Week in Review: October 25, 2024

October 25, 2024

In this Week in Review for October 25: CCI hosts health and wellness fair for staff; Peace Officer Recruitment attends 2024 Chukchansi Pow Wow; and three questions with Daniel Ayala, Wasco State Prison-Reception Center.

In Our Institutions

Cinematic first: San Quentin Film Festival now streaming

If you missed it, there’s still time to catch the groundbreaking San Quentin Film Festival, now streaming on Eventive until Oct. 29. This historic event marked the first-ever film festival held inside a U.S. prison.

The two-day festival showcased work from current and previously incarcerated filmmakers and demonstrated the power of artistic innovation on rehabilitation.

Visit the CDCR website to read the news release.

Visit Inside CDCR to read the full story.

Visit Eventive to stream the San Quentin Film Festival.

CCI hosts health and wellness fair for staff

CCI correctional officers playing cornhole

California Correctional Institution (CCI) at Tehachapi held its second annual Health and Wellness Fair. The event featured 30 vendors, including Kaiser Permanente and Equine Heart Connection, to promote staff health.

Institution Personnel Officer Angela Whitworth coordinated the event, ensuring a diverse array of resources for employees. Attendees enjoyed a day filled with activities and networking opportunities.

Simultaneously, California Correctional Institution Employee Association organized a corn hole tournament to foster staff engagement. Facility C Officer S. McKern and his partner claimed victory, earning custom corn hole boards as prizes.

Additionally, Houchin Community Blood Bank exceeded expectations, collecting enough donations to save 90 lives. The fair successfully bolstered morale among CCI staff while highlighting the importance of health and community support.

Visit Inside CDCR to read more awards and appreciation stories.

49ers visit San Quentin Rehabilitation Center to promote social justice

The San Francisco 49ers visited San Quentin State Prison Oct. 15 as part of their #InspireChange initiative, aimed at promoting social justice and criminal justice reform. Current players and alumni including Nick Bosa, Dre Greenlaw, Spencer Burford, Donald Strickland, and Bryant Young, spoke with incarcerated men in the chapel, focusing on themes of resilience, redemption, and second chances.

Following the discussion, the players interacted with the incarcerated and distributed gifts for them and their families. This visit underscores the team’s commitment to fostering dialogue and encouraging positive change within the community. The #InspireChange initiative reflects the 49ers’ dedication to social responsibility and advocacy for marginalized voices.

Visit the NFL website to learn more about the Inspire Change initiative.

Avenal State Prison hosts Battle of the Bands

Avenal State Prison showcased its musical talent Oct. 10 during the Battle of the Bands competition held in Facility F’s recreation yard. Three bands from Facilities E and F competed for the title of champion in an event filled with energy and excitement.

The competition kicked off with 1 Kings Way, whose rock performance ignited cheers and headbanging from the crowd. They were followed by Esencia Musical 905, whose vibrant Latin rhythms added a unique flair to the lineup. The final act, No Dementia, captivated the audience with their blend of rock and alternative music.

When the judges announced the winner, the crowd cheered and applauded as No Dementia was crowned the champion. The band’s victory was especially meaningful, reflecting their dedication and passion for music, making the event a memorable celebration of creativity within the facility.

Visit Inside CDCR to read more rehabilitation stories.

Horses help show staff appreciation at CCWF

Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF) in Chowchilla recently held a staff appreciation and team-building event featuring horses.

Physical Education Coach G. Martinelli said the event was a way to show staff how much their hard work is appreciated.

“We’ll be able to ride the ponies, pet the ponies, and learn a little bit more about the horses,” Martinelli said. “It was a very positive experience.”

Visit Inside CDCR to read the full story.

In the Community

California State Prison, Los Angeles County, staff attend Fallen Heroes Poker Run

Staff from California State Prison, Los Angeles County,participated in the22nd annual High Desert Fallen Heroes Poker Run Ride Oct. 20. This event gathered motorcycle riders from across Southern California to honor fallen law enforcement officers and support local agencies. Riders gathered at the Fallen Heroes Memorial at Antelope Valley Mall. The Poker Run took them through five stops, including the Palmdale Sheriff station, LA County Fire station, Valyermo Fire Station, Antelope Valley California Highway Patrol, and California State Prison, Los Angeles County.

