assisted in in Pod 2, which is a Level IV acute care from a woman’s pants and swallow it. It gaining prisoner compliance. unit. When the corrections medical officer later was determined to be marijuana. A MCO leaders are investigating the in- cracked the cell door to pass the toilet sergeant also found marijuana in a Level II cident. On June 4, MCO President Byron paper, the inmate threw open the door inmate’s locker June 4. Osborn and Vice President Ray Sholtz and punched him about eight times in On June 3, officers found an inmate went to MTU and spoke with many of- the head. The cell door had to be opened with a collection of contraband tools, ficers about the situation. Great work to because it doesn’t have a slot. including an Allen wrench, driver bits, sand the officers who managed this potentially As officers were running to the scene, paper, soldering flux, and a jerry-rigged dangerous event. the CMO stumbled and fell into a door, power source, apparently for heating metal. “I have some questions and concerns which fractured a vertebra in his spine. He Two officers were also assaulted by about how this incident was handled by also suffered a face injury. The officer was inmates reaching through food slots. the MTU administration,” Osborn said. admitted to a nearby hospital. “Prisoners are expected to be cooperative Later, a weapon was also found in the On May 28, the power went out with unit officers. This should be a given attacker’s cell. at MTU, prompting an emergency in an honors-type unit, especially in an Please keep this officer in your prayers. lockdown of the facility in the evening emergency situation. The fact that shift hours. commanders had to respond to the unit In less than two weeks, Gus Har- During the lockdown, about 40 pris- is alarming and I will inquire as to how, rison officers have responded to 12 oners housed in David Unit, a special and if, the MTU administration plans to inmate fights or assaults, intervened in privilege unit housing Vocational Village address this.” five suicide attempts, and uncovered at prisoners, reportedly became uncoopera- From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 6/7/18 KYIKeeping You Informed June 22, 2018 Move Forward: Fulfilling our Purpose in Corrections It’s no secret that criminal justice labor unions, corrections staff, criminal reform is sweeping the nation. From state justice reform leaders, academics, and legislatures to the halls of Congress, legis- policy makers with the goal of building lation is being introduced everyday with an bridges and advancing a unified approach eye on decreasing the U.S. prison popula- to better inform the policies, programs, tion and exploring new and different ways and narratives that define criminal justice of preparing incarcerated individuals for reform. life on the outside. By collectively bringing all of these But in all of this reform, where are groups together, One Voice hopes to corrections officers? Just like “tough on shift the conversation from debating the crime” legislation during the 1980s and 90s tensions between incarcerated individu- set a tone for a generation of Americans, als and corrections staff, to one that is alternatives to incarceration and prison centered on protecting the safety and downsizing will define yet another. interests of all who are impacted by the One thing we know is true: as front corrections system. line-staff, we must meet these changes From issues like understaffing to over- head on and develop answers to key ques- crowding, corrections officers must have tions surrounding criminal justice reform. a meaningful influence on the policies We must ask ourselves, what purpose do that shape our nation’s criminal justice officers serve in this new environment? system. By injecting our expertise and This month’s value in the Move For- Are we currently filling a needed function? point of view, we can ensure the safety, ward campaign is Purpose. View the Do we have the tools necessary to achieve health, and security of all staff, inmates, poster now on Instagram. these proposed reforms? What dangers and others impacted by criminal justice important to corrections officers. All or concerns must be addressed? Is there reform. responses are anonymous and information room for corrections staff in the conversa- As stakeholders in these changes, we will not be shared or used for anything tion? have a vested interest in seeing the best outside the intended purposes of One To answer these questions, MCO possible outcome and must fight to in- Voice. has created and is leading a nation- clude our position, regardless of political We understand that this survey will take wide campaign to bring the voices of agendas or party affiliation. some of your time; however, this is our corrections officers into the debate To aid in this campaign and make sure chance to influence the conversation and so we can be a vocal partner as these Michigan is heard loud and clear, we are inject our experience and knowledge into changes transform corrections. We’re asking members to fill out the One the state and national debate. calling this effort “One Voice.” Voice survey, designed to guide MCO If we don’t act now, reform will end One Voice is made up of leading and One Voice on topics and issues up happening to us, instead of with us. MCO 2018 bargaining survey open now In Memoriam: Members, please take the 2018 MCO provided MCO with a personal, home CO Dombroski Bargaining Survey now. The survey will email address. The survey will not be Lakeland CO Dylan Dombroski passed close at 11:59 p.m. July 12. emailed to work email addresses. If you away June 13. The survey link was emailed Tuesday did not receive an email with the survey Dombroski started with the MDOC in to all dues-paying members who have link, please email [email protected]. February 2017. Before that, he served six years in the U.S. Army. MCO continues to work tirelessly to spread awareness of corrections PTSD. LCF staff have started a Go Fund Me We recently worked with Michigan Radio, a public radio station that broadcasts page to support Dombroski’s two children. around the state, on a story about the dangers and stress corrections officers face. The MCO Crisis Fund will also give the This story will be heard by thousands of people around Michigan. family support. Listen to the story now at michiganradio.org. Rest in peace, Officer Dombroski. From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 6/22/18 KYIKeeping You Informed June 29, 2018 MCO continues to push for awareness and MCO’s 800 discontinued action on corrections post-traumatic stress Please note that the MCO central office no longer has an 800 tele- House Resolution 0353 formally the pervasiveness of post-traumatic stress recognized June 27th as Post Traumatic within the Department of Corrections. phone or fax number. Stress Injury Awareness Day in Michigan. This work, which started in 2015, has Our office phone number is And for the first time, this day also recog- included national research on the topic, (517)485-3310. In case of an emer- nized the struggles of corrections officers a comprehensive study of the effect of gency after hours, members can call alongside the brave men and women of PTSD on officers in Michigan, and mul- that number to be directed to our the United States military. tiple discussions with experts on possible answering service. State Representative and MCO Legis- resources and solutions. We have made Our fax number is (517)485-3319. lator of the Year Tom Barrett sponsored inroads with MDOC administrators, legis- the resolution. Barrett was one of the lators, and the media in raising awareness In the meantime, we encourage all of- first legislators to begin seriously looking of this topic. For example, the legislature ficers to look out for one another. If you at figures on post-traumatic stress and recently pledged $50,000 for a corrections or someone you know is currently strug- has used his position as a member of PTSD study. gling and has had thoughts of suicide, we the House Military and Veterans Affairs MCO is also playing a role in shap- want you to know that you are not in this Committee to push this topic into the ing the MDOC’s approach to PTSD and alone. Please contact the National Suicide spotlight. Officer Wellness with representation on Prevention Lifeline At 1-800-273-8255. Over the last three years, MCO has led the Director’s EPIC team on Employee Read the full version of this story on a crusade within the State of Michigan to Wellness. MCO will update members on our website. educate the public and legislature about the team’s work. Time is running out! Sign up for a Crisis Fund Golf Outing now Sign up for one of the MCO Crisis UP Crisis Fund Golf Outing Downstate Crisis Fund Golf Outing Fund Golf Outings this summer. There WHEN: Friday, July 20. Registration WHEN: Friday, Aug. 17. Registration are only a few spots left for each outing. starts at 9:15 a.m. Shotgun start at 10 a.m. starts at 8:15 a.m. Shotgun start at 9 a.m. If you can’t make it, consider sponsoring WHERE: Pictured Rocks Golf Course, WHERE: Ledge Meadows Golf an event. E10240 County Road H-58, Munising, MI Course, 1801 Grand Ledge Highway, The crisis fund supports members 49862 Grand Ledge, MI facing a catastrophe, COST: $70 for 18 holes with lunch. COST: $65 for 18 holes with lunch. whether it’s an on-the-job TO SIGN UP, SPONSOR, OR GET TO SIGN UP, SPONSOR OR GET injury, house fire, sudden MORE INFO: Sign up and sponsor MORE INFO: Sign up and sponsor illness, or other disaster. forms are available on the MCO website. forms are available on the MCO website. To those who support If you have questions, please email outing If you have questions, please call MCO the fund, we thank you! organizer Tim Fleury. at (517)485-3310. Don’t miss the fun! Mark your calendar for these summer events COPS Day at the Ionia Free Fair is MDOC Employee Recreation Day will The MCO Children’s Day Picnic will Wednesday, July 18. be Aug. 10 at Royal Scot in Lansing. be Saturday, Aug. 11 at Lower Huron Corrections officers and other law Activities include golf, basketball, can- Metropark in Belleville. enforcement officers are welcome to vas painting, bowling, bingo, card games, The picnic is a long-standing tradi- come out and get free snacks, MCO gear, and more. Many activities are free, but tion that brings together corrections and discounted ride wristbands. The fun some will cost a fee. employees for a day of family fun! All The event starts at 8 a.m. and wraps starts at 1 p.m. at the hospitality center COs and staff at prisons in the Detroit in the Administration Building. The fair- up with a dinner served at 5 p.m. The area are invited. grounds are located at 317 South Dexter dinner costs $10 if you sign up before Watch for more details closer to the Street in Ionia. July 1. More details and sign-up info is in the MDOC Corrections Connection. date. From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 6/29/18 KYIKeeping You Informed July 6, 2018 We need members’ input: Surveys on bargaining MCO and National and One Voice in corrections closing soon Medal of Honor Have you taken MCO’s online MCO recently published an im- unite to honor COs bargaining survey yet? The deadline to portant message about realizing our Michigan Corrections Organization submit the survey is 11:59 p.m. July 12. purpose in corrections. recently joined the National Medal of The survey link was emailed June In it, we introduced MCO’s nation- Honor Foundation. This foundation hon- 19 and again July 5 to all dues-paying wide One Voice program and accom- ors corrections officers nationwide for the members who have provided MCO with panying survey. If you haven’t taken the dangerous and thankless job they do every a personal, home email address. It’s also One Voice survey, please take it now. day. posted in our members-only Facebook All responses are anonymous and in- To support the foundation, please group. The survey will not be emailed to formation will not be shared or used for consider buying raffle tickets to win work email addresses. If you did not re- anything outside the intended purposes seats at the biggest football game of ceive an email with the survey link, please of One Voice. the year to be held Feb. 3, 2019. See a email [email protected] immediately. We understand that this survey will flyer for more. So far, only about 700 members have take some of your time; however, this is Now through July 14, you can also taken the survey. We need more voices. our chance to influence the conversation nominate a stellar officer for the National Our goal is to get more than 20% of and inject our experience and knowledge Medal of Honor award. MCO has already members to take the survey before it into the state and national debate. If we nominated five excellent COs. Read more closes July 12. Will you help us reach this don’t act now, reform will end up hap- about qualifications candidates should milestone? pening to us, instead of with us. have. For details on the tickets or award We’re setting this goal because your One Voice is made up of leading nominations, contact MCO Member opinion matters. Your input enables the labor unions, corrections staff, criminal Engagement Associate Jim McHenry at Executive Board to bargain the best con- justice reform leaders, academics and 517-485-3310. ext. 155. tract possible. policy makers with the goal of building It is long overdue that our profession If you have any questions about the bridges and advancing a unified approach be recognized as an elite component of online survey, email [email protected]. to better inform the policies, programs the law enforcement community. The and narratives that define criminal justice National Medal of Honor Awards are a ve- reform. Read more on One Voice. hicle that shines a spotlight on the amazing jobs corrections officers do. Get ready to vote in Aug. 7 primary election Act fast – deadline to register is Monday, July 9! Cotton officers deal Monday, July • How do I register? with gang violence 9 is the deadline If you are a first time voter, recently JCF had a busy July 4. A couple of to register to moved or want to update your voter hours after a fight among Level IV in- vote in Michi- registration information, the Michigan mates, several prisoners were fighting in gan’s August 7 primary election. Secretary of State has answers. Get a a suspected gang-related conflict on the step by step guide on how to register and Level II yard. The altercation carried over • Why Should I register? instructions on what is needed. into A-Unit where two prisoners are ac- As state employees, we have a unique • Can I vote absentee? cused of stabbing each other. Ten prison- opportunity to exercise our constitutional In some instances you may be able ers total were sent to segregation from rights and elect our next bosses; however, to vote by absentee ballot or request an Level II because of this incident. in order to vote in a local, state, or na- emergency absentee ballot. Get more This came after a gang-related conflict tional election, you must register to vote information on if you qualify to vote July 3rd that sent three Level I suspects to with the State of Michigan. Download absentee and how to obtain your ballot. segregation. the State of Michigan Voter Registration Read this full story on our website. Great job to the officers, many of Application Now! whom were mandated, that responded so quickly! From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 7/6/18 KYIKeeping You Informed July 27, 2018 Move Forward: The Value of Family It is widely known that corrections work,” Hammond said. is a difficult environment and officers Families inspire COs to do the job get little recognition. From long hours with pride. to dangerous situations, it’s easy to “When I walk through the gates, ask why officers do the job. For most, I know what could possibly transpire that answer is easily traced back to one inside,” Bellamy Creek Officer Mindi extremely important reason: family, and Vroman said. “Knowing that my providing them with a humble living. family understands the importance That’s why family is this month’s of what I do and is behind me 100% value in the Move Forward Campaign. keeps me motivated on the task ahead “This career is a double-edged and anchored in doing the best job sword – we do it to provide for our possible.” families, but the stress of it can sepa- MCO is dedicated to serving not rate us from our families if we aren’t just corrections officers, but their careful,” Cotton Officer Steve Ham- families. We know mandatory over- mond said. “It’s so important that we time is taking a toll on families, and open up to our loved ones and appreci- we are constantly advocating for more This month’s value in the Move For- ate and make time for them.” staff. We are also developing a part- ward campaign is Family. View the “I chose this career to provide for nership with MDOC to help them poster now on Instagram. my family, but there is so much man- not only recruit but retain correc- datory overtime. There are times we tions staff. All of us and our families make time to connect with your family. make plans with our families and we depend on it. After all, they’re the motivation for all have to miss them because we have to When you go home after your shift, that we do.

