The Halden Prison and a Ballet Performance

Wednesday, July 25:

           

              

               We started the morning with an early breakfast and then set out by train on an hour-and-a-half ride to the Halden prison. This prison was an awesome occasion because we were able to compare characteristics of an American prison versus a Norwegian prison. For example, some of the differences noted in the Norwegian prison were the jail time is much shorter, 99% of inmates are released from prison within five years, and most of the sentencing takes place within six months of the crime. While they are more lax in their governing, they are more correctional when crimes are committed. Studies actually prove that their methods really work! Sixty-five percent of convicts do not return to jail after serving their sentence, and the maximum number of prisoners they have held at one time is 3500. They take classes for school or practice varying skills such as cooking, carpentry, crafts, music, etc., so they can gain knowledge and skills in order to be more productive citizens when they reenter society. They also do chores around the prison to get “points” to spend on food at the store, although three square meals are provided. The grounds offer many different great activities for the criminals and make available a gymnasium, library, and a park area. It was all so interesting to me, especially since I have never been to a prison before. I really appreciated the chance to participate in this. I was told by Dr. Whitworth that this prison is highly acclaimed all over the world, and only 25% of all the requests to tour are granted permission to visit. Because of Dr. Kinkade’s credentials, we now have had an experience that hardly any people around the world will ever encounter! Even at the prison there were sustainable features. For example, visitors, guards, and inmates are asked to recycle their plastic bottles.

            After our tour of the prison, we traveled back to the hotel by train (I took a nap while in route.) and then our group dispersed for dinner. Michael, Jordanne, Chris, and I made a quick stop first at a second hand store. The prices were great, and I bought a really pretty top for just 12 US dollars! It felt good to save money and also help to preserve the environment. When I finished shopping, I ate waffles at the hotel with my roommate Jordanne and Tori. They were really delicious and it was nice to save money once again. We finished eating and then had the pleasure of going with the group to see a ballet performance at the National Norwegian Opera and Ballet House. The ballet was a contemporary ballet called “A Tribute to Ping Pong”. It was amazing how graceful the performers were. I cannot even imagine how long it must take to practice! They were creative, clever, and ever so skillful. It was definitely an adventure I will not forget.

            After the ballet, I headed back to the hotel and decided to unwind. What an exciting and eventful day! It is hard to believe there are only two more days left on the trip.