Week in Review: September 11, 2026

September 11, 2026

In this September 11 Week in Review, we highlight CIW crowning its first Golden Baker, CSP‑Corcoran’s basketball rivalry and we remember 9/11.

Observances

CDCR remembers 9/11

American flag and candles to remember 9/11

CDCR recognizes the lives lost on Sept. 11, 2001 (9/11) and honors the first responders, service members and communities who came together during a time of profound tragedy and uncertainty.

Their example reminds us of the importance of service and standing together in difficult times.

The attacks resulted in the deaths of 2,750 people in New York, 184 at the Pentagon, and 40 in Pennsylvania, according to the national Transportation Security Administration.

We pause today to remember those we lost and honor those who responded with courage and compassion.

In Our Institutions

CIW crowns its first Golden Baker

Staff from California Institution for Women (CIW) in Corona brought homemade treats and friendly competition to the institution’s first Staff Bake Sale and Competition Sept. 1.

Staff bakers sold homemade goods and donated a portion or all proceeds to the Employee Association. The association is an official 501(c)(3) charitable organization supporting staff and families through appreciation events, fundraising, scholarships and recognition programs.

Six judges representing custody and health care helped select CIW’s first Golden Baker.

Teri Barber earned the title for her “Loaded Brownie,” winning the staff vote.

CIW bake sale winner with trophy and Employee Association President Loera

Employee Association President Issac Loera said the organization aims to consistently give back through staff appreciation events and other opportunities. “We recognize, support and celebrate those who have dedicated their careers to serving CDCR and CCHCS,” Loera said.

FSP supports local youth through backpack drive

FSP participants packing backpacks with supplies

Folsom State Prison (FSP) staff and incarcerated persons recently joined efforts to support local youth through a backpack drive benefiting the Sacramento Children’s Home.

Staff donated 87 backpacks and hundreds of school supplies to help children prepare for the school year.

Incarcerated persons contributed $5,248.35 through individual trust account withdrawals. The Men of Character group coordinated the donations for processing.

The drive demonstrates how staff and the incarcerated population can work together to support communities beyond the institution.

The Sacramento Children’s Home provides services to children and families throughout the region. The donated supplies will help local students begin the school year prepared to learn.

ASP supports local dog rescue

Avenal State Prison (ASP) donated $674.50 to PAW Estate Rescue & Shelter Aug. 31.

Incarcerated persons from Facility B contributed the funds through individual trust account withdrawals.

The Central Valley nonprofit is a foster-based dog rescue dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating and placing dogs in permanent homes.

PAW Estate Rescue & Shelter assists stray and abandoned dogs, owner surrenders and animals with special needs.

The donation reflects the institution’s ongoing efforts to support organizations serving surrounding communities.

The contribution will help provide care and protection for dogs awaiting permanent homes.

Upward Mobility

Isaac Loera, assigned acting CEO, California Institution for Women
Vanessa Garcia, assigned acting CEO, California Institution for Men

*Listed in alphabetical order by first name

Rehabilitation

MCRP participant wins university art contest

Angel Paredes poses with winning design artwork

Angel Paredes, a participant at the Male Community Reentry Program (MCRP) Los Angeles 1, recently won first place in California State Polytechnic University, Pomona’s Broncos Belong Art Contest.

MCRP celebrates this program participant achievement with partners HealthRight 360.

Paredes, a master’s student at the university, designed original artwork featuring the campus Bronco mascot, horseshoe and surrounding hills. The college printed T-shirts featuring Paredes’ artwork for incoming students during a welcome event.

The student newspaper, The Poly Post, highlighted Paredes’ success.

He reflected on the profound sense of belonging he developed on campus. “Seeing thousands of students wearing the artwork I drew was something I will never forget,” Paredes said.

Paredes’ story is a powerful example of the trans-formative effects of education, creativity, and community support. His achievements reflect not only his artistic talent, but also his continued commitment to personal growth and academic success.

CSP‑Corcoran basketball rivalry builds teamwork and resilience

Nearly 400 incarcerated persons attended a highly anticipated basketball rematch between California State Prison (CSP) Corcoran 4B and 3B yards Aug. 21.

The interfacility game gave players an opportunity to compete, build relationships and experience organized recreation. Events like these are a familiar source of excitement for staff and the incarcerated population.

The first half remained competitive before 4B took a 28-19 lead. The 3B team rallied in the final quarter to win 48-41.

It marked the second victory for 3B, led by Captain K. Wilson.

After the game, Wilson credited resilience and teamwork for the comeback.

“Just stay confident and know what you know and just work together,” Wilson said.

Coach Wippel has facilitated recreation programs at Corcoran since 2014. She said games like these bring a sense of community and normalcy at no cost to taxpayers or the institution.

The event was attended by Principal B. Xiong, Facility 4B Captain, D. Madsen and acting Chief Deputy Warden, C. Livingston. Administration is very supportive of the program, understanding the role of sports and recreation in rehabilitation.

Painting Over It: Healing through arts at CIM

Damian Reyes entered the correctional system and faced a challenging new reality of rehabilitation and recovery. Over the course of his incarceration, and now at California Institution for Men (CIM), Reyes discovered a profound mechanism for survival and transformation: Oils, Acrylics, Paint brushes and Canvas.

Reyes has converted incarceration into personal healing. Healing Through Arts is a rehabilitative program started at California State Prison, Los Angeles County. At CIM, it allows participants to express themselves in a positive manner, while developing personal growth and insight.