Week in Review: March 7, 2025

March 7, 2025

In this Week in Review for March 7, we introduce Brooke Gibboney, the newest recreation therapist at CHCF, highlight CDCR/CCHCS staff taking the plunge, and celebrate past and present women in honor of Women’s History Month.

Observances

Daylight Saving Time begins Sunday at 2 a.m. Set your clocks ahead one hour Saturday night to spring forward.

Day light saving begins March 9 and ends Nov. 2. Remember to turn your clocks one hour ahead before going to bed March 8. Officials also recommend changing batteries in your smoke detectors and clocks. Smart phones, watches and computers will automatically adjust to the new time.

Women’s History Month

Tiffany Orff, a vocational welding instructor, is shaping futures and igniting hope at the Correctional Training Facility (CTF) at Soledad. “The fact I’m able to possibly help somebody (learn) a trade they can take outside (and) not come back, is priceless,” she said. Read the story.

In 1965, CIW leader discussed history of women in prison

Sepia toned image of Iverne Carter wearing horn-rimmed glasses and large pearls. She was an expert on the history of women in California prisons. — Iverne Carter

During a 1965 conference of Federated Women’s Clubs, California Institution for Women Superintendent Iverne Carter discussed the history of women in state prisons, going back to the first woman sent to the prison ship Waban in 1852.

Carter also highlighted the need for improved relations between staff and the incarcerated population.

“(We) need more knowledge in the areas of human dynamics and understanding various culture patterns,” she said. “As an institution grows larger and its organization more complex, it is difficult to maintain the close professional relationships within staff and between staff and (incarcerated individuals) which are basic to the changing of behavior patterns.”

Foreshadowing modern efforts, she hinted at the concept of normalization.

“Finally, there is a continuing need for the resident in a penal institution to understand community expectations through contacts with responsible citizen groups,” she concluded. Read the story.

Staff Spotlight

Three Questions with Brooke Gibboney, CHCF’s new recreation therapist

Brooke Gibboney, CHCF Recreation Therapist at the Special Olympics Polar Plunge in Folsom

Brooke Gibboney recently joined California Health Care Facility (CHCF) as a recreation therapist, bringing her passion for using sports and recreation to uplift and empower individuals. Before joining CDCR, she worked for Special Olympics Northern California as a staff member and liaison to CDCR, frequently visiting institutions to promote inclusion and participation in Special Olympics programming. With a background in therapeutic recreation and experience working with diverse populations, she is a valuable addition to the CHCF team.

Outside of work, she remains actively involved in Special Olympics events, including the Sacramento Region Polar Plunge, where she proudly represents Team CHCF.

Q&A with Brooke Gibboney, CHCF recreation therapist

What inspired you to transition from working with Special Olympics to becoming a recreation therapist?

I discovered recreational therapy in college and immediately knew I belonged in the field. Special Olympics has always been a passion project of mine. I grew up with a close family friend who is an athlete for the West Placer team, she is a phenomenal swimmer and bowler, so I was fortunate to learn about Special Olympics from an early age.

I have also been a certified powerlifting coach, so when the opportunity arose to become a staff member for Special Olympics Northern California, I jumped on it.

Eventually, though, I missed facilitating groups and working as a recreational therapist, so I knew it was time to return to a volunteer role within Special Olympics Northern California and find a recreational therapy position. Working in corrections has always interested me, and it was the right time to jump back in.

How does recreational therapy make a difference in the lives of the individuals you serve at CHCF?

As a recreational therapist, I have the unique opportunity to engage patients in programming that interests them. This allows us to build therapeutic rapport while they participate in activities. In school, we were taught to always look at the person first, not just their diagnosis or background.

Working with the CHCF population gives me the opportunity to engage our patients as people and help them find a path toward rehabilitation and positive choices.

You’ve been involved in the Sacramento Region Polar Plunge for Team CHCF. What does that event mean to you, and how do you stay involved in Special Olympics now?

The Special Olympics Polar Plunge has been one of my favorite events since 2016. I first discovered the plunge when a close friend started fundraising for her team and asked if I would donate. Instead, I decided to join her team and raised money alongside her.

