In this Weekender Digest, we look at a nurse saving a coworker, celebrating Food Service Week, and mental health awareness. Catch up on this week’s stories.
Above the Call
Nurse acts quickly to save choking coworker
A dinner between two nurse coworkers took a serious turn recently when one began choking. In a remarkable display of calm under pressure, two California Correctional Health Care Services (CCHCS) nurses demonstrated the life-saving power of quick thinking and professional training during the incident. Read the full story.
Awards & Appreciation
Food Service Week recognized at CTF-Soledad
The Correctional Training Facility at Soledad (CTF) celebrated Food Service Week Feb. 4-7. They recognized the dedication of food service staff and incarcerated workers with special meals and appreciation events. Read the full story.
Mental Health
Corcoran hosts first Mental Health Awareness Day
California State Prison, Corcoran, held their first Mental Health Awareness Day with staff, recreational therapists, and the population. Recreational therapists worked with the several different groups of incarcerated persons to create a day of activities for Facility 3B on Jan. 9. These activities included dodgeball, basketball, cornhole, and talent competitions. Mental health staff were joined by various ranks of custody staff who provided supervision, officiated, and even participated in the events. Read the full story.
Rehabilitation
Camp Grace strengthens family bonds
For the first time, Camp Grace brought its family bonding experience to Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF) in Chowchilla. Read the story.
Love for dog leads to adoption
“Richard and Rascal have a double parole/paw-role date,” said Wiley’s Wish facilitator Vona Darnell. “It’s been a pleasure watching their relationship blossom.” Richard Marquez, incarcerated at Pleasant Valley State Prison, was a previous dog trainer handler and eagerly volunteered when the Second Chance Canine Program was brought to the prison. He quickly fell for Rascal, a lovable dog who needed a home. Not wanting to split up the pair, his wife adopted Rascal. Now, when he paroles, the dog and his handler will be reunited. Read the full story.
CCI Tehachapi staff, incarcerated hold town hall
California Correctional Institution’s (CCI) Facility C hosted a town hall forum for the incarcerated population and correctional staff. The event, held Jan. 31, offered a chance to speak about topics intended to stimulate conversations to alleviate possible contention from both sides. “Coming out of the town hall, I feel like the incarcerated population and staff found a common ground,” said Correctional Officer Scott McKern. “(It) will ultimately make the facility feel more rehabilitation centered.” Read the full story.
Obituaries
Recent obituary notices include retired Correctional Officer Michael Perry, Sierra Conservation Center Warden’s Executive Assistant Kristin Barajas, current North Kern State Prison Correctional Officer Pablo Linares and retired M&S Supervisor Herman Santaella. For more, read the obituaries section.
Week in Review
Week in Review: February 14, 2025
In this Week in Review for February 14, we highlight CalAIM’s early rollout, wildfire relief efforts, and Food Services Week. Read the recent Week in Review.
CDCR Weekender Digest is compiled by Don Chaddock, Inside CDCR editor
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