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July 2008, Volume 9 Department of Correction Employee Newsletter Inside This Issue:

4 On the Front Lines This Issue is

5 Buss Selected as Commissioner Dedicated to 6 Christian Motorcyclists Commissioner Association Visits Pendleton Correctional Facility Donahue 6 IDOC Aids Storm and Flood Victims

7 MCF Launches Braille Project From the Commissioner

8 The Birth of the Wee Ones hen Governor Daniels offered me to realize their full potential. But the Nursery W the position as Commissioner of contribution generated by this new level Indiana’s Department of Correction, I of commitment helped accomplish many 9 Offenders Assist in Rebuilding had a clear understanding of the difficult great things. Storm-damaged Covered challenges in store for me. However, Bridge I truly had no concept of the number You should all be proud of the fact that, through your commitment and 10 A Certain Kind of Canine of wonderful, bright and dedicated individuals I would be privileged to sacrifices, the DOC was able to provide unprecedented levels of correctional 11 Community Appreciates work with that would help me meet WVCF Emergency Squad those challenges. One of my first acts service to a record number of offenders as Commissioner was to open lines of without spending additional tax 12 A Special Day with Mom communication, so staff at all levels would dollars. Even more than that, some of be able to send me their good ideas for the savings realized through sustained 13 First Equine Management positive changes. I attribute much of the improvement directly supported sorely Graduation in the State of progress that was made during my tenure needed, and in many cases, unparalleled Indiana as Chief Executive Officer of the DOC to salary adjustments for most Department employees. 14 PEN Products Breaks Offender those who were bold enough to share Employment Record their good ideas and candid advice. I cannot begin to list the many positive changes and new initiatives we 16 NMHC is a Great Success I trust that nearly all employees are now familiar with the 3-Es, which I introduced introduced during the past three and a shortly after becoming Commissioner. half years, but those who wish to reflect With your collective efforts, the DOC on the enormity of change need only has taken great strides with respect thumb through the DOC's annual reports, to all three of these areas: Efficiency, the Progress Reports, or the media Effectiveness, and most important, releases available on the DOC's web site. Employees. As you might imagine, it is The magnitude of these collective works not easy making system-wide changes is truly staggering. within such a large Agency. Many You have allowed me to return to DOC staff were encouraged to leave Kentucky not only with a sense of pride, their normal comfort zone, and called upon to work harder and faster in order Article continued on page 14 2 progressionINcorrections

The Department's Vision and Mission Statement Ground breaking for the Corn Boiler at Putnamville

THE VISION Vehicle Restoration Contest

We, the dedicated professionals of the Indiana Department of Correction, strive towards a safer, more secure Indiana for those we serve through innovative programming and community partnerships. Commissioner's Awards Luncheon

THE MISSION progressionINcorrections The mission of the Indiana Department of Correction We welcome all submissions. is to empower the agency’s staff Please submit articles to: of correctional professionals Douglas S. Garrison, Chief Communications Officer to increase public safety E-mail: [email protected] and reduce recidivism Designed by: Nicole D. Arb, through successful re-entry Graphic Design Department, PEN Products programs that allow offenders Indiana Department of Correction the opportunity Indiana Government Center South, Room E334 to positively contribute 302 W. Street to Indiana communities. Indianapolis, Indiana 46204 www.in.gov/idoc/ progressionINcorrections 3

Commissioner Donahue at Work with Grover Putnamville Correctional Facility Farm

Conner Prairie Town Hall Meetings

2008 Superintendent's Leadership Conference

Vehicle Restoration Contest

Opening of the Indiana Women's Nursery The Villages Campaign

DOC Appreciation Week at the State House

Announcement of Enhancement to Indiana Sex Offender Registry

Farewell and Good Luck to Commissioner Donahue! Riding with the Governor 4 progressionINcorrections

