FIRST SNOW

We’ve had our share of red tags quietly observing and learning the policies and procedures at our facility. Their silence is often mistaken for nervousness, as if they’re walking on eggshells. And why not? They’re an easy mark for the inmates. In case you didn’t know, a red tag is a rookie corrections officer, the nickname originating from the nametags they must wear on their uniforms. It’s a natural progression based on how much time they’ve put in; After a red tag comes a green tag then a black tag. It’s protocol for custody staff. I’ve often wondered why non-custody staff, such as myself, haven’t had to follow suit?

Some of our most memorable moments are when we experience something for the very first time. I remember my first day in a prison, I was with a group of non-custody staff, and the facility trainer paraded us around each unit, showing us off to all the inmates. It was fairly obvious the inmates were watching us, trying to figure out who we were and whether they’d be able to mess with our heads. It wasn’t until years later that I’d call a prisoner a “clear tag” if he inadvertently snitched on another prisoner. “Alright then,” I’d say loudly while clicking my ball-point pen, “give me names.” Offering up too much information usually leads to trouble. After so many years, the older inmates know how to interact and work with the senior staff. Together, we observe the newer, younger kids, eighteen, nineteen years old, playing the part of fools. Someone needs to teach them a lesson. That’s when we play our roles, that’s when we work together for the common good of teaching the youngsters how to do time.

After our first real snow in southeastern Michigan, I walked through the prison mall area, exchanging barbs with someone who completed my class seven months ago. “I see you’re putting that GED to good use,” I said. The inmate cussed at me and kept shoveling the walkway.

Speaking of novices, tomorrow, with the help of my brother, I shall do another poetry reading on YouTube. Sometimes first acts are hard to follow. I'll give it my best.

Oh, and here's a shout out to that DuPont gal in Texas, "Your girls have been notified."