Week in Review: August 29, 2025

August 29, 2025

In this August 29 Week in Review, we spotlight a musician, a Hall of Fame bowler, and a comedy fundraiser.

Staff Spotlight

3 Questions with Ray Martell

Ray Martell performing at a gig for his band, BLACK GTO.

Ray Martell is a correctional counselor II specialist and the Assistant Classification and Parole Representative at Pelican Bay State Prison (PBSP) in Crescent City.

He began his career with CDCR in 2014 as a correctional officer at PBSP. In 2018, he had promoted to correctional counselor and four years later to correctional counselor II (CCII).

We caught up with Martell to discuss some of the changes he’s seen within the department over the last decade, his hobbies, and mentors he’s had along the way.

Q&A with Ray Martell

What are some of the biggest changes you’ve seen while you’ve been with the department?

After my graduation from the academy in 2014, I was assigned to PBSP. It was known as being one of the toughest prisons, housing Level III and Level IV incarcerated population, requiring maximum security. The closing of the Security Housing Unit (SHU) and Psychiatric Services Unit (PSU) at PBSP had a huge impact. At first, it felt like we lost our identity. But we were able to reinvent ourselves and adapt to the needs of a Level II population.

What is your hobby and how does it help you achieve balance?

Music is my hobby. I own a local recording studio and play in a couple of bands.

With the studio, I bring in clients who want to have professional recordings of their songs. I have also produced commercials for radio and television, and even some political advertisements.

My band, BLACK GTO, comprises current and retired correctional officers. We are a hard rock band, producing original music. To date, we have released four albums. We typically play two to four gigs per month, in addition to rehearsing each week.

It is good for the psyche to come home from work and have a hobby that takes you to a completely different head space.

How have your mentors helped your career or personal life?

I have had the privilege of working with some great officers and counselors. CCII Dave Wells took me on as an acting correctional counselor and showed me the ropes. He helped me cut my teeth in the SHU and Administrative Segregation Unit (ASU) at that time. CCIII Boyd has also been helpful to me growing as a CCII.

The lesson they’ve taught me in the end is to be true and honest with yourself. Others around you will see and appreciate it.

Observances

August is National Immunization Awareness Month (NIAM).

This annual observance highlights the efforts of health care professionals to protect patients of all ages against vaccine-preventable diseases through on-time vaccination. At CDCR/CCHCS we honor the commitment of our dedicated health care professionals who continue to work toward increasing immunization rates in our institutions.

Immunization Awareness Month banner - August 2025

This month we also recognize the efforts of the Public Health/Infection Prevention Program at CCHCS. The program coordinated the second population artwork contest to find the next flu season campaign poster and slogan.

The contest was created to encourage creativity and collaboration with the incarcerated population while raising awareness about the importance of flu prevention. They received many creative submissions from incarcerated individuals.

The winning design, along with the gallery of honorable mention posters, will be displayed throughout institutions during the 2025 Flu Campaign, running Sept. 1 through Oct. 30.

In the Community

Beyond the Lanes: Officer Scruggs inducted into Bowling Hall of Fame

Correctional Officer Randy Scruggs was recently inducted into the United States Bowling Congress (USBC) and Oregon State Bowling Hall of Fame for his meritorious service in the sport.

Officer Scruggs at the USBC Oregon State Bowling Hall of Fame

The induction acknowledges his commitment and extensive contributions to the sport of bowling in Oregon and beyond.

Scruggs began his bowling journey in the third grade. He has competed in 40 state tournaments and 13 national tournaments. His dedication to the sport extends beyond competing as he has devoted 10 years to coaching high school bowling.

Currently, Scruggs serves as the president of the Del Norte Bowling Association. He owns and operates a pro-bowling shop, where he sells bowling equipment and drills bowling balls. Most recently, he led two four-person teams in the World Police and Firefighter Games, bowling division, in Birmingham, Alabama.

Scruggs continues to be a strong advocate for the sport, working to promote bowling within the local community.

PVSP donates to Coalinga High School Drama Club

The incarcerated population at Pleasant Valley State Prison raised $5,000 to donate to the Coalinga High School (CHS) Drama Club.

PVSP staff presenting donation check to CHS drama club

The school’s Drama Club is an interactive, hands-on club and elective class for high school students interested in the performing arts. Each year the students perform a play they have rehearsed throughout the school year. During rehearsals, they learn different acting techniques and grow in their abilities. This year, students are exploring the town of Bikini Bottom in their production of “SpongeBob SquarePants the Musical.”

Longtime supporter and volunteer of the CHS Drama Club, Correctional Counselor Gerald Butler, said the funds will greatly support their annual production.

In Our Institutions

Big Dill Pickleball at CCWF receives support

The Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF) in Chowchilla recently received donations from 11SIX24, a pickleball paddle company, to support CCWF’s Big Dill Pickleball team.

Taryn Lamm, a brand ambassador for 11SIX24, and volunteer Sunny Swartz assist with monthly pickleball training while facilitating the CCWF Big Dill Pickleball Club. Recognizing the need for better equipment, Lamm facilitated the donation of 28 new paddles for program participants to use.

“I am honored to be leading the incarcerated and staff together on these special Fridays in pickleball with these community partners,” said CCWF Coach Giancarlo Martinelli.