“It was riveting to sit with Major On the Front Lines General Stone, a commander Ann Coppola, News Reporter, who has such keen focus, who Reprinted with permission, Corrections.com realizes that the significant number of men detained are going to be returned to the t was mid-December community,” Donahue says. “That of last year, and David I “They are now releasing is his objective and why he has Donahue had been in Iraq more individuals back brought about things like job training, for several days. Standing into the community than family visitation, and education for the inside a makeshift office they are accepting into detainees.” at Camp Bucca, the United the facilities, and that is States Army’s largest military a very positive trend,” he The educational component is also center, the Indiana says. “That is the ultimate a vital security tool for the Army. Department of Correction objective, to work those For example, the Army hopes that Commissioner was still numbers down.” teaching the detainees how to read will adjusting to daily life in a allow them to interpret the Koran for war zone among 20,000 Iraqi The U.S. camps, also themselves, rather than believing what detainees and thousands of soldiers. referred to as “theater extremists tell them. As he learned more facilities” or TIFs, do not hold individuals about this programming, Donahue Colonel James Brown, the commander sentenced for a : there are no fixed once again found a fellow corrections at Camp Bucca, walked into the office terms of detention. After capturing professional on the front lines. where Donahue and a modestly detainees, the military holds them until decorated artificial Christmas tree were it can determine whether or not they can “I had the pleasure to meet Anna waiting. The intense and highly energetic be safely released to the community or Callahan, a Major in the National Guard Brown had someone to introduce to be referred to the Iraqi courts system. and Lieutenant in the Bureau of , Donahue that might help him to feel who had such a personal focus and more at home. To combat hopelessness among the passion about the delivery of education,” detainees and to prevent the camps Donahue recalls. “She and her staff “He had gone out onto this enormous from becoming recruiting centers for actually built a classroom to create the military base with thousands of soldiers, radical militant groups, the Army is opportunity to promote literacy among and found an employee of INDOC taking a decidedly corrections approach detainees. They call the educational that was stationed at the Camp Bucca toward its detention operations. In fact, system at both camps the ‘House of detention facility,” Donahue says. “It was correctional fingerprints can be found Wisdom,’ and it’s also available to the one of our COs, SPC Randy Kuhlman, all over the camps, from the developing juveniles in detention.” and I had met him before at Putnamville educational, vocational, and religious Correctional in Indiana. Here was a programming to the review boards The Army is currently working on classic corrections professional doing the that operate much like parole board making the educational programming same line of work in his military role. And meetings. available to the nearly 24,000 detainees it was also a reminder of just how small throughout Iraq. It’s a daunting task, but this world really is.” “All of the managers realize the one, Donahue says, everyone is eager experience these individuals have in take on. The story of how two Indiana corrections detention could have a lifelong impact professionals came face to face in the for them,” Donahue says, “that’s why “When I was visiting with [Kuhlman], he Iraq desert can be traced to last fall, it’s so important to promote hope told me he realized the opportunity he when the U.S. Army Secretary, Pete and opportunity in the detention had while he was there was to literally Geren, asked Donahue to go to Iraq to environment.” change the environment for the better,” review the coalition forces’ detention Donahue says. “He was very proud, and he operations. Donahue heard the “hope and knew at the end of the day, that because opportunity” mantra throughout his of his efforts, Iraq was a better place.” Donahue visited Iraq nearly one year time at Camp Bucca and Camp Cropper, after President Bush’s much debated a much smaller detention camp to the INDOC currently has 99 staff deployed in 2007 troop surge. As the security west of Baghdad in central Iraq. Major the military, which is not an uncommon presence in Iraq increased, so did the General Doug Stone, commander of number for many state corrections number of suspected Iraqi insurgents detention operations in Iraq, has been departments. During his visit, Donahue in U.S. military custody. The estimated the driving force behind promoting met several staff from different U.S. number of detainees at the beginning a variety of opportunities for former of 2008 was 24,000, but Donahue says militants who will be returning to society. those numbers are now on the decline. Article continued on page 7 progressionINcorrections 5 Governor Daniels Appoints Buss Commissioner

Buss began his career as a correctional Competency work and is an auditor for officer at the Indiana State Prison in the American Correctional Association 1987 and by 1994 at the Lakeside (ACA). In 2005, was recognized by Correctional Facility in Michigan City the Department of Correction as had been promoted to the highest rank Superintendent of the Year. The for a uniformed officer. He joined the Commissioner served as Commander of Edwin G. Buss administrative ranks in 1997 when he ISP’s Emergency Squad for many years was named a correctional unit team and was a charter member of the DOC's overnor Mitchell E. Daniels, Jr. manager, responsible for three housing Special Emergency Response Team appointed Edwin G. Buss to be G units and 1,850 offenders at the Indiana (SERT). Commissioner of the Indiana Department State Prison, then served as assistant of Correction effective August 1, 2008. superintendent of operations/programs Buss graduated from Bethel University Before being appointed to Commissioner, from 1998 to 2001. in Mishawaka, Indiana, with a degree in Edwin G. Buss served as the Organizational Management. His wife, Superintendent of the Indiana State Commissioner Buss is a veteran having Dawn, is Superintendent of the South Prison in Michigan City. Preceding his post served his country in the United States Bend Juvenile Facility. They have three at ISP, he was the Superintendent at the Army in the mid-1980s. He has been a children, Conner, Jacob, and Taylor. n Westville Correctional Facility from 2002- consultant with the National Institute of 2005, where he improved the operations Correction for Organizational Cultural of the state’s largest prison.

Commissioner's Greeting Dear Colleagues,

Today I have the extreme pleasure of working beside you as the Commissioner of the Indiana Department of Correction. I am both honored and humbled by Governor Daniels’ appointment and I pledge to do all things thereunto pertaining that will place DOC in the forefront of the corrections profession.

Having served in a number of capacities over 21 years with DOC, I have come to realize that our employees are some of the most dedicated corrections professionals in America. Your vigilance, dedication to duty, and experience is the constant conduit that provides safe and secure facilities, public safety, and mission accomplishment.

Every staff member of the DOC plays an important part towards its success, it is vital that we are all aboard the team towards that success!

Soon, I will be visiting all DOC facilities. During my tours I hope to meet with any staff member who wishes to share thoughts on improving any aspect of our Department. For those who wish to share their ideas with me right away, I strongly encourage you to e-mail me your thoughts and ideas to [email protected].

Please know that as your Commissioner I will serve you, and all residents of this great State, with integrity, purpose, and the commitment you so richly deserve. Also know that my thoughts are always with you everyday as you fulfill your important role to public safety. I have always been proud to be an employee of the Indiana Department of Correction and I very much look forward to working with each of you in the future.

Thank you for all you do!