At each stop, participants drew cards to build their poker hands, with the best hand winning a prize. The ride finished at Lancaster Harley-Davidson, where attendees enjoyed music, food, and community. Organized by Antelope Valley Harley-Davidson, the event raised funds for the families of fallen heroes, ensuring their legacies continue. Participants paid a $30 entry fee, contributing to a cause fostering remembrance and support.

Visit Inside CDCR to read more community involvement stories.

Recruitment

Peace Officer Recruitment attends 2024 Chukchansi Pow Wow

CDCR Peace Officer Recruitment showcased the department’s commitment to diversity and inclusion at the 2024 Chukchansi Pow Wow, “Celebration of Good Medicine,” held Oct. 11-13. The event, rich with vibrant tribal dances and the rhythm of drums, celebrating Native American heritage.

CDCR recruiters from the Central California Women’s Facility were on hand to connect with attendees, fostering relationships and promoting career opportunities for underrepresented groups. This participation reflects CDCR’s ongoing efforts to honor ancestral traditions and engage with the communities it serves, aiming to build a workforce representing California’s diverse population.

Visit the CDCR website to learn more about the department’s diversity, equity, & inclusion efforts.

Peace Officer Recruitment attends the 2024 Big Fresno Fair

CDCR’s Peace Officer Recruitment initiative wrapped up their efforts at the Big Fresno Fair, which ran Oct. 2-14. Attracting over 500,000 attendees, the fair provided an excellent opportunity to connect with potential candidates.

Recruiters from the Substance Abuse Treatment Facility, Pleasant Valley State Prison, Central California Women’s Facility, and Corcoran State Prison distributed information regarding careers with the department, pay and benefits, and register attendees for virtual career fairs.

Lt. Rudy Diaz, Recruitment Lead at the Central California Women’s Facility, said the fair offered an opportunity to recruit from a wide range of people.

“The fair connected us with a diverse group interested in a fulfilling career,” he said. “We were impressed by the engagement and look forward to reviewing applications.”

These events will help fill vital roles within the California correctional system, fostering a strong community of peace officers.

Visit the CDCR website to learn about career opportunities in the department.

Staff Spotlight

3 Questions with Daniel Ayala, Office Services Supervisor II, Wasco State Prison-RC

Daniel Ayala, Office Services Supervisor II at Wasco State Prison-RC, has nearly eight years of experience organizing weddings and DJing receptions helping bring joy to his community. While Ayala manages medical scheduling during the week at the prison, DJing provides a refreshing outlet from the normal day-to-day.

How has your family influenced your work and passion for DJing?

My family has been a significant source of inspiration throughout my journey. Growing up in a musical household, I was exposed to various genres and instruments from an early age. My father was a musician in the 1970s and my siblings and I created a family band. It ended up not working out, but I kept all the equipment and started DJing from there. Now, my family assists me with other services such as photo booths, photography, and videography. It not only strengthens our bond but also allows us to share our passion for music with others.

What’s the most rewarding part of your DJing experience?

Seeing the joy on people’s faces during significant life events is incredibly fulfilling. It’s a reminder there’s life outside of work. I love being a part of those special moments. Being entrusted with someone’s wedding day is a significant responsibility. Knowing that I played a part in creating lasting memories for couples and their families is a profound honor. I also cherish the ongoing relationships I build with clients, often keeping in touch via social media as they grow their families and celebrate more milestones.

How do you build relationships with coworkers through DJing?

Doing weddings for staff helps bridge our work and personal lives, creating a unique bond. It fosters a sense of community and understanding among colleagues. When I see my coworkers outside of the prison environment, it deepens our connections. We share stories and laughter, which can be a refreshing change from the serious atmosphere of work. I’ve done multiple weddings for fellow staff members, and each event reinforces the idea that we are all more than our job titles—we’re part of a community that supports and celebrates one another.

Visit Inside CDCR to read more Beyond the Badge stories.

Fire Response

CDCR mobilizes resources to combat Shoe Fire in Shasta County

Incarcerated firefighters working in the forest

The Shoe Fire, which began Oct. 9, has burned 5,135 acres and is currently 29 percent contained as of Oct. 22. CDCR has mobilized five conservation fire camps, deploying 10 crews consisting of 134 firefighters and 15 support staff.

