TxD Y200.6 J826 95/09 i1OCUMEN!TSW0 :VTRV 95-28JAN0. i9; Texas Youth Commission

September 1995, Fall Issue 4900 N. Lamar, Austin, TX 78765 News and Information from throughout the Agency

Lindgren resigns; Briscoe named acting de puty director In this issue: ay Lindgren, Deputy Executive Direc- Lindgren's duties in Rhode Island will tor of the Youth Ccommission since include responsibility for youth correction Marlin 'Reception January 15, 1988, as resigned to ac- juvenile probation, pretrial detention, men- cept the position of Director of the Rhode tal health services for children, and child Center' opens Island Department of Children, Youth and protective services. His appointment was Story on page 7. Families, effective August 15. made by Rhode Island Governor Lincoln Executive Director Steve Robinson ap- Almond. pointed Judy Briscoe, TYC's Director of "It has been an honor to serve on what Outstanding 1995 Delinquency Prevention, as acting deputy I am certain is the best juvenile corrections director. Employees Honored (rontinuedd o"rpage ) Stories and photospages 11-16.

IN THIS ISSUE Legislation...... 3 Annual Workshop...... 11 Construction Contract ...... 15 RIF Policy...... 23 New Administrators...... 23 m SanctionSancion Unit...... 25nit...... 2 Former TYC Board Member Lary York, center was honored when the TYC halfway house in Corpus Christi was renamed York House. Also pictured are current Board Chairman Gary D. Project RIO...... 26 Compton ofAmarillo, left, and State Senator John Montford ofLubbock; keynote speaker SECTIONS Halfway house renamed to Around TYC ...... 3 honor former Board Member Volunteers ...... 18 e Corpus Christi halfway house, formerly called Nueces House for the county in Youth g ...... 20 Which it is located, was renamed "York House" on May 18, 1995, in honor of former Human Resources...... 22 TYCBoard Member Larry York of Austin. Cultural Events...... 24 Ceremonies were held to mark the occasion, during which Senator John Montford Programs ...... 25 of Lubbock made the keynote remarks. (continued on page 8) i OF NT DEP. L ~rUA'ES 76203 2 JOURNAL 2 TYCTVC JOURNAL

The former state ide reception center in Brownwood is beir ng renovated to house a new sanction unit for youth who violate parole. The 128-bed program will be a 60- From the day program. We have had you th in two conserva- Executive tion camps this summier as pilot programs, the CT-11, an80-foot minesweeper, and the Gulf Coast Trades Ceriter camp. Kids live in Director tents with wood floo rs at the Gulf Coast camp. Both require ve ry hard work and our youth have responded very well, so we will be continuing these t two programs. TfC has been Our specialized'g ang intervention' pro- gram at Gainesville State School is being 'changing course' continued, with emphasis on controlling for several months... gang activity, while c ontinuing to encour- age and assist youth to give up their gang Now we've "Come About!" Steve Robinson, Executive Director affiliations. For the last year, the Youth Commis- I am extremely optimistic about our new I do understand that the "Sixteen-Hour programs to place youth in jobs: through sion has been 'changing course' in Day" challenges staff a lot more, but I've Project RIO (see article on page 26) in co- the way we provide services to youth- also heard positive comments about shifts operation with the Texas Workforce Com- ful offenders. And numerous other "moving more quickly." mission; and through a construction skills changes are in the works. Most of those 16 hours are scheduled pre-apprenticeship pr gram at Giddings, in I believe we are currently at the point with meals, chores, exercise, academic cooperation with Ho me Builders Institute, where we can say we've "Come About!" classes, counseling and resocialization which was kicked off September 1, 1995. We are rapidly opening new programs, re- "groups." Additionally, youth will be ex- The first 15 youth will receive 750 hours structuring old programs, and going about pected to do community service projects of training and 90 percent will be placed in the job of putting a new system into place on campus, as well as in the community career-type employee nt. The Institute will which is capable of responding to the in- (under strict supervision), and some youth place a full-time job p lacement coordinator ternal needs of the agency and the external will be doing paid jobs on campus. Half- at Giddings. I welco me this excellent op- needs of the public. way house residents are also continuing portunity to develop this alliance with the As we go to press, we are beginning to be heavily involved in volunteer work community. the task of reorganizing our administration. in their communities, and many will hold We are restructuringng our parole services, Our new "reception center" is now fully down paying jobs in the community. and we're downsizin g staff as we step up operational at Marlin - with all youth com- Youth earning money for jobs will be contracting with juve nile probation depart- mitted to TYC (except for those from the required to pay restitu- tion, if the court ments for parole ser vices. We expect su- South Region) being transported to that has ordered it, and court- g pervision ofparolees, whetherby TYC Com- location by the committing counties. ordered child support munity Corrections Officers or by con- The Marlin program is being called the Our "look" has also tracted county probate ion officers, to be far "assessment and orientation" center, to re- 'Come About.' more intense than in the past. flect on the longer length of stay at the first Standardized clothing and In short, we have "Come About" after TYC placement before a permanent place- state-issued footwear is - carefully considering g how to go about ment is determined. Youth begin their ori- standard dress in insti- - X . "Changing Course." entation into the Youth Commission dur- tutions, no jewelry Asalways, Iwelco me your thoughts and ing a 60-day stay, and academic classes are (other than religious) is comments as we tu rn our attention to in- being conducted. permitted, and standard creasing our emp hasis on security, con- One of our most important new goals in haircuts are given on ar- trol and public safety. W EVERY program is to require kids to partici- rival. pate in structured activity during every Recreational televi- waking hour - what we're calling "the Six- sion is permitted only as teen-Hour Day." Instead of "free time" to a special privilege, and . watch TV, play games, and visit, youth are then onlyvat limited times -i now being required to focus on a specific We have begun sev- activity, such as reading, watching educa- eral new, specialized pro- tional videos, doing homework, or writing grams. letters. TYC JOURNAL 3 lYC JOURNAL 3

Legislation enacted Delinquent mentally retarded youth by 74th Legislature now come to juvenile correction system

there was a prohibition on A call for juvenile justice re- Previously form in Texas by the Gover- flected in the omnibus juvenile jus- TYC from accepting a mentally retarded major change in philosophy is re- nor and legislative leaders tice law passed by the 74th Legis- youth, but that law was repealed. has resulted in many new lature: Mentally retarded youth are now Since the law went into effect May 31, laws which will impact the being committedto TYC, as ofMay 31, 1995. the agency has contracted with a private Texas Youth Commission. Prior law provided that a child in juve- provider to provide residential treatment Numerous bills were in- nile court who was believed to be mentally for 16 mentally retarded youth who are com- troduced during the 74th Legislature to retarded was first dealt with by TXMHIMR mitted to TYC. At least 24 youth commit- change the juvenile sentencing statute. and, only if released by that agency, would ted prior to that date, and already in TYC Many offenses have been added to the de- juvenile proceedings be resumed. placement, have been identified as eligible. terminate sentencing provisions, coupling them with statutory minimum length-of- stay requirements for administrative parole eligibility. The results were incorporated into an omnibus juvenile justice bill, House Bill 327. The major change included the addi- tion of "punishment" into the agency's purpose, and emphasizes the accountabil- AROUN D TYC ity and responsibility of both the parent and the child for the child's conduct. A parent, managing or possessory conservator of a child will be required to attend transfer, adjudication, disposition $250 million appropriated for next biennium and release hearings, and employers are rity fence. prohibited from firing employees who are Biennial operating funds of $250 The Jefferson County required to attend hearings. million have been appropriated for State School, Beaumont (scheduled The list of offenses for which a juve- the Texas Youth Commission for to open in August), would be expanded with the addition of nile may be given a specific sentence of fiscal years 1996 and 1997, following work three 48-bed dormitories as well as comple- commitment to TYC was expanded to in- by Legislative budget conferees. tion of the physical education/vocation clude indecency with a child, sexual as- An additional $55.5 million was appro- priated for construction, including conver- building. sault, aggravated assault; injury to a child, Also to be constructed are 48-bed elderly individual or disabled individual; sion of several adult facilities, and construc- dorms at both felony deadly conduct involving discharg- tion and renovation of TYC facilities. Brownwood and Giddings, and two 48-bed dorms at Crockett. Other ing a firearm; a criminal attempt to commit The funds will provide for a residential average daily population of 2,760 in FY 1996 construction includes perimeter fences at six of the offenses, criminal solicitation, Crockett and Corsicana, and a new admin- criminal solicitation of a minor; certain of- and 3,675 in FY 1997. istration building at Crockett. fenses involving controlled substances; In addition to the TDCJfacilities in Mar- New riders require TYC to contract habitual felony conduct (if the child has at lin and San Saba, an MHMR facility in with TDCJ for construction management least two previous felony adjudications Vernon has been preliminarily identified to services, and will require TYC to report on and the second offense occurred after the be transferred to TYC. The funding plan the effectiveness of specialized treatment first adjudication); and aggravated robbery. would also provide for the conversion of programs. Sentencing for these new offenses will an additional 356-bed unit and two 256-bed Another rider requires the agency to occur only if the offense is committed after facilities from TDCJ. increase contracts with local juvenile and January 1, 1996. The budget would enable expansion of specialized treatment programs, establish- adult probation departments to supervise Minimum age for transfer to ment of a gang initiative, and follow-up ser- parolees when cost effective. adult court lowered to 14 vices in aftercare. Legislators also adopted funding for The minimum age for eligibility for Construction funds provide for expan- the Juvenile Probation Commission, includ- transfer to adult criminal court was lowered sion of the Evins Regional Juvenile Center ing funds for 400 additional probation of- from 15 to 14 for capital and first degree at Edinburg with three new 48-bed dormito- ficers and 40 intensive supervision proba- felony offenses. ries, a new administration/detention unit, a tion (ISP) officers. 4 vocational/education building, and a secu- (continued on page 4) 4 TYC JOURNAL- 4 lYC JOURNAL

Legislation (continuedfrompage 3) Progressive sanctions guidelines seek to The term of a determinate sentence may intermediate sanction (ifthe program is ap- ensure consistency not be more than 40 years for a capital, first propriate and space is available) after Janu- degree or controlled substance felony; 20 ary 1, 1996. ne of the most significant com- years for a second degree felony; or 10 In addition, TYC, in consultation with ponents of juvenile justice re- years for a third degree felony. TJPC, will develop guidelines for placing form is the provision of statu- Courts may place a child on probation TYC parole violators in boot camps oper- tory guidelines for making decisions in a TYC intermediate sanction facility. ated by probation departments. and sanctions based on offense sever- The juvenile courts are required to in- Specific authority is provided for TYC ity and frequency. clude as a condition of probation that the to contract with a private vendor for the "The guidelines do allow consid- child work a specified number of hours at a financing, construction, operation, mainte- eration of individual needs and circum- community service project. nance or management of a youth boot camp. stances," said Neil Nichols, TYC gen- Juvenile court proceedings will be open eral counsel, "and these 'progressive Industries program to be developed to the public (unless the court determines sanctions guidelines' are not particu- TYC was given authority to implement that good cause is shown for excluding the larly new." an industries program by January public). 1, 1996, They describe seven sanction lev- to provide employment andvocational train- els, each one more restrictive and de- Juvenile records to be computerized ing, and to develop and expand public and manding than the previous one, begin- Law enforcement officers and other ju- private TYC industries. ning with a supervisory caution at level venile justice personnel will collect infor- A nine-member advisory committee is one and ending with a sentence to com- mation including fingerprints to be appointed to represent industries ap- and photo- mitment to the Texas Youth Commission graphs (for felony andjailable misdemeanor propriate for hiring TYC youth. The agency at level seven. by youth, first offenses only) for the Department of Public will apportion wages earned "The guidelines reflect generally Safety, which will develop and maintain a to pay court-ordered or agreed victim resti- how most juvenile justice practitioners computerized juvenile justice information tution, and second, to pay court-ordered believe the juvenile justice system system child support. (JJIS). (However, the child must be SHOULD work when resources are ad- referred to juvenile court on or The agency is also authorized to con- before the equate to meet the needs," he explained. 10th day after he is taken into custody to tract for services related to the program; A team of staff members from TYC donations from contracting busi- be included in the system). receive and from the Texas Juvenile Probation The courts may no longer order the seal- nesses; accept grants for vocational reha- Commission had already developed the ing of records of a person who has received bilitation; lease land to a private business guidelines for possible administrative the industries pro- a determinate sentence. to expand and develop implementation before they were in- The Department of Protective and Regu- gram, and certify the amount of wages paid cluded in HB 327, the juvenile justice latory Services (DPRS) is required to oper- by private employers in order for them to omnibus bill passed by the 74th Legis- ate a program to provide services for child- receive franchise tax credit for employing lature. ren age 7 to 17 who are in at-risk situations TYC youth. "The permissive language used and for families. TYC will establish vocational and edu- throughout the chapter reflects the cational assessment through cooperation TYC youth may now be sent to prison Legislature's intent that the guidelines with the Texas Employment as early as age 16 Commission, not be regarded as unfunded mandates (now Texas Workforce Commission) and TYC may refer a sentenced offender be- (which would require that all the ser- refer youth to Project RIO (Reintegration of tween 16 and 21 to the court for consider- vices at each level be provided to all Offenders) through the parole officer for ation of transfer to TDCJ (who is sentenced youth who would be qualified to receive possible job placement. for an offense committed them)," Nichols added. after January 1, A youth adjudicated for sex offenses is 1996) if he has not completed his sentence "However, the Legislature did ap- now required to register with local law en- and his conduct indicates that the welfare propriate a large amount of money to forcement authorities when he is paroled of the community requires the transfer. The both TYC and TJPC to fund the pro- - in any city or county where he intends current automatic referral for all sentenced gressive sanctions guidelines with the to live for more than seven days. (Effective offenders at age 17 1/2 is repealed as of expectation of good faith implementa- September 1, 1995). This requirement does January 1, 1996, for offenses committed af- tion," he pointed out. not end until the 10th anniversary of the ter that date. The current law remains in One of the key purposes of the day on which the youth ceases to be under effect for other youth. guidelines is to provide a means of iden- TYC's supervision. The agency may establish and operate tifying what the system provides and (continued on page 10) youth boot camps for TYC youth or for pro- who the system serves. bation youth who are placed there as an Another key purpose of the guide- lines is to inform youth what they can expect at each level. 4 5 TYCTYC~ JOURNALI f lUIDMA

