2019 MCI Christmas Play

We have received information concerning the 2019 MCI Christmas play.  As before, each person has to sign up to attend through Eventbrite, which is a tab on the lower left of our site (MCI Ministry of Theatre).  Rather than attempt to paraphrase the information, below is a "copy and paste" from their site.

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Marion Correctional, Ministry of Theatre, Christmas Play 2019

by Blaire Smith, MCI Chaplain

Free

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Marion Correctional, Ministry of Theatre, Christmas Play 2019

Event Information

Description

This year's presentation of the Hugh J. Daily ministry of theatre presented by Marion Correctional welcomes past supporters as well as new witnesses. This years Christmas play is a modern day narrative about Christmas gifts. Not the traditional gifts we place under the tree; the unusual gifts we provide for each other on a daily basis. You will witness the healthy relationships between two pastors as they service two very different demographics. The actors and musicians for our Christmas plays, as well as the writer, director, lights, and sound crew are all residents. Please come, join us in this musical presentation of The Christmas Gift. This event is our gift to you!

There will be 4 performances (6pm Friday Dec. 13, 1pm and 6pm Saturday Dec. 14, 1pm Sunday Dec. 15).

Deadline to register is Friday, November 29!

How do I register? As before, groups may be registered only if you enter each person's name as a seperate entry and ask for one (1) ticket at a time. This means each guest must register in Eventbrite and have his or her name listed in Eventbrite. This means that no single person can register for multiple tickets and expect to bring friends whose names are not registered in Eventbrite, If a guest's name is not found on the list of registered guests, he or she will NOT be permitted to attend. If you are the person responsible to register anyone other than yourself, including groups, you should register yourself asking for one ticket; then go back to the registration and begin registering each of yourguests, using their names, and soon. You may email the orgamizer and we will attempt to help you if you have difficulties.

Is there a minimum age? No child under the age of 12 will be permitted to attend the play. All children (12-17) must be accompianied by a parent or guardian OR have a notarized letter with the parent's permission to attend clearly stated. All children must be registered by name and must have a Birth Certificate present to enter.

Do I need an ID? All guests must have a photo ID to enter (except children who will instead use a copy of of their Birth Certificate).

How do I thank the performers? Applause only...guests will not be permitted to have contact with the inmates. At the conclusion of the program, guests will not be permitted to hug, shake hands, etc. with the inmate play participants.

My friend/loved one is at MCI, can I see this play? Inmate family and friends (including anyone on the inmate's visiting list) will only be permitted to attend at the Friday evening performance 6-8pm. Inmate family or friends who register for any other day will be denied entry.

Is there a deadline to register? Deadline to register is Friday November 29. This rule applies to guests of MCI staff as well.

Who can come? Any community member. Former offenders and those under PRC/Parole status require special permission to attend. Email the organizer or call the facility.

Do I need a ticket? You do NOT need to bring a paper ticket from Eventbrite. We get the names for our event Gate Pass direct from Eventbrite. You may print it and bring it as a reminder to yourself.

Can I help out? Please spread the word about us! Also, donations are needed and accepted! You may bring a Money Order or check made out to "MCI Ministry of Theatre."

Who can answer questions? MCI Chaplain Blaire Smith, blaire.smith@odrc.state.oh.us

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Summer-Fall Update

As summer draws to a close it is time to post an update

Fall Gathering:

It has not gone without notice that the Ponderosa in Marion abruptly closed.  For our gatherings, it was one of the few places that permitted us to reserve a room at no charge, and was not overly concerned with getting us out quickly.  Armed with suggestions and recommendations several area restaurants were contacted.  Each had positive aspects, but their most difficult question narrowed the search.  When asked how many would be attending, our response had to be “we don’t know”.  Within the past 10 years gatherings have had as many as 30 in attendance, and as few as 6.  Most places wouldn’t discuss further possibilities without a specific number of reservations. 

After the dust settled, the decision was made to return to the Marion Diner, 1565 Marion-Waldo Rd, Marion, OH 43302.  They have reserved the south room for us at no charge, have no problems letting us order from the full menu, and don’t require a specific number to attend.  Frequent attendees will note that we have met at this location previously, during the period between Ryan’s closing and Ponderosa’s opening.

Our next gathering will be on Tuesday, October 1, 2019, and the time is noon.  Mark your calendar accordingly.

MCI Cookout:

In the past year Marion Correctional, along with the rest of DR&C, has undergone numerous changes.  Governors changed (once) and Directors changed (twice), bringing with them different philosophies and points of focus.  Everyone who has worked in or with government agencies understands that the ripples created during this process extend well beyond those office cubicles.  One ripple that impacts us is that the cookouts previously hosted by MCI at the FOP Park in Caledonia have come to an end.

In explaining the background behind the change, it was made clear that MCI is still supportive and appreciative of retirees.  That is the reason the free retiree lunch program the first Wednesday of each month is continuing.  Going forward, we just won’t be having a cookout in addition to a free lunch.

That sums up what we know for now.  We’ll see you in October!

John Mathew, Secretary

Email:  mcira43302@yahoo.com

Time & Change

This is a quick note to clarify some details about our group.

- Since Charlie Daniels moved to Florida, we have been in search of a replacement.  Kevin Johnston has accepted that position, with all that might entail.  Except for $, since it is an unpaid position.

- We appreciate everyone who turned out for the April gathering at Marion's Ponderosa.  It was a good time, with several attendees inquiring about more frequent gatherings.

- Our sympathies go out to Bill Kempton.  When he walked into the building for our gathering he fell.  We have since been informed that he immediately left Ponderosa to seek medical attention.

- This week is Correctional Employees Week, and is being observed by each institution within DRC.  Due to the costs and uncertainties over possible attendance, we are not participating this year.  That does not diminish our respect and appreciation for those who continue to work in the field.  It just changes our opportunities to express it in person.

- As of this typing we have not scheduled our fall gathering.  That will be arranged this summer, after MCI's plans for a retiree cookout are firmed up.  As soon as details are known, they will be posted here.


That sums things up for now.  Enjoy your summer! 

John Mathew, Secretary

Email:  mcira43302@yahoo.com