Around the state: CTOs recapture escapee; ICF CO assaulted n emoriam A Chippewa inmate temporar- escape with little warning. MCO sup- I M : ily escaped July 17 after a court ports all CTOs who work to keep the CO Stahl JCF retiree Eric Stahl appearance in Luce County, but public safe. passed away July 19. CTOs quickly caught him. Stahl started his corrections ca- The Level II prisoner ran from An ICF inmate hit an officer in reer in 1993 and retired in 2016. Before CTOs at the courthouse. One CTO the chest after the officer patted working for the MDOC, he served in fired one shot, but it didn’t hit the him down. the U.S. Army. inmate. The CTOs were able to catch The assault happened July 21. A Stahl leaves behind a wife, son, up with the prisoner and restrain him. CO stopped a prisoner for a pat down siblings, and other family. Services were The sheriff ’s office and other police as he was leaving Housing Unit 3 held earlier this week. agencies assisted. No one was injured. (Level V). The prisoner was upset and Rest in peace, Officer Stahl. The prisoner was taken to MBP. spoke to a sergeant, who told him to The inmate was secured with belly return to his cell. The inmate started Congratulations, recruits! chains, as MDOC policy requires for to go back, but stopped and hit the of- The Bonita Hoffner class graduated Level II prisoners. ficer. Staff quickly responded. The CO today. Seventy-six recruits graduated This serious event underscores the suffered bruises near his eye. in Lansing. Sixteen more recruits are training to work at prisons in the UP. dangerous jobs CTOs have. A routine Later staff found the inmate had a See photos from today’s gradua- court appearance can turn into an weapon made from a comb. tion.

From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 7/27/18 KYIKeeping You Informed Aug. 7, 2018 MCO pushes staffing, retention issues in bargaining MCO and the State of Michigan re- The bargaining team reviewed sur- Vote Today! Don’t forget, today cently opened bargaining. MCO gave vey results and is considering mem- is primary election day a presentation detailing the unique bers’ responses as we move ahead. 880 for state and local races. and dangerous challenges members members completed the survey, which Before you go, visit michigan.gov/vote face, including PTSD, inmate assault, is about 15 percent. to confirm your polling place, view a and the staffing and retention crisis, Michigan Civil Service rule changes sample ballot, and more. Polls close which means some officers are forced prohibit bargaining on very important at 8 p.m. to work 16-hour days several days a topics. MCO President Byron Osborn As state employees the next week. is walking through these issues with governor will have a major impact Representatives from the Office of the MDOC and will meet with the on future safety and security. Ensure the State Employer (OSE) and MDOC Department Aug. 24. your voice is heard and vote. met with the MCO Executive Board, Read more about changes the MCO is preparing an endorsement which serves as the bargaining team. Civil Service Commission unilaterally guide for the November general elec- MCO Executive Director Andy Potter imposed last September in this bulletin tion. Look for it later this month. is leading negotiations for MCO. MCO issued at the time. hildren s ay picnic What you need to know about Health insurance open enrollment C ’ D Health insurance open enrollment administrator of the State Vision Plan. serves up family fun is going on now and ends Friday, Current enrollees in the State Vision The MCO Children’s Day Picnic will August 24th, at 11:59 p.m. This is the Plan will be automatically transitioned be Saturday, Aug. 11 at Lower Huron annual opportunity for eligible em- and there will be no gap in coverage. Metropark in Belleville. ployees to review plan summaries and Second, United Healthcare is be- The picnic is a long-standing tradi- current benefits, make changes to your ing offered as a Health Maintenance tion that brings together corrections coverage, and add or remove individu- Organization (HMO) option. Like all employees for a day of family fun! All als from your insurance. Even if you other HMOs, eligibility for enrollment COs and staff at prisons in the Detroit don’t plan to make any changes to in this plan is based on your residential area are invited. your insurance, it’s a good idea to zip code. United Healthcare primar- The picnic will include bounce log into your account to make sure ily covers the southeast and western houses, music, clowns, video game bus, that all dependents and selections regions of the state. lots of great food, and more. Plus, kids listed are accurate. To view more information of these will receive a lunch box. There are two upcoming changes changes or other general enrollment The fun starts at noon and lasts until to be aware of with respect to the Vi- information, please visit mi.gov/IOE dusk. See you there. sion Plan and HMO options. or go to mi.gov/selfserv to enroll First, effective October 1, 2018, online. EyeMed will be replacing Blue Cross - Information provided by OSE Blue Shield of Michigan/VSP as the Michigan Corrections Organization In Memoriam: Officer Bev Morse SEIU Local 526M Former Brooks chapter held Aug. 11 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. at 421 W. Kalamazoo leader Bev Morse has passed Fruitport Eagles, 3354 S. Dangl Rd., Lansing, MI 48933 away. CO Morse started with Muskegon, MI 49444. 517.485.3310 the MDOC in 1989 and retired in Our hearts go out to Morse’s survi- www.mco-seiu.org fall 2016. vors and fellow officers. Rest in peace, [email protected] A celebration of her life will be CO Morse.