Victims' rights expanded An amendment to a current law on "Rights of Victims" expands who is considered a "victim" of juve- nile crime to include owners and lessors of property damaged or lost as a result of an offense committed by a juvenile offender. In other words, people who are not consid- ered "victims" in the adult system have rights in the juvenile system. "Victims' rights in the juvenile system now parallel those rights available to vic- tims of adult offenders," explained Neil Official ribbon-cuttingceremonies were heldfor the new TYC Boot Camp in Sheffield with Nichols, TYC General Counsel. Commandant Chip Harrison doing the honors. Others takingpart were, left to rightKathy Two of the most important additions Collette, Iraan Chamber of Commerce President;Kim Yonkers, Iraan Chamber of Commerce; W Bush; to the law are: a provision to give a victim Bob McCall, IraanISD Superintendent; Dan Bartlett representing Governor George TYC BoardMember John Odam, Houston; Harrison; TYC Executive DirectorSteve Robinson; rights at his initial con- written notice of his TYC BoardMember Edna Tamayo, Harlingen;State RepresentativePete Gallego; and Renetta tact with law enforcement; and a provision McCall, Iraan City Council member allowing avictim to get a court order against ajuvenile to prevent further victimization. New victims' rights also include: 1) notification, if requested, of appellate pro- Prison system contracts ceedings; 2) explanation of juvenile proce- dures related to deferred prosecution and to manage TYC construction appeal of juvenile cases; 3) the right to be e Texas Youth Commission is now general conditions of institutions, Evins Re- informed, if requested, of the procedures contracting with the Texas Depart- gional Juvenile Center, and halfway houses; for a TYC youth who received a determi- ment of Criminal Justice (TDCJ) for providing technical assistance and support nate sentence to be transferred to adult construction management services for all relating to planning, construction and main- parole supervision; 4) to participate in and construction projects, as a result of a rider tenance; construction management for provide information regarding the transfer to the TYC appropriations bill passed by smaller projects funded with General Rev- to adult parole process; and 5) notification the 74th Legislature. enue funds; developing and maintaining the of the transfer to adult parole. The duties and responsibilities will agency Six-Year Plan for Capital Construc- Additionally, victims ofjuvenile offend- transfer from TYC to TDCJby September tion; monitoring and reporting energy con- ers are given all other rights under the Code 30, 1995, and on that date the current Main- sumption for all owned and leased facilities of Criminal Procedure that are given to vic- tenance and Construction Department will where TYC pays utilities directly; providing tims of adult offenders, including the right be eliminated, according to Gaiy Guenthner, environmental compliance, including asbes- to counseling, on request, regarding HIV/ Director. tos abatement and waste disposal; and gen- AIDS. TDCJ will manage not only the eral compliance with the Americans withDis- County juvenile boards will be able to projects funded in the 1996-97 biennium, abilities Act (ADA). W designate a victim assistance coordinator but also all current, on-going construction to work with victims of juvenile offenders. projects. pro- Their duties would include providing: David McCafferty, construction gram manager with TDCJ, will be coordi- 1) an explanation ofvictim's rights; 2) writ- nating the construction contract adminis- ten notification of the rights along with a tration functions under the interagency Act applica- Crime Victims' Compensation agreement. 3) a victim im- tion for compensation; and A new Maintenance and Operations pact statement kit. Department will be created October 1 with The coordinator, on request, must pro- six employees - a net reduction of ten in completing all forms, and vide assistance employees from the current department. ensure a copy of the impact statement is The new department will be respon- sent to the juvenile court hearing the case. sible for oversight of the maintenenace and 6 JOURNAL 6TTYC TYC JOURNA[

Performance Board honors Brownwood man measures add control encing the Texas Legislature to locate a TYC supporter in Brownwood, was hon- institution in Brownwood in the late 60's. e performance measuresverification Gronerored with Pitts, an businessman official resolution and TYC not- He was also honored in 1984 with the * process was begun in the fall of 1994 ing his activities on behalf of the Texas First Lady of Texas award for his volunteer so that TYC has a strong control sys- Youth Commission by the TYC Board dur- service to the agency. tem to ensure the accuracy of information ing their May 1995 meeting. For years, Pitts has been recognized as entered into the computer regarding Pitts "has always come to the aid ofthe "the most enthusiastic and effective pro- agency performance measures. Texas Youth Commission and effectively moter and community cheerleader for the TYC's performance on these measures articulated his support of the agency's ac- city of Brownwood," according to the reso- is reported to the legislature and the gov- tivities in Brownwood and throughout the lution. ernor. These measures in effect constitute state," read the resolution. Official presentation of the resolution TYC's "contract" with the legislature and A charter member of the very first TYC was made August 24, 1995, at the measure what the agency is funded by the volunteer council organized in Brownwood Brownwood State School's annual Law En- legislature to do. Examples of TYC's per- in 1973, Pitts had been instrumental in influ- forcement Appreciation Banquet. 4 formance measures include reducing the criminal behavior of youth, ensuring em- ployment or successful participation in school, and maintaining a 1:8 staff-to-stu- dent ratio during awake time in institutions. Lindgren (continuedfrom page 1) Briscoe, who has over 20 years experi- TYC faced the prospect of reduced ence in juvenile corrections, began her ca- team in the United States," Lindgren said. funding if a control system for performance reer at TYC in 1973 as executive secretary "It is with strong measures was not adopted. The state au- mixed feelings that I say and later administrative assistant to Direc- ditor plans to return in October 1995 to cer- goodbye. Although I look forward to this tor Ron Jackson. Her last position with TYC challenge, I will miss the competence, tify our agency performance measure veri- dedi- was Contract Specialist in the Community cation and just plain friendliness fication process. of all of Assistance Program In August, the performance measures you." When the Texas Juvenile Probation control team again will check copies ofveri- He added that he was looking forward Commission was created in 1981, Briscoe fied transaction reports to determine if the to being in more direct contact with local was one of three TYC employees to be reports are being verified in accordance communities -- "'where the tire meets the transferred to help establish the new road,' and where kids' with the state auditor's recommendations. ultimate successes agency. She was initially Executive Assis- The performance measures control team must occur." tant to the Director of TJPC, and then be- consists of Jay Svinicki, Patti Hayes, Eliza- Agency administrators honored came Deputy Director. beth Lee, Gladys Smith, and Kathy Lindgren at a going-away reception August She served as Deputy Director until 10 in Bremner. A report of the team's findings, Austin where he was presented sev- 1991 when she left to become Director of eral plaques and gifts of appreciation. similar to the report produced last spring Governmental Affairs at the Texas Depart- which identified strengths and weaknesses "Jay's expertise and dedication will be ment of Mental Health/Mental Retardation. sorely missed by this agency," Robinson of the verification process, will be produced Briscoe returned to TYC January 1, 1993, to for review by the deputy executive direc- said. TYC Board Members, during their July head the new Department of Delinquency meeting, bestowed verbal accolades tor, Cherie Townsend, and Dwight Harris. on Prevention. Field supervisors will be notified of the re- Lindgren for his outstanding, compassion- She has a Bachelors degree in Public sults. W ate service to Texas young people in the Administration from St. Edward's Univer- juvenile justice system. sity, and a Master's Degree in Criminal Jus- Prior to coming to the Texas system tice Management from Sam Houston State nearly eight years ago, Lindgren served as University. an executive officer responsible for juve- Briscoe is a member of the Board of Gov- nile release with the Minnesota Department ernors of the American Correctional Asso- of Corrections. Briefly noted ... He also served as project ciation, the Board of the Texas Institute of director to manage and administer direction Children and Youth, and the Executive Com- in planning * Karen Wooding, Youth Rights a demonstration project for mittee of the Board of the Council on Of- Administrator, has been named to the chronic and violent juvenile offenders. fenders with Mental Impairments. She He served as Executive Director of Child Abuse Prevention Task Force serves as a peer review consultant to the PORT of cosponsored by Attorney General Dan Olmsted County in Rochester, National Institute of Justice. She is also Morales, the Texas Medical Assn., and Minnesota, from 1972 to 1977, and orga- past president of the Texas Corrections Texas CASA...The task force will put nized a community corrections organization Association and past chairman of the In- together an informational child abuse serving three southeastern Minnesota teragency Council on Sex Offender Treat- handbook and video. counties. ment. W TYK JOURNAL 7 TYC JOURNAL 7 Apprehension Marlin 'Reception Center' opens specialists approved "The Marlin program provides a highly First youth arrive from structured and regimented program to teach to carry firearms counties August 7 the juvenile offenders the expectations for them while under the custody of TYC," he C's two Apprehension Specialists added. "The offenders will undergo a com- have been designated as peace prehensive assessment and evaluation of officers by the Legislature, and e first 20 youth arrived August 7 from Travis, Henderson and Mata- the factors that contribute to their delin- may carry firearms, as of September 1, 1995. quent behavior." The new law requires them to be li- gorda Counties (and from the Brownwood Reception Center) to the re- Youth will remain atMarlin for up to 60 censed by the Texas Commission on Law days before being assigned to a permanent cently converted Marlin adult prison - Enforcement Officers Standards and Edu- residential placement, based on their per- cation (TCLEOSE), or the agency must make now the Texas Youth Commission's As- sessment and Orientation Unit. By the end formance at the orientation unit, the sever- application for such a license before com- ity of their committing offense, and the re- of the month, the Marlin population was missioning the officers. sults of their comprehensive assessment. over 100. Both specialists, Joe Reno and Arthur The 356-bed unit, under the direction All newly committed youth (except McBride, are already licensed peace offic- of Superintendent Alan Steen and Assis- those from the South Region) are now be- ers. 4 tant Superintendent Jack Patton, is receiv- ing transported to Marlin by county juve- ing both male and female offenders from nile probation authorities, rather than to throughout the state who have been com- the former statewide reception center in mitted to the Youth Commission. Brownwood. Youth committed from the agency's The Marlin unit, most recently an adult South Region will continue to undergo their substance abuse treatment facility for fe- assessment and orientation at the Evins males, was transferred from the Texas De- Regional Juvenile Center in Edinburg, be- partment of Criminal Justice to TYC during fore being sent to a residential placement. the recent legislative session. The former reception center in "The opening ofthe Marlin unit marks Brownwood is being converted to an inter- the first step in carrying out the juvenile mediate sanctions program for youth who justice reforms mandated by the Legisla- have violated parole from TYC, and for a TYC JOURNAL ture," said Steve Robinson, TYC Executive limited number of youth on juvenile proba- Director. publishedquarterly by the tion. (See related story on page 25.) W TEXAS YOUTH COMMISSION 4900 N. Lamar 0 P.O. Box 4260 Austin, Texas 78765 0 (512) 483-5245 Contributing informationshould be sent to the attention of Joan Timmons at the above address.

