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By Jack Schilling

I would like to recognize Officer Matthew Braun for his excellence in interpersonal communications and relations that he models each day. I have had the pleasure of working with Braun on several occasions but none of them prepared me for the experience that I had with him one night in segregation.

The night that I was scheduled in segregation, Braun was saddled with two newer utility staff and one overtime fill-in who, though familiar with the unit, was not a usual 3rd watch staff and was not completely fluid in the 3rd watch schedule for the unit. I had not worked in segregation for months and the other utility staff was usually assigned a different post, so, we were both in need of remedial instruction/reminders on everything that was unique to Seg.

When two IPs arrived at the unit for processing Braun was amazingly calm, concise and patient as he walked us through what each of us needed to do from the time they hit the segregation door, to the placement of evidence in custody. Braun never appeared frustrated or irritated by the fact that he had to manage the post and provide training as well. Several times he had to repeat steps for clarification or if one of us wasn't quite sure of what he had said or what exactly needed to be done, yet the whole time Braun gently encouraged us and never let us doubt our skills as an officer or our ability to be successful.

Braun is the perfect example of a well-rounded team member and leader. He is a delight to work with and assists with growing the skills of those around him whenever he can. Thank you Braun for showcasing the officer image that should be shown by all of us on a daily basis.

By Ashlee Berts

Thank you to the Rush City Education Department, espeically Jon Garbacz and his Painting and Decorating Incarcerated Persons, who completed this "Up North" mural for the Rush City staff to enjoy in our staff break area. This area is getting some upgrades and this mural was a great addition!

By John Jurek

Officer Traczyk showed awesome team work during an incident on 1st Watch.

Traczyk had the forsight to bring the WRAP device from one side of the facility to the other and prepped it while A-team suited up for cell removal of an IP despite not being on A-team. After the incident Traczyk took it upon himself to bring in the air scrubber going back and forth from each end of the facility.

Traczyk shows time and time again the true meaning of ONE TEAM, he truly exceeds expectations.

By Randy Bergman

I would like to highlight Anthony Rathbun who received his B.A Degree in Individualized Studies from metro State University. Anthony also was one of two student speakers at this year’s third higher education graduation event.

This event recognized seventeen associates of arts graduates from Minneapolis College, one associate of arts graduate from Lake Superior College, and five bachelor of arts recipients from Metropolitan State University.

By Pamela Rubash

In honor of April being Second Chances Month, the Prison Fellowship Academy Graduate IPs collaborated with Treatment to organize a 5K on Saturday April 27th at MCF-SHK.

This opportunity allowed the 70 runners/walkers to reflect on what their personal Second Chance meant to them and to be reminded of their worth. All participants were asked to write out their “why” to describe the reasons they were running - for some women it was about sobriety, for some it was restoring family, their children, their education, their faith, their freedom.

These “whys” were glued to card stock and staked into the ground every 10 feet along the path. Everyone who took part was an active participant in programming in the facility, be it PFA, treatment or education. Watching the individuals challenge themselves and cheer on one another and take pride in their accomplishments was incredible.

By Marlana Balk

The Lino Lakes social event committee did a fantastic job in showing the LL staff appreciation during the week. The communication was top notch, the committee members were friendly and welcoming throughout the week. It was a fun a week! Thank you!!!!!!

By Diane Reineccius

Huge shoutout to the Lino Lakes Social Events Committee for organizing an incredible Corrections Employee Appreciation Week! 🎉 The effort you all put into coordinating the food, games, and camaraderie truly made it a fantastic celebration. Each detail added to the joy and spirit of the week, making us feel genuinely appreciated. Thank you for all your hard work and for making this event so memorable and fun for everyone involved.

Awesome job!

By Latoya Shelby

AWA Lathan Scott and Director of Nutrition Services, Sheila Good-Kingsbury, decided to embark on a culinary adventure at the Lino Lakes Dining Hall! They rolled up their sleeves and dove into the delicious dishes our Incarcerated Individuals enjoy every day. 🍽️ Let's just say, it was a taste bud fiesta!

By Latoya Shelby

In celebration of Corrections Staff Appreciation Week, Lino Lakes Social Events Committe held a Poker Walk & Bean Bag Tournament on Wednesday, May 8.

By Shelby Groath

Thank you so much for offering you time and strength helping Central Office clean up the appreciation BBQ area. Your help was greatly appreciated.