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June 23, 2009
MI: A new low? A candlelight vigil and prayers to keep a max security prison open
Standish Prison Candlelight Vigil Planned
Residents Continue Fight To Keep Prison Open
June 22, 2009
Standish Prison Candlelight Vigil Planned
STANDISH, Mich. -- Resurrection of the Lord is organizing a vigil with Standish area leaders over Gov. Jennifer Granholm’s plans to close the Standish Maximum Correctional Facility.
The candlelight vigil, 423 W. Cedar St., will be led by Fr. James Fitzpatrick beginning at 7 p.m.
The maximum security prison employs about 300 people and is Arenac County’s largest employer.
It’s slated to close on July 28.
The Standish prison is one of three maximum security prisons, along with five prison camps, expected to close as a way to save the state money.
Organizers of the vigil said there will be updates regarding recent events and a presentation on options for future protests.
Members of the Arenac County community have already taken a stand against the closure of the 19-year-old prison with a petition drive and past protests.
Combined, the closure of the eight prisons and prison camps will result in the layoff of an estimated 1,000 employees.
http://www.wnem.com/news/19820631/detail.html
Posted by lois at June 23, 2009 09:59 AM