EdltrialBoard: Reporters: Joan Timmons Mike Miles, fSS Karen Collins Kim King, SRC RitaZapata Lucy Humbert, Corsicana Judy Meador Melanie Hardeman, Corsicana GAryFu Virginla Lewis, Crockett JoLookhart, Gainesville PattiJhn Stutz, Gainesville BillieFlippen Mitzi Undurwood, Gainesville Janice Longridge Bill Bradbury, Giddings Marie Murdoch, Jefferson Co. Desk ,pbubher- Shannonrtord, Mairin Cynthia Park Maria Ruiz. W. Reg. Kayue Pollnck, N. Reg. Denise Kennedy, E. Reg. Execute Direct- Raul Arredondo, S. Reg. Steve Robinson Jane Parker, C. Reg.

BOARD MEMBERS Gary D. Compton, Amarillo, Board Chairman; Marilla B. King, Austin, Vice-Chair; John W. Odam. Houston; Film Tamayo, Harlingen; Pate Harrell, Austin; and Leonard E. Lawrence, M.D., San Antonio Five Corsicana State Home students received $50 scholarships from the CSH Ex-students Association during their homecoming banquet in June. They are, left to right, Steven Reid, Anthony Johnson, Jennifer Fillmore, Richard Reyes and Michael Thompson. 8 TYC JOURNAL 8 lYC JOURNAL

York (continuedfrom page 1) Tactical objectives will guide next four years York, an attorney, served on the TYC C administrators met August 11 in Austin for a public hearing on the tactical objec- Board from 1985 to 1991, also serving as tives which will be implemented during the next four years. The team leaders for Board Chairman for two consecutive terms. each objective presented the official plan for each objective. He began his service to the agency while The "tactical objectives" are the priority initiatives to implement the strategic plan and serving as lead counsel for the State Attor- legislative mandates of the comprehensive juvenile justice reform bill. ney General's Office during the Morales v. Objectives and team leaders are as follows: Turman lawsuit during the early 70's. Current Board Chair Gary D.Compton PRIMARY CARE OBJECTIVES served as Master of Ceremonies for the 1. Establish the orientation and assessment unit at Marlin, with first admission on dedication, with the invocation by Rever- 8/1/95. (Alan Steen) end Lawrence Duhart, associate minister, 2. Establish a residential sanctions unit at Brownwood, with first admission 8/7/95. Brooks Chapel A.M.E. Church. Also on (Dan Humeniuk) the program were Donald Brooks, York 3. Complete construction and begin operation of the Jefferson County State School by House program administrator, and Robert 8/14/95. (Marie Murdoch) Garcia, a student graduate of the program. 4. Establish two conservation camps in partnership with Texas Parks and Wildlife De- A reception was held following the partment by 9/1/95. (Cherie Townsend) event. 5. Establish a highly structured 16-hour day in all institutions which emphasizes disci- York received a bachelor's degree in pline, education, training, resocialization and productive work by 9/1/95. (Dwight the Univer- business administration from Harris) sity of Texas at Austin, as well as his law beds by assuming and renovating the Texas Department of degree. He began his law career with Baker 6. Expand capacity by 356 Criminal Justice facility at San Saba by 4/1/96. (Linda Steen) & Botts of Houston, and later became a partner inthe firm. He is currently a partner 7. Establish a 300 bed basic military style bootcamp at Vernon by 9/1/96. (Linda Steen) with Baker & Botts of Austin. 8. Implement local data entry controls agencywide, to include reporting, training and He is a Director of the Texas Research verification, so that TYC performance measures can be certified by the state auditor, League and chairman for the State Bar of by 8/31/95. (Dwight Harris and Cherie Townsend) Texas Committee on Legislation in Public 9. Develop, with the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission (TJPC) , a long-range plan- Interest. He also serves as chairman for the ning process and adopt a coordinated strategic plan for juvenile justice in Texas by American Bar Association Subcommittee 12/1/95. (Chuck Jeffords) on Aviation Related Legislation, as well as 10. Coordinate the response to the Sunset Advisory Commission Self-evaluation Instru- co-chairman for the Houston Chamber of ment and monitor activities relating to the Sunset Review of TYC and other desig- Commerce Governmental Relations Coun- nated youth services agencies by 1/1/97. (Gary Fuchs) cil for State Affairs. ' 11. Coordinate compilation of information, layout, printing and distribution of FY 1995 TYC annual report by 10/1/95. (Gary Fuchs) 12. Provide the TJPC advice and expertise on juvenile corrections programs, American Correctional Association accreditation standards, construction standards and con- Briefly noted ... tract monitoring in setting long-term detention standards by 11/1/95. (Cherie Townsend) * TYC Board Member John Odam, a Houston lawyer and longtime Texas 13. Update and simplify rules in the Texas Administrative Code related to youth rights and Democratic Party activist, has an- discipline, youth placement and movement, and youth security and control by 11/1/95. nounced that he will run for the U.S. (Neil Nichols) Senate seat currently held by Phil 14. Develop policies and procedures for placement of probation youth in TYC intermedi- Gramm. Odam, a native of Abilene, ate sanctions facilities by 1/1/96. (Cherie Townsend) chaired the Harris County Democratic Party from 1982 to 1984 and served as 15. Expand TYC risk management and workers' compensation programs by establish- special legislative counsel to Governor ing safety and health committees and accident review boards in all facilities to ad- Mark White. His only run for public dress safety concerns; and develop, monitor and recommend the appropriate facili- office was in 1990 when he made an tation of the new workers' compensation bill (agencies managing worker compensa- unsuccessful bid to become Texas tion expenses), through the establishment of a risk management advisory board, Attorney General. program/policy to be developed by 9/1/95. (Eric Young) * Helen George, East Region Director, 16. Coordinate with TJPC, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and the Department was arrested in June and detained by of Public Safety to work on the design of a centralized juvenile records system by 1/1/ Harris County Sheriff's department as 96. (Chuck Jeffords) part of an annual fundraiser for the 17. Include a county representative appointed by TJPC as an advisor to the joint subcom- Muscular Dystrophy Association in mittee of the TYC/TJPC boards by 9/1/95. (Cherie Townsend) Houston. George raised over $1,000 for MS and to get out of the poky. (continuedon page 9) TYC JOURNAL

Tactical objectives (continuedfrom page 8) Boot camp 18. Set records transfer policies and develop continuity of programs and services for holds open house TYC offenders transferred to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice by 9/1/95. (Dwight Harris) n open house for TYC's first boot 19. Appoint, with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, liaison offices to begin camp, located in Sheffield, included cross-training and familiarization of agency staff with each other's systems of opera- ~aP ribbon cutting and dedication cer- tion by 9/1/95. (Jerry Dollar) emony, with cadets from the first platoon new leg- 20. Establish "Legacy" system modification and/or development to implement performing a militarydrill. 9/1/95. (Kathy Bremner) islature-directed guidelines, policies and procedures by The second platoon provided a physi- 21. Establish a staff training academy function which includes preservice training, main- cal training exercise. tenance of annual training requirements at field locations, and training manage- Special guests for the event were TYC (Eric Young) ment by 9/1/95. Board Members John Odam of Houston and 22. Work with TJPC and the various other responsible state agencies to maximize the Edna Tamayo of Harlingen; TYC adminis- funds available for juvenile corrections in Texas by a time to be amount of federal trators Steve Robinson, Executive Director, determined. (Nancy Emmert) and Dwight Harris, Director of Institutions; functions and 23. Study, with TJPC, the feasibility for merging certain administrative Dan Bartlett, representing the Governor's information systems and report findings to the legislative leadership management Office; State Representative Pete Gallego; by 1/1/96. (Ed White) and Tina Hogy representing Senator Frank legislative appropriations request population 24. Continue collaboration with TJPC on Madla's office. projections for FY's 1998-99 by 4/1/96. (Chuck Jeffords) Also attending were residents of the commitments, place- 25. Compile information for analysis on a quarterly basis, showing local communities --Iraan and Sheffield -- ments, parole releases and revocations administered under the progressive sanc- who had their first opportunity to see the tions guidelines by 4/1/96. (Chuck Jeffords) changes made in the building which had the most cost effective rates for 26. Develop a rate-setting methodology that establishes previously been the Sheffield Elementary community corrections services by 7/1/96. (Paula Morelock) School. ' 27. Adjust program populations in contract care facilities to maintain an ADP for FY '96 of 714 youth and an ADP for FY '97 of 685 youth. (Paula Morelock) 28. Establish the statewide communications infrastructure (local and wide area net- works with appropriate circuits, hardware and software), to allow ease of data and information transfer within TYC and to external entities by 9/1/96. (Pete Mikel) 29. Establish TYC information security standards required of all state agencies to pro- vide for the confidentiality and security of state-owned information resources. (Louise Porfirio) 30. Establish an agency wide "Open Systems" computer architecture that will promote the development of software application databases of "information" which are ac- cessible statewide and provide "information" between authorized customers, both internally and in other agencies or external entities by 9/1/97. (Kathy Bremner) 31. Increase TYC participation of certified Historically Underutilized Businesses in agency contracts to 30% by 8/31/98. (Ron Arnett)

ASSESSMENT OBJECTIVES 1. Develop and implement a new assessment and placement process, including spe- cialized treatment evaluation procedures by 2/1/96. (Linda Reyes)

CONSTRUCTION AND RENOVATION OBJECTIVES 1. Implement provisions to transfer bond funded construction management to the Texas Briefly noted ... Department of Criminal Justice by 9/1/95. (John Franks) Jefferson County State School by constructing three 2. Increase capacity by 144 at * Anthony Rodriguez, East Region, has reaching capacity of 264 by 2/97 and construct the additional dormitories by 11/1/96, received the first annual Kirk Baptiste and vocational education building by 3/97. (Marie Murdoch) physical education Southwest Key Olympic Scholarship. On 3. Increase capacity by 144 at Evins Regional Juvenile Center by constructing three July 15, 1995, at the Key Olympics held additional dormitories by 3/1/97, reaching capacity of 192 by 8/97 and construct a in Houston, Anthony was awarded a perimeter security system by 6/30/97. (Butch Held) $4,000 scholarship to the college of his 4. Increase capacity by 96 at Crockett State School by constructing two additional dor- choice and will be attending Prairie View mitories by 3/1/97, reaching capacity of 264 by 6/97 and construct a perimeter secu- A&M University this fall, were he will rity system by 6/30/97. (Rey Gomez) major in hotel management. (continuedon page 10) 10 TYC JOURNAL 10 TYC JOURNAL