From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 8/7/18 bulletin Aug. 14, 2018 MDOC announces closure of Ojibway Correctional Facility MDOC has announced the closure of Ojibway Correctional Facil- ity, tentatively scheduled for Dec. 1. Read the MDOC’s announcement here. MCO leaders were notified this morning. There was no single reason OCF was chosen to close, according to MDOC’s statement. In addition to offering staff positions at facilities with vacancies, MDOC will work with the Department of Talent and Economic Development and Michigan Works! to assist employees. Although MCO members have experienced closures in the past, this one will be particularly disruptive to staff due to Ojibway’s loca- tion. The closest prison, Baraga Correctional Facility, is 98 miles away. MCO leaders understand the stress this will inevitably cause OCF staff and their families. MCO leaders will also meet with the MDOC to discuss the serious potential ramifications of this closure and to discuss a bumping area, with the goal of coming to a mutual agreement that mitigates the im- pact to members as much as possible. This is a difficult process and will take several weeks. MCO will keep members updated on any Michigan Corrections developments. Please watch our website, email Organization SEIU Local 526M newsletters, and members-only Facebook 421 W. Kalamazoo Lansing, Mi 48933 group. You can also sign up for text message (517)485-3310 (517)485-3319 alerts by texting MCO to 787753. www.mco-seiu.org [email protected]

al:MCOPS/NSO 8/14/18 bulletin Aug. 17, 2018 Ojibway closing: Layoff Unit Announced As announced on this past Tuesday, the Michigan Department of Corrections is closing the Ojibway Correctional Facility in December of 2018. MCO met with MDOC officials on Thursday and agreed to designate the Ojibway and Baraga facilities as the layoff unit. MCO Executive Board members and staff will be holding informa- tional meetings at the Ojibway and Baraga facilities as follows:

Ojibway Friday, Aug 17 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Aug 20 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Wednesday, Aug 22. 12 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Baraga Saturday, Aug 18. 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, Aug 21. 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug 23 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Informational packets are being prepared for members and will be provided at the weekday meetings. It is a difficult time and MCO will be there to pro- Michigan Corrections Organization vide as much information as possible to assist SEIU Local 526M 421 W. Kalamazoo members through the process. Lansing, Mi 48933 517.485.3310 517.485.3319 www.mco-seiu.org [email protected]

al:MCOPS/NSO 8/17/18 KYIKeeping You Informed Aug. 21, 2018 MCO advocates for WHV COs, works with MDOC on remedies to mandates MCO and MDOC have been working considered, but they must agree to obtain COs’ health. The article was on the front together to find solutions to the overtime the required 15 hours of credits in their page of the Free Press website and the crisis at Women’s Huron Valley and other first 18 months on the job. This has been Aug. 10 print edition. facilities. done in the past and was successful in MCO is committed to raising aware- MCO and MDOC signed a Letter of bringing in new staff. The proposal is ness of the overtime crisis in every venue Understanding that allows COs at facili- waiting on approval from the Michigan available to us and solving it. ties near WHV to voluntarily work OT at Civil Service Commission. WHV. While these solutions aren’t cure-alls, MCO and MDOC also signed a Letter they should help lessen mandates until OCF closure update of Understanding making OJTs state- more staff are hired. As announced last week, Ojibway wide eligible for mandatory and volun- MCO also spoke with the Detroit is slated for closure Dec. 1. OCF and tary overtime two months before they Free Press for an article published Aug. Baraga will be the layoff unit. normally would be eligible. 10 about the overtime crisis at WHV. Board members and staff are meet- In addition, MCO and MDOC put MCO President Byron Osborn, MCO ing with members at both facilities. See together a joint proposal to defer the Legal Director Jeff Foldie, and WHV the meeting schedule here. college credit requirement for new COs’ Member Amber Dotson were inter- MCO will continue to keep mem- first 18 months of service. This means viewed about the mandated overtime bers updated on this closure. applicants with no college credits will be crisis at WHV and its impact on WHV Around the state: ICF, ARF, LMF staff assaulted; COs respond to fights at MBP An ICF inmate stabbed an officer which the PC suspected was contraband fights and assaults. in the head several times with an ink because it had digital storage space. The pen Aug. 16. prisoner ran from the PC’s office. When Marquette staff responded to sev- The assault happened in a Level V the PC caught up with him, the prisoner eral fights and assaults Aug. 15. unit. Prisoners were moving around the shoved the PC into a door. No injuries The altercations involved at least nine unit to use the JPay machine and buy were reported. inmates in B-block, a Level V unit. Of- store items when the inmate came up Later in the day, staff found two ficers believe the fights and assaults are behind the officer and stabbed him. shanks inside a Level II inmate’s shower gang-related. The officer’s injuries didn’t require shoes. Officers also uncovered drugs in No staff injuries were reported. stitches. headphones, a photo album, and a hair brush with a hollowed-out handle. Officers An Alger officer was dressed out A Gus Harrison inmate assaulted must be vigilant because contraband can be hid- with an unknown substance while she a prison counselor Aug. 14. Staff also den almost anywhere. was picking up food trays Aug. 18. found shanks, Suboxone, marijuana, and There were also two inmate fights The dress out happened in a segrega- K2 (synthetic marijuana) that day. Tuesday evening. tion unit. The prison counselor was speaking Great job to the officers who found The officer went to a hospital for with the Level II inmate about his watch, this contraband and responded to these evaluation and returned to work. Thanks for joining us at the Detroit Children’s Day Picnic! Hundreds of staff, retirees, and “Many of these kids don’t get to go their families came out for the Detroit somewhere fun in the summer, in part Children’s Day Picnic Aug. 11. They because prisons are short-staffed and enjoyed a day of fellowship and fun. their parents work a lot. The MCO “It’s refreshing to see officers Children’s Day Picnic is like a mini- outside of work with their families, vacation for them.” laughing and playing,” said Executive See more photos on Flickr or in our Board Member Marcus Collins, DDC. members-only Facebook group.