Edwin G. Buss, Commissioner 6 progressionINcorrections

Christian Motorcyclists Indiana Association Visits Department Pendleton Correctional Facility Neil Potter, Public Information Officer, Pendleton Correctional Facility of Correction Aids Storm and Flood Victims uring the months of May and D June, Indiana saw several days of severe weather, including heavy rain, lightening, and tornadoes. As a result, portions of central and southern Indiana experienced storm damage and massive flooding. Governor Daniels directed a swift state response to aid the victims of the storms and flooding, and the Indiana Department of Correction stepped up alongside other state agencies to provide assistance in a variety of forms. Many facilities stepped up to aid Members of the Christian Motorcyclists Association at Prayer victims in the form of monetary and supply donations. Staff and offenders at Branchville Correctional embers of the Christian Taped gospel music was played during Facility, Camp Summit, Correctional M Motorcyclists Association returned the event and organization members Industrial Facility, Indiana State Prison, to the Pendleton Correctional Facility on conducted group prayer services. Some Indianapolis Juvenile Correctional June 14, 2008 to present their “Breaking members of the organization provided Facility, Plainfield Correctional Through” religious program to the powerful personal testimonies of Facility, Rockville Correctional Facility, offender population. how their religious experiences have Wabash Valley Correctional Facility, turned them around and how this has and Westville Correctional Facility Ten members of the group participated motivated them to share their message have made over $7,000 in donations in the event, and they proudly displayed of hope with offenders and others who to various flood and storm relief eight impressive motorcycles for the may also need positive direction and efforts. The PEN Products warehouse offenders’ viewing enjoyment. The inspiration in their lives. The love and in Indianapolis was even turned group conducted three separate fascination of motorcycles shared by all into a donation hub for the Indiana events during their visit to the facility. involved served as a catalyst to stimulate Office of Faith-based and Community A program was provided to level individual conversations and interactions Initiatives. one offenders housed outside the between members of the organization walls in the morning hours, and two and the offender participants. Additionally, offender work crews additional programs were held in from Branchville Correctional Facility, the afternoon inside the walls for the Superintendent Brett Mize praised the Edinburgh Correctional Facility, maximum security population. A total of organization for their willingness to Henryville Correctional Facility, New approximately 410 offenders were able conduct this great program at the facility Castle Correctional Facility, Pendleton to attend the program and interact with and indicated that he eagerly looks Correctional Facility, Plainfield Re- members of the organization. forward to additional visits from the Article continued on page 7 organization in the future. n progressionINcorrections 7 Miami Correctional Facility Launches Braille Project Ann Hubbard, Public Information Officer­, Miami Correctional Facility and Becky Deeb, New Enterprise Development Manager, PEN Products

offender’s marketability in the job market upon release, with the goal that gainful employment will keep offenders from returning to prison. “We have provided an environment for change, and the offenders will have the opportunity to change and succeed after iami Correctional Facility hosted an release. The Miami Braille Project is really open house to feature the Miami M about people with great needs getting Braille Project, a new collaborative effort what they need,” stated Commissioner J. between the Indiana Department of David Donahue. Correction, PEN Products, the Indiana Department of Education, the Center of State Senator Teresa Lubbers of District Exceptional Learning, and the Indiana #30, said, “This is the perfect example that School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. government can work. Education and corrections working together, it doesn’t The mission of the project is to provide get any better than this. The Miami Braille low-cost, quality Braille educational Project is the beginning of a great thing materials to Indiana’s school-age children for the kids, the offenders and the State of in a timely and efficient manner, while Indiana.” also providing a skill to the offenders at the Miami Correctional Facility. Offenders Twenty offender workers are currently learn to transcribe textbooks into Braille being trained in Braille transcription at the Offender explains Braille process to textbooks. The skill will increase the Miami Correctional Facility. n Commissioner Donahue

Indiana Department of On the Front Lines Article continued from page 4 Correction Aids Storm and Flood Victims corrections systems. The connection “I had a preconceived notion about the Article continued from page 6 between corrections and the Iraq war is war before I went to Iraq based on the strong, not only through its people, but information we receive in the news and entry Educational Facility, Putnamville also through its philosophy and mission. media,” Donahue adds, “but now that Correctional Facility, and Wabash I’ve spent time there, I know that what Valley Correctional Facility put in “Indiana will release 18,000 inmates this is going on in our detention operations countless hours with storm clean-up year alone, and if we don’t promote hope is absolutely phenomenal. There’s no and sandbagging to stem flooding. and opportunity during their time of question in my mind our soldiers are In many cases, the offenders worked incarceration, there are going to be new doing the right things for the right alongside military personnel and and additional victims,” Donahue reasons.” citizen volunteers in the relief efforts. says. “The correlation with Iraq and the detention facilities is that the major Back in the U.S. at INDOC central Whether through donations or focus is on what will be happening to the headquarters the name of every manual clean-up efforts, the individual when he leaves detention and employee serving in the military is listed Department has shown tremendous goes home.” on the lobby wall. It serves as a reminder spirit and provided a great deal of for all those who walk by to keep these help to those in Indiana who were individuals in mind, no matter their impacted by the storms. n connection to or view of the Iraq War. n 8 progressionINcorrections The Birth of the Wee Ones Nursery