Tactical objectives (continuedfrom page 9) Legislation 5. Increase capacity by 48 at Brownwood State School by constructing one additional (continuedfrom page 4) dormitory by 3/1/97, reaching capacity of 280 by 5/97. (Gaylon Garrison) 6. Increase capacity by 48 at Giddings State School by constructing one additional Occupancy Tax change dormitory by 3/1/97, reaching capacity of 328 by 5/97. (Sandy Burnam) State employees and others exempt 7. Construct a perimeter security system at Corsicana Residential Treatment Center from the hotel occupancy tax are now re- by 6/30/97. (Chester Clay) quired to pay the tax at the time a room is rented. 8. Expand TYC institutional capacity by 256 by renovating one Texas Department of Criminal Justice substance abuse facility (location to be determined) by 9/1/97. (Gary Employees may continue to be reim- Guenthner) bursed for the full amount they pay, in- 9. Expand TYC institutional capacity by 256 by renovating one Texas Department of cluding a maximum room rental of $55 Criminal Justice substance abuse facility (location to be determined) by 9/1/98. (Gary PLUS any tax they pay. The agency will Guenthner) then be able to file with the state or city 10. Expand TYC institutional capacity by 356 by assuming and renovating one Texas for a refund of the taxes. Department of Criminal Justice facility (location to be determined) and establish a Sick Leave Pool 356 bed basic correctional facility by 11/1/97. (Gary Guenthner) The three-day limit on donating to a EDUCATION OBJECTIVES sick leave pool has been deleted. Retir- ing employees are authorized to donate 1. Contract with Home Builders Institute for a pre-apprenticeship program at Giddings sick leave hours they have in excess upon State School by 9/1/95. (Byron Griffin) retirement. 2. Establish a TYC Reintegration of Offenders model at TYC for parolees ages 17-21 by implementing a cooperative program of specialized employment through education, Social Security Taxes training and support for up to 2,000 youth released in nine selected counties by The state's contribution for the em- 1/1/96. (Billy Jacobs) ployees' share of social security taxes will 3. Establish operating policies and an advisory council for TYC industries programs beeliminatedbeginning January 1,1996, and disseminate information to public and private entities in regard to locating in- and replaced with a supplemental pay in- dustries at TYC facilities by 1/15/96. (Byron Griffin) crease for state employees employed be- fore August 31, 1995. BASIC TREATMENT OBJECTIVES The State Purchasing and General 1. Continue curriculum development, training and implementation of the TYC Reso- Services Act was amended to require con- cialization Program throughout the agency by 9/1/15. (Linda Reyes) tracting with as many travel agents as 2. Restructure and expand aftercare, including parole supervision, expanded contracts possible, giving preference to Texas resi- with probation departments and increasing contract rates, sanctions, and special- dent entities. ized treatment, Phase 1 to include supervision and sanctions starting 9/1/95, and Phase 2 to include supported outpatient services for specialized treatment starting TEC now "TWC" 2/1/96 with an overall completion date of 9/1/97. (Cherie Townsend) The Texas Employment Commission 3. Develop, with TJPC, uniform program evaluation criteria based upon improvements was renamed the Texas Workforce Com- in juvenile competency by 10/1/95. (Chuck Jeffords) mission, effective September 1, 1995. 4. Develop, transfer and release criteria for offenders sentenced to TYC after 1/1/96 by 1/1/96. (Dwight Harris) Whistleblower Act The Whistleblower Act now requires 5. Determine need for an objective to contract with adult probation by 9/1/95. (Cherie Townsend) an employee to exhaust an agency's griev- ance process before bringing suit (previ- SPECIALIZED TREATMENT OBJECTIVES ously required only for local government employees). 1. Establish a specialized treatment program for a minimum of 16 mentally retarded offenders, utilizing a private vendor, by 9/30/95. (Paula Morelock) Veterans get preference 2. Provide an assessment of the effectiveness of specialized treatment, emphasizing All state agencies must file a quar- the rearrest rates of offenders receiving treatment by 11/15/96. (Chuck Jeffords) terly report on the percentage of the total 3. Expand specialized chemical dependency services by 36 at Giddings by 9/1/97. number of employees hired who are vet- (Sandy Burnam) erans entitled to a hiring preference. Vet- 4. Expand specialized capital offender services by 32 at Giddings by 9/1/97. (Sandy erans will now receive employment pref- Burnam) erence, unless they are receiving retire- 5. Expand specialized gang related services at Gainesville. (Jerry Day) W ment and disability benefits. W 1 11 TYCTC JOURNA.JOURNAL

ANNUAL WORKSHOP

'Changing Course' theme of Austin event Tte Texas Youth Commission held its annual workshop, "Changing Course," in July at Y - - the Stouffer Renaissance Austin Hotel. Steve Robinson, Executive Director, presented various awards, including Out- standing Staff Member awards in the categories of Institutions, Community Services, Cen- tral Office, and Contracts. NEIL NICHOLS, GARY FUCHS He also presented Executive Director Awards to Alex Escarcega, West Regional Direc- Executive Director's Award 1995 tor; Neil Nichols, General Counsel; and Gary Fuchs, Executive Assistant in Central Office. The annual Safety Award was presented to Crockett State School and Cottrell House; Neil Nichols (left) General Counsel and the Administrator of the Year Award was presented to Linda Reyes, Director of Programs/ Gary Fuchs, (right) Executive Assistant Mental Health Services. Robinson also presented tenure plaques to 15-20-25-30 year staff in Central Office, are picturedacceptin g who were present. two of the Executive Director'sAwards Sharon Hambrick, chairman ofthe Statewide Intercultural Awareness Task Force, and by Executive Direct for 1995 presented r inda Ross (last year's winner), North Region Director, presented the annual award to the Steve Robinson during the agency's Giddings State School's Task Force. Various members of their Task Force were present to annual workshop in Austin on July 5. accept the award. Nichols and Fuchs were recognizedfor Highlighting the program was a review of recent reforms in the juvenile justice system all of their work during the 74th including a panel discussion of the ways in which juvenile justice reform legislation devel- Legislative Session and the juvenile oped. justice reform bill. The morning's events began with a panel of individuals who had a significant role in developing and refining the provisions of legislation which would ultimately become the omnibus juvenile justice reform bill. Participants included the Honorable Hal Gaither, Juve- nile Judge of the 304th District Court in Dallas; Chief of Police Ken Yarbrough of the Richardson Police Department; Stefanie Sanford of the Attorney General's Juvenile Crime Intervention Division; Mary Anne Wiley of the Lieutenant Governor's Office; and Janna Burleson of Senator Royce West's office. The panel, moderated by Political Columnist Dave McNeely of theAustin American- Statesman, illustrated the differing perspectives and points of view which were brought together during the legislative session to collaborate in the reforms that were ultimately enacted. Panelists began by detailing their personal involvement and later responded to questions from the audience. Executive Director Steve Robinson remarked, "I felt the panel was very representative of all of the various offices and individuals who had a stake in rewriting the laws governing juveniles. The differing views expressed by the panelists also gave our staff an idea of how important cooperation and compromise are in the legislative process." Bob Weaver, President and CEO of Associated Marine Institutes from Tampa, Florida, addressed the group later in the morning and talked about the positive aspect of change and how successful organizations respond. Deputy Director Jay Lindgren discussed the impact that the reform of the juvenile justice system will have on TYC. Linda Reyes presented an overview of resocialization, performance expectations and the rights and privileges of TYC youth, including education and discipline training. Doyne Bailey, Administrator of the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, provided a motivational address during breakfast on Friday, July 7. Robinson concluded the program by summarizing the various presentations that had been provided during the workshop. 9 12 TYC JOURNAL

Institutional outstanding employees recognized

S even "Outstanding StaffMembers in Institutions" were hon- WANDA DREW, Brownwood State School ored during the awards presentations at the Stouffer Renais- Wanda Drew, Youth Activity Supervisor III at Brownwood sance Austin Hotel on July 5. Announcement of their awards State School, has been with the agency for six years. was made by Dwight Harris, Director of Institutions. "Drew treats every student on the dorm as an individual and In making the presentations, Harris stated that "awards are does her best to meet the needs of each and every student. She selected on the basis of dedication. These employees are commit- believes that every student has an inner power within them to ted, not just to their individual responsibility, but to the Texas Youth change not only their attitude but their beliefs and will do every- Commission as a whole. These staff members go out of their way to thing in her power to reach that part of each student. To quote Ms. make life easier for all the rest of us, doing exactly what it takes to Drew herself, 'God doesn't make junk, so their ain't no junk at the get the job done." Brownwood State School,' " said Harris in presenting her award. When Ms. Drew first came to Faith Dorm, the dorm was known ALVINO VALDEZ, Statewide Reception Center as the 'bad Dorm on campus'. She immediately went to work on Alvino Valdez, Youth Activity Supervisor II, has been with the changing that reputation. She believes that all staff have good Statewide Reception Center for the past four years. Due in part to qualities and that her job is to find those qualities and bring them his commitment to the youth in his dorm, Dorm 5 was recently out. Now, instead of hearing teachers and other staff say "on no, recognized as the Outstanding Dorm of the Year for the Statewide here comes Faith," you hear, "look at Faith, they have really turned Reception Center. In addition, Valdez was honored as the Recep- around." Wonder what they're doing? Ms. Drew would answer tion Center's employee of the month in October 1994. by saying "teamwork and consistency!" Harris concluded. Valdez is constantly building staff morale by "leading by ex- ample." He places a high priority on the safety of staff and youth, JAMES GOODEN, facility security, and dorm cleanliness. His coworkers emphasized Corsicana Residential Treatment Center his dependability in both routine and crisis situations. Even though James Gooden, Youth Activity Supervisor at the Corsicana he travels 60 miles to work each day, he always arrives promptly. Residential Treatment Center, has been with the agency for almost "Serving as a role model for both the youth and his fellow co- two years. Gooden has volunteered in the campus intramural sports workers, it is an honor to recognize Valdez as the Outstanding Staff (continued on page 16) Member from the Statewide Reception Center," said Harris.

Five regional staff members named outstanding

e Texas Youth Commission honored the following "1995 Out- JIMMY REEVES, South Region standing Staff Members in Community Services" during the Jimmy Reyes, Recreation Program Manager at Evins Regional awards presentations. Announcement of their awards was Juvenile Center, has been with the agency for almost five years. made by Cherie Townsend, Director of Community Services. "Reyes is very active in organizing athletic events and oppor- tunities for staff as well as youth and has often contributed his DONALD BROOKS, North Region personal time and energy to coordinate and organize events in Donald Brooks was Director of Operations at Cottrell House which the local community can take part. His efforts have im- when he was named North Region's Outstanding Staff Member for proved both the morale and fitness of the staff and youth at Evins 1995. He has been with the agency for two and one half years and and has helped win the support of citizens throughout the area," was recently named superintendent of York House in Corpus Christi. said Townsend. In recommending Brooks for this honor, a fellow coworker re- "Coach Reyes, as he is known at Evins, has implemented a ferred to him as being "made of the extra best stuff in TYC, extra Wellness Program for staff and families at the facility. He has taken dedication, extra perseverance, extra competence and extra love for the initiative to develop individual physical fitness programs for TYC youth," said Townsend. staff. He has organized and coached a staff city baseball team. He "He is firm and consistent with his residents and expects the planned and established the obstacle course at the Evins facility. same from his staff. He encourages staff to better themselves by He has organized and sponsored community events such as the allowing time for education. He also physically works their shifts in annual softball and basketball tournaments for youth. This in- time of personal emergencies or severe stress. He works alongside cluded coordinating and organizing teams from other programs in of his staff. He doesn't just direct, he leads them to success. He TYC," continued Townsend. doesn't just manage staff, he coaches them. He holds them and "Jimmy's goal and main focus in the sporting events has al- himself accountable," she concluded in making the presentation. ways been the enhancement of group skills, sportsmanship, and individual leadership," she concluded. (continued on page 15) JOURNK 13 lYeTYC JOURNAL 1

Safety awards go to Crockett, Cottrell

C rockett State School and Cottrell Halfway House, Dallas, were recipi- ents of the Texas Youth Com- mission's 1995 annual Safety Awards, pre- sented by Executive Director Steve Robinson during the annual workshop at the Stouffer Renaissance Austin Hotel. Superintendent Rey Gomez accep"d l the award on behalf of Crockett State School, which held an Injury Frequency Rate (IFR) of 11.28, lowest in the institu- tional category. Cottrell House was awarded the 1995 Safety Award in the halfway house cat- egory with an IFR rating of 4.17. This is the first year an award has been presented to halfway houses since the Risk Management Department began inspecting these facili- ties. Superintendent Travis Wortham ac- cepted the award on behalf of the halfway house. All calculations were based on the time frame ofMay 1, 1994 - April 30, 1995.

