San Quentin News

THE PUPULSELSE OF SSANAN QQUENTINUENTIN

VOL.2013 NO. 3 March 2013 SAN QUENTIN, CALIFORNIA 94964 www.sanquentinnews.com POPULATION 4,075 D.A. Gascón Learns Human Side of Prison By Boston Woodard improve the criminal justice in the United States to use this Staff Writer system. approach.” “What we’ve been doing is Gascón was accompanied at In an unprecedented move, not working very well,” said the March 1 San Quentin News a California district attorney San Francisco District Attorney Forum by several of his staff. heard fi rst-hand from a group of George Gascón. “I hope you Also present were about 25 pris- Photo by Lt. S. Robinson prisoners explaining that educa- men can be helpful with our ef- Wilbert Rideau talks to the S.Q. News staff tion and early intervention could fort. We are the fi rst DA system See Looking on page 16 Inspirational Visit Famed Ex-Editor Wilbert Rideau Of the Angolite Magazine Pays San Quentin News a Visit A man considered America’s and accompanied Rideau into most-honored prison journal- the prison. ist says the print media plays The San Quentin News has an important role informing the the responsibility to help prison- public and acting as watchdog of ers and the public to understand prisoner rights and administra- what is right and what is wrong tive responsibilities. with prisons, said award-win- After corresponding with ning journalist and author Wil- Wilbert Rideau’s wife Linda bert Rideau, whose writings in- LaBranche, San Quentin News spired other prison journalists. adviser Lizzie Buchen arranged Rideau was editor of “The An- for Rideau to visit the San Quen- golite,” the prisoner-produced tin News offi ce. San Quentin’s Photo by Sam Hearnes Public information offi cer Lt. Warden Kevin R .Chappell, D.A. George Gascón accompanied by Sam Robinson secured approval See Wilbert Rideau on page 4 the S.Q. News staff and others on the Lower Yard Lifer Laid Ex-Cop, Once Incarcerated, To Rest Shares His Good Works After Long By Journalism Guild Writers lice Department for nine ally worked as a bodyguard years,” Doug Butler told the for executives in the recording After spending 20 years be- San Quentin Journalism Guild industry. Journey hind bars for murder, an ex- recently. “But once I got into The record business led him Oakland police officer came the club scene, I began using into a completely different RON TAYLOR, 63, back to San Quentin to talk to cocaine. Afterward, I became world, mainly drugs, Butler prisoners about what it takes addicted to meth.” said. In 1984, Butler was ar- DIES OF CANCER, Photo by Michael Nelson Ron Taylor walking for the to change bad habits and live While working for OPD, rested, charged and convicted Editor’s Note: Ronald Evans Avon Breast Cancer event responsibly. Butler said he moonlighted as Taylor, a well-known former “I worked for Oakland Po- a security officer, and eventu- See Doug Butler on page 4 San Quentin prisoner, died Sonoma State University, said, in Vacaville of liver cancer in “Ron was a truly gifted man, February. Before his death, as in so many ways. He will be 7 Prisoners Pitch Business Ideas part of a journalism class last missed immensely.” Dr. Leed- By Juan Haines summer, Taylor wrote his own er added, “He was a character Managing Editor obituary, which is excerpted – he kept our group New Leaf here. on Life going for many years Venture capitalism took on and I will miss him indeed.” a whole new meaning, as busi- Noted three-card Monte art- Taylor was born on June 30, ness executives ventured inside ist Ronald Evans Taylor landed 1952, in Minden, Louisiana. the walls of San Quentin State in his final resting place. At age five, he moved to Los Prison to hear business propos- Ronald Taylor, also known Angeles with his mother and als from some very unlikely en- as “Raw Ron” in his hustling father, Atkins Taylor. trepreneurs. days, is also well known as Soon after their arrival, his On Feb. 22, seven prisoners the founder of the New Leaf mother moved to Richmond, gave Powerpoint presentations on Life Group of San Quentin. and Ronald grew up in North- to explain to business executives New Leaf on Life is the self- ern and Southern California and community members how help group in San Quentin, alternatively, between his they intend to connect Califor- exclusively for life-term pris- mother’s and father’s houses. nia’s entrepreneurial spirit to oners. Ronald was a 50- and 100- socially responsible business Ronald Taylor’s outside dash track star at the age of 12 plans. The event was put on by Photo by Sam Hearnes sponsor, Dr. Elaine Leeder, Dan Mulligan, Angela Conyers-Benton and Heracio dean of Social Sciences at See Saying Goodbye on page 2 See Last Mile on page 5 Harts discuss business ideas Page 2 SAN QUENTIN NEWS www.sanquentinnews.com March 2013 A Message From the San Quentin News LOOKING AHEAD TO THE FUTURE – FIVE YEARS AFTER A SUCCESSFUL REVIVAL, THE NEWS HAS MANY IMPROVEMENTS YET TO COME By Arnulfo T. Garcia by the administration. In June research. The students receive to find the isolation condi- who don’t get to the newspaper, Editor-in-Chief 2008, after a long suspension, university units toward their tions were worse than those he or can’t read it at your prison li- then-warden Robert Ayers Jr. degrees for their work. Their faced in Iran. brary, to send $1.32 in stamps. As we continue the hard work brought together a select group presence in this prison also We also offer special thanks We’ll mail you a copy each of reporting the news during the of prisoners with a volunteer exposes them to our environ- to attorneys Tom Nolan and time you send us the stamps. fi rst quarter of this year, you’ll a professional journalist to re- ment, and basically we learn Dan Barton for their contribu- To fellow prisoners, we have notice that San Quentin News vive San Quentin News. Today from each other. It is an honor tions in arranging for the staff been receiving many letters is looking more and more like we are proud to say there are to have them on board. to receive several portable from different prisons, but we a real newspaper. We’ve added 11 prisoners writing for the We also created the San word processors for the writ- want you to keep in mind that four pages of color—front, back, newspaper, with about nine Quentin News Forum. In the ers from their colleagues in the newspaper is not an avenue and center pages, and we expect members of the San Quentin first forum, a group of San other law firms. for complaints. We want news! to expand further with more Journalism Guild contributing. Francisco prosecutors met We would like to know what DONATIONS funding. About 25 men attend the week- with approximately 45 pris- programs are up and running San Quentin News is the only ly guild meeting each Friday. oners discussing how they Overall, the staff greatly in other institutions, who grad- newspaper in California, the can better understand ways appreciates all of the various uated from what program, who COLUMBIA FOUNDATION nation, and possibly the world, to help reduce the violence in donations made by individu- went home after serving their produced by prisoners. San Quentin News has been our communities. The prison- als, groups and foundations sentence, whether there are ex- The newspaper has a simple receiving much-appreciated ers attending the forum are in- that allow us to bring you the ceptional volunteers who need mission: Create a more informed support from the Columbia volved with various self-help news. We still need to raise the to be recognized. Give us the prisoner and public by covering Foundation. With its support, programs. We want to thank money to get a newspaper to good, the bad, and the ugly. criminal justice policy from our we are funded to print and dis- Assistant District Attorney every California prisoner. In unique and visceral perspective. tribute the newspaper for the Marisa Rodriguez for making the meantime, we ask all those We want to hear from you. It is a 16-page monthly, with a next two years. We are grateful this meeting possible. circulation of 7,500 papers. The for their support, and are seek- Independent journalist staff is currently working to pro- ing additional support as we Shane Bauer, who spent two Saying Goodbye to Ron Taylor vide each of the state’s other 32 plan for the future. years in Tehran’s Evin Prison Continued from Page 1 God would painlessly let him just prisons with up to 200 newspa- We’ve created a partnership in Iran (four months in soli- go in his sleep. pers each month. with the University of Califor- darity confinement), visited at Edison Junior High School in Taylor was well known for nia at Berkeley, where Professor the San Quentin Journalism Los Angeles. He went on to play saying that he would prefer not to HISTORY William Drummond gives us Guild. He later met with the football at Jefferson and Los wake up at all, than to wake up San Quentin News was start- further assistance by bringing newspaper staff to discuss his Angeles High Schools. the rest of his life in prison. ed in the 1940s; however, it in journalism students to help visit to the Pelican Bay SHU. Ronald’s demise was in an- His survivors include his moth- has been shut down repeatedly with story ideas, editing, and Bauer said he was shocked swer to his nightly prayers that er, four daughters, and a son.