18 months or less • The offender’s earliest possible release to serve after their date is no more than eighteen months delivery date.) The after projected delivery date. child and mother • The offender has never been convicted will leave the facility of a violent crime or any type of child upon the mother’s abuse, or child endangerment. release. • The offender is the legal custodian of Program the child. Participants: Mother: An adult • The offender must be willing to sign female committed an agreement indicating that she will to the Department abide by all of the rules of the WON of Correction who program. has been accepted (Additional eligibility requirements apply.) A nanny and mother at the Wee Ones Nursery into and resides in the Wee Ones Offender Mother Selection Process: esearch suggests that without Nursery Program Housing Unit at the support from caregivers and • Offenders who believe that they meet R Indiana Women’s Prison. professionals, incarcerated parents are the offender mother eligibility criteria often unable to develop or maintain Nanny: An adult female committed for the WON program will complete an healthy bonds with their children. To to the Department of Correction who application for the program. meet this end, the Indiana Department meets the criteria to participate and • The offender must meet the of Correction created the Family resides in the Wee Ones Nursery Program preliminary eligibility criteria prior Preservation Program. The Family as an assistant to the offender mothers, to submitting an application to the Preservation Program operates on staff, and volunteers. program. the belief that through mentoring, Pediatrician: A licensed pediatrician education, and role modeling, offenders • If the application is approved, the responsible for overseeing the health are less likely to continue the cycle Nurse or other designated staff and well-being of the newborn infants of substance abuse, violence and arranges to interview and explain the housed in the Unit. poor decision-making which led to program, as well as field any questions incarceration. Nurse: A registered nurse responsible for that the offender may have regarding overseeing the health and well-being of the program. On April 16, 2008, the Agency unveiled the new infants and mothers housed in the Wee Ones Nursery (WON) Program • The offender’s application is then the Unit. at the Indiana Women’s Prison. Now, assessed and recommendations by Indiana is one of only six states to offer Emergency Contact Person: Person, the Nurse or other designated staff a nursery program to incarcerated relative or agency that is approved to are made to determine whether the mothers. The mission of the WON take custody of an offender mother’s offender is eligible to participate in the Program is to strengthen the bond baby in the event of an emergency or WON program. between the offender mother and the offender mother is terminated from • Pending a final review and acceptance, infant through education and quality participation in the Wee Ones Nursery the Nurse or other designated staff time. The program benefits the infant Program. This person is authorized to meets with the offender and provide by encouraging cognitive, motor, and take possession of the infant’s property the offender with a copy of the WON behavioral skills and development. when the baby leaves the institution. Program and Housing Unit rules, as The Wee Ones Nursery can Program Eligibility: well as a contract indicating that she accommodate a maximum of 10 will participate in all aspects of the • The offender is pregnant at the time newborn babies and 14 offenders (10 WON program and will comply with she comes to the Department of mothers and 4 nannies). The newborn the program contract. Correction. will live in the nursery for a maximum of 18 months. (Mothers are eligible to participate in the nursery if they have Article continued on page 9 progressionINcorrections 9

The Birth of the Offenders Assist in Wee Ones Nursery Rebuilding Storm-damaged Article continued from page 8 Offender Nanny Selection Process: Covered Bridge • The offender must have a disciplinary history free of any Class A and Class B “ am proud that offenders can give findings of guilt within the past 6 to 12 I back to the community by working months. tirelessly to recover and rebuild the storm-ravaged Moscow covered • The offender has never been convicted bridge. The completed project will of a violent crime or any type of child mean a great deal to the community, abuse, or child endangerment. and I am glad the Department of • The offender has satisfactorily Correction could lend its assistance,” completed a Department of Correction said DOC Commissioner J. David parenting education class. Donahue. • The offender has, at a minimum, an Local officials and citizens in eighth grade reading level. the community have expressed • The offender must be willing to sign an tremendous praise and appreciation agreement to abide by all of the rules to the offenders and staff of the WON program By doing so, the participating in this outstanding nanny indicates that she will support community service endeavor. the participants in the program to the INDOT officials and DOC offenders assess WTHR TV and FOX 59 News from damage to Moscow Covered Bridge best of her ability. Indianapolis visited the site to (Additional eligibility requirements apply.) Two offender work crews from interview offenders and others Pendleton Correctional Facility and involved in the project, which The Wee Ones Nursery Program is New Castle Correctional Facility went resulted in extremely positive news funded by grants provided by the to Moscow, Indiana to lend their coverage for the Department. Maternal and Children’s Special Health hands to help clean up Care Services Division of the Indiana and rebuild a storm- State Department of Health and the damaged, historical Women’s Fund of Central Indiana. covered bridge. Ensuring that the connection between a mother and child is strong enhances the The offender work probability of an offender not returning crews from the to a life of poor choices. Furthermore, a Department of newborn’s opportunity for life success Correction are is enhanced with the maintenance of working alongside those ties. Indiana Department of Transportation The WON Program falls within the officials to salvage greater DOC commitment to equip the remaining lumber offenders with the necessary skills to and components of Offenders disassemble Moscow Covered Bridge ensure successful re-entry. the beloved bridge for Through the Wee Ones Nursery Program, shipment to storage. Once as much This project is providing another it is the hope of the Indiana Department of the bridge is recovered as possible, great opportunity for offenders to of Correction that through building crews will begin to assist with the gain self-respect, while incurring family ties, offenders will positively re- reconstruction efforts. The offender tremendous cost savings for the enter Indiana communities. n work crews will remain on-site until citizens of Indiana as they face the the work is completed. daunting challenges of recovery and restoration. n 10 progressionINcorrections A Certain Kind of Canine John Sharp, Captain/Field Specialist, Emergency Response Operations