TOP RIGHT: Rey Gomez, Superintendent of Crockett State School (left), and Thavis Wortham, Superintendent of Cottrell House (right), are shown accepting the 1995 Safety Awards from Eric Young, Directorof Human Resources, who oversees Risk Management for the agency. CENTER RIGHT: Five regional staff members were named outstandingin 1995. Pictured (left to right) are Jimmie Dean Prince, West Region; Jimmy Reyes, South Region; Dulce "Candy" Gracia, CentralRegion; Patrice Miles-Garcia, CentralRegion; and Donald Brooks, North Region (now Superintendent of York House, Corpus Christi). BOTTOM RIGHT 1995 Outstanding Employees from institutions were presented award plaques by TYC Directorof Institutions Dwight Harris during the annual wurkshnp in Austin. Pictured (Left to right) are James Gooden, CorsicanaResidential Treatment Center; Wanda Drew, Brownwood State School; Alvino Valdez, Statewide Reception Center;Bill Liddell, Gainesville State School; Phyllis Urban, GiddingsState School; and Diane Graham, Crockett State School. (Raul Briceno, West Texas State School, is not shown). TYC JOURNAL 1TCJORA14

TOP LET Genesis Housefrom the West Region was awarded one of the 1995 Outstanding ContractPro gram awards during the annual workshop in Austin July S. Picturedwith Board ChairmanGaryD. Compton of Amarillo and accepting the award on behalf of the program is Sharon Braddock, Program Director TOP RIGHT Alex Escarcega, West Region Director x received one of the 199S Executive Director& Award during the agency i workshop in Austin on July S. Escarcega was recognizedfor his work in assisting the female program in Bronte, the TYC Boot []Ccamp in Sheffield, and TYC & Schaeffer House in El Paso. CENTER L EFT Cynthia Park CentralOffice computer trainer (left), accepts her 1995 Outstanding CentralOffice StaffMember awardfrom Pete Harrell, TYC Board Member. CENTER PJGHTLinda Reyes, Director ofPrograms and Mental Health Services, is picturedaccepting the Youth Commission &Administrator of the Year Award for 1995 from Executive DirectorSteve Robinson during the agency &annual workshop in Austin July S. Reyes was recogn zzed for her initiative and efforts in the establishment ofResocialization as the agency &BasicTreatment Model. The Administratorof the Year winner is selected by peers through a nominationprocess. B0TTOM RIGHT Mel Matthews, Mel Matthews Boy s Ranch ProgramAdministrator (picturedon left) was presented one of the 1995 Outstanding ContractPro gram awards by Board Chairman Gary D. Compton of Amarillo during the annual workshop in Austin July S. The program is located in the North Region. TVC JOURNAL 15 lYC JOURNAL 15

Regional outstanding employees Central Region (continuedfrom page 12) PATRICE MILES-GARCIA, Patrice Miles-Garcia, Caseworker III at Ayres House in the Central Region, has been with the agency four years. DULCE "CANDY" GRACIA, East Region Superintendent Rosie Labrado was amazed when she first as- Dulce "Candy" Gracia, a parole aide in the East Region, has sumed her duties December 1994 and saw that Miles-Garcia had been with TYC for four years. Last year, Gracia was recognized by been single-handedly making sure that the facility continued to her peers as the Outstanding Employee in the Region. In May, the function in the absence of a superintendent and assistant superin- regional staff again selected her as outstanding employee. tendent. "I cannot describe to you how much really needs to be "Gracia treats all TYC youth and their families with dignity, done and how difficult it is for one person to attempt to do it all," making sure their needs are met, which at times even includes buy- Labrado said. ing them food. She is the one who usually transports parole youth "Miles-Garcia knows the youth well. She knows who to keep when they have to be removed from their home. Usually the youth an eye on for the protection of the community. Miles-Garcia looks is aggravated and highly emotional, but by the time they reach at the protection of the community first when dealing with youth at their destination, she has helped them feel better and has prepared Ayres House," said Townsend in making the presentation. "She them to accept the change in their life," said Townsend. works hard at releasing these boys and reestablishing them into "At the same time, she follows all related TYC policies and the community on independent living and makes sure that they procedures and makes sure to insure the safety and protection of have enough money before they venture out. Miles-Garcia is the the community during the performance of her duties," said first to follow up on the youth if there is a problem and is the one Townsend. who is there to provide the positive feedback," said Townsend. Gracia is frequently called upon to help regional staff both in In concluding her presentation, Townsend thanked Miles- the office and in the field with her excellent bilingual communica- Garcia for her hard work and dedication. tion skills in Spanish and English. In addition, she is willing to help She told all of the regional winners in the Community Services in any way she can, whether it is helping parole officers with home category that "they raise the standards for all of us and we appre- evaluations, working on office projects, or anything else she can ciate the challenge they set for us to match in their efforts." W do to help the team effort. "I think it's about time that the rest of the agency knew what the East Region has known for a while," said Townsend in con- cluding her presentation. "She's an incredible asset to the agency and we're lucky to have her."

JIMMIE PRINCE, West Region CYNTHIA PARK, Jimmie Dean Prince, Youth Activity Supervisor II at Schaeffer 1995 Outstanding Staff in Central Office Halfway House in the West Region, has been with the Youth Com- Cynthia Park, Computer Trainer in the Human Resources/ mission for over three years. Training Department, was selected as Outstanding Central Office "Prince takes a sincere interest in each of the youth in the Staff Member for 1995. Announcement of her selection was made house by providing them with guidance and counseling as well as by Pete Harrell, TYC Board Member from Austin. the support that is necessary for a successful transition back into Park has been with the agency since 1990 and previously the youth's home and community," said Townsend in making the held the position of Word Processing Operator in the Electronic presentation. "He promotes a sense of confidence in the group Document Center before being named to her current position in that enables them to confront each other appropriately and with- April. out fear of retaliation. He ensures that each individual member of "Cynthia's belief in the 'always set a good example' philoso- the group feels safe and secure enough to share delicate and sen- phy is a true reflection of our agency policy," stated Pete Harrell in sitive issues," continued Townsend. making the presentation. "When dealing with her, you can always Prince's involvement at Schaeffer House extends well beyond count on a very pleasant and helpful attitude. Cynthia will always that of his required tasks. He is a member of the Multicultural Task go that 'extra mile' to assist each individual user. She is known in Force. He participates in organized recreation activities and is Central Office as one of the easiest people to work with and she always willing to come in when the facility is short staffed, volun- always provides lots of laughter, especially when the department teering to participate in the treatment team and missing his own is operating in a 'crisis/rush' mode because of the heavy work classes to train staff; he even ensures that youth have an opportu- load." nity to participate in religious activities at his church. When the Harrell concluded his presentation by stating that the editor program had only a part-time cook on the weekends, Prince came in of the American Correctional Association newsletter sent a note early to get meals started just to keep everyone on schedule. complementing TYC on its excellent newsletter after Park became Townsend concluded her presentation by commending Mr. the newsletter desktop publisher. W Prince on his dedication and hard work on behalf of the Youth Commission's youth and staff. 16 TK JOURNAL 16 lYC JOURNAL

Oustanding institution staff "This attitude is seen in his daily interactions with youth," (continuedfrom page 12) said Harris. "Liddell encourages staff when they are having per- sonal problems. When you need a friend, he is always there. He teams, coaching and encouraging the kids to understand that sports often arranges cookouts when teachers are in training or having can be a positive way to work out problems. His dedication to the work days, doing both the buying and preparing. He is never students is obvious in that he spends much of his free time talking known to say no," Harris concluded. to his youth about what to expect once they are released and how to meet those challenges. Gooden goes beyond his regular duty in ensuring the youth PHYLLIS URBAN, Giddings State School are safe and well taken care of. He has made family contacts for Giddings State School Outstanding Staff Member for 1995 is youth and has arranged for youth to talk to their families. He is a Phyllis Urban, who has been with the Youth Commission for 17 good listener and youth respect him for this. He doesn't just talk years and currently serves as a Statistical Clerk. with youth about their problems, but also talks and encourages Urban is an excellent role model. She always takes the high them on what they are doing right. road and is constantly trying to resolve problems and bring people If Gooden observes a staff working with a youth in a way that together. Perhaps the most effective way Phyllis has been able to may negatively affect the youth, he will step in and assist. He will do this is through her leadership in the SQI, an organization set up later talk with the staff in a helpful manner about the situation and to help improve the staff morale, communication and rapport. By will work on positive staff relationships across campus. doing this, staff feel better about themselves and the quality of Harris concluded his presentation by thanking Gooden for his care and treatment of the students naturally improves. time and inspiration to the youth and staff of the agency. Through Phyllis' efforts and leadership, the annual Staff, Stu- dent and Volunteer Appreciation Day has become a significant DIANE GRAHAM, Crockett State School staff morale builder. Primarily through her innovative ideas and Diane Graham, Youth Activity Supervisor III at the Crockett hard work, thousands of dollars have been raised over the last State School, has been with the agency for over three years. In several years. This money has been raised through staff food those three years, she has involved her coworkers in constantly cooking contests and food auctions. One of the benefactors from searching for ways to reward youth for their improvement and good this fund raiser have been Gainesville staff whose homes were work. Graham is a strong advocate for change in the life style of the destroyed by a tornado. youth. She takes opportunities that foster a new understanding of "Urban has the gift of encouraging others to accept responsi- living by rules and laws. She gets youth involved in tasks and bility and become problem solvers instead of complainers. Truly a hobbies which seem to build self-confidence and encourages other team player, she has constantly strived to create an effective and youth to find ways to assist peers to live together. pleasant work atmosphere at the Giddings State School," Harris Graham studies youthful trends. She listens to the music, re- concluded. views the current fashion trends and listens to the concern of citi- zens. She informally networks with agencies in Crockett in order to RAUL BRICENO, West Texas State School help find a way to prevent local youth in Houston County from Raul Briceno is the Outstanding Staff Member from the West becoming involved in the criminal justice system. Texas State School for 1995. Currently aYouth Activity Supervisor "Graham shows care and concern in real ways and in ways in in the Recreation Department, Briceno has been with the agency which the youth can see. She takes clothes home with her and sews for seven years. anywhere from ten to twenty hours a month for 'her boys.' She Briceno's dedication and positive attitude toward both stu- provides beautiful cakes and on many occasions she does this for dents and staff are an example for all West Texas State School staff. the youth and her colleagues," Harris said. His "can-do" attitude is perceived by all who work with him, as he quietly but efficiently offers assistance to many other department BILL LIDDELL, Gainesville State School staff members other than his own. Bill Liddell was named the 1995 Outstanding StaffMember for "His genuine concern and caring attitude for the youth of the Gainesville State School. As the building trades teacher, Liddell West Texas and the Youth Commission are evident to all who know him. Raul has never hesitated to offer assistance to any person or has for over 20 years instilled in his students a strong work ethic, providing them with the opportunity to learn skills which are mar- department in need. He served on the interview team from WTSS ketable and spending time both on and off campus to help students prior to the opening of the TYC Bootcamp, Sheffield, and has al- learn self-esteem and social skills. ways volunteered to help with special activities and events," said Harris Liddell has gone above and beyond the call of duty many times, accompanying youth during off campus visits with their families "No job is too tough, nor too time consuming that Briceno will who would otherwise not have been able to go due to their Custody not offer assistance or support," Harris concluded. W Supervisory Rating (CSR) scores. TIYC JOURNAL T7 TYC JOURNAL 17

TYC RegionalEducation Liaisons participatedin the third annual Brownwood State School Transition Conference in June to provide students information which may be helpful when they make the transition back into the community. Shown left to right are: Tom Luce, CentralRegion; ernon Broussard. East Region: ClydeMcClatche, North Region; Alma Padron, representing the South Region; and Rodger Wiley. represent- ing the West Region.

Briefly noted...