CTF and TAILS host comedy fundraiser

Comedian Mark Lundholm and incarcerated person smiling

The Correctional Training Facility (CTF) at Soledad partnered with the Transforming Animals and Individuals’ Lives (TAILS) Program to host a comedy show fundraiser.

Held in the North Facility Gymnasium, the show featured nationally recognized comedian Mark Lundholm.

More than 250 incarcerated individuals attended the show, raising over $6,200 to benefit the South County Animal Rescue (SCAR).

The non-profit organization dedicated to saving and rehoming animals.

Lundholm, once incarcerated himself, shared his journey of addiction, incarceration, and recovery through humor. He created a performance that was both entertaining and relatable for the incarcerated audience.

“This event was powerful because it brought together everything the TAILS program represents – healing, compassion, and transformation,” said Correctional Counselor Shannon Dunaven who is also co-founder of TAILS. “To see the men not only raise funds for animals in need but also share laughter and hope with a comedian who understands their lived experience was inspiring.”

incarcerated crowd laughing during Mark Lundholm's comedy show at CTF

The fundraiser was hosted by TAILS, a program launched in 2023. The group partners with SCAR to bring at-risk shelter dogs into CTF. Incarcerated participants train and care for the dogs, preparing them for adoption while developing empathy, responsibility, and a renewed sense of purpose.

“(Rehabilitation) is about dignity, purpose, and connection, and this comedy show captured all of that,” said Warden Edward J. Borla. “Providing a space where people can laugh, reflect, and give back shows rehabilitation is not just possible, it’s actually happening here at CTF.”

The funds raised will directly support SCAR, expanding its ability to provide veterinary care, adoption services, and long-term placement for the dogs trained through the TAILS program.

CTF celebrates Choices for Life graduation

The Correctional Training Facility (CTF) hosted a graduation ceremony for 45 men who successfully completed the Choices for Life self-help program.

Rabbi Friedman congratulating a graduate

The event recognized the dedication of the graduates with tributes and official recognition. Certificates of completion were presented to each graduate by Rabbi Yochanan Friedman and Warden Edward J. Borla.

Friedman was also presented with a Commendation Award by Borla, honoring his leadership and commitment to guiding the program’s success.

“This graduation is a testament not only to your hard work, but also to the transformative power of purpose. The Choices for Life program is one of the most diverse programs at our institution in terms of participation, reflecting our commitment to serving our entire population,” Borla said. “Your growth here inspires us all and reminds us why meaningful changes are always worth pursuing.”

The program was developed by CTF Jewish chaplain Rabbi Friedman and his father, Rabbi Manis Friedman. First launched at CTF in 2017, the course is designed to ignite personal transformation, moral clarity, and purposeful living.

Choices for Life encapsulates its message with a powerful motto: “Don’t be needy. Be needed.”

The sentiment reminds participants to focus on making valuable contributions rather than merely seeking help.

“Receiving the Commendation Award from Warden Borla was amazing. It’s an inspiring symbol of the terrific support I’ve received from the Warden and CTF administration throughout the development and piloting of this program,” Friedman said. “I am deeply grateful for their encouragement and dedication, which have made this work possible.”

Rabbi Yochanan Friendman receiving his Commendation Award

Graduate shaking hands with Warden Borla

Fire Response

FSP responds to local residential structure fire

FSP firefighters after structure fire was extinguished

Folsom State Prison’s (FSP) fire department responded to a call for mutual aid from the City of Folsom Fire Department. The call was for assistance with a two-alarm multi-residential structure fire adjacent to FSP property.

Without hesitation, FSP Engine 139, Response Vehicle C-5300, four incarcerated firefighters, Fire Captain Solorio, and Fire Chief Mackey responded to the call.

FSP firefighters quickly established a defensive perimeter at the rear of one residential structure and began attacking the engulfed structure. Once the fire was extinguished, FSP firefighters identified residual hot spots and began salvaging the property.

DAPO supports gun safety event

DAPO staff at La Mesa gun exchange event

Organized by the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, La Mesa Police Department, CDCR’s Division of Adult Parole Operations, Sycuan Tribal Police Department, and the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office, gun safety was a top priority last weekend.

The event promoted gun safety, resulting in the collection of nearly 300 firearms including handguns, rifles, shotguns, and assault rifles. In exchange, participants received gift cards valued at $100 for standard firearms and $200 for assault-style weapons. Free gun cable locks were offered to attendees who requested one, promoting safe storage for those who keep firearms in their homes.

Firearms turned in at the event will be processed by the agencies. Any firearms identified as stolen will be returned to their rightful owners. Weapons connected to crimes will be referred to the appropriate agency, and all others will be legally destroyed.

In the Media

The unlikely California spot where pickleball doesn’t get noise complaints

Roger BelAir with incarcerated women he coached, as well as a couple of staff members, at the Central California Women’s Facility in November 2024. Simaima Ohuafi is in the far left.

Like most pickleball players these days, Simaima Ohuafi found herself swept up in the sport during the COVID-19 pandemic. The appeal was immediate as it was an outdoor athletic activity that her body could handle more easily at 46 years old than the more physically demanding sports she played 10 to 20 years ago.

Photo of CrossFit players at Avenal State Prison

You wouldn’t expect to find CrossFit coaches inside a California jailhouse – but at Avenal State Prison, northwest of Bakersfield, that’s exactly what you’ll encounter.