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Prisoners United in the Craft of Journalism March 2013 SAN QUENTIN NEWS www.sanquentinnews.com Page 3 One Reports Say California Prison Man’s Realignment Has Hit the Wall Mission – State Has Done Nearly All it Can to Shrink Bring Joy Prisoner Population Using This Strategy By San Quentin News Staff ary limitations, California prison Of the 58 counties in the state, offi cials are redirecting certain 50 show reductions in imprison- To Others California has done about all offenders from state prison to ment; however, the disparities in it can to reduce prison popula- local jurisdictions under Assem- imprisonment rates from county File Photo By Tommy Winfrey Lenny Rideout tions, and it will be diffi cult to bly Bill 109, “Realignment.” to county is likely to require state Contributing Writer meet court orders for less over- lawmakers to take action further JAIL CAPACITY crowding, a new report con- slowing down how offenders are Every morning, after eating he has been convicted. He did a cludes. Before Realignment went admitted into state prison. breakfast in the North Block federal prison term and a Penn- Realignment has stalled and into effect a little more than a EFFECT chow hall, the smiling face of in- sylvania prison term before mi- even reversed slightly as the year ago, 17 counties had court- mate Lenny Rideout greets pris- grating to California. number of new admissions to ordered jail caps, according to a Twenty-six counties either oners as they clear their trays. Rideout walks with a limp to- state prison rose in the second report by Public Policy Institute have brought down imprison- “I get along with everyone,” day because of a rotated pelvis. and third quarters of 2012, ac- of California, titled, Corrections ment rates considerably, such as Rideout said, “And if they took When he lived on the East Coast, cording to the Center on Juve- Realignment: One Year Later Kern, Tulare, and Los Angeles, away my ability to be social he was driving drunk and got in nile and Criminal Justice’s re- www.ppic.org. Those counties or have reduced rates of impris- with everyone, I would really be a traffi c accident that left him in port One Year into Realignment: are Butte, Calaveras, El Do- onment at a slower rate. Twelve hurt.” a coma for three months. Progress Stalls, Stronger Incen- rado, Fresno, Kern, Los Ange- counties led by San Joaquin, In his 51 years of life, Ride- When he woke up, he had to tives Needed, www.cjcj.org. les, Merced, Placer, Riverside, Stanislaus, Sacramento, and out has learned that a smile on learn to walk again, and he said Sacramento, San Bernardino, Kings are continuing to main- REASON his face goes a long way. Bos- he would never drive drunk San Diego, San Joaquin, Santa tain high rates of imprisonment ton Woodard says, “Lenny can again. Part of this increase is due to Barbara, Stanislaus, Tulare, and despite realignment mandates. turn the otherwise mundane job Today, Rideout is learning les- the recent rise in new admission Yolo. These may refl ect temporary ad- of working the chow hall tray sons the easy way. He is a student by counties such as San Bernar- Twenty counties, led by San justments rather than long-term line into a unique place to greet in the Prison University Project, dino and Los Angeles that pre- Francisco, San Mateo, Santa trends. peole, where he treats everyone which gives him great pride. He viously had larger than average Clara, Orange, and Ventura, are The Riverside Press Enter- the same, saying, ‘Have a good has been at San Quentin since reductions, the CJCJ report con- continuing to realign larger parts prise reports more than 1,100 day.’” October 2009, and in that time he cludes. of redirected offenders and are offenders are serving between He fi nds comfort in his Chris- has taken advantage of self-help In an effort to comply with accomplishing lower imprison- fi ve- and 10-year sentences in tian faith, something he admit- programs and education oppor- a court order to reduce prison ment levels, according to a new county jails as a result of Re- tedly shied away from in the tunities. overcrowding and meet budget- report, alignment. years that led up to him coming Family is the most impor- to prison for torture and robbery. tant part of Rideout’s life. He is Rideout moved to San Diego most proud of is his 24-year-old Stanford Awarded Grant Money from the East Coast in 1991. He daughter and 4-year-old grand- lacked structure in his new life son. He recently lost his mother in California and started work- and father, but he is determined For Research on Realignment ing for his brother, a professional not to let that get him down. By San Quentin News Staff research projects: Furthermore, the goal is to iden- jazz musician, as a sound engi- “I have many losses in life Analysis of 58 County Ap- tify policy recommendations, neer. while I’ve been locked up,” he The Stanford Criminal Jus- proaches to Realignment: Cen- and highlights best practices The nightlife brought him into said. “I’m getting used to know- tice Center has received grants ter researchers are collecting among California’s 58 counties contact with drugs and spurred ing we are only on this planet a totaling $650,000 to support its data and analyzing the different to address those issues. an addiction that spun his life out short time.” research on the impact of Gov. approaches that California’s 58 of control. Rideout says life doesn’t get Jerry Brown’s prison reduction counties have taken in imple- This is not the fi rst time Ride- him down too often. He attributes plan. The plan, known as re- menting Realignment. “... Realignment out has been in trouble, but it is this to his personal philosophy: alignment, shifts authority for County Case Studies: SCJC the most serious crime for which never take life too seriously. low-level offenders from the researchers are interviewing represents the state prison system to county key criminal justice offi cials biggest change in offi cials. (prosecutors, defense attorneys, 9th Circuit Rules Against “The SCJC is well-known for judges, sheriffs, probation of- sentencing and its important work on crimi- fi cers) within a small sampling corrections in the Race-Based Punishment nal justice policy at all levels of counties to study their imple- By San Quentin News Staff The three-judge ruling ordered of governments,” said Stanford mentation of Realignment. The last six decades” prison offi cials to fi nd alternative Law School Dean M. Elizabeth counties comprise a representa- tive model of the state, which California’s Pelican Bay State ways of restraining race-based Magill in a website post. “In “California has the largest include Alameda, Fresno, Kern, Prison has been ordered to end hostility than long-term restric- recent years, research from the prison system in the country,” Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, race-based punishment except tions placed on ethnic groups. SCJC has provided invaluable said Robert Weisberg, Edwin E. Sacramento, San Francisco, during riots and other dire emer- In the ruling the justices help to public offi cials who are Huddleson Jr., professor of law Santa Barbara, Solano, and San gencies by a federal appeals noted, “prison offi cials said the struggling with diffi cult crimi- and faculty co-director of the Joaquin. court, reports The Associated two groups were at ‘war’ and at- nal justice issues in the state of Stanford Criminal Justice Cen- Statewide Judges and Pros- Press. tacked each other on sight.” California. These grants will al- t e r. “A nd C a l i fo r n ia Re a l ig n me nt ecutors Discretion Study: Us- The prison offi cial’s claims low the center to continue that represents the biggest change in ing approaches from the fi elds of that targeting known gang work, which is critical to the fu- sentencing and corrections in criminology, law, and econom- members was justifi ed, failed ture of the state.” the last six decades. Through “If the warden ics and the development of hy- to persuade the judges to allow Grants were awarded by the our research, we want the data pothetical survey instruments, doesn’t cease the race-based practices to con- U.S. Department of Justice, Of- to tell us exactly what the effects SCJC researchers are polling tinue. fi ce of Justice Programs, Nation- are of shifting responsibility and these racially prosecutors and judges across In 2000, Pelican Bay was al Institute of Justice, the James discretion from the state to the California to determine how discriminatory placed on lockdown after a riot, Irvine Foundation, and the Pub- county— how that impacts rates their decisions on charges and however southern Hispanic pris- lic Welfare Foundation. of incarceration versus probation practices, he will sentencing have changed post- oners remained on lockdown for The center has been at the supervision versus community Realignment. be in contempt four years after the lockdown forefront of studying both the programs, and so on. We want Front-end Effects and Best began. implementation of California’s our research to help California of court” Practices: The SCJC research The new ruling notes that Peli- Public Safety Realignment Act get Realignment right.” can Bay had been ordered to end as well as the parole release pro- team is studying the impact of The 9th Circuit Court of Ap- race-based practices in 2009. cess for individuals serving life Realignment on the front-end peal ruling in January said pris- “If the warden doesn’t cease sentences with the possibility of of the criminal justice system *Editor’s note: California is on offi cials improperly deprived these racially discriminatory parole in California. through the convening of ex- now the second largest prison some ethnic groups of family practices, he will be in contempt SCJC researchers expect to ecutive sessions, development system in the country. Texas visits, outside exercise and reli- of court,” said Don Specter, lead share fi ndings with key policy- of white papers, and writing of a recently surpassed California gious services when racial ten- attorney in the case for the Pris- makers later this year. report that synthesizes the major for the title of America’s largest sion was heightened. on Law Offi ce. The SCJC website cites four issues created by Realignment. prison system. Page 4 SAN QUENTIN NEWS www.sanquentinnews.com March 2013 Wilbert Rideau, A Triumphant Voice for Prisoners

Continued from Page 1 write about issues such as living zine industry. lowship in 2007 and works as plains Rideau. “They marked conditions, prisoner’s due pro- Rideau said his goal was to a consultant with the Federal the fi rst time in my life that I magazine at Angola State Prison cess rights, medical/psychiatric offer a broader perspective Death Penalty Resource Coun- had been publicly patted on the in Louisiana. care, and policy. They believe by writing about prison mat- sel Project. back for having done something Beginning in 1961, Rideau issues covering both good and ters that goes beyond what is Rideau was awarded The good.” He attributes the oppor- spent 44 years in Angola in Lou- bad circumstances should be proffered by prisoners and the American Bar Association’s tunity to make the most of his isiana for killing a bank teller in covered as much as possible. prison’s administration. Some Silver Gavel Award in 1979 writing gift to Warden Phelps, a moment of panic and was sen- In his memoir, In The Place of articles simply cannot be writ- for “outstanding contribution who he refers to as “My mentor tenced to death at the age of 19. Justice: A Story of Punishment ten accurately by outside jour- to public understanding of the and friend.” After spending the fi rst 12 and Deliver- American sys- Rideau participated in com- years on Death Row, Rideau’s ance, Rideau tem of law parative conversation with San sentence was commuted to life. wrote “…ev- and justice.” Quentin News staff relative Following decades of legal ery aspect of It marked the to Louisiana and California’s battles, Rideau was released prison life is fi rst time in penitentiary rules and policies. from prison in 2005. serious busi- the ABA’s 100- He shared information on ev- While on Death Row, Rideau ness.” year history erything from publishing, jour- became a prolifi c writer defi ning A “New that it had so nalistic access and censorship, his surroundings in an inimi- York Times” honored a pris- to groups and