* El Paso TYC volunteer Dorothy Tenure recipients Davidson, attended the August Tenure plaques were presented to 68 TYC employees who have reached milestones in their Preservice training at Corsicana, along service to the agency. with 43 paid staff members. Many of the plaques were given by Executive Director Steve Robinson during the workshop in July. * Bobbie Owen, institutional place- Recipients included the following: ment officer at Gainesville State CENTRAL OFFICE/ REGION School, retired July 31 after 30 years 15 Years Benny Martinez Roy Ford Jerry Venable Travis Wortham, Jr. with the Youth Commission. She was El Paso Parole Central Region Amarillo Parole Cottrell House honored with a luncheon and a Joan Timmons Sharon Hambrick Debra Daniels Wanda Pike East Region Central Office reception, and was presented a Central Office Tyler Parole scrapbook of photos and mementos John White Schaeffer House from her tenure. * Retiring June 30 EVINS REGIONAL JUVENILE CENTER was Bill Simmons, 15 Years Juan DeLeon, Jr. parole officer in Cooper. BROWNWOOD STATE SCHOOL/RECEPTION CENTER * The Austin Volunteer Council is 15 Years Ben McDonald Betty Kennedy Sagrario Perez sponsoring its annual fund raiser Golf Joe Reno May Sutton Mary Taggart Willie Morgan Tournament Saturday, September 30, 20 Years Delroy Erskine Tommy Manley, Jr. Herbert Lee at Forest Creek Country Club in Round 25 Years Harold Pairish Jo Ann Miller Jean Ann Lee Marilyn Goodson Rock. All TYC golfers are invited to participate. Entry fee is $75. For CROCKETT STATE SCHOOL further information, contact Adrian 15 Years Michael Tuft James McCullough Arthur Murphy, Jr. Virginia Williams Edgar McKnight Willie Rhodes Moore, Central Region Director. 20 Years Carol Hacker * Bill Hollis, formerly training officer at West Texas State School, has trans- CORSICANA RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT CENTER 15 Years Robert Henderson David Farr ferred to Central Office as Lead Training Officer. Hollis served 22 years 20 Years Melanie Hardeman Jane Smith Chester Clay, Jr. in the U.S. Army before retiring in 1990 25 Years Lynn Weems where he was a Russian Linguist/ GIDDINGS STATE SCHOOL Technical Trainer. 15 Years Sam Rogers Stan DeGerolami Annie Chandler Milton Hobbs Dinah Akin John Green Stanford Patridge Darrell Sanders * The Evins Volunteer Council, along with the volunteer councils for Valley 20 Years Sharon Sanchez Iris Bohr Carol Carmean Karen Siegmund Marilyn Alexander Dorothy Moore Leslie Chandler, Jr. Jo Ann Bradshaw House and Beto House, sponsored Larry Reue Herbert Lerche, Jr. Dalton Sherrill Glennie Hervey youth in a six-week baseball tourna- 25 Years Walter Stevens ment with games held every Saturday. All teams had uniforms and caps, and GAINESVILLE STATE SCHOOL 15 Years Vicky Tuggle Lunetta Jo Privett official referees oversaw the games. Other residential teams also partici- 20 Years Norman Clark Bill Liddell Anita Murphy John Powell Reid Tumer pated. 25 Years Lynda Langston 30 Years Bobbie Owen WEST TEXAS STATE SCHOOL 15 Years Manuela Dunham Linda Brady W TYVC JOURNAL 18lYJORA18

Rain again featured for Gainesville volunteer picnic Rain came on schedule for the 100 volunteers and staff attending the eighth annual Gainesville State School volunteer recognition pic- nic in June. For several years it has rained on this event like clockwork. Last year, as well as this year, there were severe thunderstorm VOLUNTEERS warnings issued at the event. Participants who braved the storm arrived at the campus cafeteria drenched. San Antonio council hosts bowl-a-thon Emcee for the program was John Stutz, volunteer coordinator/chaplain. Dr. Ted and Camille Rojas kept things rolling and e "Bowling for Texas Youth" fund- Shorten, assistant superintendent, wel- raiser hosted by the San Antonio vol- gave out door prizes which had been do- comed guests who were treated to a sur- unteer council in June included 17 nated by 43 different businesses. prise performance from world Yo-Yo cham- "Net proceeds totaled $2,752.78. Do- teams competing for trophies and prizes. pion and magician Bunny Martin. The top team was AFIWC To Four, one nations from sponsors and pledges totaled All volunteers received a volunteer ser- $3,661.50," said Mark Padilla, council presi- of three teams from Kelly AFB. Second vices coffee mug. Joan Timmons, chief of a team of American Express Fi- dent. Prizes included tickets to the Mis- place was volunteer services, presented plaques to sions, Spurs and Iguanas professional nancial Advisors. recipients of outstanding volunteer service of Ayres House staff members games. Other donors included Columbia A team awards: competed against teams from San Antonio Industries and Draft, Inc.; Scrivner's; N.H. parole and Central Region/Austin parole. Northern Hardware, and Circuit City. In- * Debra Allred, outstanding individual KRIO radio announcers Bobby Lopez kind donations totaled another $3,592. W volunteer * Dr. Pervais Rahman, outstanding reli- gious volunteer * Bill Lidell, outstanding employee vol unteer + Soroptomist Club of Gainesville, out- standing volunteer group * Bill Glass Ministries, outstanding reli- gious volunteer group W

Sheffield boot camp hosts 'Life Action Ministry' Sheffield Boot Camp volunteer, Rever- end Jerry Fortune, coordinated apatri- otic and inspirational program in June for boot camp cadets and residents of the Iraan/Sheffield community. Winning team members proudly display their trophies and shirts after taking the honors at the The "Life Action Ministry" team from "Bowlingfor Texas Youth "fund raiser sponsored by the San Antonio Volunteer Council. Top Niles, Michigan, performed in the gymna- bowlers, members of the AFIWC Top Four at Kelly AFB, are: Tsgt. Christopher Hester a sium. The boot camp's first platoon per- Richard Kahleh, Tsgt. Robert Kehleh and Tsgt. council member; Tsgt. Ronald McKenstry, Tsgt. formed a military drill, led by Lt. John Robert Daluz, who was also the top male bowler. Rodriguez. W TVC JOURNAL11

Ft. Worth council Austin volunteers West Texas fireworks funds mom's visit honored at picnic e seventh annual Fourth of July fire- *works display was provided for West mother of a young woman at Jhe Turrman House staff and youth hosted Texas State School students again TYC's Willoughby House in Fort CHEERS FOR VOLUNTEERS! pic- this year. The annual exhibit has been spon- Worth recently traveled to Fort nic at the Sunken Garden iZilkerPark sored by the WTSS Community Advisory Worth for what is termed "a therapeutic in June. Barbecue chicken and all the trim- Council, together with donations from staff visit," thanks to having her bus ticket pro- mings were prepared for council members, and visitors. vided by the Fort Worth Volunteer Council. church volunteers and youth. With students gathering outside the Daughter Stephanie Chavarria worked Council president Bob Stewart wel- dormitories and community members to earn the money to pay for her mother's comed guests. The Mt. Sinai Christian Drill spreading blankets in the park area outside hotel stay. Family therapy was conducted Team presented a precision drill to a ca- the fence, the festivities began at about 8:45 during the weekend, which Stephanie said dence of Biblical verses. PM. WTSS youth Al McGruder and Jesus "was well worth it." Guest speaker was Cherie Townsend, Sanchez provided the "Presentation of Col- The two made plans for the future - director of community services. She recog- ors," followed by the National Anthem, and plans for change. nized Allen Scott, now a student at Austin sung by staff member Gary Brewer. Stephanie was selected to attend the Community College, as the Central Region WTSS has hosted the only fireworks recent four-day Texans' War on Drugs/ "Outstanding Student Volunteer." Joan exhibit in the surrounding area for several Youth In Action Leadership Conference, ac- Timmons, chief of volunteers, awarded cer- years. W companied by a Willoughby House staff tificates of appreciation to Austin commu- member. The registrationfeesfor both ($460 nity service sites and donors. Coffee mugs total) were paid for by the volunteer coun- were awarded to volunteers by volunteer cil. W coordinator Jane Parker. Judge Phil Sanders received a desk set for his service as part-president of the Aus- tin council from Adrian Moore, regional di- Lucky ducks rector. dive for 4th year

e fourth annual Lucky Ducky Dive *fund-raiser raised $7,200 in August for the Corsicana Residential Treat- ment Center Aquatic Center. The swimming pool, originally built in the 1930's, is soon to have the plumbing and pumphouse restored, and the Commu- NOTICE nity Advisory Council continues to raise If you want to continue to receive the Texas Youth Commission JOURNAL, funds in an effort to enclose the pool for Texas law requires that you request it in writing annually. Your name will be year-round use by the students. The coun- removed from the mailing list if you do not respond. To remain on the mailing cil has raised over half the funds for this list, return this page with your mailing label to: through monetary and in-kind donations and pledges. Entertainment was provided by the TVC JOURNAL Ellison Sisters gospel group. 4900 North Lamar The grand prize, won by C.D. Rawls, of P.O. Box 4260 Crockett, an ex-student of Corsicana, was a Austin, Texas 78765-4260 Caribbean cruise of up to $700 value. There were about 70 prizes total. I wish to continue receiving the TYC JOURNAL at the address/corrected ad- Chairman of the fund-raiser was vol- dress on my mailing label. (Please attach.) unteer Rich White; co-chairman was Gioia Keeney. Other volunteer committee chairs Signature Date were Dolores Upshaw, Carolyn Mathis, NOTE: TYC employees, contract programs, andjuvenile probation departments Kelly Berry, Mary Rozelle, Lynn Anderson are exemptfrom this requirement and Billie Carroll. W TYVC JOURNAL 20lYJORL20

Gainesville junior/ Army band performs 45 students take senior olympics at Giddings part in job fair Nineteen students from the Gaines- e 49th Armored Division Band per- T hirty-one employers from Central ville State School and residents of *formed a concert in July for students Texas participated in a mock job fair the Gainesville Convalescent Cen- of Giddings State School. Under the at Giddings State School this sum- ter teamed up recently for the second an- direction of Chief Warrant Officer Frank mer. Forty-five students spent the day fill- nual junior/senior olympics in Gainesville. Simon, the 34 member band played an as- ing out job applications and being inter- Students and residents paired up to com- sortment of music including marches, clas- viewed by future prospective employers. pete in horseshoes, Frisbees, basketball and sical and popular. Representatives from a variety of com- soccer. Highlight of the day was a joint Roy Reid, Giddings youth rights spe- panies such as Wal-Mart, HEB and Apple cookout. (see photo on page 25) W cialist, also serves in the National Guard as Toyota gave the Giddings students first- a Staff Sergeant and percussionist for the hand experience at what the real employ- 49th Armored Division Band. Through his ment world will be like when they are dis- efforts, the band has put on concerts over charged from TYC. The fair is a project of the last five years at Giddings. The band is "Project Re-enterprise," a program started based at Camp Mabry in Austin. W in 1992 by the Crime Prevention Institute. The president of the Institute, Robb Southerland, had previously focused on adult convicts, teaching them the skills nec- essary to find employment. YOUTH SPOTLIGHT State Representative Ray Allen and Executive Director Steve Robinson ad- dressed the prospective employers and Gid- dings staff during a luncheon. W

TYC youth receives college scholarships

eremy Payne, a I YC youth placed at Mel Matthews Boys Ranch, received his high school diploia in May and finished in the top 25% of his class. Jeremy also won two scholarships, in- cluding the Rick Chambers Memorial Schol- arsyup, the highest scholarship given to Three youth at Brownwood State School's GED graduation ceremonies. youth in Cisco, Texas. He will use his scholarship monies to wood community advisory council, orga- Brownwood work toward an associate degree from Cisco nized a reception following the graduation Junior College, and a bachelor's degree in students honored with council members providing refresh- agriculture from Tarleton State University ments and decorations. at GED graduation where he plans to minor in criminal justice Students were also honored at a 34 and work in the prison system. B rownwood State School honored brunch provided by the faculty. A dialogue Jeremy also received a $350 agriculture students with a graduation cer- with the students was moderated by Dan scholarship. W emony in May for attaining the Gen- Humeniuk, superintendent of the Statewide eral Equivalency Diploma (GED). Reception Center. TYCjob training coordi- Superintendent Gaylon Garrison served nator Ron Foy also participated. as master of ceremonies. Pat McClatchy Students with their GED may continue delivered the keynote address and Carson their education in the formal high school Byers provided special music. program, enter the student work program, Keith Clark, president of the Brown- or pursue specialized training. 9 TYC JOURNAL 21 lYC JOURNAL21

