Awards and Appreciation, Beyond the Badge

Pelican Bay State Prison shows staff appreciation

August 21, 2025

Pelican Bay State Prison (PBSP) in Crescent City recently celebrated its annual staff appreciation day Aug. 15.

This well-deserved opportunity acknowledges staff’s dedication, professionalism, and hard work in their challenging roles.

The day was focused on recognizing the hard work of staff as well as their contributions to the institution’s success. The event, organized by prison executives, managers, and staff, highlights the vital role correctional employees play in the institution’s operations and the larger community.

Pitching in to show appreciation

All levels of the institution collaborated, contributing to set-up, organization, preparations, activities, cooking, and serving meals to approximately 1,200 employees throughout the institution.

The spirit of collaboration was particularly evident as management staff demonstrated their team-first approach by joining the serving line and helping at the barbeque.

This event provided an opportunity to connect with colleagues and create lasting memories.

Staff enjoyed on-site cooked food prepared by management, a car show, games, and give-aways.

The menu included classic favorites such as bacon cheeseburgers and macaroni pasta, accompanied by various beverages and other fixings.

For the car show, staff showcased their rides including bikes, ATVs, dragsters, cars, and motorcycles.

Adding to the celebratory atmosphere, opportunity drawings were held, offering a variety of prizes such as gift cards, tools, barbecue sets, redwood carvings, corn hole boards, pizza oven and more.

Several games were also set up for staff to enjoy, including golf lanes, cornhole, and a giant connect-four game.

“This was an incredible event filled with fun and laughter,” said Chief Deputy Warden Michael Betzinger. “Throughout the day, executives, managers, and staff demonstrated the strength and unity of our team.”

This employee appreciation event at Pelican Bay State Prison provided a positive and friendly environment, fostering camaraderie while acknowledging the crucial contributions of every staff member. Such initiatives boost morale, improve retention, and build a strong and supportive workplace culture, particularly in the challenging environment of a correctional facility.

Submitted by Lt. S. Leon