From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 8/21/18 KYIKeeping You Informed Aug. 29, 2018 OCF update: voluntary transfer forms due Sept. 7 As reported earlier this month, be filled according to seniority. Mem- Share: Ojibway is slated for closure Dec. 1. bers who do not have the seniority Ojibway and Baraga are the layoff to be placed at AMF will be given a unit. MCO Board members and staff layoff notice and an Expedited Recall held several meetings at both facili- Form. The Expedited Recall Form ties last week to meet with members gives members rights to return to and explain the closure process. AMF as the MDOC fills vacancies Officers at a facility in the layoff there. unit will be allowed to voluntarily MCO is opposed to any closure In many families throughout Michigan, transfer outside of the layoff unit when prisons are operating far above public service is a tradition. before the bumping process begins. their intended capacity because it cre- The McVeans are one of those families. Those in the layoff unit can get a ates a potentially dangerous situation. Jim (Mack) McVean just retired after a career Voluntary Transfer Form from their This was one of the factors that led with the MDOC of more than 25 years. His personnel office.Completed forms to the riot at Kinross Correctional son, Maxwell, recently celebrated his 10-year must be turned in to your person- Facility two years ago. Now is not the anniversary with the MDOC. nel office by 3 p.m. Friday, Sept. time. Watch a new video from MCO to learn 7. Forms must be date and time MCO leaders, including President more about why they took on corrections stamped by personnel. Keep a Byron Osborn, Vice President Ray careers and why corrections officers should copy for your records. Sholtz, and Board Member Gabe have a voice in their workplace. After those members leave the Justinak protested the closure along layoff unit, the bumping process will with the local community at a rally embers please fill out survey begin. In the bumping process, the Aug. 24. See photos in our members- M , two facilities’ seniority lists will be only Facebook group. MCO will keep on MCO Dignity Initiative combined, and all FTEs at AMF will members updated. In 2016, MCO created the “officer dignity initiative” to hold inmates accountable for liquid Around the state: CO assaulted at Ionia assaults and sexual deviant behavior toward An inmate kicked, legs around the of- An Alger officer staff. punched, and spit on ficer he assaulted and found prescription By most measures, our initiative has been an ICF officer Aug. choked him with one drugs, a cell phone, a success. Over the past 18 months, multiple 26. hand. weapons, and other unions, corrections departments, and jails across The CO was sitting Another officer contraband in a the country have sought MCO’s advice on how at the officers’ desk responded, and staff package mailed to an to replicate our efforts and bring the officer dig- in a Level V general were eventually able to After find- inmate. nity initiative to their respective states. population unit when stop the assault. ing the contraband But we need members’ help. We want to an inmate walked up to The assaulted CO Tuesday, COs searched know how this initiative has impacted you and him and started hitting and the first to help a Level IV unit and your work environment and what changes you him. Another officer were taken to a hospi- found more contra- have seen as a result. quickly intervened and tal. They returned to band. To do so, MCO has partnered with the Uni- together they tried to work later that night. Last week at Alger, restrain the prisoner, The inmate was at least eight prisoners versity of Colorado in Colorado Springs to field but he continued to transferred. were involved in fights a unique research study in order to determine fight. He wrapped his Stay safe. or assaults. what impact the officer dignity initiative has had and to analyze the responses of corrections pro- Bargaining Continues We will disclose more informa- fessionals so other states and countries can learn Bargaining between MCO and tion with members once the process from our efforts in Michigan. the Office of the State Employer is complete. Watch the KYI and the As always, if we don’t do it, no one else will. (OSE) is ongoing. website for more. Access the survey now.

From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 8/29/18 KYIKeeping You Informed Sept. 7, 2018

Move Forward: The value of Integrity in corrections In life or on the job, integrity is profession and illustrates the key among the most important values an role we play in the criminal justice individual can possess. It is central to system. earning the trust of the public and Corrections Officer Pam Basal vital to building relationships with our of the Marquette Branch Prison co-workers, supervisors, friends, and said that she has run into former in- family. mates while volunteering at the U.P. Integrity can mean something dif- State Fair, and they’ve commented ferent to us all. For some, it’s simply on the integrity of officers and what following through on your word or impact it had on their lives. doing what is needed when no one “They said the programming was else is looking. For others, its being a good, but it was the officers in the good role model, practicing what you unit that made the difference, that teach, and leading by example no mat- made sure that they got up, learned ter what the situation. to be responsible, set an example That’s why integrity is the most for who they should be…we (the recent value in the Michigan Correc- COs) helped change them,” CO tions Organization – Move Forward Basal said. This latest value in the Move Forward Campaign. What does integrity mean to Campaign is Integrity. View the poster For corrections officers, integrity you? MCO wants to hear from you now on Instagram. can be displayed in a variety of ways and lift up your stories. This is how and is often tested at every turn. But we start to change the narrative on and what matters most in our profes- who we are and how we conduct our corrections work and break down the sion. Email MCO Communications business speaks volumes about our misperceptions of who officers are Director Anita Lloyd.

MCO points out the role of COs as first responders in the opioid crisis MCO is elevating messages of profes- This article’s timing coincided with the In Memoriam: sionalism in corrections in many different Michigan House of Representatives’ 9/11 CO Wrobel ways. This week, the Detroit News pub- ceremony in which they recognized first LCF retiree lished a column by MCO Executive Direc- responders throughout the state. Each William (Bill) tor Andy Potter on the dangerous opioids representative was allowed to bring two Wrobel passed flowing into U.S. prisons, and the role COs first responders as their guests and until away Aug. 24. should play in combating them. recently, corrections officers had not been Wrobel started with Read the column on the Detroit News invited. But at Thursday’s ceremony, there the MDOC in 1993 at website. were four officers from Jackson, Lansing Alger and retired from Lake- “Recognize corrections officers as first and Ionia representing corrections as first land in 2015. He also served responders and allow us to carry and ad- responders. See photos on Flickr or our in the Air Force Reserve. minister life-saving drugs such as naloxone,” members-only Facebook group. Potter writes. “By doing so, we create an We should all be thinking outside the A celebration of Bill’s life alert and well-trained workforce with the box about what a union is and should be will be Sept. 10 in Coldwa- skills and knowledge to impact the opioid to its members. It’s more than a contract. ter. Information is at dutch- crisis on the front lines and provide on-the- When we join together, we can elevate our erfh.com. spot care.” profession in powerful ways. Rest in peace, CO Wro- bel. From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 9/7/18 KYIKeeping You Informed Sept. 14, 2018

Join Ionia members and Rep. Calley in a special clean up day Sept. 19 Ionia MCO members have adopted MCO leaders would like to thank If you are interested in pitching in a two-mile stretch Brian Gibson, an IBC chapter or need more information, contact of M-21 near the steward, and Sean Conley, IBC Brian Gibson at ccfccp@sbcglobal. prisons, and they chapter president, for step- net. need your help ping up to adopt the highway. See you there! cleaning it up. This is just another great ex- Join fellow offi- ample of how MCO members cers and Rep. Julie give back and make a differ- Calley for a cleanup ence in their communities. day Wednesday, We’d also like to thank Sept. 19. Volun- Rep. Julie Calley for support- teers should meet at 10 a.m. sharp ing corrections officers. Last week, in the Bellamy Creek parking lot. Gibson and Conley were her guests at All MCO members and retirees are the Capitol in Lansing for a ceremony Brian Gibson (left), Rep. Julie Calley, and invited to pitch in! recognizing first responders. Sean Conley at the Capitol last week for first responders day.

Around the state: officers uncover contraband at SMT, LMF In Memoriam: Last week, a Parnall officer An Alger officer found a syringe CO Nicewander found about 150 strips of Suboxone hidden inside a prisoner’s tube of DRF Officer Alan under a trash can in the visitor’s toothpaste last week. The inmate Nicewander passed away restroom. was in the Level IV Pine unit, but was Sept. 1. Great work to the officers who pre- transferred to segregation. Nicewander started his vented this contraband from getting The syringe was at least 6-in. long. career with MDOC in 1999. He into the hands of inmates. Great job to the officer who found worked at St. Louis before transfer- this well-concealed contraband. ring to Carson City. He leaves behind MCO Crisis Fund raffle tickets on the way a wife, three children, and several Interested in buying tickets for this Other prizes include hunting rifles, grandchildren. Services were last year’s Crisis Fund Gun Raffle? MCO crossbows, cash, and a stay at Kalahari. week. chapter presidents should receive tick- See a full list of prizes on our web- Please keep Nicewander’s survivors ets next week. site. and DRF staff in your thoughts. The top prize is at hunting trip at See your chapter president next Rest in peace, Officer Nicewander. Hopkins Trophy Ranch worth $2,500. week to get tickets! Michigan Corrections 2018 state employee survey open now Organization All members are encouraged to cern to staff. The survey is being SEIU Local 526M take the 2018 Employee Engagement administered through a third-party 421 W. Kalamazoo Survey, which opened Monday. company, PricewaterhouseCoopers. Lansing, MI 48933 It’s important for all employees to Answers are anonymous. 517.485.3310 take the survey and let their voice be State employees should have re- www.mco-seiu.org [email protected] heard. The Department uses responses ceived the survey by email. Please to identify and address areas of con- complete the survey by Oct. 1.

