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The 20th anniversary of the Rush City Correctional Facility was marked with open tours, certificates for long time employees, cake and speeches this week.  But the focus was all on the prison staff.  

State Dept of Corrections Commissioner Paul Schnell told the audience he honors them-- the family and spouses of the prison staff.  Schnell said the hours, the conditions, the site itself can weigh on staff and through their support at home they are able to work effectively and create a team.

One of the first staffers when Rush City opened was Chaplain Marty Shanahan, who reminded the attendees at a program held in the gym that staff do make a difference and change lives,  through what they make possible inside.

“Punishment is the locked up part,” the former chaplain told the audience.  The experience in the prison should be about correcting bad behavior, bad decisions, becoming responsible, accountable and gaining the tools and skills to be part of society.  (See page 11 for more photos and continued story.)

When Governor Jesse Ventura opened the multi-million dollar prison just north of downtown Rush City with fanfare the Chisago County Press was there. Little has changed since that time. The prison population still has MinnCor an industrial production program, where yes, license plates are made.

The first warden was Bert Mohs. There have been several who have led the facility in the last 20 years, but the environment and attitude remains pretty consistent. Sgt. Jesus Cervantes, who gave this reporter the grand tour, was proud of the many educational and vocational trainings made available, the functions of the separate departments and how they fit into the overall corrections approach.  In touring the wings and rooms of the facility, he stressed religious opportunities inmates are allowed to pursue, the psych services, counseling and other self-improvement  programs.  The library has 11,000 books and welcomes donations, check the website or call the main prison phone number. Inmates can utilize tablets for downloading music, for electronic games or other non-Internet connected activities.  There is a very accommodating visiting area, with two hour sessions most days.  The facility has a refinishing program for inmates who want a hobby or an introduction into furniture restoration.  The instruction when completed results in a community college certificate.






 

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