nly a few special dogs have by using his sight and sense of O a chance to be employed smell. The dog is also checked for by the Indiana Department of its willingness to go into confined Correction. spaces—a must for dogs that need to sniff out drugs. The ball John M. Sharp and Tony Keith is placed in a wooden box that are always searching for the contains other balls, and the dog perfect dog, but the qualities needs to put his head in the small they train for use with the Indiana space and pull out the ball he has Department of Correction are been playing with. not what most owners would appreciate. During their visits If the dog passes the field tests, to kennels, animal control, and results are passed on to the Field the Humane Society, if they see a Supervisor, then to the Director dog with high energy, this signals of Emergency Response. Dogs potential. Dogs in training are then placed in one of the six facilities after being tested for These dogs are more of an animal than Sporting dogs usually have potential heartworm, X-rayed for dysphasia, de- the average pet owner can handle, but because of their natural drive to hunt wormed, and vaccinated. Training takes this makes the dogs good for detection and retrieve. Looks and breed do not about 60 days or more. work. Dogs that work for the DOC have matter. However, such dogs are not easy been saved from being euthanized to find; only a few dogs make the grade. Staff members work their dogs for 15 to and are placed with DOC to perform 20 minutes per day. The time together detection work. Dogs usually are hard to The growing drug problem has created has to be fun and stimulating; playing is adopt out. The Humane Society is really a demand for well-trained dogs. Dogs the key to training. When the dog makes thrilled when a dog is adopted, and they can be trained to find anything that a find, it gets to play with the tennis ball. know that the dogs will be cared for by has an odor. Dog behavior depends on During training, a pouch containing a their handlers. training, and training involves a bit of specific scent is hidden in a wooden psychology. Dogs have different growth box with a hole in the top of the box. In Sharp and Keith are both assigned to stages. For example, as puppies, they passive indication, the dog learns to sit the Emergency Response Operations learn from their mothers and littermates. down and intensely stare at the location Division of the DOC. Their main From 6 months to 1-1/2 years in age, where it smells what he is looking for. As assignment is handling canines at six dogs are in a “teenage” stage. They are a reward, the ball appears for the dog facilities, which have thirteen canines growing, and they are looking for where to play with when he makes a find. It is each. The total is divided into forty-two they belong in the pecking order of the important that the dog never see the narcotic canines, twenty-four utility pack. It is when most dogs end up in hand of the trainer toss the ball. If the canines, and twelve trailing canines. animal shelters because their owners dog does, the dog will learn to look to do not understand the psychological the trainer or handler for the play object Sharp and Keith are both Master Trainers development of their pet. instead of focusing on the scent. with the International Police Work Dog Association. Sharp has been training The initial test to determine how much In addition, dogs sniff out marijuana, canines since 1977, and he had the first detective potential a dog has is simple. heroin, and cocaine during training. canine for the DOC. Keith has been One test involves throwing a tennis ball, The nose capability of any dog is training trailing dogs (Bloodhounds) and if the prospective trainee tears off phenomenal. for fifteen years. He has helped find after it, that is a good sign. Over-running escaped felons to missing children. the ball is also a plus, as is wanting to Handlers routinely take their canines keep the ball. The dog does not even home and perform demos where The Indiana Department of Correction have to bring the ball back. During countless youngsters can pet the K-9 Unit is not a “show boat” operation. another test, a trainer holds the dog’s canines. Well-trained handlers are just as A good candidate is between the ages collar and tosses the ball into high weeds important as well trained dogs— or snow. He hopes the dog finds the ball of one and a half to three years old. it’s all about teamwork. n progressionINcorrections 11 Local Community Appreciates Wabash Valley Correctional Facility Emergency Squad

or several weeks, the southwest region were the last to leave the F of Indiana received heavy rains in a town of Elnora. short time frame, causing rivers and creeks to overflow their banks and breeching Emergency Squad levees. On June 9, 2008, the Wabash Valley members are voluntary Correctional Facility received a call to assist applicants that put in the the town of Elnora, Indiana due to severe extra effort to be trained flooding. Sixteen E-Squad members in specialized skills, tactics, from Wabash Valley Correctional Facility and are NIMS (National were sent to help in sandbagging efforts Incident Management to keep back the rising waters until the System) certified, which town could be evacuated. The E-Squad furthers their abilities members worked side-by-side with the to assist in disturbances local law enforcement, local residents, and and natural disasters. Wabash Valley E-Squad the National Guard. Through their efforts, Emergency Squad all citizens of the town of Elnora were members consistently go It is the intent of the Indiana Department evacuated safely. To ensure that all were above and beyond what is commonly of Correction to have personnel trained evacuated safely, all E-Squad members asked of a correctional staff member. and prepared to act under emergency worked into the early morning hours and circumstances and conditions inside and outside our facilities. n Emergency Preparedness Competition Angel Velez, Major, Emergency Response Operations

n Friday, June 27, 2008, Emergency Response Operations and the Correctional Industrial Facility hosted the annual O Emergency Preparedness Competition. Sixteen Emergency Teams from around the State of Indiana came together to compete in a variety of events designed to challenge them physically and mentally. With over 400 members and guests in attendance, the day included a K-9 demonstration by the Putnamville K-9 Team, rock climbing, and more. The participants were awarded trophies and special awards went out to members of the Wabash Valley Correctional Facility E-Squad for their help during the floods. Emergency Response Operations would like to thank all that make this a successful annual event. n