organizations al- table voice. In 1975, Rideau be- book review oner. He also lowed behind the walls. came a staff writer, then editor said of Ride- received the Rideau said dozens of groups of The Angolite. Under Rideau’s au’s memoir, Robert F. Ken- at Angola; referred to as “fran- editorship, the publication won “Candid… nedy Journal- chises,” raise funds which they many awards, among them the Rideau is ism Award. spend as they see fi t. That in- American Penal Press Award. the rarest of With the cludes money to charities and “The Angolite enjoyed free- American blessing of the purchasing parole clothes for dom to investigate and criticized commodities late warden men. prison management, policies, – a man who Phelps, Rideau San Quentin has more active and practice, but it wasn’t al- exited a peni- ventured into programs than any of the other ways easy,” Rideau said, tentiary in filmmaking 32 prisons in the state. Rideau Both the San Quentin News better shape with his docu- said those serving time here are and The Angolite at times have than when he mentary on An- fortunate to have access to such been asked by the prison’s ad- arrived.” Photo by Lt. S. Robinson gola State Pris- programs and encouraged par- ministration not to print specifi c Rideau Wilbert Rideau in the San Quentin newsroom on titled The ticipation. “This not only allows articles that may be infl ammato- has been re- Farm, which for a constructive outlet,” he ry by making a reasonable case ferred to as was nominated added, “These programs benefi t not to do so. “The most rehabilitated man in nalists, he said. for an Academy Award in the the prison in many ways.” San Quentin News Managing America,” by former Warden Despite the fact that he was best feature-length category. At 71, Rideau travels around Editor Juan Haines said, “As of Angola State Prison C. Paul in prison, Rideau was a corre- He wrote and produced Final America speaking not only on journalists, we have a responsi- Phelps spondent for NPR’s Fresh Air; Judgment: The Execution of matters important to prison- bility to our readers and the pub- The Angolite was one of fi ve coproduced and narrated a ra- Antonio James. After produc- ers. He also peels the layers of lic to report news that will not fi nalists in the category of spe- dio documentary, Tossing Away ing the fi lm, Rideau said inex- dense cover off of issues such put people in harm’s way, under cial journalism for the 1978 the Keys, for NPR’s All Things plicably he was only given the as censorship, media access the circumstances of imprison- National Magazine awards, Considered. He is the recipient minimal credit line “Story by behind bars, prison politics, ment.” administered by the Columbia of a George Polk Award. Since Wilbert Rideau.” and administrative problems Haines and Rideau agreed that School of Journalism, the high- his release in 2005, Rideau was “These [awards] were life where they exist. prison journalists have a duty to est honor for the nation’s maga- awarded a Soros Justice Fel- changing events for me,” ex- –Boston Woodard

Doug Butler Conquered Adversity, Easter and Passover

Found Change From Behind Bars Special services have been announced From Prisoner to Community Activist for San Quentin. Continued from Page 1 After spending 20 years in as a community activist. prison, Butler was paroled on He is now director of a pro- Protestant Chapel: of second-degree murder. Aug. 17, 2004. He said while gram called Men of Valor at “My life took a turn because he was at San Quentin, he Acts Full of Gospel Church in • Worship service 6 p.m. Good Friday, March 29. my choices eventually landed would send laudatory chronos Oakland. It helps ex-convicts • Tiburon Baptist Church will lead a service at 6 p.m. me in prison,” he said. “It took of his self-help group achieve- get identifi cation and clothing, Saturday, March 30. three trials for the jury to fi nd ments to the same district at- write resumes, learn job inter- • Prisoner speaker will be featured at 10:30 a.m. ser- me guilty. I hit rock bottom after torney’s office that convicted view techniques and develop that.” him. life skills. vice on Easter Sunday, March 31. After his conviction, he went Being a success after prison • Marantha Community Church will lead 6 p.m. ser- to various prisons including Cal- can be tough, Butler said, but it vice Easter Sunday. ifornia Men’s Colony, Tehachapi is not impossible. “It took three trials Catholic Chapel: Maximum Security Prison, New Butler reported the prison for the jury to Folsom’s B yard, and Solano. He programs helped him positive- • Lord Supper Mass Holy Thursday at 6 p.m. March arrived at San Quentin in 1993. ly shape his character and pre- fi nd me guilty. I 28. pared him for his current career “I thought being an ex-cop hit rock bottom • Good Friday service at 2 p.m. March 29. would bring me trouble,” But- ler said. “But the gang leaders after that” • Ecumenical (Interfaith) service at 1 p.m. Saturday, allowed me to walk the line as March 30. long as I wasn’t a threat.” • Easter Vigil with San Francisco Dioceses with Once Butler arrived at San Butler stressed that ex-fel- Bishop William Justice at 6 p.m. Sunday, March 31. Quentin, he said he immersed ons can be employed because • Easter Service in English at 11 a.m. Sunday, March himself in self-help programs. they know the value of second Subsequently, he said his chances. He noted that leaders 31. thought patterns and approach of the Oakland’s Army Base • Easter Service in Spanish at 1 p.m. Sunday, March to life changed. redevelopment project have 31. “San Quentin is a mecca for indicated they plan to hire ex- programs,” Butler said. “I took felons by 2014. Jewish Congregation: Breaking Barriers, AVP (Al- “You will all be successful,” • Passover (Pesach) service at 6 p.m. Monday, March ternative to Violence Program), Butler said. “Just remember, Photo courtesy Doug Butler 25. Man Alive, Narcotics Anony- character is who you are when mous and IMPACT.” Doug Butler no one is looking.” March 2013 SAN QUENTIN NEWS www.sanquentinnews.com Page 5 Report: Criminal Justice Policies Waste Resources and Hinder Rehabilitation

By Kevin D. Sawyer of viable program alterna- The Jail Alternatives Initia- available public funds,” said nizance release, supervised Journalism Guild Writer tives, or simply inefficient tive has already implemented Scott MacDonald, chief pro- release, intensive supervi- practices,” leading to over- a “replicable systems level in- bation officer for Santa Cruz sion, electronic monitoring, The policy of arrest and crowded and deteriorating tervention approach,” which County. “We must move past citation release programs, re- systematic incarceration of conditions resulting in legal is designed to use local re- ‘tough on crime’ stances that ducing bail amount, expedit- low-level offenders, wastes action against jailers, the re- sources to help offenders stay lack depth and instead be- ing plea agreements, deferred county jail resources needed port states. out of jail. come ‘smart on crime.’” prosecution programs, day for more serious offenders, The situation at the state JAI’s system diagnosis ex- reporting centers and week- and it hinders rehabilitation, level became more urgent as amines the “current charac- end crew operation. according to a new report. two lawsuits, Colman v Brown “Not all adult teristics of the individuals in The report finds it is im- Numerous counties lock (filed in 1990) and Brown v offenders jail beds,” such as “age, gen- perative that county-based up every offender, causing a Plata (filed in 2001), resulted der, racial identity, residence, justice administrators control shortage of county jail bed in California prisons being require secure immigration status, and prior the future of their justice sys- space. However, “Not all adult declared unconstitutional for arrest history” in order to de- tems while not repeating the offenders require secure con- their deleterious impact on confinement” velop a meticulous picture of past mistakes at the state-lev- finement,” the October 2012, prisoner health. the present jail population. el that created an ineffective Center on Juvenile and Crim- The report recommends “Local and state correc- Some of the options out- structure relying on punitive inal Justice report finds. jails and the probation system tions must provide the highest lined for offenders to reduce practices rather than invest- Unnecessary incarceration to reduce the rate of incar- possible level of public safety jail population include pre- ing in self-reliant, local prac- “can be the cause of a lack ceration. with maximum benefit from trial services, own-recog- tices. Last Mile Entrepreneurs Deliver Visionary Ideas Continued from Page 1 “The natural high you get If venture capitalists want to from exercise can be transforma- support the projects, the prison- a prisoner mentorship program tive,” Schuhmacher said. “When ers could receive funding and called The Last Mile. The audi- a person decides to get clean, it launch their business after their ence included prison adminis- can mean abandoning their en- release from prison. Even if the trators, visitors, volunteers and tire social network of friends projects are not picked up, The more than 100 prisoners. still involved with drinking and Last Mile still provides prisoners The presentations marked drugs. At Fitness Monkey, mem- with marketable skills and op- the fi nal step of The Last Mile bers will be able to connect to an portunities for paid internships program, which aims to help online community...for the moti- in the future. incarcerated men learn how to vation and support to overcome In addition to training in social connect with the digital world, addiction.” media, The Last Mile partici- Schuhmacher stated, “Fitness pants answered questions on the even though they have no inter- Photo by Sam Hearnes net access, according to business Monkey is a product of my life Beverly Parenti and Chris Redlitz with website Quora, where people can executive Chris Redlitz, the pro- and my life sentence.” His vision the 7 Last Mile entrepreneurs ask the men questions about pris- gram’s cofounder. Prisoners in is “to get the monkey of addic- on. As an example, when Win- the program learn how business- tion off our members’ backs and while carving a niche in an $8 and give the public the opportu- frey described what it’s like to es are created from experts, and offer the life-changing benefi t of billion industry. nity to help someone change for murder someone, it became one how to develop business ideas, getting clean by staying fi t.” “Even produce deserves a the better.” of the most downloaded answers based on a genuine desire to bet- “The world has changed a lot in second chance,” said Heredia, With obesity being a lead- by viewers of Quora. People were ter communities at large. the last 18 years,” prisoner Larry prompting chuckles and smiles ing health concern in America, genuinely interested in learning Redlitz said he wanted to show Histon told the audience. “But my throughout the audience. Heracio Harts said he wants to what’s going through the head that “technology could offer passion for technology has not.” Darnell Hill’s Intervention create a business called Healthy of a killer, Quora representative second chances to incarcerated Histon said he wants to create a Outlet raises awareness around Hearts Institute that would use Katrina Li said. people.” vocational training school called problems associated with Post abandoned homes to host farm- “The Last Mile program At the program’s fi rst Demo- Tech Sage for ex-felons focused Traumatic Stress Disorder. Hill ers markets or exercise spaces. connects inmates with oppor- Day last year, James Houston’s on software engineering. Histon said when children are victim- Harts noted that $190 billion is tunities that they traditionally Teen Tech Hub showed how far an knows there is a connection be- ized or witnesses to violence, idea could go. Houston is sched- tween newly released prisoners they are subject to PTSD. He told uled to be released from prison having a job and lower recidi- the audience that nearly 15 per- by summer and a Richmond vism rates. He envisions teaching cent of children who experience company is ready to implement ex-offenders the skills needed to at least one traumatic event suf- the ideas of Teen Tech Hub. create applications for an ever- fer from PTSD. This year’s presentations re- growing