37 students GED graduation for 10 Corsicana students honored at banquet n students received GED diplomas Valedictorian was Greg Wiese and during the first ever GED commence- Africia Moore was salutatorian. -seven TYC youth were honored ment exercises at Corsicana State Other recipients were Virgil Aguirre, at the third annual East Region edu- Home. Renetta Cobb, Frank Esponoza, Chris cational awards banquet at the Deputy Director Jay Lindgren was Hames, Michael Janes, Terrance Sapp, Harvey Hotel, Houston, in May. guest speaker. Sylvia Bonin, on behalf of Abraham Wever and Lena Woods.W Theme for the event was "Success is the Community Advisory Council, pre- not by Accident, but by Determination..." sented monetary gifts to each graduate. Several former students were honored: Jamie Dolison, who graduated from Yates High School and will be attending Prairie View A&M University this fall; Melanie Wybro, who will be receiving her RN asso- ciate degree; and Nicole Boykin (Davis) a Student poem earns national recognition cosmetology graduate who now owns her "Headfirst," a poem written by Brownwood State School student Richard Gonzalez, own hair styling business. has been selected from among 72,000 entries for publication in the National Poetry Also honored was Robert Jackson, Society's National High School Anthology. who graduated from Yates High School and "Fewer than 1,500 students are being honored," said Society President Martin L. will be attending Baylor University on a Keegan. "These young poets join the company of an elite fraternity which embodies football scholarship. and represents the very best the United States has to offer." Vanessa Williams, chair, Houston com- While consideration was given to form and style, primary emphasis was placed on munity volunteer youth council, welcomed the overall emotion evoked, he explained. guests. Student Melanie Wybro, who at- Submission of the poem was accomplished by Brenda Howard, Richard's English tends the Texas Women's College School teacher at Brownwood. of Nursing, was mistress of ceremonies. HEADFIRST Also on the program were Dr. Van Johnson, invocation; Faith Luster, musical corn Headfirst into a feeding worfdofpain, selection; Keith Branch, Sonja Lucas-Rob- Machine-gunfire for sunshine. erts, Denise Kennedy (East Region volun- Blackteardropsforrain. teer coordinator), Bea Marquez, special 6 6 musical tribute; Rodger Wiley, educational Day y ay, and6rick y 6rick administrator, Austin, who presented the I 6uift my metropolis ofstone. awards, and Helen George, regional direc- Born [feafirst into the apocaypse, tor. I fight the worfd alone. Reverend Roosevelt Howard, Wheeler Avenue Baptist Church, was keynote Death's 6(ackwings spiff the 6(ood speaker. Kennedy and Vernon Broussard, Ofangelsfrom the sl[y. East Region educational liaison, were in 'ie seria(iffer'schant charge of the banquet, which was hosted and funded by the volunteer council. The Is a deadman's fuffa6y. 80 students, families, volunteers and staff 9y worflcrum6fes like a pagangodof stone, were served a formal dinner prior to the Born J-feafrst into the slaughter. awards ceremony. Also attending from Central Office were Sacrifice offish and6one. Dennis Payne, director of training, and Joan I wish there was a way to slip 6ackinto the womb, Timmons, chief of volunteer services. J-foy Motherofaffcreation, Concealme in your 6fessed tom6, Everything I lustfor, aniforeverything I thirst. (Fromthe sins of my father, I inheritedthis hef(, Into which I was 6orn JIeadfirst. by RichardGonzalez W 22 TVC JOURNAL 22 lYC JOURNAL

Trainers return to field supervision

nstitutional trainers have been returned to the supervisory control of the insti- tution superintendents, as of Septem- ber 1, 1995. The reason for the change, according to Dennis Payne, Director of Training, is to provide superintendents with increased control over the presentation of training at their facility, and to add the trainer to the institution's management team. HUMAN RESOURCES "As an active participant of the man- agement team, the trainer willbe more sen- sitive to all issues affecting training, so bet- ter training can be provided to meet the needs of the particularfacility," Payne said. The Central Office staff development department will serve as consultants to field managers and trainers, and will manage the Preservice Training Academy -which will continue to be offered monthly at the Corsicana trainingfacility. In addition, a community services train- ing opfficer will be hired and will work out of Central Office. Central Office will coordinate the use of the training facility in Corsicana as an agency conference center. The basic supervision course will con- tinue to be managed and offered on a quar- terly basis, and development of intermedi- ate and advanced supervision courses are planned for the future. Staff Development will also: * provide and manage agency computer software training; Crockett reunion featured lots of war stories - Nancy Emmert, currently in Central * coordinate special training academies; Office, tells one ofher stories to Judy DyessfromArizona, George Headfrom Nacogdoches, * revise and update existing training andAlva Phillipsfrom Crockett. modules and develop new curriculum; * provide electronic and print media sup- Crockett old-timers get together port; Former Crockett State School employees, retirees, TYC staff and volunteers greet * coordinate Handle With Care Trainer ed Certification and coordinate initial cer- each other with a smile and a handshake while trying to recall each others' names at tification and annual recertification a CSS reunion. Charlie Davis, recognized as the oldest retiree present, said, "I will soon be up in n y training; staff to attend Governor's nineties, but I still have good memories about Crockett State School and the staff I work d schedule with." He was hired by Pete Harrell and served as security officer for Crockett State School Management Development Program; for Colored Girls. + provide a semi-annual audit of agency Jerry Day, now superintendent at Gainesville State School, was recognized for his training to ensure compliance with leadership with the camping program and was presented with a pair of Georgia boots us ed agency and ACA policies and stan- in the camping program. dards. W Superintendent Rey Gomez presented tee-shirts, caps and an assortment of prizes to winners in specific categories. 9 TYC JOURNAL 23 lYC JOURNAL 23

Layoff/RIF policy New administrators named effective July 1 N ew assistant superintendent at Crockett State School is Bob Woods, who assumed An official comprehensive Layoft/Re- his duties there June 1, 1995. duction In Force (RIF) policy went Woods had been director of Smith County Juvenile Services in Tyler for the past into effect July 1, 1995. 13 years and was affiliated with Jefferson County Probation Services for five years before The policy provides procedures that. He also was an intern for the wilderness camp at Crockett State School. whereby employees may be laid off under He holds bachelor's and master's degrees in criminology and corrections from Sam certain circumstances, and whereby a re- Houston State University, Huntsville. duction in the number of positions allo- Woods replaced Marie Murdoch, who was named superintendent of a new TYC insti- cated to an office, department, institution tution, Jefferson County State School, Beaumont. or region may be initiated. Layoffs may occur for medical reasons, DONALD BROOKS because of pending criminal charges, and Donald Brooks, formerly director of operations at Cottrell House, Dallas, since No- for failure to complete specific training re- vember 1992, is the new program administrator for York House in Corpus Christi. quirements for sole supervision positions. Prior to coming to Cottrell House, Brooks was ajuvenile services officer in Shreveport, When a Reduction In Force is neces- Louisiana, and director of Joy House in Greenwood, Louisiana. He holds a master's degree sary, priority for retention is given to job in criminal justice from Grambling State University and a bachelor's degree in psychology/ classifications or individuals with unique sociology from Millsaps College. skills which are essential by evaluating Brooks was honored as the outstanding regional employee from the North Region performance, seniority, skills and experi- during the recent agency workshop in Austin. ence. Notice of a position being eliminated DR. TED SHORTEN is to be given at least 60 days prior to ef- New assistant superintendent at Gainesville State School is Dr. Ted Shorten, who fective date of separation, when possible. previously served as a social service administrator there since 1989. Prior to the separation date, an employee Shorten replaces Jack Patton, who was selected assistant superintendent at the new affected by a RIF is to be notified of vacant TYC Assessment and Orientation Facility in Marlin. positions in the agency for which he/she Shorten has also served as superintendent of Turman Halfway House, Austin; as a is qualified. research associate in central office; and as a parole officer. An employee whose position has been He holds a Ph.D. in education from the University of Michigan, a master's degree in eliminated due to a RIF is eligible for auto- social work administration from Case Western Reserve University; and a bachelor's degree matic reinstatement to a vacancy in pre- the in business administration from the University of Houston. viously held job classification and salary at the same facilityfor a period of 12 months PEDRO COHEN from the effective date of the layoff. A former TYC staff member, Pedro Cohen, has returned to the agency as program However, eligibility for automatic re- administrator of Valley House, Harlingen. He had been serving as director of human re- instatement terminates if an employee de- sources development at the Rio Grande State Center, a TXMIHMR facility in Harlingen, clines an offer of a position in the same job since 1989. class and salary held by the employee prior He replaces Butch Held, who has been named superintendent of the Evins Regional to the layoff. Juvenile Center, Edinburg. Priority consideration is given to Previously Cohen served as assistant superintendent and superintendent at Valley RIFFED employees when he/she applies House. He also served as community coordinator, treatment coordinator and weekend for positions other than the one held be- coordinator, beginning in 1978. fore layoff or at other facilities. The appli- He holds a master's degree in science in health professions with a minor in political cant is given preference points of ten per science and allied health services cent of the total number of points used in from Southwest Texas State University, and a bachelor's degree in psychology and sociology from the selection process. the University of Texas at Austin. A RIF resulting from a decision to CURTIS J. SIMMONS close a facility or discontinue a program is Curtis J. Simmons was selected as program administrator at the Statewide Reception not grievable; however, an employee who Center in Brownwood where he assisted in the transition of the center to the Sanction Unit. believes proper procedures were not fol- Simmons came to TYC from the Tarrant County Hospital District where he was a social lowed MAY file a grievance. worker. Accurate, complete information on the He has held a variety of clinical and administrative positions in human service organi- new policy may be obtained through read- zations in California and Texas, and also has 14 years experience with the Louisiana ing the Personnel Policy and Procedure Train- ing Institute, a juvenile facility in Bridge City, Louisiana. Manual, PRS 11.03, effective date 7/1/95, Simmons has a bachelor's degree in available through Human Resource Offic- history from the University of Portland and a master's degree in social work from Tulane University. ers and Central Office Human Resources Department. 9 (continued on page 28) TYC JOURNAL 24lYC24 JOURNAL

Religious symbol tours at Evins Summer arts, une was a special month for youth and history and symbolism of the Image. The cultural workshops staff who worship in the Catholic faith. event culminated in a Consecration Cer- A life-size photographic replica of the emony. Four workshops by artists were con- Image of the Virgin Mary toured the Rio For three weeks, under the guidance ducted this summer on the Corsicana Grande Valley area's Catholic churches. of volunteer Pam Whitworth, about 20 campus. (The original is in Mexico City.) youth took classes to prepare for the event. Grady Hillman, creative writer/poet, Through the efforts ofLarry Contreras, Some youth were on TV and offered posi- and Rebecca Pritchard, dramatist, con- who volunteers as a Deacon for youth's tive testimonies. ducted a week-long workshop of collabo- Catholic services at Evins, arrangements Local religious observers believe that rative art activities with the students. were made to have the Image visit the Evins the visit of the Image to Evins was a "first" Paul Taylor, musician/storyteller/ Center on June 18th, Father's Day. in its history, as the visit is usually con- didjeridoo maker, brought history, stories During the visit, priests, actors and fined to local churches. W and culture from his native Australia. Stu- musicians detailed the meaning behind the dents made and played their own didjeridoos - long, slender musical instru- ments. Tina Marsh, composer and vocalist, taught workshops which compared the blues with rap and taught students about jazz and new music. Working with Tina was James Polk, a musicianwhoformerly worked with Ray Charles. Dale Bulla, storyteller and creative writer, led the students in workshops of bi- lingual tales, legends, and created stories. These workshops were sponsored by CULTU RAL -EVENTS the TYC Wende Fund and Navarro Council of the Arts. The Navarro Arts Council also Giddings intercultural group brought a performance to campus by the Bluebonnet Brass. W named outstanding 1995 program e Giddings State School Intercultural Awareness Task Force received the agency's Outstanding Award for 1995. Sharon Hambrick, chairman ofthe statewide Intercul- Corsicana Cinco de tural Awareness Task Force, was assisted by Linda Ross, North Region Director, in making the presentation. (The North Region was last year's winner.) Mayo celebration The Giddings State School Intercultural Awareness Committee (ICA) was established e Corsicana Residential Treatment to educate staff and students concerning the similarities and differences in their in 1990 *Center (CRTC) celebrated Cinco de is made cultures, and to increase tolerance for diversity among individuals. The Committee Mayo with students from Collins up of representatives from all departments. Middle School, taught by Ruth Alba, per- Accomplishments of the Giddings ICA include: forming authentic Mexican dances through- " three training sessions provided to staff by the Committee; out the program. The first training session involved cultural awareness in mental health settings. A musical tribute to Selena, the upcom- who was recently The second training concerned the civil rights movement from a cultural perspec- ing Tejano performer during one part of the pro- tive. killed, took place gram. Two students from Corsicana made TYC employees, including presen- The third training was an all-day workshop for speeches in tribute to Selena. tations by Dr. Paniagua concerning practical points in the assessment and treat- Students participated in two contests ment of multicultural clients; Robert Loayza, concerning appreciating individual - an El Grito contest, a Mexican yell, and a of young people similarities and differences, and the Cultural Warriors, a group Cumbian dance contest. dramatic interpreta- sharing personal stories, hardships, and successes through Also on the program was a presenta- tion. tion by CRTC staff member Ramon Alba. " an intercultural awareness bulletin board in the visitation area, changed monthly to The program was sponsored by the CRTC increase intercultural awareness; Intercultural Awareness Task Force. W (continued on page 26) JOURNAL 25 lYCTYC JOURNAL 25