EVENT WINNERS: Baton Relay: Rock Climb: Truck Pull: 1st - Central SERT 1st - Tannan Austin, IR 1st - Westville 2nd - Northern SERT 2nd - Scott Devine, WVCF 2nd - Putnamville 3rd - Westville 3rd - Frank Vanihel, C.SERT 3rd - Branchville

Mile Run: Dueling Plates: Tug-O-War: 1st - Central SERT 1st - Richard Sterling, MCF 1st - Putnamville 2nd - Northern SERT 2nd - Shad Rice, NCCF 2nd - NCCF 3rd - NCCF 3rd - Tim Dice, N.SERT 3rd - Miami

Sharp Shooter: Obstacle Course: 1st - Adam Bootz, ISP 1st - N. SERT 2nd - Jeff Duffer, RCF 2nd - C. SERT 3rd - Jimmy Snider, RDC 3rd - Westville

12 progressionINcorrections

Mothers playing with their children A Special Day on family day with Mom Jennifer Saroka, Public Information Officer, Madison Correctional Facility

n Saturday, June 21, the Madison O Correctional Facility held its third annual “Family Day.” This is a special day in which offenders have invited their children, grandchildren, and family members for a day of games, activities, had a display and a cookout. This year’s attendance showcasing included 710 visitors for approximately their program 200 offenders. An additional 110 in addition to offenders without family attending sponsoring an auction. One volunteered to run the various games activity where item was a and activities. Twenty-four staff, in children could special family addition to regularly scheduled facility paint a t-shirt for day quilt made staff, reported for duty along with five their mom and by offenders volunteers from the outside community. include their at the facility. The day’s grand total of participants handprints. Another silent topped well over 1,000 people! Other action item programs, such was a special “I commend the staff and offenders at as Toastmasters, also set up detailed weekend visit Madison for putting together this event,” displays to educate family members which includes an overnight stay at said Commissioner J. David Donahue. about the programs. Becky Anderson the Holiday Inn Express of Madison. “Successful re-entry is strengthened from Turning Point Domestic Violence In addition to the overnight stay, the by close family ties. Events such as Shelter brought materials, talked with winner received a special weekend these strengthen the family unit during families, and educated about domestic visit, lunch both days, and a special the period of incarceration which violence. tremendously aids in a successful pre-reentry counseling session for the family along with the offender, their transition back into society.” “The support from the community case manager, and unit manager. “This has been outstanding,” commented fundraiser is especially meaningful This special day has been in the planning Superintendent Jan Davis. Donations for our offenders and their family,” stages by a committee of staff and were received from Holiday Inn, Jay-C commented Kris Mayfield, Unit Team offenders since early April. Offenders Food Stores, Moose Lodge, Wesport Manager. “Oftentimes, incarcerated planned, designed, constructed and Locker City Meat Market, and Inflatable women have their children in foster set-up activity stations including, water Houses. “I want to personally thank care and in some way benefit of the balloons, t-shirt painting, face painting, these business and individuals for outstanding programs and services cake walk, bean bag toss, read-to-me supporting this special day for our of The Villages. This is yet another corner, inflatable houses, kickball, offenders and their children,” said opportunity for our offenders to give bubbles and a station where children can Superintendent Davis. No state funds back to society.” have their picture taken with their mom were used to put on this event. The or grandmother and make a picture offenders held several fundraisers this “This special occasion gives a ‘non- frame to remember their special day. spring to have the funds available for this prison feeling’ visitation for our important day. A new element that was added this year women with their children,” concluded Superintendent Jan Davis. “The games, was several displays. Offenders designed For the second year in a row, a fundraiser activities and cookout give our offenders elaborate displays showcasing some of was held for The Villages during the a day to relax with their family, play the programs at the facility. The PLUS family day event. Photographs of the with their children and forget about the (Purposeful Living Units Serve) Unit, a special day were sold to visitors in stresses of incarceration.” n character and faith-based housing unit, addition to several items for a silent progressionINcorrections 13

First Equine Management Dean Graduation in the State of Indiana David T. Link Alisia Lawrence, Public Information Officer, Putnamville Correctional Facility Joins Prison Religious Program Barry Nothstine, Public Information Officer, Indiana State Prison

Graduates and staff at Equine Management Offenders grooming thoroughbred Graduation Ceremony

ight offenders were recognized for Commissioner J. David Donahue. He said E their achievements at the first Equine to the graduates, “It will be difficult to find Management Graduation, in the State of employment after your release. That’s just Indiana, held Thursday, May 8, 2008 at the a fact of life, gentlemen, but, I submit to Putnamville Correctional Facility. you that if you cease criminal behavior and utilize the learned skills acquired from The Equine Management Program is a this program, you will have a much better result of a collaborative effort with the life than what you’ve experienced as an Thoroughbred Retirement Foundation. incarcerated individual. I commend you Students receive hands-on-training for your accomplishments and wish you and classroom instruction of general well in your endeavors.” stable procedures, horse behavior and avid T. Link is a chaplain and psychology, tack care and selection, Following his address, the Commissioner, D a teacher in the faith-based grooming, nutrition, health checks, first Superintendent Michael J. Osburn and restart program (PLUS) at Indiana aid, disease, and hoof care. To date, the Equine Instructor Barb Holcomb presented State Prison. He is the Joseph A. program has seventeen thoroughbred, the graduates with certificates. Mrs. Matson Dean and Professor Emeritus retired race horses: eleven from Indiana Holcomb also gave a media presentation of the University of Notre Dame and six from out of state, and there have that highlighted program events. A Law School and the President/Vice been two adoptions. reception immediately followed the Chancellor Emeritus of the University graduation, catered by Culinary Arts of Notre Dame Australia. Dean Link Superintendent Michael J. Osburn opened students. the ceremony by welcoming attendees was the dean at Notre Dame for and acknowledging esteemed guests. In “I attribute the success of the program over twenty-four years. At the time attendance was retired Judge Sally Gray; to the diligent efforts of staff. Today, the he took emeritus status, he was State Representative Amos Thomas; Jackie Putnamville Correctional Facility became the longest serving law dean in the Brown, Coordinator of Thoroughbred part of the history of the State of Indiana nation. Breeding Development; Deb Hartman, and the Indiana Department of Correction. President of the Thoroughbred Retirement This has been a unique opportunity for A partner in the Chicago law firm of Foundation Committee; and Ferrier both staff and offenders, and I am honored Winston & Strawn, Link took a leave Instructor, Dale Huber. to have had the opportunity to make of absence in 1970 to return to his a contribution,” stated Superintendent Graduates were addressed by the Keynote Osburn. n Article continued on page 15 Speaker, Indiana Department of Correction 14 progressionINcorrections

