Political TSUNAMI

Save Newberry!
From the Moose Capital to
the State Capital!

Photos and Story by Gina Harman

A large group of community leaders and residents gathered in the early morning hours to travel together to the State Capital of Michigan. It was a mission that began at 5:00 am at the Indian Springs parking lot. The group arrived in Lansing at aprox 10:15 adorned with their yellow Save Newberry T-shirts. The group was positive, fired up, and ready to represent the heart of the U.P.!

A press conference occurred at the South steps of the Capital at 12:30. The "Dream Team" shown to the right included: Tom Buckingham - EDC, Carmen McLaren - EDC, Bob Cameron - Mayor, Phyllis French - Luce County Commissioner, Beverly Holmes - Village Manager, Wayne Hellerstedt - CEO Helen Newberry Joy Hospital, Rod Martin - Superintendent of Tahquamenon Schools, and Kevin Vanatta - Pres of the Newberry Chamber of Commerce, Pres of the Save Newberry Committee, and owner of Newberry Motors (not shown).

Governor Jennifer Granholm, Pat Caruso - Director of Michigan Department of Corrections, Rep Stephen Adamini (D), Rep Rich Brown (D), Senator Mike Prusi (D), Rep Gary McDowell, House Democratic Leader Dianne Byrum, and Jack Yoak - President of the MSEA also provided their support and messages to the press.

The Dream Team offered phenomenal testimony on behalf of the Newberry Community in Lansing.

Senator Mike Prusi showing his strong support during the Press Conference in Lansing. Prusi has been active in his committment to help Save Newberry!

Special Thanks to Governor Granholm, Prusi, Adamini, and the many others that support our efforts!


Beverly Holmes & Mayor Bob Cameron testify at hearing.	Senator Alan L. Cropsey listens attentively to testimonies.	Senator Mike Prusi shares his support during the hearing.

“ As a teacher, I tell my students that it's all about taking advantage of the opportunity of getting an education and how it can be life changing. I then explain to my students that the Newberry Correctional Facility attempts to provide that educational opportunity for it's inmates so they can eventually return to society. We have been providing an education for our prisoners and have been doing an excellent job. In the 10 years of it's operation, 1,844 GEDs have been earned by our prisoners. If it costs between $30,000 to 35,000 to incarcerate an individual - it certainly makes sense to make every effort possible to keep inmates from returning to prison!”, testified Bob Cameron, Mayor of Newberry Michigan.

At 3:00 pm the Sub Committee Hearing began. The testimony that was given was strong, enlightening, and seemed to melt down some of the many barriers that had been existing between the two political forces in Lansing.

It was evident that the Newberry Correctional Facility was a educational force unmatched by any in the Nation.

The testimony from the Newberry and Manistique representatives along with the two teachers from the Correctional Facility were inspirational and positive. Many agreed that the experience in Lansing was a large step in the right direction!
Shown in Picture above: Kevin Vanatta, Pres of the Newberry Chamber of Commerce, Pres of the Save Newberry Committee, and owner of Newberry Motors


Sub Committee Panel	Newberry Correctional Facility teachers Mike Davis on left and Jim Sawaski on right

Teachers Mike Davis and Jim Sawaski provided testimony at the hearing that was enlightening and inspirational. Not only does the facility's educational program reduce recidivism - it has surpassed all expectations of the State of Michigan! The program reduces the chances of reincarceration by an amazing 36%. According to many studies - this is above the national average. They also testified that these programs develope the prisoner's self esteem and give the 200 or more individuals per year hope for a new beginning.