By Lieutenant Megan Cherinka
California Medical Facility (CMF) held the inaugural Al Patch Memorial Softball Tournament on Saturday morning, June 15 .
The day started at 8 a.m. and ended at 5 p.m. at the Al Patch Softball field in Vacaville. The fun filled day included four softball teams in a double elimination event.
Four teams, three from CMF and one from a local church, The Fathers House, took to the field to see who was going to take home bragging rights.
All classifications from CMF participated including Custody, Medical, Mental Health, Plant Operation, Administration Staff and Volunteers.
Chief Deputy Warden Daniel Cueva said, “As a father of three girls I spend every free moment on the softball field, as a dad and coach. I’m glad to play with CMF to build camaraderie, motivate employees, and break barriers. It’s always cool to see hidden talents of our staff.”
Friends and family came out to cheer on the teams to the beats of DJ Rozelle from California State Prison, Solano.
The barbecue was manned by Correctional Officer R. Cuellar who was bringing the baseball best with grilled hot dogs.
All refreshments as well food were provided at no cost for everyone in attendance by the CMF Employee Activity Committee (EAC), local Vacaville business Citizens’ Financial, The Father’s House and donations from CMF management (Captain Chance Andes, Warden (A) J. Lozano, and Chief Medical Officer Dr. Bick).
Office Technician A. Garcia said, “It was fun day, and nice to see my co-workers outside of our busy days.”
At the end of the day, the game ended with a coin flip for the bragging rights for the winner and everyone went home a little sore, dirty and with smiles on their face.