the Pendleton PEN Products' Doug Evans Reformatory and was promoted to plant foreman Named a Shining Star supervisor Submission to NCIA Spring Newsletter, and then plant Becky Deeb, New Enterprise Development Manager, PEN Products manager at the Miami key element of a successful transition submits the documentation to the Correctional to the community is employability U. S. Department of Labor for review A Facility. In and job skills. It is PEN Products’ mission and approval. After final review of all 2005 Mr. Evans to employ offenders throughout the documentation and hours worked, the was promoted Indiana Department of Correction in U.S. Department of Labor issues the to Industries meaningful jobs and provide them Apprenticeship Certificate. The U.S. Operations Manager. Doug Evans was with a work ethic and job skills, while Department of Labor Apprenticeship awarded the 2006 Innovative Employee operating in a self-sufficient manner. PEN Certificate is a tool that can help offenders of the Year by the Commissioner of the Products Director Mike Herron comments, find stable employment after release. Indiana Department of Correction, J. “Providing job opportunities and having David Donahue. expectations and high standards give PEN Products and the Indiana offenders opportunities to change their Department of Correction continue PEN Products and the Indiana lives. It is our responsibility to train, to focus on preparing offenders for a Department of Correction is proud respect and recognize offenders that successful re-entry into the community. to have Doug Evans among its staff, make the commitment to change.” Change comes from the inside out. accomplishing PEN’s mission to employ “Correctional industries must continue to offenders and preparing them for a PEN Products Operations Manager, be innovative to provide an environment successful return to the community. n Doug Evans, is definitely Indiana’s where that change can take place. The correctional industries Shining Star for U.S. Department of Labor Apprenticeship his efforts in changing offenders lives Program offers offenders an opportunity From the by implementing the U.S. Department to change and prepare for employment of Labor Apprentice Program. Mr. Evans on the outside, the key to successful Commissioner began working with the U.S. Department reentry,” states Doug Evans. Article continued from page 1 of Labor to make available apprenticeship programs in 2006. By January 2007 over Doug Evans worked with the Indiana but with many great memories of my 600 offenders were working in industries Department of Correction Education time here in Indiana. I thank you for operations registered with the U.S. Division, the U.S. Department of Labor everything. Department of Labor Apprenticeship and nine facilities to implement this program in nine facilities. To date 214 program. The Apprenticeship Certificate One final significant accomplishment offenders have successfully completed an achievement is recognized by the Indiana was to secure a strong and truly Apprenticeship Certificate including the Department of Correction and successful innovative leader to succeed me; a classroom and on-the-job requirements completion qualifies offenders for person who, in the coming years, of the program. More than 576 sentence reduction. will continue to steer us in the right offenders are currently enrolled in the direction. Even before moving to Apprenticeship Program throughout After the introduction of the U.S. Indiana in January of 2005, I was PEN Products operations in nine facilities Department of Labor apprenticeship hearing great things about Ed Buss. across Indiana. program at PEN Products, the Indiana Over the course of the past three and State Prison in Michigan City, Indiana a half years, he has proven to be a The U. S. Department of Labor oversees has implemented the program for staff progressive, fair and enthusiastic leader, and approves programs by setting members also. Doug Evans is respectfully who is able to draw the best out of the guidelines for each job title. The called “the father of the apprenticeship those who work for him. I encourage U.S. Department of Labor approves program” by newly named Commissioner all of you to do for him what you were all work processes developed by PEN Ed Buss from the Indiana State Prison. willing to do for me. Be bold enough Products. PEN Products Industries staff to share your ideas for positive change. monitors individual progress of the Mr. Evans has worked in Indiana’s With his leadership, and your support, On-the-Job Training and the related correctional industries for over 28 years. the Indiana Department of Correction study requirements. After the offender He has started his corrections career as will continue to be a national leader in completes all requirements, PEN Products the plant foreman in the chair shop at the field of corrections. n progressionINcorrections 15

PEN Products Dean David T. Link Joins Prison Breaks Offender Religious Program Employment Record! Article continued from page 13 Becky Deeb, New Enterprise Development Manager, PEN Products alma mater, the University of Notre Dame, where he had received both key performance metric for The jobs break down into the his Bachelor of Science and Juris A PEN Products is the number following business groups: Doctor degrees. He has earned of offender jobs. PEN measures three honorary doctorate degrees its offender jobs bi-monthly 1034 from other universities. via the Offender Information System. On June 30, 2008 PEN Traditional Industries 48 Dean Link simultaneously serves Products offender employment as the founding Deputy Vice reached a record level of Farms 281 Chancellor and Provost of St. 2,006 jobs! This is a significant Augustine University College of Commissary increase in jobs since January of 643 South Africa. He was also the 2005 when the level was 982. Joint Ventures founding Dean of the Law School and the Associate Vice-President for Academic Affairs at the University PEN Products is truly of St. Thomas in Minnesota. Upon promotion to emeritus status, Dean “Changing Lives - One Job at a Time.” Link served as president and chief executive officer of the International Centre for Healing and the Law.

