No sleeveless tops are allowed. The officers let that rule slide long enough that most people, myself included, didn’t know it was a rule. They also get quite agitated if anyone questions it. And wearing a jacket is not a fix because that’s what I usually wear. They said visitors go up the elevator then take off the jacket. The first night I encountered it, I jumped in my car and ran over to House of Blues to buy a top and run back before visiting hours ended. At The House of Blues, I had to park in a fire lane and beg people in line to let me go first so I could get back before the visitors check in table disappeared. By the time I sat down and Ben walk out I was so hot and tired from running through the parking lots that I was wiping sweat from my forehead. Ben looked at me funny and asked if it was raining outside.
He always appoligizes for the hassles I encounter but I am glad I have the opportunity to experience it. I have a whole wealth of knowledge that I didn’t anticipate. It’s not helpful to most but I’m sure I’ll use it someday to help others.
Last week was even more interesting because one of the guards at the check-in table told a woman she could go into the restroom and put her jacket under her sleeveless top. I’m guessing that worked although I didn’t stick around to find out. I am sure I would have done it, instead of driving to the House of Blues and paying for a shirt, had someone mentioned it as a possibility but that didn’t happen. It is odd to me that this rule is reinstated right when the weather gets nice and hot.

Its been a few weeks now and fewer people are showing up with sleeveless tops. Just in case I bought my husband all new undershirts and dyed his old ones the fabulous DCDB Green and carry a few with me in case someone needs sleeves. Cost me $2.00 which I can afford but saves someone, without reliable transportation and/or extra cash to buy a shirt downtown, a visit.

Again, one bit of knowledge earned that could help someone else. I hope it does !!