From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 9/14/18 KYIKeeping You Informed Sept. 28, 2018 MCO’s 2018 Endorsement Guide online now! Rest in peace, Get ready to vote in the Nov. 6 elec- Prepare for election day now by go- CO DeMarse tion! MCO just released an endorsement ing to michigan.gov/vote. From there Marquette Officer Earl guide with important election informa- you can: DeMarse passed away Sept. 25, tion. • Register to vote (deadline: Oct. 9) 1973 – 45 years ago this week. In the guide you’ll find: • See a sample ballot DeMarse, an officer with 26 years • A video interview with gubernatorial • Find your voting location of experience, was about 15 minutes into candidate Gretchen Whitmer. • Learn how to vote absentee his shift when he was stabbed several • Why COs should seriously consider Thanks for checking out the MCO times. An ambulance was called, but De- voting absentee. endorsement guide. Marse died while en route to a hospital. • How MCO decides who to endorse. His killer was sentenced to life in prison, • How members are building and he is still incarcerated at an Ionia bridges with legislators. Share: facility. • MCO’s full endorsement list. DeMarse is one of Michigan’s four Read the guide now. fallen corrections officers who are hon- Your vote is your own. These en- ored on MCO’s Fallen Officers Memo- dorsements are a suggestion we hope rial. We are proud to say we haven’t for- you will consider when making a gotten those who have made the ultimate personal decision about how to vote. sacrifice. Please take a few moments to remem- Bargained payments coming to checks soon ber DeMarse and the sacrifice he made. Attendance and physical fitness Payment Amount Date And as always, please watch your back incentives, dry cleaning allowances, and and your partner’s back. longevity payments will be dispersed in Base-pay 2% Oct. 18 Thank you for your service in Michi- October and November. increase gan’s toughest job. See scheduled payment dates at Uniform $575 Oct. 18 right. MCO bargains these payments in allowance Sick/phys- varies by Nov. 1 We stand with WHV COs! the contract. MCO hosted a special cookout ical fitness amount of The payments will be added to Thursday to show our solidarity and incentive sick time regular paychecks. Additionally, the 2% appreciation for WHV officers,- es used wage increase will take effect Oct. 1 pecially the women who have faced and will be seen on paychecks starting Longevity varies by Nov. 1 8-hour mandates multiple times per Oct. 18. years of week. Read about it on our website. For more details, see articles 22, 27, service This is the type of work we can do and 37 of the contract. when we stick together. Thank you to OCF Closure: layoff and bump notices issued Monday all who volunteered and came out! Bump and layoff notices were is- those below the seniority line, 4 p.m. sued Monday to officers affected by Oct. 4 is the deadline to decide to take the Ojibway closure. MCO Executive the layoff or utilize the expedited recall Board members were at OCF and AMF in lieu of layoff. Make sure to have per- Monday to support members and an- sonnel time and date stamp your forms swer questions. and keep a copy for your records. The next deadline in this process is MCO leaders and staff will continue 4 p.m. Oct. 4. By that date, members to support members and keep them must accept or decline their bump. For updated throughout this process.

From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 9/28/18 KYIKeeping You Informed Oct. 8, 2018 Send a strong message of solidarity – wear MDOC has failed its the MCO anniversary pin coming in mail officers – MCO going In facilities all over to impasse on contract Michigan, MCO members As announced Thursday, MCO is going to are discussing Civil Ser- impasse on contract negotiations. The MCO vice rule changes that are legal team is expected to file a 20-page brief scheduled to take effect and 130 pages of exhibits today with the January 1, 2019. These Michigan Civil Service Commission’s Impasse changes are the result of a Panel. strategic attack on unions Our key outstanding issue is the ever-grow- and another attempt by ing staffing crisis. MCO has proposed several anti-worker organiza- possible solutions to retain staff, but the Of- tions to silence the voice This new video explains how Share video fice of the State Employer and the Michigan the Michigan Civil Service of workers and inject now: Department of Corrections have denied all of Commission adopted rule uncertainty about issues them because of their cost – even though the changes that prohibit bargain- funding required would be a small fraction of important to corrections ing on several issues impor- officers and forensic secu- the overall corrections budget. tant to MCO members. Read “For the last few months at the bargaining rity assistants. more about the changes and Like our brothers and table, and years before that in other venues, how MCO members can show MCO has been proposing solutions to the sisters who founded this solidarity despite the changes persistent staffing crisis in Michigan prisons. organization, MCO mem- at mco-seiu.org/civilservice. Some of our ideas have been heard, some bers have met these at- of not allowing outside influences have not,” said MCO Executive Director tacks head on and refused Andy Potter, MCO’s lead negotiator. “Let me divide or defeat us. to back down or be intimidated by be clear – the excuses and can-kicking end to- We’ve faced challenges in the past bad policies designed to break us. day. The employer has failed their officers, so and the fact that MCO consistently As a way of demonstrating our MCO leaders will do everything in our power solidarity and commitment to each maintains the highest rate of union to implement real solutions to this crisis, even other, we are asking all members membership speaks to the tenacity if the MDOC won’t. That’s why we’re going to wear this 50th anniversary pin and dedication of our members. to impasse.” on their uniform until the end of Now we face another set of Although we are deadlocked, MCO lead- 2018. By doing so, it sends a strong challenges and we know that ers are still open to working with OSE and message – that you support your one officer or facility can’t do it MDOC to resolve this contract. MCO will brothers and sisters and believe in alone. It will take all of us fight- continue to keep members updated. the collective power of our union. ing together to keep what we have Read our full impasse announcement. Members should receive the pin in earned and protect what others are so desperately trying to take away. the mail in the next few days. In Memoriam: Bellamy This pin also symbolizes your re- As always, it’s up to us and no one reek ohn arter solve and our union’s proud tradition is going to do the work for us. MCO C CO J C is a union of 6,100 individuals and IBC Officer John Carter passed we know that together there is lever- away Friday morning. age in numbers. It’s time to stand up Carter was a shift steward and for each other and show our solidar- had 15 years with the MDOC. ity. Wear this pin on your uniform Services have not been announced. for the rest of 2018 and let everyone Please pray for IBC staff and Carter’s know that together, We Are MCO! family and friends. Rest in peace, CO Carter. From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 10/8/18 KYIKeeping You Informed Oct. 17, 2018 Move Forward: The value of Union Impasse brief online now As we approach the end of MCO has filed a legal brief outlining 2018, MCO’s Move Forward our arguments for impasse. You can read campaign concludes with the the brief and exhibits on our website. value of Union. MCO Legal Director Jeff Foldie will Move Forward has always argue our case before the impasse panel. been about much more than The hearing will probably be the morn- a simple poster, but what ing of Oct. 31. The hearing is open began as a statewide campaign to the public, so MCO members may to highlight the exceptional attend. As soon as we have confirmation values of our members has of the exact time and date, we will share grown into something much details with members. MCO staff is also more important. trying to set up a livestream of the hear- In the public or in our ing. Stay tuned for more details. institutions, these values have Our primary concern at impasse is set the backdrop for who we the dangerous staffing crisis. MDOC are and what we are about. cannot retain officers and cannot recruit They have allowed us to enough COs to keep up with vacancies. reshape the narrative of our The MDOC has failed its officers by not profession and illustrate the addressing this years-long problem. Read values that make our mem- more in our Oct. 4 impasse announce- bers and our union a leader The Move Forward campaign concludes by ment. in our industry and important celebrating the value of Union. View the Thank you, members, for your con- voice in securing long over- poster now on Instagram. tinued support. due respect and dignity in the workplace. tive Board Member Marcus Collins) MCO’s legislative priorities That sense of pride and profession- and a $50,000 study ordered by the More than one dozen MCO-backed al respect has led to wins in more ways legislature. bills are pending at the legislature. This than one. In 2016, MCO won recogni- Our union has faced challenges in chart summarizes the bills we’ve advo- tion and health benefits for survivors the past – bargaining impasses, as- cated for strongly during the 2017-2018 legislative session. of officers who die in the line of duty. saults, riots – but we’ve kept up the We also sent a letter to every legislator Our Officer Dignity Initiative brought fight and always stuck together. Move in the House and Senate urging them to awareness and improvements to the Forward is yet another way of display- take up these bills before the end of the handling of dress outs and sexual devi- ing our resolve and showing we are up 2018 legislative session. ant behavior by inmates toward staff to the challenges of today and tomor- Lobbying is just one piece of the and inspired two bills (HB 4118 and row. work MCO does to promote profes- 4119) currently pending in the legisla- Move Forward doesn’t end here. We ture. sionalism and build awareness on issues must continue to be guided by the val- that jeopardize the safety and security of This year alone, our members ues that unite and advance us as sisters members. have advocated on behalf of 17 bills and brothers in the Union. We’ll keep you posted on the progress to increase the safety and security of What does Move Forward and the of these bills but encourage you to call Michigan prisons and championed value of Union mean to you? Email your representatives and senators and tell more awareness of PTSD in correc- your thoughts to [email protected]. them to act now and protect those who tions. This led to the development of Read the full story on the value of protect others. See and share the chart the MDOC-EPIC team on Employee Union at mco-seiu.org/moveforward. on Twitter or Facebook. Wellness (which includes MCO Execu- From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 10/17/18 KYIKeeping You Informed Oct. 29, 2018