device-orientated soci- “The key to dealing with PTSD vealed what the prisoner’s lear ned ety—a skill high-tech companies is to allow the person to be heard about a world of technology that continually seek. without judgment,” he said. had previously passed them by. The Funky Onion proposal is Through Intervention Outlet, Chris Schuhmacher told the premised on the saying, “Beauty users would be able to access group, “I am the founder and is only skin deep,” said founder counselors through mobile apps, CEO of Fitness Monkey...an on- Jorge Heredia. He said he wants increasing comfort and security. line life coaching service that to take produce rejected for size “Assistance without judgment is or cosmetic reasons to build an an important aspect of Interven- empowers addiction recovery Photo by Sam Hearnes through physical fi tness.” empire that could feed millions, tion Outlet,” Hill said. For those Jorge Heredia pitches “The Funky Onion” without internet access, his pro- gram would provide fi eld men- spent on obesity-related health cannot connect to,” said Cali- tors by offering resource contact care costs annually. Urban com- fornia Department of Correc- information and community munities could deal with obesity tions official Elizabeth Sig- events, he concluded. from a businesses perspective, gins. Tommy Winfrey’s idea, Art he added. “The Blue Print (Future of Felt Creations, would hook up art The most entertaining presen- California Corrections) has a connoisseurs with incarcerated tation, called, At The Club, came computer literacy component artists in an effort to link visual from Eddie Griffi n. He said his that is designed to help inmates arts with storytelling. love of jazz gave him the idea learn skills to better their em- “When I became incarcerated of connecting mobile devices to ployment chances after re- at a young age, I robbed myself of the performances of quality jazz lease,” Siggins said. Selected the ability to appreciate my own musicians. He said he wants to prisons would be opening as talents,” Winfrey said. “I want to allow people to have an intimate reentry hubs this July for in- Photo by Sam Hearnes give incarcerated artists an op- relationship with the music he mates who have four years or Warden Chappell and guests attending Demo Day portunity to express themselves, loves. less to parole, she added. Page 6 SAN QUENTIN NEWS www.sanquentinnews.com March 2013 Baseball SPORTS Season Opening Day 4-6-13 0900 Hrs S.Q. Baseball Sophomores Giants vs. A’s Softball Have Positive Outlook By Ruben Harper baseball organization requires portive because he “brings a real Team Tryouts Contributing Writer “humility, patience, dedication, (balanced) IQ to this baseball and professionalism” from him. program.” 4-14-13 1300 Hrs With last season’s baseball “It’s about jailing together, by Windham said he is honored behind them, San Quentin’s me showing good sportsman- to be a part of the baseball pro- Basketball baseball rookie players feel they ship to my teammates whether gram. now have the expertise with im- we win, lose or draw,” said “Giants’ general managers are San Quentin Kings provements in their game. There Windham about his leadership unselfi sh about taking the time is a sense of team leadership role this season. out of their busy lives for us,” vs. now with sophomore members Jordan said that he under- said Windham. of the team. stands what it takes for S.Q.’s Lockheart said, “I feel good Outside Bay Area Teams S.Q. A’s starting second base- baseball program to be success- about our coaching staff. Coach Every Saturday 1130-1400 Hrs man Cleo Clomen said his per- ful. ‘Yahya’ (in particular) is put- formance on the baseball fi eld “I’ve been playing baseball ting his best foot forward.” He needs improvement this season. all of my life. Learning how to also stated “Yahya” is fair, and Flag Football “Last year I played with fun- damentals. This time around my Every Friday 0900-Hrs hope is to better my overall sta- tistics and game,” said Clomen. “I want to improve (on) my Tennis batting, and my leadership po- sition as a center-fi elder,” said Every Saturday last year’s S.Q. Giants baseball player John Windham. He said San Quentin Tennis he wants to be more accountable vs. for his pitching too. Last season’s Giants pitcher Bay Area Players and shortstop Marc Jordan said he looks to be a better team- mate. Photo by Ernest Woods “I want to give back some A’s player Cleo Clomen at bat Kings Plan a Better positive input to the rookies this season,” said Jordan. “My fundamentals would def- play small ball, and being able he makes decisions that need to Attitude this Season initely improve by staying fo- to trust your teammates,” Jordan be made (for the team) as a head cused,” said last year’s A’s left- said is a positive formula for the coach. Despite having a winning re- ers who understands the love of fi elder Rasheed Lockheart. organization. “I understand that it’s hard cord last season, the 40 and over life.” Sophomores expressed hope Sophomores said their coach- to be a coach in prison. You San Quentin Kings basketball He said tested returning play- for success this season. es, general managers, and spon- have so many different person- team looks to build on its tal- ers and potential recruits have Clomen said, “We as a team sors make their team contribu- alities and different races to ents, and further improve on the equal opportunities to fi ll the 13 need to be aware that there will tions possible. deal with,” said Jordan about team’s structure. The plan is regular spots. Four others could be no easy road to a champion- “It’s a true blessing to have his head coach “Frankie,” who to develop a better attitude and play, depending on whether they ship.” He said that unity and people come in from the streets, does a good job on and off the work ethic. succeed in going home under the team conditioning is crucial to a spend time to teach, and for baseball fi eld. Kings Assistant Head Coach amended Three Strikes Law. successful season. them to show us camaraderie,” Clomen said he is grateful for Ismael Freelon said he is ec- “I anticipate making the team Jordan said his team’s goal said Jordan. the S.Q.’s baseball sponsors. static about his newly discov- and being able to positively this year is to “just beat the A’s Lockheart credited last sea- “That’s why I play hard. It’s ered talent during his basketball contribute my fair share of re- a lot more.” son’s A’s General Manager Len only right for me to give them tryouts. bounds and viable communica- Sophomores say they are elec- Zemarkowitz for his team lead- the same (positive) energy, and “Although our team lost a few tion (skills) to my teams’ vic- trifi ed about their leadership ership this year. dedication back,” said Clomen good players to success of their tory this season,” said potential qualities and they count on giv- “I like his dedication. He be- about his grace for the spon- prison releases, we have the tal- small forward “Thad” Fleeton. ing back to S.Q.’s baseball club lieves in what we are doing as a sor’s attitude for S.Q.’s self- ent, (and) I really believe we will Returning center “Detroit” this year. team,” said Lockheart. He men- rehabilitating inmate baseball be a strong force to be reckoned Long said he desires to work on Lockheart said a winning tioned Zemarkowitz is also sup- program. with,” he said. “developing personal growth “It’s about whatever the and take it into an undefeated coaches say. You have to believe season.” into (the) system,” says return- Long considers himself a “Big Junkyard Dogs Thump Warlocks ing point guard and team Cap- Man” on the court. He said he tain Asey Brian. He said his role insists his veteran attitude is is to avoid player disagreements, important for also helping the 40 - 26 in All-Pro Football Classic and foster a positive attitude. younger Warriors team grow. Trailing by six points in the The Warlocks got back into Vines. Windham followed Coach Freelon said he wants Long said qualities he hopes second half, the Junkyard Dogs the game after John Windham with another 12-yard touch- to do more this year as a patient to offer the league this season answered with 14 unanswered intercepted a pass in the end down and then intercepted a listener. He intends to focus include “instilling some educa- points, defeating the Warlocks zone and returned it for a touch- pass on defense which he re- more on helping his players tional growth, personal inspira- 40-26 in the San Quentin All down, decreasing their defi cit to turned for a touchdown to give work through their struggles, tion, and assisting my team to Pro football ball game. 20-6. the Warlocks their first lead at both on and off the court. become better men on and off The Junkyard Dogs scored on Windham continued mak- 30-26. Freelon said he worked on the court.” a safety, and touchdown catches ing plays as he completed a 50- Windham then completed “selection of supportive play- –Ruben Harper by Joshua Thomson and Jhavon- yard run and a 10-yard run for a a two-point conversion on a te Carr. touchdown to decrease the War- pass to K. Dozier, giving the Junkyard Dogs jumped out locks defi cit to 20-12. Warlocks a 32-26 lead. How- San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis displayed to an early 12-0 lead off touch- The Junkyard Dogs respond- ever, their defense could not some of his paintings at the recent opening of his Gallery down passes from Royce “Ga- ed as Rose threw a 15-yard stop the Junkyard dogs from 85 in San Jose. It supports the Vernon Davis Foundation tor” Rose to Joshua Thompson touchdown pass to Thompson responding with a scoring for the Arts. The gallery is named for Davis’ 49er jersey and Dwight Kennedy. Thomp- to increase their lead to 26- drive as they suffered a tough number. Also on display was the art of Niyjale Cummings son then responded with a 10- 12. loss after overcoming an 18- of East Palo Alto. Cummings was the most recent recipient yard run for a touchdown and a The Warlocks struck back point deficit. of the Vernon Davis Visual Arts Scholarship. two-point conversion, increas- when Windham threw an 80- ing their lead 18-0. yard touchdown pass to M. -Gary Scott March 2013 SAN QUENTIN NEWS www.sanquentinnews.com Page 7 A Cautionary Tale About The Pitfalls of Parole

By Arnulfo T. Garcia Mullane followed the men’s into an institution and working and JulianGlenn Padgett lives, detailing the emotional with the youth. San Quentin News Staff rollercoaster they underwent af- “The things I’ve accomplished ter the parole board granted them have been amazing. Three Convicted murderer Jesse a release date, the 150 days the months ago I was in Galt at a Reed served nearly 2 ½ decades governor has to accept or reject California Department of Cor- Photo by Lt. S. Robinson behind bars before his incarcer- its fi ndings, and their struggles rections and Rehabilitation sum- A concerned Jesse Reed back in prison ation ended and he was set free. to reintegrate with their families mit at the request of Bill Sessa,” But something went wrong; he’s and communities. Reed said. and we had lost some large con- agent came the following Mon- back inside San Quentin State “When I left San Quentin, Reed said Sessa called Nan- tracts and my mother’s health day morning for a drug test. Prison for violating conditions I thought I was prepared. But cy Mullane to request him to was declining,” said Reed. “He tested me two weeks ear- of his parole. there were a lot of things I wasn’t speak at the summit. On Jan. 16 Reed rushed from lier and was about to switch see- “I had a dirty urine test, I prepared for,” Reed said. “The “I’m trying to make it better his business to the hospital, ing me from one month to every tested positive for the use of co- transformation from prison to for men when they get out, so where his mother had been tak- other month. The one time I did caine,” said Reed, sitting in the free society was scary. I was they don’t have the setbacks I en. While there, Jesse was told something stupid,” Reed said. Reception Center chow hall for headed into a world that I knew had,” he said. his mother had terminal stage Jesse said San Quentin pro- his interview, dressed in an or- nothing about.” Being around family and four cancer. Afterwards, Jesse grams helped in his transition. ange jumpsuit. Reed said he did a lot of min- loved one’s people he had not said his girlfriend moved out be- “They defi nitely didn’t fail me “I know