Brooke Gibboney standing with a Special Olympics male athlete at the Polar Plunge in Folsom

The Polar Plunge fits right into my wheelhouse because I love water, nature, and pushing my own comfort level. I have plunged numerous times in Sacramento and love that CHCF had such a great showing at this year’s event. The Polar Plunge is a great example of what happens when a community rallies around a singular cause. People from law enforcement, corporate groups, and community agencies come together to share a unique experience.

I am lucky to have the best cheer squad, my parents and friends have joined me every year to hold my towel and cheer from the sidelines. I hope to share the tradition with more family and friends as the years go on.

Learn more about Special Olympics Northern California and how you can get involved.

In the Community

SCC takes chilly dip Tulloch Lake for Special Olympics

Acting warden wearing Class A uniform runs toward the lake for the Polar Plunge for March 7 Week in Review.

Sierra Conservation Center staff in the waters of Tulloch Lake for the Polar Plunge.

Sierra Conservation Center (SCC) staff plunged into Tulloch Lake for the 2025 Tuolumne County Polar Plunge, raising over $11,050 and ranking first out of 17 teams.

The cold winter weather of the foothills subsided on the early morning of Saturday, Feb. 22, making for a perfect sunny day.

Acting Warden J. Prudhel represented CDCR in fine fashion, taking the plunge while wearing his Class A uniform.

This year SCC had an even larger presence with 2025 boasting the largest turnout with 28 staff from multiple disciplines. Staff came from education, dental, nursing, mental health, health care administration, custody administration and officers, as well as Pine Grove Youth Conservation Camp. For the second year in a row, SCC employee Erin Sicard raised over $1,500 alone.

Overall, the Saturday plunge raised $43,700 to support Special Olympics athletes in their training and travel costs.

CHCF Hot Tamales team makes a splash for Special Olympics

The California Health Care Facility’s (CHCF) Hot Tamales participated in the Greater Sacramento Polar Plunge, 5K Trail Run, and 1-Mile Walk March 1. The annual event supports the Special Olympics of Northern California.

They raised $7,193, earning recognition as the highest Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) fundraising team. As a whole, the event brought in $92,000, with all proceeds benefiting programs for individuals with intellectual disabilities.

Led by acting Warden Kathleen Ratliff, the Hot Tamales included staff from multiple classifications, as well as Director Gena Jones. According to CHCF organizers, this event is a cherished annual tradition, demonstrating their commitment to community engagement and inclusion.

Parole gets into Polar Plunge

DAPO staff at Granite Bay area of Folsom Lake.

DAPO staff at Polar Plunge at Folsom Lake.

In March, eight staff from the Division of Adult Parole Operations (DAPO) and two of their family members participated in the 2025 Greater Sacramento Polar Plunge, 5K Trail Run & 1 Mile Run/Walk held at Granite Bay’s main beach at Folsom Lake to support the Special Olympics Northern California. The team, DAPO is Freezin’ for a Reason, ranked nine out of 34 on the fundraising leaderboard. DAPO exceeded their fundraising goal by 37 percent, raising a total of $2,536.

Representing DAPO was Chief Deputy Administrator Wendy Enos, Parole Administrators Antonio DeJesus and his daughter Nevaeh, Roger Gold, and Aimee Sugapong; Parole Agent II Supervisors Catalina Martinez and her daughter Savannah, Ricky Lindsey, and Steven Velez; Staff Services Manager Victoria Quinones; and Parole Service Associate Jeannette Wright.

San Quentin hosts first Polar Plunge

Incarcerated person holding the torch he created for the Polar Plunge Law Enforcement Torch Run fundraiser.

Staff member and a young person at San Quentin.

San Quentin Rehabilitation Center (SQRC) proudly hosted its inaugural Polar Plunge Feb. 28, supporting Special Olympics Northern California. Over 100 participants, including staff and incarcerated individuals, braved the cold for a 3-mile run on the institution’s lower yard. (Read the full story in the Inside CDCR Polar Plunge round-up.)

Among the attendees were members of the San Quentin California Model Resource Team, as well as representatives from the California Health Services Building, including Dr. Marianna Ashe and her son, who ran alongside Warden Chance Andes.

“This is exactly what it looks like for a community to come together for a grand cause,” said incarcerated resident S. Warren.