Join us at Impasse Hearing Wednesday in Lansing FSA open enrollment MCO’s impasse hearing is set for 11 More important info is in this print- starts Thursday a.m. Oct. 31. MCO Legal Director Jeff able flyer. 2019 Flexible Spending Account Foldie will argue our bargaining position Our primary concern at impasse is (FSA) Open Enrollment runs from in front of the Impasse Panel. This is a the dangerous staffing crisis. Nov. 1 thru Nov. 30. Eligible em- public meeting, so members may attend. Read more about our impasse posi- ployees who wish to participate in tion: Seating will be very limited and we the 2019 plan year, beginning Jan. cannot guarantee everyone will get • MDOC fails corrections officers: 1, 2019, must enroll, even if you are a seat. If you do plan to attend, please MCO forced to go to impasse to currently enrolled for the 2018 plan wear your 50th anniversary pin to show address the staffing crisis our solidarity. • Impasse Documents Filed: Read year. WHEN: 11 a.m. Wednesday, Oct. 31 them here FSAs allow you to set aside wages WHERE: 400 S. Pine St., Lansing, MI. on a pre-tax basis to pay for certain expenses. There are two types of Around the state: DDC CO hurt during response FSAs, and eligible employees are able A DDC officer’s knee was frac- Eleven Baraga prisoners were to enroll in one or both. The Health tured recently when a combative sent to segregation after yard fights. Care FSA allows you to pay for eli- detainee pushed her into a wall. The arguments broke out on Unit 4 gible out-of-pocket medical, dental, The detainee was handcuffed by an- (Level V) and Unit 7 (Level V) rec yards prescription, vision expenses, and other officer for being disruptive. That Oct. 19. Officers said it was gang re- more. The Dependent Care FSA al- made her irate, COs said. The injured lated. No serious injuries were reported, lows you to pay for eligible expenses officer came to assist when she was but the prison was placed on lockdown. such as day care, day camp, nursery shoved into a wall and hurt her knee. Other events: school, elder care, and more. FSAs No other injuries were reported. 10/24: Officers find two weapons are funded by pre-tax payroll contri- She has not returned to work. in Unit 4 (Level V) during shake down. butions. The maximum contribution The detainee will likely be charged One was made from an inhaler and the amounts for 2019 are $2,650 for eli- with assault on corrections staff. other from a pair of glasses. gible health care expenses and $5,000 Please join us in wishing this officer 10/18: Level V inmate spit in an of- for eligible dependent care expenses. a quick recovery. ficer’s face during food tray pick up. You are encouraged to verify that your contact information is up-to- In-person absentee voting going on now date in the system as FSA Open Members, don’t forget to vote ballot. Enrollment materials will be sent to absentee this year. Voting absentee is easy and can you via email. If you do not have an Download the absentee voter ap- offer flexibility for the unpredictable email address currently listed in your plication now. work schedules of officers. We all HR Self-Service account, materials Print and complete the applica- know mandates are frequent and will be delivered by mail. Verify or tion and return it in person to your unpredictable. Make sure nothing update your contact information by city clerk. They will give you a ballot gets in the way of your vote this year logging into HR Self-Service, select- on the spot, which you can complete — vote absentee. ing “Employment,” and then “Work and turn in. It’s too late to mail your Don’t forget to read MCO’s en- application and receive an absentee dorsement guide. Our endorsements Phone & E-mail” from the menu at ballot back by mail. are one suggestion we hope you’ll left. You may also contact the MI HR You can visit mi.gov/vote to find consider when making a personal Service Center at 877-766-6447. your clerk’s address, check your reg- decision about how to vote. - Provided by OSE istration status, and view a sample

From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 10/29/18 bulletin Oct. 31, 2018 Impasse panel hears our retention concerns The impasse panel hearing took place today as scheduled. “Risk, Reward, Retention” was our mantra. MCO’s arguments focused on the years-long staffing crisis and MDOC’s inability to retain officers. MCO Legal Direc- tor Jeff Foldie presented several pieces of data, including staffing statistics, to show the problem is real, and that MDOC hasn’t adequately addressed the issue. The pan- el seemed especially interested in the fact that one-third of all officers hired since 2012 are no longer corrections officers. Foldie also pointed out that one-fifth of prisons are at critical staffing levels, and women officers at WHV have been forced to work shifts of 16 hours or more sev- eral days a week. The state did not present strong evidence against our arguments in their rebuttal. They said the MDOC is working on recruitment and we should let their efforts play out over the next year. Their statements centered on recruitment, but not retention. MCO also addressed PTSD and the stresses of working in corrections. Officers are doing the job under extraordinary pressure and this should be reflected in their compensation. MCO staff intended to livestream the meeting, but that wasn’t permitted. The impasse panel required us to make a motion to allow livestreaming and video re- cording. The state objected, saying the hearing was an extension of the bargaining process. In the end, the panel did allow us to record video. But because the panel acknowledged the hearing is an extension of bargaining, we aren’t sure when we will be able to release the video. We don’t want to take a misstep that could backfire on us this late in the pro- cess. Michigan Corrections Organization The impasse panel must release their report by Nov. SEIU Local 526M 421 W. Kalamazoo 21. Lansing, Mi 48933 Watch our website and Facebook group for future 517.485.3310 517.485.3319 updates. www.mco-seiu.org [email protected]

From the desk of Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 10/31/18 KYIKeeping You Informed Nov. 8, 2018

Advocacy update: More than 1,000 emails sent to In Memoriam: Retired director on scheduling – send your message now! CO Scott Warner MCO leaders and members As of this morning, 1,039 members A retiree from Cotton recently got their first glimpse into had sent emails. While this is a great passed away Oct. 26. new departmental policies brought start, we need more officers to send the Scott Warner started with about by changes to civil service message. This shows the power of our the MDOC in 1992 and just retired in rules that take effect January 1, 2019. numbers and unwavering solidarity and August. Director Heidi Washington issued a urges Director Washington to recon- “He was the everyday control Director’s Office Memorandum outlin- sider. center officer, so he has trained every ing how annual leave will be scheduled. You can also ask your family to single new employee and had daily Annual leave scheduling is now under send them a message tailored to how contact with everyone,” JCF Chief the authority of the MDOC, thanks to their plans will affect the families of Steward Cary Johnson said. “He was the Michigan Civil Service rule changes members. As of this morning, 391 fam- so knowledgeable, kind and thought- made last year. ily members sent emails. ful, there isn’t anyone at JCF that MCO leaders believe this new pro- wouldn’t call him a friend. He will be cedure will worsen our struggles with The Impasse Panel hearing oc- horribly missed.” morale and retention, to say the least. curred as scheduled Oct. 31. Read TISM (Traumatic Incident Stress This could have been avoided if Direc- about it in this bulletin. Management) team members visited tor Washington and her administration MCO staff were allowed by the pan- the facility last week to offer resources had listened to the thousands of correc- el to record video. We hope to release to grieving staff. tions officers across the state and given the video in the coming weeks so mem- A memorial service for Warner will us a seat at the table when deciding bers better understand our arguments be at 10 a.m. Friday, Nov. 9 at Pennway important issues that affect their lives. and how the process works. Since the Church of God, 1101 E. Cavanaugh Again and again, MCO attempted to be hearing was technically an extension of Rd., Lansing. In lieu of flowers, War- a good partner in this process, and our bargaining, we are being cautious about ner’s family is asking for donations efforts and voices were ignored. the timing of the video’s release. We to MCO’s Crisis Fund. Checks may That’s why we’re asking every don’t want to take a misstep that could be mailed to: MCO Crisis Fund, 421 single MCO member to email Di- backfire on us this late in the process. W. Kalamazoo St., Lansing, MI 48933. rector Washington and MDOC HR Rest in peace, CO Warner. Director Jonathan Patterson about Thanks, members, for your contin- their misguided plans. Send them an ued support. We’ll keep you updated. Crisis Fund Raffle email now. tickets on sale now Gretchen Whitmer wins governor’s race Time is running out to get your tick- ets for the MCO Crisis Fund Raffle. It’s a new day in Michigan! Thank MCO will keep members updated This year’s prizes include a deer you to all members who voted ab- during this transition. hunt at Hopkins Trophy Ranch, several sentee and got to the polls Tuesday, crossbows, cash, a Kalahari getaway, and despite hectic schedules. more. See the full prize list. See a full list of election results. Tickets are $5 or 3 for $10. Also see state senate and state house See your MCO chapter officials for results. tickets. The drawing will be held Nov. 27. MCO leaders have been in close Need not be present to win. contact with Governor-Elect Whit- The Crisis Fund supports members mer concerning the pressing issues facing catastrophe. For those who sup- members face. Whitmer takes office Governor-Elect Gretchen Whitmer speaks port the fund, we thank you! Jan. 1. directly to MCO members in this video. From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 11/8/18 KYIKeeping You Informed Nov. 19, 2018 Support your MDOC family as they take to the ice! MCO Member Benefits The MCO Enforcers and MDOC offers discounts for fun Black Knights hockey teams will face around Michigan and U.S. MCO MDOC off for the first time ever! Black Beat the winter blues with discounts Join us at 8:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. Enforcers Knights from MCO. 14 at the Summit Sports and Ice Here’s a glimpse of the members- For the first time ever, these two teams will battle it out on the ice! Complex in Dimondale near Lansing. All MDOC staff and their families are invited for a night of fun to only discounts on our website now: support a good cause. Tickets are $10. Kids 12 and under are Sponsored by the MCO Military Members Committee. • Tickets at Work is offering a