I’ve disappointed a istry work his fi rst year home. seen for years was a great feel- cause she felt he was spending and I defi nitely didn’t fail them. lot of people, but I know that it’s The San Quentin self-help pro- ing, Reed said. The down side too much time with his mother. I relapsed. I’m human, and we important to tell my side of the gram Incarcerated Men Putting is they did not know him and She left him with bills and a car make mistakes. I knew I needed story because I want others to Away Childish Things arranged Jesse did not know them. note. help but as men we have a prob- learn from my mistakes,” Reed speaking engagements for Reed “Struggling to become ac- Soon after his mother died, his lem of pride,” said Reed. said. that included appearances at cepted by them has been a aunt was diagnosed with stage “I’ll make a promise...you will Reed was one of the subjects Castlemont High School and the challenge. I feel guilty be- four lung cancer. never see me behind these walls of the book Life After Murder, Phoenix Project. cause I wasn’t there to help “Watching her go through again and when you guys do Five Men in Search of Redemp- “I spoke at the Civic Auditori- raise them or give advice,” chemotherapy was like seeing come home, I’ll make it easier tion, by Nancy Mullane. um after the two young kids got Jesse said. Some of his rela- my mom all over again. All of for you guys coming out,” Reed Life After Murder detailed shot in the church,” Reed said. tives embraced him whole- this was building up. It was just said. what it’s like for fi ve convicted The Department of Juvenile heartedly; others did not. He one traumatizing experience af- Reed will attend a substance murderers to transform their Justice called upon Reed to lec- said he has two siblings and ter another, and I didn’t know abuse program fi ve days a week lives into one that the parole ture incarcerated youngsters they do not get along. how to ask for help,” Reed said. through his new release plan. board deems “no longer a dan- about his transformation into a “Things were beginning to Reed said his drug relapse oc- “This doesn’t defi ne me; what ger to public safety,” and to walk responsible citizen. Reed said it build up on me. I had started a curred during a weekend gather- I do from this day forward will out of prison a free men. is an awesome feeling—going janitorial business with a partner ing at a friend’s house. His parole defi ne me,” Reed concluded. Some County Lockups Face State’s Crowding Problems By San Quentin News Staff federal oversight of the state’s nal Code and enhancing county Shifting offenders from do- suggest lawmakers should prisons could be coming, ac- innovation,” suggests Lenore ing time in state prisons to overhaul the Penal Code so If county governments do not cording to an opinion column Anderson in her op-ed item. county jails merely shifts the that jails and prisons would be fi nd alternative ways to deal in the Sacramento Bee. The large number of new state’s overcrowding problems reserved for those who most with crime and punishment “Two fi xes would go a long sentencing laws since 1980 to county governments that dangerously jeopardize public other than mass incarceration, way to increase safety and re- have resulted in keeping of- now have to deal with potential safety. the same problems Gov. Jerry duce waste in local and state fenders locked up for longer lawsuits alleging the same ille- Specific suggestions in- Brown currently faces with justice systems: fi xing the Pe- periods, making the number of gal conditions of incarceration, clude developing effective people locked up increase more the item points out. “In other re-entry programs, utilizing than 14 times faster than Cali- words, county and state tax dol- assessment tools that access fornia’s general population, ac- lars could increasingly go to risk so some low-risk defen- cording to Anderson. litigation and settlements rather dants could await trial under Since 1981, the bloating pris- than vital government and com- supervision instead of jail, on population shot taxpayer munity needs.” and requiring offenders to do cost up by 1,500 percent— By 2016, California will have some of their time in jail and more than $10 billion annu- built more jail beds than beds the rest under supervised pro- ally, the report states. “This in state prison, according to bation. decreased available funding expert projections of the im- for health, social services and pact of the Realignment plan To view the Sacramento Bee education—and wastes justice shifting low-risk prisoners to article go to; http;//sacbee. resources on low-risk people county jurisdiction. com/2013/01/18/5123238/mod- Photo by Jay L. Clendenin, L.A. Times instead of serious and violent To de-populate the state’s ernize-penal-code-or-face- Inside the L.A. County Men’s Central Jail crime.” overcrowded lockups, the item more.htm#storylink=cpy Research Confi rms Children Respond Better to the Carrot Than the Stick By San Quentin News Staff erance Policies…and negative a high-risk youth from a life of ing, and the building of problem- ment only two years after the outcomes associated with them. crime range from $2.6-$5.3 mil- solving skills. It is particularly implementation of the program, Researchers have found the The working paper also com- lion if the youth can be saved by benefi cial for schools because it the report found that the aver- use of dialogue, collaboration pares the economic cost of zero age 18. allows for the development of a age suspension rate at the school and mutual respect works better tolerance verses restorative jus- Future crime, drug involve- safe, collaborative, and positive dropped from 50 suspensions than punishment-based disci- tice to demonstrate how future ment, and high school dropout environment in which students per 100 students to only six sus- pline for children with behav- crime, drug involvement, and were used in analyzing the cost are more likely to strive. pensions per 100 students on av- ioral problems. high school dropout rates would savings. The research suggests A study conducted by the erage for the two years after the Zero tolerance models are affect criminal justice spending. that policymakers should “be Thelton E. Henderson Center for program was implemented. based on immediate punish- States spent about “$5.7 bil- extremely critical of school dis- Social Justice at the University Students also reported strong ment for anti-social behavior. lion to imprison 64,558 youth cipline policies that impede” a of California, Berkeley, School positive feedback on how the Restorative justice models take committed to residential fa- youth’s academic potential and of Law reported very positive program helped to reduce prob- into account “the needs of the cilities,” costing states on aver- criminalizes their behavior. results surrounding the imple- lematic behavior such as fi ght- multiple actors involved in a dis- age “$240.99 per day—around The research shows that re- mentation of a restorative justice ing and helped build relation- ciplinary proceeding (and) the $88,000 a year—for every youth storative justice focuses on ac- program at Cole Middle School ships with other students. multiple levels of harm caused in a juvenile facility,” the re- countability, reintegration and in West Oakland, Calif. by violence,” according to In- search shows. inclusion (instead of exclusion Although the school was For more on the report, see: troduction: Punitive Zero Tol- The estimated value of saving and exiling), community build- closed due to declining enroll- http:ssrn.com/abstract=2107240 Page 8 SAN QUENTIN NEWS www.sanquentinnews.com March 2013 San Quentin Jazz Concert Honors Black History Month THE SOULFUL SOUNDS OF SEASONED ENSEMBLES

By Boston Woodard and Prisoners hustled from San Watani Stiner addressed the JulianGlenn Padgett Quentin’s cellblocks toward the event by asking the attendance to annual Feb. 8 event, hoping for participate in a traditional Swa- Toes were tapping and hands a good seat. hili intone titled “HARAMBEE Photo by Sam Hearnes were clapping as a standing- The Protestant Chapel ambi- (Let’s all pull together).” After Greg Dixon, Dwight Krizman and Reggie Austin ance could have rivaled any jazz a brief historical background on club in the free world as music the day’s celebration, Watani in- Keyboardist and songwriter oring Black History Month; enthusiasts seated themselves troduced San Quentin’s own We Austin said John Coltrane was these guys are as good as they by the dozens. Musicians of the Just CameTo Play, a group com- the man who made him start get.” jazz genre tuned their instru- prised of prisoners skilled in the listening to jazz. “Coltrane During Stiner’s opening an- ments on stage while the mass jazz genre. would play things on the horn nouncement, he told the audi- assembly seated itself. This jazz ence that jazz is a complex festival was organized and per- music that derives from many formed by the jazzmen of San musical elements. “These ele- Quentin. ments were recycled through Throughout the show, there the concepts and aesthetic were periodic eruptions of ap- principles that defi ne the musi- plause brought on by a well- cal tradition of Africa.” known tune or a blistering solo Staying true to his style, key- by one of the players. Several boardist Austin mixed some Photo by Sam Hearnes times throughout the perfor- of his compositions with the Joseph Demerson mance, Reginald Austin wowed chord substitutions for which room-only San Quentin audi- the throng with interspersed Coltrane was well known. ence celebrated Black History mixtures of familiar rhythmic Those men in the audience ac- Month with a live jazz concert. melodies. quaintanced with the work of “It’s been quite some time Black History Month in Feb- Coltrane were impressed with since I’ve heard live jazz mu- ruary is an appropriate time to the exhibit put on by We Came sic,” said James Jenkins. “What showcase jazz music and what To Play. I witnessed today rivals any mu- it means to not only the black Austin said, “We Just Came Photo by Sam Hearnes sic performance I saw out in the community at San Quentin, but The ‘We Just Came to Play’ and ‘NSF’ musicians To Play’s” repertoire was free world. I hope these guys to every one who appreciates packed with progressive and can share their talents with us the soulful sounds of rich jazz Prior to We Just Came To unlike anything I ever heard. I classic styles from a compre- again in the near future,” added compositions being played by Play taking the stage, the also loved the way he looked at hensive collection of contem- Jenkins. seasoned musicians. rhythm and blues group NSF the mechanics of music.” porary songs put together by opened the event with two John Wilkerson, Arts and the ensemble. Watching the “musicals” written by Rogers Corrections band sponsor musicians negotiating their in- & Farris. NSF set the mood and percussionist, added his struments on stage, listening to with a cadence that compelled unique character to the smooth their improvising, accompany- the audience to tap their feet. jazz ambience. Several days ing grooves, solos, and moving We Just Came To Play trum- a week, Wilkerson sponsors grooves, was a show in and of pet player Larry Henry Fai- various music groups and is itself. son said it was jazz tunes like instrumental in making events Black Orpheus by Louis Boneli such as San Quentin’s Black We Just Came To Play: Reg- “with a melody that fl ows,” and History jazz event. inald Austin, Dwight Krizmen, Footprints by Wayne Shorter Blues musician Gary Harrell, Allen “Squirrel” Ware, Larry “Where we can go to follow who was sitting front row, told Henry Faison, Greg Dixon. NSF: W.R. “Rico” Rog- in somebody’s footsteps, and the San Quentin News, “As a ers, D. Farris, R. Tillman, C. Photo by Sam Hearnes their legacies, that are infl uen- musician, I’ve met many men “C-Bo” King, E. Wilson, J.D. The R & B ensemble ‘NSF’ tial to our love for jazz.” who have taken the stage hon- Strothers, J. Demerson. Alliance For Change is Making a Difference in San Quentin San Quentin’s Alliance ate but many of you surprised Cowan said he was happy to an in-the-works program that ated individuals on social justice for CHANGE. brought new me,” Harris said at the 2012 see another class graduating. will help acquaint prisoners with and its affect on their communi- meaning to the words social event. “I hope that our being here the online world. ties, Harris said. justice as its 2012 class grad- Cleo Cloman, a graduate gives people hope for the future The program will teach pris- “The goal is to inspire both uated. who has been at San Quentin that you can make it out there,” oners things like how to pay bills men and women who have com- AFC is a program created for a year, said AFC taught Cowan said. “The good deci- online and use credit cards and mitted crimes to become anti- to teach about social justice him that he was a very impor- sions you plan to make have to phones, according to Morgan. crime and anti-violence advo- and its core goal is to pre- tant part of the community. start here.” “These are things you all will cates,” said Alliance member pare incarcerated men to re- “I was living in my com- Morgan, who has been out of need to understand,” he said. Carlos Meza. enter society. In 2012, 13 San munity but I was detached prison for 2 1/2 years, said tran- AFC aims to educate incarcer- – JulianGlenn Padgett Quentin prisoners graduated from it,” said Cloman, who sitioning out has not been easy. from the program after at- has been incarcerated for 17 “Days after I paroled to a tran- tending sessions four days a years. “That is what allowed sitional house, some of my prop- week for four months. me to harm my community. erty was stolen,” Morgan said. “I would like to say we’re Dr. Kim Richman, associ- “I called my attorney and she family; we want to break ste- ate professor at the Univer- said ‘You victimized someone; reotypes. The work is hard in sity of San Francisco, said the now you know what it’s like to here but we’re doing it,” said graduation was uplifting. be victimized.’ That was one of Abdur Raheem, co-leader of “You graduates have dem- my turning points.” the education section for Alli- onstrated a deep commitment Morgan, who was incarcer- ance for CHANGE. CHANGE to social justice and the com- ated for 23 years, said parolees stands for Creating Hope and munity by sticking it out,” are not necessarily prepared New Goals Ethically, accord- Richman said. “I’m proud of for some of the realities outside ing to Malik Harris, the presi- every single one of you.” prison. He said if you do not dent of Alliance. AFC’s founding members have your mind straight when “I’m very proud of you men Ern Morgan and David Cow- you go home, it can be hard to here today. From the begin- an — both parolees from San make that transition. ning this was a tough class. Quentin — attended the grad- Morgan also advised the men Photo by Sam Hearnes I knew you all would gradu- uation. to use Alliance’s Virtual World, Participants listen intently during the presentation March 2013 SAN QUENTIN NEWS www.sanquentinnews.com Page 9 Johnny Cash: Legendary Prison Reform Advocate Other well- ers. He connected with the idea something with it was talking sioning the Johnny Cash Show, known per- that a man could be redeemed about prison reform.” turning him into a TV star. formers such as and he sold over 50 million re- One form of torture that Cash Cash continued his campaign Carlos Santana, cords. Both the Country Music abhorred was known as the on penal reform by speaking to B.B. King, Joan Hall of Fame and the Rock and “Tucker Telephone.” It was an U.S. senators in Washington, Baez, and Wil- Roll Hall of Fame have honored old-style telephone hooked to a D.C. with his ideas and sug- lie Nelson have Cash. battery with clamps and cables gestions to correct some of the campaigned Many people believed in the that would be used to shock pris- problems behind the prison for the benefi t 1960s that prisons were ineffec- oners. walls. His proposals included of imprisoned tive regarding rehabilitation and “One clip was attached to the the separation of fi rst-timers men and women felt they were breeding grounds toe, the other attached to his pri- and hardened criminals and across America. for producing criminals. “Cash vate parts,” said Joellen Maack, the reclassifi cation of offenses Celebrities were had always believed that prison- curator at Arkansas’s Old State to keep minor offenders out of File Photo Johnny Cash in concert able to provide ers as a whole were not the ir- Museum. “The warden would prison. Cash also wanted to fo- live entertain- retrievable miscreants portrayed crank the phone and it would de- cus on rehabilitation rather than By Boston Woodard ment to prison- in the media,” said Curly Ray liver an electrical charge.” punishment, and counseling to Staff Writer ers and voice their advocacy for Martin, a prisoner at San Quen- Cash recorded his famous prepare convicts for the outside prisoners’ rights. Bread & Roses tin. “Folsom Prison Blues” song in world and reduce the possibility Country music star Johnny and the William James Founda- Cash’s prisoner advocacy was 1968, during a time in his career of them reoffending. Cash spent years performing tion were two such groups. broad as he spoke about other un- when he was struggling with Speaking at a U.S. Senate for prisoners all over America, Many of these groups and per- constitutional hearing, Cash once said, “Peo- including San Quentin, becom- formers offered their time and issues and a ple have got to care for prison ing a fervent and outspoken talents to bring entertainment to succession of reform to come about.” Cash voice for prisoners’ rights. prisoners, and to shed light on scandals that had a special way to make peo- Cash’s fi rst prison concert prison conditions while publi- occurred dur- ple listen and his most power- was at the Huntsville State cizing the importance of prison ing the ‘60s ful tool was his music that he Prison in Texas in 1957. Cash’s arts programs. None have had involving tor- shared with his passion to give most famous prison perfor- the legendary staying power ture, horrid a voice to the voiceless behind mances occurred in the 1960s however as “The Man in Black,” living condi- bars. Cash died in 2003 at the when he recorded live albums a nickname given to Cash for his tions, sexual age of 71. at Folsom and San Quentin penchant to wear black clothing. and physical “He had a unique ability to state prisons. Cash was born in 1932 in Ar- abuse, and File Photo get inside the heads of these “The roots of Cash’s empa- kansas to a farming family, and administra- Johnny Cash during a show in the S.Q. forgotten and ignored men and thy lies as far back as 1953 as labored at a car plant as a young tive failures. North Block dining hall in the 1960s understand the problems fac- a 21-year-old radio operator in man. He later served in the Air “I think ing them,” said Danny Robins. the U.S. Air Force,” said Dan- Force and as a sales representa- Cash had a feeling that somehow drug addiction. Cash’s outlaw “The roar from the inmate audi- ny Robins, reporter for BBC tive before his music career be- he could have been endowed image solidifi ed after perform- ence that’s heard on Live at San World Service. After watching gan in the 1950s. Cash’s strong with this fame in order to do ing “Folsom Prison Blues” dur- Quentin when Cash launches the fi lm, “Inside the Walls of religious beliefs were probably something with it,” said Michael ing his show Live at San Quen- into the provocative angry track Folsom Prison,” Cash was in- a factor that compelled him to Streissguth, Cash’s biographer. tin. The show was a success, and Folsom Prison Blues is testimo- spired to write a song. care about the rights of prison- “One of the ways he could do eventually led to ABC commis- ny to this.” Ex-Offenders and Survivors of Crime Unite to Tell a Story of Pain and Loss By San Quentin News Staff Till You Know My Story tells Killers voiced prison life as a the story of the fi ctional char- place that estranged them from It was a true reality play, fea- acter Jamal, whose life is inter- their families and society, driv- turing mothers of murdered rupted by the criminal justice ing home the pain of losing loved children and men serving time system, mainly because of his ones through either violence or in prison for murder. own faulty thought process. to the criminal justice system. The play was produced by The play’s cast included men “Playing Jamal made me look

No More Tears, a violence- and convicted of violent crimes and at my life and how similar our Photo by Sam Hearnes crime-intervention group that community actors portraying the paths have been,” said Nythell One actress name Melanie takes time to conducts weekly workshops and parents of murdered children. “Nate” Collins, who played the address the audience at the event healing circles teaching confl ict The performance ended with leading role. “It made me real- resolution, changing mindsets, actual parents of murdered loved ize that although victims and street thugs for permitting injus- mitted crimes have to be heard and developing successful reen- ones telling a room full of con- victims’ survivors have a story, tice to defi ne the streets. because healing begins when try tools. victed criminals how they feel so do I.” “The play invokes a great both victims and perpetrators This two-part play focused about their loss. Their emotional dialogue was amount of empathy in me, be- can share their stories to gain on the impact violent crime has “My son was only 17 when he painful to listen to, said one au- cause of the strength that the understanding,” said Collins. on neighborhoods throughout was killed, and the person who dience member, as the silence outside actors had to have to tell Getting past the misconcep- America. killed him is still walking around between lines was punctuated their stories to an audience of tion about those who kill, the The original play Till You free,” one mother sobbed. “I with hands wiping tears away. strangers,” said prisoner Curtis families of those who were Know My Story was performed want his killer to spend a year in The performance repeatedly Penn. “It made me refl ect on my killed, and crime and punish- Feb. 23 at San Quentin’s Protes- prison for every year my son was begged police to do more about own life, and that of my chil- ment captivated the atmosphere. tant Chapel for an audience of alive.” curbing violence, and chastised dren.” The dialogue seemed reality more than 150 community mem- The second act began with based and hit points that brought bers, volunteers, media outlets, all the cast singing about how out the impact of victimization, and San Quentin prisoners. peace would create a safer com- healing circles, and what trans- “Till You Know My Story munity. formation feels like. came out of the experience of No However, reality crept into The play also focused on how More Tears working with The the play. Scenes intermittently perpetrators of violent crime is Healing Circle of San Francisco fl ashed into courtrooms, interro- generational—sons followed the over the past fi ve years to fi nd gations, sentencing, prison life, path of their fathers, which emit- healing between survivors and and the reality of victimization ted a feeling of gloom and doom perpetrators of violence,” said by violent offenders who cycle for those who could not shake Lonnie Morris, co-writer of the in and out of the criminal justice the grip of past mistakes, leading play. “The play took two years to system. them to the doors of prison—a develop. This process included The prisoners stood center dangerous place to live or die. prisoners and outside commu- stage and gave details about Survivors of violent crime said nity actors, director Molly No- their transformative journey they wanted something out of ble and playwright Kenn Rabin from victimizers to compassion- this interaction between victims telling the story of healing and Photo by Sam Hearnes ate human beings. of violent crime and prisoners— redemption.” The players dramatizing the effects of violence “Men like me who’ve com- justice. Page 10 SAN QUENTIN NEWS www.sanquentinnews.com March 2013 Feds Say Prison Overcrowding Creates Dangerous Atmosphere By San Quentin News Staff years, reports Growing Inmate ciplinary infractions from the Crowding Negatively Affects In- general prison population. The rise in offenders housed mates, Staff and Infrastructure In 2012, the operating cost for within federal prisons is creat- http://www.gao.gov.gov/prod- the federal prison system’s 117 An artist’s rendition of a dilapidated Waban at dock ing an increasingly dangerous ucts/GAO-12-743. facilities was about $6.6 billion atmosphere for staff and prison- During the same period, the