Continuing care New sanction unit at Brownwood center admits first will serve parole violators group of youth C's Continuing Care Center (CCC) in other community-based placements. opened its doors in June, and is tem- in Brownwood is in the process of Youth will be assigned by the central- former statewide reception center porarily located at the Dallas County Thebeing converted to a 128-bed sanc- ized placement unit following a disciplin- tion facility incorporating a 90-day residen- ary hearing which makes them eligible for Juvenile Probation office. Twenty-four tial program for youth who have violated placement in a high restriction facility. youth have been screened, and 12 admit- the terms of their parole. There will be no assigned minimum ted into the program. The goal of the program is to provide a length of stay for the all-male facility. Youth "The treatment model is both innova- meaningful consequence for rule violators will most likely return to the community tive and creative, and deviates from tradi- from less restrictive settings. They will be through halfway houses and other com- tional CD treatment models," said Alex expected to address the reasons they are munity programs," said Dan Humeniuk, Appiah, program director. The Center runs failing to adjust in community programs and Superintendent. an intensive 12 hour outpatient program a community success plan will be developed Major changes are being made in the Monday through Friday. A Saturday fam- that will promote community reintegration. physical plant of the old reception cen- ily systems component maybe added later. Also to be assigned to the sanction unit ter. W The treatment approach, which blends will be those who have not been successful the TYC CDTP resocialization process with cognitive life-skills and the therapeutic community model, is aimed at youth age 14 to 17 years with substance abuse, criminal and deviant social behaviors. "The primary criteria for admission is for the youth to recognize the fact that entering the program is a privilege and not a right," Appiah said. Youth may be referred to the program by the Texas Youth Commission or by the Dallas County Juvenile Probation Depart- PROGRAMS ment. The case management aspect of the program is handled by either the "Safe Houses" or "Positive Directions" through Dallas Challenge. Both programs are Fi funded by the Texas Commission on Alco- holism and Drug Abuse (TCADA), the Dallas County Juvenile Probation Depart- j ment, and TYC. The continuum of services is designed primarily to help the substance abusing ju- venile offender to become a drug-free, prosocial, law-abiding citizen who makes a positive contribution to the community he '9 hasvictimi7ed. "All primary treatment services are in- tended to assist youth in dcvcloping a per- sonal sense of responsibility and account- ability and to make positive motivational and behavioral changes," Appiah added. Nineteen Gainesville State School students and residents of the Gainesville Convalescent Center teamed up for the second annualJunior/Senior Olympics. 26 TVC JOURNAL 26lYC JOURNAL

Conservation camp Planning begins for Project RIO established outh employment counseling and job placement services has become a primary new program in the Youth Commission, thanks to the new State of Texas Juvenile Of- conservation camp has been estab- fender Program (STJOP) mandated by the 74th Legislature. lished in partnership with the Texas The program is patterned after the Texas Workforce Commission's Project RIO (Re- Youth Commission, the Gulf Coast Integration for Offenders), a multi-agency initiative which coordinates employment ser- Trades Center, and the U.S. Forest Service. vices for inmates in the adult prison system. A TYC contract program, the Gulf Coast Project RIO, which has been recognized nationally as an innovative rehabilitative Trades Center is operating the camp for 48 program, began in 1985 and now has sites in 80 cities throughout the state to assist former youth on their property near New Waverly,. prison inmates in offering direct placement into jobs. Services include teaching basic skills Texas. The project is known as the Gulf such as properly completing applications, writing resumes, interviewing, telephone eti- Coast Trades Center Conservation Corps. quette, what to wear, and labor market information. Youth selected for the program are from Billy G. Jacobs, legislative analyst, has been named team leader for the TYC program TYC institutions and other residential pro- by Executive Director Steve Robinson. grams. They will live in tent-like barracks (continued on page 27) and work on projects in the Sam Houston National Forest. Youth at this site will be involved in improving habitats of threatened and en- Youth living on Navy West Texas State dangered species, improving trails, remov- minesweeper School awarded ing pine beetles, removing range fences, and preparing and planting wildlife food grant funding plots. 9 "ifyou want to work and you want to /earn, come aboard! " W est Texas State School has re- This is the motto TVC youth see when ceived a grant for the third year, they board the CT-11. Project AIMS (Applying Initia- tives in Math and Science). The grant is e CT-11, an 80-foot minesweeper funded under the U.S. Secretary of that was donated by the U.S. Naval Education's math/science priority. Academy to Associated Marine In- Project AIMS focuses on math and Cultural program stitutes (AMI), set sail down the inter- science problem-solving, in addition to lan- (continuedfrompage 24) coastal canal from St. Petersburg, Florida, guage training. It incorporates current and docked in Taylor Bayou at the J.D. " display honoring staff "best practices" for students Limited in En- a Veterans' Day Murphree Wildlife Management Area members who are veterans of foreign glish Proficiency (LEP). A major compo- (WMA) headquarters. nent is the use of satellite technology to wars; and Youth selected for the CT-11 are from provide interactive, video-based instruc- " an intercultural awareness booth set TYC institutions and other residential pro- to incarcerated youth. up at Staff Appreciation Day. grams. They live on the CT-l1 and are in- tion The ICA sponsored the first annual volved in both education and work pro- The WTSS Education Department, intercultural cookbook, with staff contrib- grams. under the leadership of Dr. Jerry Trevino, uting favorite recipes representing differ- Primary work projects for this site are Principal/Title VII Project Director, was ent cultures. An art contest was sponsored performing brush control work on the 150- awarded its first Title VII grant in October, for the students with the purpose of devel- acre mottled duck nesting pasture, clean- 1988. That grant, A Bilingual Program for oping an appropriate picture for the cover ing out and tearing down buildings at Lost Youthful Offenders, existed for five years Lake Camp, providing weekly grounds main- of the cookbook. Students wrote their ideas and augmented the school's education tenance, and clearing the Candy Abshire budget with a total of $1,310,883. concerning the definition of culture and WMA of Chinese tallow trees. As Project AIMS enters its third year, their own cultural traditions. The resulting An agreement has been reached be- it has already added an additional $476,451 300-page cookbook was sponsored by the tween TYC and Texas Parks and Wildlife to to the school's resources. W Giddings community advisory council. establish this youth conservation camp, The ICA also sponsored the produc- known as the CT-11 project. The purpose tion of an intercultural awareness tee-shirt of the camp is to furnish youthful offend- with students entering original designs. ers with the opportunity to provide mean- These two special projects will result in the ingful conservation, environmental and establishment of funds for the creation of a community service to build a strong work reference library of video and educational ethic. The camp has been operated through materials for staff and youth to increase the summer by AMI through contract with TYC. awareness of diversity. W W TYC JOURNAL 27 lYC JOURNAL27

Project RIO (continuedfrom page 26) Jacobs, who began his employment with TYC in January, previously served as a policy analyst for the Joint Select Com- mittee to Review the Central Education Agency. He was assistant chief of adult probation for Rusk County for six years, and later (1986-1990) served as chief juve- nile probation officer for Rusk County. He has also been a probation officer for Harris I, County adult probation department. Jacobs is a graduate lecturer/doctoral student at Pennsylvania State University, completing course work toward a Ph.D. in Administration of Justice. An advisory dommittee will be named to work closely with Jacobs. In addition, ACA auditors, TYC staff indicate theirpleasure with the 100 percent compliancefinding in the West staff throughout the state will be working Region audit. Picturedleft to rightare (standing)Auditor Al Bennett, Indiana;Jules Franklin, TYC with STJOP. Chief ofAftercare; Auditor Chuck Kehoe, Virginia;Ed Edmister West Region ParoleSupervisor; TYC research in 1994 indicated that 61 (seated) Cherie Townsend, TYC Directorof Community Corrections;Gail Graham, TYC AccreditationManager; and Alex Escarcega, West Region Director. per cent of youth released from institutions had been rearrested within one year. "Although there are no simple answers to the causes of recidivism, one critical ele- ment in recidivism-unemployment-can Regions complete re-accreditation be addressed," said Jacobs. "Our focus will be to prepare TYC following intensive ACA audits youth for release through education, train- ing, support, activities. Ed Edmister (current supervisor) opportunity and a systematic approach to changing attitudes," he ex- coordinated the West Region audit after regions were audited for ACA re- plained. the spring, North and West Les' resignation. Duringaccreditation. They were initially Pilot projects will be set up in the fol- awarded accreditation by the Commission Jules Franklin, chief of aftercare, as- lowing counties: Dallas, Harris, Cameron, sisted the regions during the three-year on Accreditation for Corrections (CAC) in re- Hidalgo, Tarrant, Bexar, El Paso, Lubbock August 1992. accreditation period. He attended audits of and Travis. During the three years since that time, all five regions as did Gail Graham, accredi- Assessment specialists will be hired in staff were expected to maintain compliance tation manager. TYC institutions to identify youth who will levels. North and West Regions each Valley House in Harlingen was also meet the age requirements at release (17- reached 100% compliance for reaccred- audited and was reaccredited in August. 21) and administer interest/aptitude tests. itation. Audits were conducted by correc- Then Superintendent Butch Held and staff They will prepare Employability Develop- tions professionals from Indiana and Vir- achieved high marks, scoring 100%compli- ment Plans (EDP) and assist in designing ginia. ance on mandatory standards and 98.9% vocational programs offered by TYC to During exit conferences, auditors were on non-mandatory standards. Auditors match these interests and aptitudes. complimentary ofTYC's dedicated staff and from New Mexico and Oklahoma found the They will also provide motivational use of resources. Alex Escarcega, Director conditions of confinement and overall qual- materials and techniques and job search of the West Region, noted that policy and ity of life to be excellent. workshops for youth. ACA standard compliance is not difficult Evins Regional Juvenile Center (ERJC) TWC/STJOP staff in the pilot counties when all staff know their jobs and perform was audited in May. "In spite of several will provide orientation, workshops, bus at high levels every day. years of high turnover in key positions, they tokens for seeking employment, fidelity "Parole supervision, volunteer ser- rated a 96.6% compliance in non-manda- bonding, referral to supportive services and JTPA training programs, and will communi- vices, contract care, administration and tory standards," said Gail Graham. cate and coordinate with TYC staff and pro- types of community involvement are all ERJC was represented by Doris Davila, viders. addressed in the standards," he noted. regional superintendent, at the commission TWC and TYC will be engaging ajoint Parole Supervisors Allen Wallace hearing in August. The facility was accred- public information campaign to educate the (North) and Les Brown (former supervisor ited with a monitoring visit to be conducted public, specifically the during the fall. W business community, of West Region) and the region staff are about the goals of the program. Employers credited with on-going compliance in daily who hire ex-offenders are eligible for free fidelity bonding. 9 o%F5

28 TYC JOURNAL 281W JOURNAL

Briefly noted.a. New administrators (continuedfrom page 23) * Fifteen cadets from the Sheffield Boot JOHNATHAN HAMPTON Camp performed a military drill, led by Lt John Rodriguez, for the TYC board Johnathan Hampton hasbeen selected program administrator forEvins Regional Ju- during its meeting in May. Board Member venile Center in Edinburg. He has served as captain of the Judge Homer Salinas Rehabili- John Odam arranged for the group to tation Center Boot Camp in Edinburg for the past two years. visit the Capitol, where they witnessed Hampton previously was a team leader at Associated Marine Institute's RGMI in the Legislature in session, and were Brownsville, a TYC contract program, and was avocational instructor at Piedmont Wilder- introduced to Governor George W. ness Institution. He also served ten years in the infantry of the U.S. Army. Bush...The cadets were accompanied to He holds a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Appalachian State University in Austin by Commandant Chip Harrison, Rodriguez, Lt. Wallace Brown and Boone, North Carolina. Caseworker Tommeer. DR. WIULA WOOTEN + "Armadillo biscuits" are one of the highlights of the Crockett State School Dr. Willia Wooten has begun her duties as principal of Crockett State School's aca- Community Advisory Council's cook- demic department. She previously served as a principal in the Crockett ISD. book, which sells for $10, and includes Wooten replaces Elaine Murdock, who was named principal at the new Jefferson a history of the school. The book is County State School in Beaumont. dedicated to the memory of Bob Drake, She holds a master's degree from Sam Houston State University, and an undergradu- former superintendent, and Cladis ate degree from Prairie View A&M University. She holds a doctor of education degree from Williams, Crockett cook for 24 years. If Nova University, Fort Lauderdale, Florida. you want one, contact Jerri Warner, 409 544-5111, or send $10 plus $1.75 Most recently Wooten served as an assistant superintendent for CISD. W shipping charge to: Community Advisory Council, Rt. 4 Box 66, Crockett, TX * Printed on recycled paper. 75835.

TYC JOURNAL Texas Youth Commission 4900 North Lamar P.O. Box 4260 Austin, Texas 78765