free. This will be a fun event for the MCO Enforcers v. MDOC Black Knights complimentary perk that gives MCO whole family. WHEN: 8:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 14 WHERE: Summit Sports and Ice Complex, 9410 Davis Hwy, Dimondale. members access to 20 – 60% off The MCO Military Members Com- COST: $10 per person. Kids 12 and under free. on movies, hotels, shows, concerts, mittee is hosting the event. All pro- MCO Enforcers MDOC Black Knights Aaron Lashley, JCF sporting events and more. You can Dylan Coston, SLF Matt Sissen, ARF ceeds will be donated to a good cause. Jason Bushong, CMCF Jason Spear, FOA-Lansing Collin Rewerts, SLF Paul Raymond, FOA save when you visit places like Walt Michael Powell, TCF Jason Konkol, Oakland Co. Comm. Corr. “We don’t get enough chances to Edward Rodarte, SLF Kevin Moses, FOA- Livingston Sam Heeke, DRF Don Matson, FOA-Lansing Disney World Resort ®, Disney- Dustin Dively, MTU Troy Pendell, STF come together outside of work,” said Joseph Lanfranki, SLF Josh Wurmlinger, SMT Ian Coston, SLF Jim Warner, MCF land®, Sea World®, Universal Steve Coston, SLF Steve Falik, JCS Ray Sholtz, MCO Vice President and Dan Barnett, SLF Sean Haskin, LARA Terry Kosiara, TCF Vincent Ryckman, JCF Studios®, and Six Flags, or when chair of the Military Members Com- Drew Coston, SLF Matt Davis, RGC Mike Boydan, Pontiac Parole/Probation you see a show in Las Vegas or New al:MCOPS/NSO 11/19/18 mittee. “Events like these build cama- York City. raderie, so I hope to see lots of mem- Click to view the flyer. • Splash Universe in Dundee is bers there.” offering a great promotion for the In Memoriam: Macomb Officer Edward Furie month of November. Save 50% on Macomb Officer Edward Home, 35259 23 Mile Rd, New Balti- your Sunday night stay if you stay Furie passed away Nov. 15. more, MI 48047. with them Monday night, too. CO Furie had worked at A funeral service is scheduled for • Save up to 30% on best avail- MRF for more than 24 years. Staff 10 a.m. Tuesday at the same location, able rates at Great Wolf Lodge in say he was a dedicated officer who will contingent on clergy’s availability. Traverse City and around the U.S. be missed. Please keep CO Furie’s friends and To get details on how MCO mem- A viewing is today from 2:30 p.m. family and MRF staff in your thoughts. bers can use these discounts, email to 8 p.m. at Gendernalik Funeral Rest in peace, CO Furie. Tara Nichol with MCO Member Benefits or call 517-485-3310 ext. 150. Michigan Training unit officers find contraband Your membership will be verified be- MTU officers found a cell phone uncovered this contraband. fore discount codes are provided. and Suboxone Nov. 13. This story serves as a reminder that The phone was hidden in a bar of staff must be vigilant at all times and soap in an inmate’s area of control. in all locations inside a prison, includ- Michigan Corrections The prisoner, who had graduated from ing honors units. Organization college while incarcerated and was in SEIU Local 526M one of MTU’s special programming What’s been going on at your fa- 421 W. Kalamazoo units, was taken to segregation. cility? Remember, we can’t report on Lansing, MI 48933 Officers found Suboxone later that news like staff assaults, inmate fights, 517.485.3310 day in a Level II inmate’s belongings. contraband, etc. if we don’t hear about www.mco-seiu.org [email protected] Both were found in routine shake- it. Email Communications Director downs. Great job to the COs who Anita Lloyd with information.

From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 11/19/18 bulletin Nov. 21, 2018 Impasse Panel issues recommendation The Impasse Panel has recommended MCO and the state to continue bargaining to find a solution to the officer retention crisis. The panel “… (R)ecommends ordering the parties to continue bargain- ing over alternative … solutions to the vacancy problem during year one of the economic portion of the agreement,” the recommendation states. Read the full recommendation here. The panel also recommended bargaining unit employees receive a 2% wage increase and a 2% lump sum in October 2019. All other items tentatively agreed upon by MCO and the state were ap- proved by the panel. The panel’s recommendation is still subject to approval from the Michigan Civil Service Commission, which meets again Dec. 12. It’s important to note that MCO received this decision at 5 p.m. today. We are reviewing the decision and may have additional infor- mation or clarification soon. “Officer retention is a serious issue,” MCO President Byron Osborn said. “While MDOC leaders have adopted some of our ideas to curb the recruitment and retention crises, they were not open to discussing it at bargaining. We hope they come to the table with a renewed sense of ur- gency to fix these problems now, for the safety of their staff and security of their prisons.” Michigan Corrections Organization Watch our website and Facebook group for SEIU Local 526M 421 W. Kalamazoo future updates. Lansing, Mi 48933 517.485.3310 517.485.3319 www.mco-seiu.org [email protected]

From the desk of Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 11/21/18 KYIKeeping You Informed Dec. 6, 2018

Quick updates: Board statewide visits, RUO lawsuit status, and bargaining impasse MCO Executive Board members members. All other items tentatively agreed are traveling the state to speak with The purpose of this hearing will be upon by MCO and the state were ap- members and answer questions for the Court to decide if they want to proved by the panel. about the contract and civil service hear the case and then rule on the issue. The panel’s recommendation is still rule changes. MCO has been fighting the elimina- subject to approval from the Michigan Staff members toured facilities last tion of the RUO/CMUO classifica- Civil Service Commission, which meets month to gather questions, which were tions since 2012. Read a timeline of our again Dec. 12. The Commission could provided to the Board. You can also ask actions. accept, reject, or modify the panel’s rec- a question at your chapter’s meeting. ommendation. Visit our Facebook group Meetings and tours will be held for The Impasse Panel has recom- and watch your email for updates. all chapters this month. More informa- mended MCO and the state to con- tion should be posted on your facility’s tinue bargaining to find a solution Don’t forget, the MCO union bulletin board. If meeting infor- to the officer retention crisis, as Enforcers and MDOC Black mation is not posted, please let us know. MCO announced in a bulletin Nov. Knights face off Friday, Dec. 21. 14 near Lansing. More details The Michigan Supreme Court will The panel also recommended bar- and a printable flyer are on hold oral arguments on our RUO/ gaining unit employees receive a 2% the MCO website. CMUO lawsuit Jan. 23 or 24. Once we wage increase and a 2% lump sum in See you there! have an exact date, we will share it with October 2019. Around the state: OCF now shuttered; AMF inmate stabs officer Ojibway Correctional Facility security cases to prevent breaking, but at a hospital. closed Dec. 1 as scheduled. officers say this inmate was apparently There were at least three other fights Some officers in the bump region able to break his. and assaults last month involving at least voluntarily transferred to other facilities Luckily, this officer wasn’t seriously 10 inmates. Great work to the MBP staff and are now awaiting recall to AMF. injured. Watch your partner’s back and who responded to these emergencies. MCO leaders realize this closure was stay safe. especially painful due to Ojibway’s loca- MCO Aggressively Pushes Pro-Officer tion. MCO will continue to advocate for Marquette officers have dealt with Agenda During Lame Duck all members throughout any challenges several gang-related fights over the we face. last few weeks and a staff assault. At least 25 inmates have been sent to A Baraga inmate stabbed an offi- segregation. cer in the legs Nov. 25 as the prisoner On Nov. 23, seven inmates were sent was being removed from his cell. to segregation after fights on the Level The CO was treated at Baraga V yard. A modified movement plan was With just a few weeks to go in the County Memorial Hospital and released. put in place. A tattoo gun was also found legislative calendar, MCO is advocat- He returned to work the next day. that day. ing for 18 pieces of pro-officer legisla- A Level V inmate in Unit 7 broke his The next day, a four-inmate fight tion. Legislators have already passed computer tablet and used a sharp piece broke out in the B-unit (Level V) show- a bill that will honor fallen COs Jose- to stab the officer, MCO members said. ers. phine McCallum and Jack Budd. He also tried to jab the officer in the An officer fired a warning shot to MCO has commissioned a mobile torso, but his stab-proof vest protected break up a four-inmate fight Nov. 25. billboard with a message directed at him. The move team was extracting the Then Dec. 1 a prisoner stabbed lawmakers. See the mobile billboard inmate from his cell because he made another inmate with a 6-in. piece of in action and retweet us to help the weapon. Tablets are enclosed in sharpened metal. The inmate was treated spread the word.