to house about 178,000 offend- ers alike, according to federal federal prison system added ers. An additional 40,000 offend- prison offi cials. about 8,300 beds by opening fi ve ers were incarcerated through A California Prison’s Overcrowding contributes to new facilities and closing four contracts with private companies prisoner misconduct and a de- minimum-security camps. and state governments. Maritime History cline in prison safety and secu- The population increase has The report reviewed fi ve states rity, according to fi ndings by the boosted the percentage of pris- and found because of greater U.S. Government Accounting oner’s housed in facilities rated By Tommy Winfrey Aboard the Waban, four men legislative authority, more action Offi ce. above capacity from 36 to 39 per- was taken to reduce prison popu- Contributing Writer would be locked up in an eight- The GAO blames the “in- cent, with a continuing upward by eight-foot space. Guards re- lations. Some states modifi ed creased use of double and triple trend. Facility overcrowding is The ship Waban, California’s fused to stay aboard this dan- criminal statutes and sentenc- bunking, waiting lists for edu- expected to reach 45 percent by fi rst offi cial prison, docked at gerous ship overnight and the ing, relocated offenders to local cation and drug treatment pro- 2018, according to prison of- San Quentin Point in 1852. But prisoners were left to their own facilities and provided offenders grams, limited meaningful work fi cials. In 2011, the federal pris- it was not the fi rst place that devices every night. with additional opportunities for opportunities, and increased on’s highest security facilities housed inmates. Years before If a prisoner died during the early release. inmate-to-staff ratios.” were most crowded at 55 percent the Waban, there was the Eu- night, no questions asked, and The GAO said federal prison The number of prisoners that above rated capacity. phemia. the dead man was taken ashore offi cials cannot shorten an of- each federally run institution Prison offi cials and union The Euphemia was the city and buried. fenders’ sentence or transfer can house safely and securely is representatives have expressed brig of San Francisco from Originally purchased by the prisoners to local prisons. How- known as its rated capacity. From concerns about the number of October 1849 to May 1851. In city for $3,500, it was sold for ever, the GAO recommends that 2006 to 2011, the federal prison serious incidents. They acted November 1971, the San Quen- $75 to pay off a debt. After be- federal prison populations could system saw a 9.5 percent popula- to diminish some of the con- tin News mistakenly reported ing sold, the ship disappeared decline if sentencing laws were tion increase. This exceeded the sequences of overcrowding by that the Euphemia was used from history annuals until it reformed, or if more prisons system’s rated capacity of less staggering meal times and sepa- to house the fi rst state prison- was unearthed in 1921. were built, or a combination of than seven percent during those rating offenders involved in dis- ers who built San Quentin. It The Waban is still part of both. wasn’t the Euphemia; it was San Quentin today. Some of the the Waban. ship’s timber remains a part of On the Waban, the condi- the new hospital structure. tions were brutal. As state laws The timber was originally BOOK REVIEW made it profi table for county preserved in the structure that sheriffs to transport their pris- was torn down in 2007 to make oners to this prison, the popu- room for the new medical ser- One Man Finds Transformation lation exploded. vices building. Many think that California During construction of the prison overcrowding is a new new structure, the timber was After Living a Nightmare problem, but the problem ex- moved to the atrium that sits isted from the very beginning. atop the building today. By Juan Haines away from the bane of “self- the big brother and even the Managing Editor centeredness” and to “appreci- father figure I never really ate the humanness of others.” had.” However, he also had to Louisiana during the 1960s Rideau established himself deal with wardens who cen- Overseer Finds Prison was a bad time and place for as a respectable journalist by sored The Angolite to point a black man to be charged striving to give a wider per- that his impact as a journalist Suicides Remain with killing a white woman spective on prison issues than was notably reduced. and make it to trial alive, let typically given to the public. “The biggest problem...was alone survive more than four As editor of the prison maga- that no one wanted truth or A Major Problem decades in prison. zine called The Angolite, he objectivity. Personnel wanted Poor decisions by Wilbert did things no other news agen- only good things said about By San Quentin News Staff lack of statewide monitoring Rideau cost bank employee cy could do. This reinforced them...prisoners wanted a and central oversight.” He add- Julia Ferguson her life. Rideau his belief he could make a one-sided publication laud- Suicides are still a serious ed, “California would need to said he killed her in a panicked significant contribution to the ing inmates and criticizing problem in California prisons, address (those steps) if it were state, and was terrified as po- betterment of lives of those guards,” Rideau writes. according to a court-appointed to take over mental health care lice hauled him off to jail. working and living in the pris- Rideau said his 44-year monitor of the state’s prison on its own,” according to The “I was living the night- on environment. journey was riveted with days mental health care system. Los Angeles Times. mare that haunted blacks in that inch along like snails, Special Master Matt Lopes Lopes said that 32 state pris- the Deep South—death by and years that zoom past like said it is too soon for the state oners committed suicide last the mob, a dreaded heirloom “The world rockets; however, he realized, to retake control of its prison year, averaging one every 11 handed down through the gen- “If I could adjust to the cru- mental health system, because days. This puts the state’s sui- erations,” writes Rideau, who could define me elties of imprisonment, I can health care providers have not cide rate at 24 per 100,000 in- recently visited San Quentin. as ‘criminal’ adjust to anything.” adequately dealt with the prob- mates, which is higher than the In the Place of Justice is the Even while fighting for his lem of prison suicides. national rate of 16 per 100,000 memoir of a man’s efforts to but I did not freedom, Rideau stayed ac- “We take suicide very seri- prisoners. Lopes said the sui- dodge the gallows, learn the have to live its tive in his local community, ously and have one of the most cide prevention measures tools of journalism, and ulti- assisting in the ouster of an robust suicide prevention pro- agreed upon two years ago have mately help refor m Louisiana’s definition of me” ineffectual school board su- grams in the nation,” said Debo- not been fully implemented. Angola State Prison, known perintendent, and advising rah Hoffman, spokesperson for “The problem of inmate sui- as the “bloodiest prison” in In the Place of Justice potential politicians in their the California Department of cides in CDCR prisons must American. delves into Rideau’s ups and campaigns. Corrections and Rehabilitation be resolved before the reme- “The world could define downs as a journalist, bound During the fourth and fi- in a Sacramento Bee report. dial phase of the Coleman case me as ‘criminal,’ but I did by the whim of prison of- nal trial, his soon-to-be wife, “California’s prison suicide (which resulted in federal take- not have to live its definition ficials. However, he was a Linda LaBranche, worked in- rate is half that of local jails; over of prison mental health of me,” writes Rideau. “I re- trusted person in times of cri- cessantly to present the truth lower than many other state care) can be ended,” Lopes told solved that I would not let my sis, proving to prison admin- of the exact circumstances prison systems, in fact, lower the LA Times. “The gravity of crime be the final definition. istrators as well as his fellow of which Julia Ferguson was than the suicide rate of adult this problem calls for further I knew there was more to me prisoners with the belief that killed, which was relevant to males outside of prison,” said intervention, to do any less and than the worst thing I’d done. I everyone had a stake in im- whether he would spend the Hoffman. to wait any longer risk further knew it wouldn’t be easy.” proving the lives of the incar- rest of his life imprisoned or However, Lopes said the gains loss of lives.” The time Rideau spent fight- cerated. set free. in mental health care were not San Quentin has a suicide pre- ing for his life on Death Row Rideau was not afraid to After the truth was told enough, citing “needed changes vention program run by prison- paid off as he matured into a call Warden C. Paul Phelps Rideau writes, “I wake up in that went undone because of a ers, called Brother’s Keepers. man of empathy, able to get “the best friend I’d ever had... heaven every day.” March 2013 SAN QUENTIN NEWS www.sanquentinnews.com Page 11 South Carolina Alters Sentencing Policies to Ease Prison Crowding Fewer Parole Violations Issued By Charles David Henry reforms took place, according to some cases, he or she even earns Staff Writer the report. a refund,” according to the re- The state’s new sentencing law port. Additional reforms have In 2010, South Carolina made is designed to strengthen penal- been made so that those who major changes in its sentencing ties for violent crimes while violate parole end up back in laws to solve the problem of an using alternative sentences for prison only as a last resort. As ever-growing prison population, nonviolent crimes. According to a result, the main reason for the according to The State newspa- the Pew Center on the States, the drop in prisoners has resulted per. new law puts South Carolina “at from fewer revoked probations. ton, leads a committee oversee- at 137.5 percent of designed The state’s projected increase the forefront of states advancing “The real test of sentencing ing its implementation. He has capacity or 109,519 prisoners. of 3,200 prisoners by 2014 would research-driven criminal justice reform will be whether it keeps traveled to Oregon, New Or- From March 2012 through Janu- have cost taxpayers $175 million policies.” offenders from committing leans, Denver, Chicago, Massa- ary 2013, the California’s pris- just to make space, prompting Under the new law, prisoners more crimes and getting even chusetts and Georgia to discuss oner population dropped from the state Legislature to act. released on supervised parole longer sentencing,” said Charles the South Carolina reforms. 