Capt. Z. Robberecht, instrumental in organizing the event, expressed gratitude for the community’s support.

“San Quentin raised roughly $8,000, which will sponsor 17 athletes for an entire year of training. It’s rewarding to support one of society’s most vulnerable groups and mentor them to be their best.” the captain said.

A. Ruiz, Development Director for NorCal Special Olympics, praised the participants.

“To see how everyone is showing up for our organization and our athletes is incredible,” Ruiz said. “Their support means so much.”

Community Resource Office team member A. Torres said events such as these are beneficial for all involved.

“This is a good way for the population to give back to the community,” Torres said. “It’s a great workout for me, and I feel accomplished.”

Alameda Polar Plunge for Special Olympics with athletes and San Quentin staff posing for a group photo.

San Quentin staff at the Polar Plunge in Alameda.

The following day, March 1, San Quentin staff participated in the NorCal Special Olympics 5K Polar Plunge in Alameda, joining other law enforcement and community sponsors.

Together, the weekend events raised an astounding $115,000.

CSP-Solano Officers inspire young readers at Wagner-Holt Elementary

Officer Miguel Vargas reading to students

Officers Kevin Berry and Miguel Vargas volunteered their time to read to students at Wagner-Holt Elementary School March 4. Their effort was part of Read Across America.

Their presence made an impression as students were captivated by the stories, keeping them engaged throughout the reading session. Seeing the officers in uniform added to the excitement, sparking curiosity, conversations, and questions.

Vice Principal Marina Barry thanked the officers.

“Their engagement with the students was truly invaluable,” she said. “It was wonderful to see how captivated they were during the reading session, especially with the officers in uniform.”

The officers’ involvement helps foster a love of reading while strengthening community connections. School officials said they were grateful for their time and dedication in making the event memorable for students.

Division of Adult Parole Operations

DAPO supports successful reentry at SVSP

DAPO team stands behind resource fair table at Salinas C

The Division of Parole Operations (DAPO) Salinas Complex, DAPO’s Community Reentry Unit, and the Division of Adult Institution’s Community Transition Program participated in a Reentry Resource Fair at Salinas Valley State Prison Feb. 26.

The fair provided incarcerated individuals with essential resources and information to support their transition back into the community.

Attendees received brochures and fliers on critical services, including housing assistance, substance abuse treatment, counseling, and employment opportunities. They also had the opportunity to ask questions about the parole process and what to expect upon release.

By equipping individuals with these tools before their release, the event aimed to improve reentry success and reduce recidivism.

In Our Institutions

Training for excellence at CSP-Sacramento

Group of Correctional Officers standing with field training sergeants at CSP-SAC

Field Training Sergeants K. McKenna and H. Mitchell, alongside alarm response instructors, recently conducted alarm response training for 12 new officers at California State Prison, Sacramento as part of the institution’s new employee orientation.

The training covered basic scenarios, hands-on restraint applications, and escorting techniques. Local institutions and academy staff were invited to observe and participate, with representatives from Mule Creek State Prison, the Academy Instructors, the Advanced Learning Institute, and the Commission on Correctional Peace Officer Standards & Training (CPOST) attending on March 26.

The successful training day allowed new officers to gain confidence while fostering collaboration among institutions to enhance training methods and best practices.

CTF-Soledad donates nearly $29k to community causes

Incarcerated and Warden holding donation check

Incarcerated and staff holding donation check

The Correctional Training Facility (CTF) at Soledad presented two charitable donations totaling nearly $29,000 to the American Cancer Society and the Marina High School Athletic Booster Club March 3.

Incarcerated individuals participating in the Emotional Intelligence Program and Balanced Reentry Activity Group (BRAG) raised the funds through two separate food sales. A check for $18,339 was presented to the American Cancer Society – Relay for Life, supporting cancer research and awareness. Additionally, $10,459 was donated to the Marina High School Athletic Booster Club, which provides financial support for student-athletes.

CTF Warden Edward J. Borla praised the initiative.

“These programs don’t just raise money, they give people a chance to take responsibility, contribute to something bigger than themselves, and be part of positive change,” Borla said.