Job Placement Service Now The dean is a noted teacher, scholar, and lecturer, especially in the fields of professional ethics, Available to PEN Offenders professionalism, and private-tertiary Becky Deeb, New Enterprise Development Manager, PEN Products education administration. Among numerous honors, he was awarded EN Products now has available Job Placement Services for offenders that have the Young Federal Lawyer and the P worked for PEN Industries or Farms. The program is available to offenders that Secretary of the Treasury Awards have had two years of PEN Products employment, completed a U.S. Department of for outstanding service to the Labor Apprenticeship Program, basic computer skills training, safety training, and United States during the Kennedy have a GED or high school diploma. Administration.

The objective of the Job Placement Program is to decrease recidivism by connecting Dean Link was also ordained as a released offenders with meaningful employment. Catholic Priest on Saturday June 7th. Superintendent Buss said, “I am thrilled to have Father David Link PEN Products…Working on the Inside join our organization as a full-time for Success on the Outside. employee. He has worked with us as a volunteer for several years in the PLUS program. To have a man with his accomplishments as part of JOB PLACEMENT our religious programming will be a Indiana Department of Correction tremendous benefit for the staff and offenders assigned to this facility.” n 16 progressionINcorrections 2008 National Mental Health Conference hosted by the Indiana Department of Correction is a Great Success Evan Hawkins, Program Manager, Staff Development and Training

ndiana Department of Correction Over 800 attendees, representing I Commissioner J. David Donahue 22 states, Puerto Rico, and Bermuda, successfully kicked off the 2008 National participated in this interactive Mental Health Conference entitled conference. “Unlock the Mystery: Managing Mental Health from Corrections to Community” “The presence of such a distinguished at the Adam’s Mark Hotel from June group of professionals indicates the 23-25. This innovative conference seriousness with which we all see the spotlighted solutions for managing issue of mental health in corrections the number of mentally ill, substance and the need to ensure that offenders are equipped with the best tools for abuse, and sex offender populations Attendees enjoy evening baseball game within the adult male, adult female and successful community re-entry,” added at Victory Field juvenile populations in jails and prisons. Donahue. Attendees acquired tools that increased Additionally, on Wednesday, June The conference consisted of 4 featured 25th, conference guests participated knowledge of the continuity of care speakers: Robert McGrath, MA, Clinical from confinement to community-based in a Roundtable Series, supported Director from the Vermont Department by an educational grant from Eli supervision with the intention of rapid of Correction; Warden Paula Jarnecke decompensation and re-incarceration. Lilly & Company. The series offered from the Metropolitan Detention Center professionals within certain treatment (Federal Bureau of Prisons); Warden professions the opportunity to network Arthur Beeler from the Butner Federal and discuss accomplishments and Correctional Complex (Federal Bureau obstacles with fellow practitioners. of Prisons); and Dr. Joel Dvoskin, Senior Topics included: Managing Severely Psychologist from the Threat Assessment Personality Disordered Offenders, Group (TAG). Devising a Continuity of Care for Furthermore, attendees were afforded Seriously Mentally Ill Offenders, Recovery the opportunity to participate in 60 or Abstinence: The Ongoing Debate, educational workshops within the Therapeutic Communities vs. Out-Patient mental health, addiction and sex Program with Incarcerated Individuals, offender focuses. Workshops included: Public Policy Issues with Sexual “Suicide Proofing” High Security Offenders (Residency Restrictions/Adam Attendees visit vendor booths Prisons, The Role of the Polygraph in Walsh Act), Treatment of Offenders Convicted of Sexual Misconduct with a “Since the national trend to close Sex Offender Treatment, Managing Self Injurious Behavior: Case Study, Minor, and Correctional Mental Health state hospitals in the 70s, correctional Director Huddle. agencies have been tasked with Transitioning from Corrections to being the largest delivers of mental Community: Psychiatric Care, Mental In addition to all of the educational health treatment in the state,” stated Health Education for Prison Staff, opportunities, participants were treated Commissioner Donahue. “Our goal Pennsylvania Sexual Responsibility and to “Mental Health in Corrections Night” throughout this conference has been to Treatment Program, East Mississippi at Victory Field, home of the Indianapolis initiate a national conversation designed Correctional Facility: “A Special Needs Indians. Indiana Department of to enhance how correctional and Facility for Mentally-Challenged Inmates”, Correction Re-Entry Director David Burch treatment professionals deliver quality Recidivism and Mental Illness, Indiana threw out the “First Pitch for Mental care to the special populations within Access to Recovery Project, The Autism Health” in front of over 700 conference Spectrum-Increasing Challenges for the the criminal justice system.” attendees. n Treatment and Legal Communities, etc.