CDCR’s involvement has been crucial in efforts to bring the fire under control, with crews working tirelessly alongside CAL FIRE to enhance containment measures. As conditions evolve, officials continue to monitor the situation and adapt strategies to combat the ongoing threat posed by the fire.

The collaborative efforts underscore the commitment of CDCR and CAL FIRE to protect communities and natural resources during this challenging wildfire season.

Visit CALFIRE website for updates on the Shoe Fire.

Visit the CDCR website to learn more about Conservation (Fire) Camps Program.

Observances

National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Disability employment awareness month banner

Celebrate the valued contributions of workers with disabilities.

Observed each October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month, or “NDEAM,” celebrates the value and talent workers with disabilities add to the workplace and economy. The 2024 official NDEAM theme is “Access to Good Jobs for All.”

In some workplaces, people with disabilities experience disability-related biases, have received fewer expressions of interest when disclosing their disabilities on well-qualified mock job applications and contend with a lack of accessibility and other accommodations.

The goal during NDEAM and beyond, is to make these and similar practices obsolete through awareness and education.

We must challenge misconceptions, advocate for equitable opportunities, and foster a culture of inclusion in the workplace.

Learn more about NDEAM and how organizations can participate.

Office of Victim & Survivor Rights & Services

Victim Services Enhances Community Outreach at Local Events

CDCR’s Office of Victim & Survivor Rights & Services recently participated in two outreach events, increasing awareness of available victim support.

At the Annual Family Day Trunk or Treat at Folsom State Prison, families learned about services offered to crime victims including assisting victims of crime following the defendants sentencing. Victim services staff Irene Velasco, Karen Johnson, and Ana Mejia distributed materials highlighting assistance with victim restitution, notifications about parole hearings, and support during hearings. Attendees expressed gratitude, with one stating, “I had no idea your office existed. Thank you for all you do for victims.”

Additionally, victim services participated in Denio’s Non-Profit Day at Denio’s Farmers Market in Roseville. Victim services staff engaged the public, answering questions and connecting with other service providers, further extending their reach within the community. Victim Advocate Angels, founded by Alexa Hansen, attended as well. Hansen praised the victim services team, noting, “I am very impressed with what CDCR’s victim services does and would love the opportunity to work together to assist victims of crime.”

Visit the CDCR website to learn more about victim services.

In the Media

California Correctional Officer brings mental health awareness to boxing match

Early mornings are a ritual for Daniel Torres, a correctional officer at Ironwood State Prison.

Torres was training for a “Battle of the Badges” boxing match held Oct. 19 at the Sacramento Memorial Auditorium. The event, organized for first responders, offers a platform to come together, showcase their skills and promote mental health awareness, according to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

Visit Corrections1 to read the full story.

Warriors, Twinning Project, CDCR launch Solano program

The Golden State Warriors, in collaboration with the Twinning Project and CDCR have launched a six-week basketball program aimed at decreasing recidivism rates and enhancing the readiness of incarcerated individuals for life post-release at California State Prison Solano. Led by Warriors Basketball Academy staff and representatives from Positive Coaching Alliance, the program will involve a series of clinics concentrating on coaching fundamentals, leadership, and relationship building.

Visit the NBA website to read the full story and watch the video.

W. Kamau Bell reacts to Star-Studded San Quentin Film Festival

W. Kamau Bell is applauding the filmmakers who participated in the first major film festival held at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center … revealing there’s some budding talent within the institution’s walls.

We caught up with the comedian and TV host on “TMZ Live” Wednesday, where he shared insight into how the star-studded festival came to be … and teased what could be in store for the participating prisoners.

Visit TMZ website to read the full story.

Hispanic Heritage Month bridges cultural divide at San Quentin

incarcerated men with hands in air praising

Julia Arroyo asked the crowd to rise to their feet and face the four directions — north, south, east and west. The people stood up and raised their hands to the sky, knelt, and touched the ground, while Arroyo blew trumpet-like sounds through a large seashell.

Arroyo, the executive director of the San Francisco-based Young Women’s Freedom Center, is a descendant of the Aztec nation. She performed this ancient ritual to kick off the first Hispanic Heritage Month event in the chapel at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center.

Visit LocalNewsMatters website to read the full story.