ASP Ten Toes In Graduates

Avenal State Prison, Facility F, celebrated the graduation of the incarcerated persons who completed the Ten Toes In program March 3.

Darlene Burke, founder Ten Toes In addresses the incarcerated at ASP

Darlene Burke is the founder and executive director of Ten Toes In, a mentorship and a domestic violence prevention program. They support, educate and empower couples during and after incarceration, teaching these incarcerated men the fundamentals of a healthy relationship.

The participants learn how to effectively communicate and start rebuilding their relationships with trust and honesty.

Each graduate had the same message they learned throughout the program, which was acknowledging the trauma, having open and honest communication, taking responsibility and committing to change. This program has put them on the right path to make the right changes.

CIM hosts first staff promotional ceremony

The California Institution for Men (CIM) celebrated a milestone with its first-ever staff promotional ceremony, recognizing newly promoted correctional sergeants for their leadership and dedication.

The event featured remarks from acting Warden Eric Mejia and acting Associate Director Travis Pennington, both of whom highlighted the importance of strong leadership in corrections. A traditional pinning ceremony allowed family members to honor their loved ones’ achievements.

This inaugural ceremony reflects CIM’s commitment to professional growth and employee recognition, setting the stage for future celebrations of staff excellence.

Actors’ Gang Prison Project at Avenal State Prison

Incarcerated from Actors' Gang Prison Project at ASP

The Actors’ Gang Prison Project returned to Avenal State Prison, providing incarcerated individuals with a transformative space for emotional expression and personal growth.

Through performance, participants explored their past, confronted regrets, and uncovered parts of themselves they had long buried.

The program fosters healing by equipping individuals with social-emotional tools they can use both inside and outside prison walls.

Beyond performance, the project has demonstrated significant positive impacts on self-worth and interpersonal relationships, reinforcing the power of art in rehabilitation.

French artist JR returns to CCI for ‘Tehachapi’ screening

A powerful artistic collaboration came full circle when French artist JR returned to the California Correctional Institution (CCI) to screen his documentary “Tehachapi” for those who helped bring it to life.

In 2019, JR visited CCI to create a mural featuring incarcerated individuals from Facility B. The project evolved into a documentary premiering at the 2023 Telluride Film Festival and was later released in France in June 2024.

In February 2025, JR and his team returned to CCI, where hundreds of incarcerated individuals gathered in facility gyms to watch the film. The screening was a moment of reflection and celebration, with audience members cheering as they recognized familiar faces, including several formerly incarcerated individuals who have since reintegrated into society.

Among them was Cory Belcher, a former life-sentenced individual featured in the film. Accompanied by his girlfriend, Melissa, Belcher shared how the project helped transform his life.

“I hope people watching this take a moment to hear someone’s story,” he said.

Following the screening, JR and participants engaged in a discussion, reinforcing the documentary’s message of rehabilitation and second chances. The mural and film continue to challenge perceptions about incarceration and highlight the role of art in social change.

CIM remembers Officer Gonzalez on 20-year anniversary of death

California Institution for Men (CIM) recently honored the memory of Correctional Officer Manuel “Manny” Gonzalez, slain in the line of duty 20 years ago. Read the story.

At the Capitol

CDCR, CCHCS plan for return to office four days per week

California capitol dome against a blue sky.

CDCR and CCHCS have started the planning effort to comply with the Governor’s Executive Order directing employees back to the office four days per week.

The Office of Public and Employee Communications will keep you informed as information becomes available.

In the Media

Incarcerated people sitting in a classroom setting.

Pelican Bay offers a model for prison education. Its future is in doubt. Behind razor wire and guard towers, an experiment in higher education is unfolding.

Pelican Bay State Prison wants to be a model again.

Read full article at CS Monitor.

Governor Newsom on X: “California is immensely grateful to the @CACorrections staff and hand crews for their tireless work helping to put out the firestorms across the Los Angeles area. Their involvement was crucial in the combined response of local, state, federal, and international teams.” Read the post on X.

Before these Oscar-nominated filmmakers put on their tuxes, they taught class at San Quentin

On Monday, Feb. 24, the filmmakers gave up their cell phones and computers and spent the day at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center. Read the full store here: Oscar-nominated filmmakers teach film class at San Quentin