From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 12/6/18 bulletin Dec. 12, 2018 MCSC imposes contract on MCO for 2019-2021 The Michigan Civil Service Commission has approved the impasse panel’s recom- mended contract but says the state doesn’t have to continue bargaining solutions to the retention crisis with MCO. MCSC made this decision at its meeting today. The impasse panel’s recommended contract calls for a 2 percent wage increase and a 2 percent lump sum in October 2019 with no increase to health care costs for one year. The contract the commission has imposed will last three years, but addresses only one year of wages and health care. The imposed contract requires the parties to re- turn to the table in 2019 to bargain those issues for future years of the contract. All other items tentatively agreed upon by MCO and the state were approved by the commission. Cheryl Schmittdiel, director of the Office of the State Employer, asked the com- mission to reject the panel’s recommendation that we bargain retention solutions. Commissioner Janet McClelland made a motion to reject that requirement, saying the parties will continue conversations and be back at the table in about six months anyway. The amendment passed 3-1, with Commissioner Robert Swanson opposed. The entire commission then voted 4-0 to adopt the panel’s recommendation with that change. MCO Legal Director Jeff Foldie and MCO Executive Director Andy Potter spoke in favor of keeping the bargaining requirement. In fact, they asked the commission to strengthen it by setting retention goals and a time frame for bargaining on this crisis. That was not approved. MCO will continue to insist MDOC recognize the re- cruitment and retention problem that we have and seek Michigan Corrections Organization realistic solutions, even though the commission gave SEIU Local 526M them a free pass today. 421 W. Kalamazoo Lansing, Mi 48933 Soon the MCO bargaining team will begin preparing 517.485.3310 to bargain again next summer. 517.485.3319 www.mco-seiu.org [email protected]

From the desk of Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 12/12/18 KYIKeeping You Informed Dec. 14, 2018

Member Advocacy Leads to MCO-Backed Bills Moving Through Lame Duck This week, the House and Senate a state correctional officer. session, which is slated for Thursday, passed important legislation related to This movement comes amid a year- Dec. 20th. Outstanding on our list are drones, recognizing an emerging and long campaign by corrections officers, bills that address targeting of officers, imminent threat to corrections profes- staff and leaders on the topic. In Sep- liquid assaults and more. We even rented sionals. tember of 2017, MCO drafted a posi- a mobile billboard to catch legislators’ These bills, which were heavily advo- tion statement and presented our case to attention. But lawmakers need to hear cated for and supported by MCO, will the governor’s Unmanned Aircraft Sys- from front-line staff, too. • make it illegal to use an unmanned air- tems Task Force. In addition, members Please take a few minutes to email craft system (UAS or drone) for activi- held town halls, coffee hours, legislative your Senator and ask them to priori- ties that would otherwise be criminal if meet-and-greets and arranged tours with tize and support pro-officer legisla- performed by the individual; elected officials to educate them on the tion. If these bills aren’t passed by • prohibit a person from knowingly and importance of safety and security within Dec. 20, they could be reintroduced intentionally using a drone in a manner the prison. These bills will now go to next session, but they’d start from that interferes with the operations of a the governor for his signature. square one. Please email your Sena- correctional facility; While we are happy to see these bills tor now! • prohibit a person from knowingly and move, we still have several outstand- Find out more about the drone bills: intentionally using a drone in a manner ing pieces of legislation that need to be HB5494, HB5495, HB5496, SB917, SB that interferes with the official duties of passed before the end of the legislative 922

MCSC approves contract; video of impasse hearing online Briefly... As announced Wednesday, the hearing transcript. Thanks, members, The 2018 holiday packet, which Michigan Civil Service Commission ap- for sticking together in these challeng- includes next year’s pocket calendar, proved a contract for 2019-2021. ing times. was mailed to members in late No- MCSC approved the impasse panel’s vember. recommended contract, which calls for This year’s mailing also includes a a 2 percent wage increase and 2 percent Don’t forget, the MCO window decal, president’s letter, and a lump sum in Oct. 2019. But the com- Enforcers and MDOC wall calendar featuring the Move Forward posters. mission disagreed with the impasse Black Knights take to the panel’s recommendation that MCO and Holiday packets are only sent to dues- the state continue bargaining solutions ice tonight! paying members. If you have not re- to the retention crisis. All proceeds go toward ceived your packet, please email Mikaela Bliven. The contract the commission has ap- an Honor Flight for Viet- proved will last three years but address- nam Veteran Eugene Linn The Exchange Transfer List will es only one year of wages and health and Sweets for Soldiers. The be cleared in early January. If you care. The imposed contract requires the requested to be placed on the list before parties to return to the table in 2019 to MCO Military August 2018, your name will be removed. bargain those issues for future years of Members Com- If you do not want your name to be the contract. mittee is hosting removed, please email Anita Lloyd by Because the Michigan Civil Ser- Jan. 1. vice Commission has now settled our the event. View a Many people leave the Department or contract, we are releasing the video of flyer with more get a transfer without notifying MCO to the Impasse Panel hearing Oct. 31. We details. remove their name from the list. Clearing realize parts of the video may be hard the list once a year means the list is more to hear, so we are also releasing the useful and effective.

From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 12/14/18 KYIKeeping You Informed Dec. 21, 2018

Officers, take the MDOC wellness survey now In Memoriam: Officer MCO encourages all MDOC staff to professionals. Jack Budd take the MDOC Wellness Survey sent to This survey is our chance to tell Dec. 27 is the 31st anniversary your state email. MDOC administration what we of Officer Jack Budd’s murder All responses are anonymous. This need. We worked hard to get to this at the former State Prison of Southern survey closes Jan. 2, 2019. point – MCO conducted an assess- Michigan in Jackson. MDOC is partnering with Des- ment that backed up our claims An inmate, armed with a weapon, ert Waters Correctional Outreach to about PTSD, worked with the leg- came out of a shower area and stabbed conduct this survey. Desert Waters is islature to explain the problem, and Budd. James Miller was sentenced to 80- a Colorado-based, non-profit corpora- pushed the MDOC to do more for 120 years in prison. He is also serving two tion which specializes in the health and their employees. Let’s keep up the life sentences. well-being of corrections professionals. momentum. Please fill out the survey Josephine McCallum was murdered You may recall that Desert Waters is so MDOC can understand what you at the same prison on March 24, 1987. the same non-profit that helped MCO are dealing with and what resources Budd’s and McCallum’s deaths led to conduct a member survey in 2015. They you need. sweeping changes within the MDOC. Ad- are a credible organization that truly Read more details you should know vanced training, increased staffing, revised cares about the health of corrections about the survey on the MCO website. inmate discipline, and the breakup of the Pro-officer bills pass in Lame Duck with help from MCO Jackson Central Complex into several This legislative lame duck session was tor to pass these important bills. smaller prisons were among the changes. a historic one for MCO. Look for an MCO In-Depth next Some of those reforms have been scaled Seven MCO-backed bills passed the week on all of the legislation we sup- back in recent years due to budget cuts. House and Senate and now await the ported in lame duck. Their sacrifice will never be forgotten. governor’s signature. These bills speak to Our efforts in the legislature are just This year, MCO worked with Rep. Julie everything from drone use near prisons one way MCO advocates for corrections Alexander to pass a bill that will designate and interference in facility operations to officers and FSAs. If we don’t push for Interstate 94 between exits 139 and 141 in recognition of fallen officers. Thank you legislation to raise our profession and Jackson as the “Corrections Officers Jack to all members who emailed their Sena- protect our safety, who will? Budd and Josephine McCallum Memorial Highway.” Special challenge coin honors fallen officers’ sacrifice Budd, McCallum and our other fallen The Michigan Department of officers were also honored at MCO’s Corrections Honor Guard and Fallen Officers Memorial Dedication in Michigan Corrections Organiza- 2017. tion have teamed up to create a Please take a moment to remember beautiful, limited-edition chal- lenge coin. It recognizes MDOC Budd on Dec. 27. officers who have given the Congratulations to the Lori Gidley ultimate sacrifice and includes an image of an officer kneeling at class that graduated this week! MCO’s Fallen Officers Memorial. purchase. Only 500 coins will be Good luck on your MDOC career. Coins are $15 each plus $3 ship- sold – don’t wait to put in your order ping. Proceeds go to the Honor until it’s too late. Guard. The MDOC Honor Guard repre- To get yours, see an Honor Guard sents the best of who we are. Thank member at your facility. To receive you, Honor Guard members, for your a coin by mail, email CTO Jeff Rea- professionalism and dedication to soner at [email protected] to service.

From the Desk of MCO Communications Director Anita Lloyd al:MCOPS/NSO 12/21/18