125,728 to 119,002. The state Sentencing reforms begun will be able to get 20 days taken Bradbury, director of research In comparison, a federal court has until Dec. 27 to comply with in 2010 resulted in a decrease off their supervision for each for the state Department of Cor- has capped California prisons the order. of more than 1,300 prisoners. month they follow the rules, rections. In addition, two of the state’s so that “the offender pays less The author of the law, state prisons were closed since the money in supervision fees – in Sen. Gerald Malloy, D-Darling- Vietnam Veterans Group of San Quentin Minnesota Medical Care Provider Life After Prison for Veteransns Sued For Wrongful Death of Prisoner By Chris Schuhmacher VVGSQ Chairman By San Quentin News Staff the plaintiff’s attorney, told the corrections offi cers responsible Tribune. for Scullark-Johnson’s care also The Vietnam Veterans Group of San Quentin is gearing up to implement a new program designed to prepare incarcerated A federal lawsuit has been Sharyn Barney, the doctor failed to document his deterio- veterans for life after prison. fi led against a medical care pro- who was on call the night Sc- rating condition, but did remove The San Quentin Unit Aptitude Development program or vider for the wrongful death of a ullark-Johnson died, was origi- his cellmate after the cellmate SQUAD for short will consist of weekly workshops in the areas Minnesota prisoner in 2010, ac- nally informed by a corrections repeatedly called for an ambu- of Substance Abuse & Addiction, Emotional Health & Wellness, cording to the Star Tribune. The lieutenant that the inmate had at lance. Parole Planning & Preparation, and Health & Physical Fitness. Minnesota Department of Cor- least three seizures., His cellmate Barney agreed to call an am- The veterans SQUAD mission is: “To empower members with rections is also a defendant in the reported that he had suffered at bulance an hour after she fi rst the resources and life skills necessary to address the causative lawsuit. least six to seven seizures, ac- heard about Scullark-Johnson’s factors that led to their crimes and prepare them for successful The suit alleges that a doc- cording to the Tribune. Accord- seizures, but a prison nurse, cit- reintegration back into society.” tor for Tennessee-based Cori- ing to court records obtained by ing “protocols,” turned it away Once group members have completed all four 12-week work- zon Inc. initially failed to order the Tribune, Barney told the lieu- when it arrived. Only when the shops, they become eligible to take part in mentorship training where they will learn to develop new life skills workshops and an ambulance when Xavius tenant to let Scullark-Johnson nurse returned an hour later incorporate them into the SQUAD program. Scullark-Johnson, a prisoner at sleep rather than call for an am- to fi nd Scullark-Johnson lying From there, the VVGSQ hopes to open the program to all vet- the prison in Rush City, Minn., bulance. facedown and unresponsive in erans, regardless of discharge status or group membership. The began suffering seizures on a his cell was the ambulance crew plan is to pass on the knowledge and insight the group has ac- late June night two years ago. In called again. He was taken to a quired to other members of the San Quentin community. addition, it alleges that at least “At least nine hospital in Wyoming, declared For the past 25 years, the VVGSQ has been a vital part of three nurses and four prison offi - state prisoners- brain dead that night and taken several charitable events inside and outside the prison. These cers failed to care adequately for off life support the following include the Holiday Toy Program, Run to the Pen, Operation Scullark-Johnson while he suf- including Scullark- morning, according to the Tri- MOMS, and the annual Veterans Scholarship Award. fered several seizures in a four- Johnson-have bune. The group will continue to take part in these worthwhile en- to-fi ve-hour period, according to Corizon offi cials made no deavors full-force, but with the changing face of the prison and parole system, they want to provide its members with an internal the Tribune. died after medical comment to the Tribune, be- network of support to help them get out and stay out of prison. A Tribune investigation, pub- care was denied cause of pending litigation. With the opening of West Block and Donner section, the lished in November, found that But, the lawsuit raises questions VVGSQ has become the largest ILTAG group at San Quentin. since 2000, “at least nine state or delayed ...” about the quality of medical care As chairman, I feel an increasing responsibility to try and fi nd prisoners — including Scullark- inmates in Minnesota receive. ways to make sure the men of the VVGSQ are trained and ready Johnson — have died after medi- In a statement given to the Still, prison offi cials told the for the streets. cal care was denied or delayed state’s Department of Correc- Tribune that state prisoners “re- A Call to Arms and another 21 suffered serious tions investigators after the in- ceive the ‘community standard’ An essential part of the SQUAD program will consist of en- or critical injury.” cident, Barney said she was not of medical care required by law listing the support of professionals and volunteers from outside “Defendants left Mr. Scullark- — similar to the level of care by provided with enough informa- veterans’ organizations willing to share their knowledge and ex- Johnson lying in his cell by him- tion from prison offi cers about most Minnesotans.” pertise in the four rehabilitative components. self after he had suffered numer- Scullark-Johnson’s condition Corizon, a private medical Anyone willing to help sponsor the veterans SQUAD program ous seizures, was disoriented, when she decided to not call an care contractor, has a $28 mil- can contact the chief sponsor, Lt. Rudy Luna, at San Quentin unable to control his bodily func- ambulance right away. lion contract to provide medical State Prison – 1 Main Street – San Quentin, CA – 94964, (415) tions and had injured himself According to records obtained care to the state’s 9,200 prison- 454-1460 ext. 5808. from seizures,” Jordan Kushner, by the Tribune, the overnight ers. Proposition 36 Falls Short Addressing Re-Entry Needs of Ex-Offenders By San Quentin News Staff they are being released into It’s only a matter of time communities safely by meet- silia, a Stanford law professor, communities unconditionally before some of these newly ing “with operators of homeless in the Mercury News report. After being locked up for without state or county supervi- released offenders start com- shelters and innovative transi- The Stanford group is seek- nearly two decades some of the sion or social services. Things mitting new crimes, says Mike tional programs from around ing private donors to add to benefi ciaries of last November’s like health care, housing, food Reynolds, one of the drafters the state, like San Francisco’s existing re-entry programs, ac- change in California’s Three stamps, will not be easy for of the Three Strike Law in the Delancey Street foundation,” cording to the report. Strikes Law are being let out these newly release men and Mercury News report. according to the report. Santa Clara County assists of prison with only $200 “gate women to obtain, according to Michael Romano, director of “We want these people to suc- anyone coming out of jail or money” in their pockets, reports the Mercury News report. Stanford’s Three Strikes Proj- ceed,” said Romano. “We don’t prison at the Re-entry Resource the San Jose Mercury News Experts say California vot- ect, led the ballot measure to want them committing crimes Center, at 70 W. Hedding St., ([email protected]). ers did not consider this lack of change the law. and creating more victims.” San Jose, Calif., with mental After many offenders are re- oversight for re-sentenced three Romano is planning to meet Newly released three-strikers health services, free clothing, sentenced, the time for court strikers when they approved the with community service pro- have a higher need for mental housing assistance and food ordered parole or probation change in law, according to the viders to help newly released health treatment than the gener- stamps, the Mercury News re- would have elapsed. Therefore, report. offenders ease back into their al population, said Joan Peter- ports. Page 12 SAN QUENTIN NEWS www.sanquentinnews.com March 2013 Prisoners Provide Vital Services for San Quentin

By Boston Woodard room” was on the verge of ex- Staff Writer ploding, due to an expanding metal plate that insulates the It’s not uncommon to see steam inside the boiler. Twist and prisoners working with welding his crew sprang into action and equipment around San Quentin. saved the boiler as well as saving Maintenance workers are on call the state an estimated $58,000 for emergencies on everything that an outside contractor was from plumbing problems in cell- asking to do the job. blocks to repairing light fi xtures Assignments vary from week in the hospital. Currently, work- to week. “Installing metal bed- ers are busy fabricating benches plates (known as ‘cookie sheets’ for the baseball diamond by cut- to prisoners) to replace broken ting and welding angle iron and bedsprings is a constant job for steel rods in preparation for base- us,” said welder Donald Cole- ball season beginning in April. man. “It’s gratifying when a job “Prison maintenance crews is completed and you’ve learned work in more areas throughout something new or interesting in Photo by Lt. Sam Robinson the interior and exterior of a pen- the process.” Supervisor Ty Twist, Donald Coleman, T. Slaughter and David Gonzalez itentiary than any other group of Maintenance crews ensure employees behind prison walls,” that all systems and conditions “What I love about my job is that bility of dozens of maintenance there is no waiting list for main- says supervisor Ty Twist, a cer- throughout the institution are we all work together as a team, employees. Each supervisor tenance assignments and experi- tifi ed welder/teacher, and one of safe and functioning properly. one man helping the next. We oversees a number of prisoners enced maintenance supervisors San Quentin’s maintenance su- Support services such as the cus- truly are proud of our accom- who are, as a rule, skilled in a are willing to work with those pervisors. He’s been employed at tody operations, the Food Ser- plishments.” particular vocation. men with obvious potential to do San Quentin for seven years. vice Department, and medical Prisoner T. Slaughter told the “Whether it is the electrical the job. Lt. Graham added that all San Quentin’s physical plant is clinics depend on maintenance San Quentin News, “Although I systems, plumbing, heating and department areas are racially bal- unique as some of the structures crews to keep their services in was an electrician in other pris- ventilation, or carpentry, paint- anced as fairly as possible and the (cellblocks) being more than good quality operation. Prison- ons, I now have this great oppor- ing, and glazing, each depart- best way to obtain a maintenance 100 years old. These cellblocks ers take pride in assisting in the tunity to advance my knowledge ment is no less important than the position is by word of mouth. demand special attention and a maintenance crews where they of welding and other metal ap- next,” said Twist. Dino Dinoso summed up an certain antediluvian application are able to apply their skills in an plications under the guidance of If a man has a specifi c ability, attribute shared by Twist and his of services, such as maintaining effective way. supervisor Twist.” maintenance supervisors will in- maintenance crew, “We work as steam lines that are some of the “I like specifi c assignments According to Twist, the smooth terview and assess his skill level, a team. When we fi nish a spe- oldest systems in the state. such as fabrication in various operation of the institution’s then speak with Inmate Assign- cifi c assignment, the pride my Recently, one of four steam locations throughout the insti- maintenance department (opera- ment Lt. D. Graham. Although co-workers and supervisor have boilers in San Quentin’s “boiler tution,” said David Gonzalez. tions) depends on the responsi- qualifi ed workers are preferred, is as real as it gets.” California An “OG’s” Perspective

By Watani Stiner tating historical disconnections However, just being an older Supreme San Quentin News Staff that have occurred between the man “from” the hood wouldn’t generations. I use this “OG” col- automatically qualify one as an Court I fi rst came to prison in 1969. umn to explore and address the “OG”. To earn the title “OG” After fi ve years of being incar- critical consequences when one you would have had to acquire cerated, I escaped from San generation drops or doesn’t pass at least three things: reputation, Rules on Quentin State Prison and fl ed to on the historical baton. I con- insight, and a distinguished South America where I lived in sider myself an “OG” who has manner in which you conduct self-imposed exile for 20 years. picked up that baton, and I’m yourself. Marsy’s In 1994, I voluntarily surren- charged and challenged with the However, the meaning of the dered to U.S. authorities and was responsibility of fi nding creative term “OG” has changed over the brought back to San Quentin to ways of handing it off to the next years. In its current usage, the Law serve out the remainder of my generation. term “OG” implies a broader “life sentence.” I have now been You should listen to me be- category. While retaining its ti- By Stephen Yair Liebb three years, and a maximum in prison for 25 years. cause I have something relevant tle of respect in popular culture, Contributing Writer of 15 years. However, the law Although my life experience and important to say. I have life- “OG” is now equivalent to the made provisions for an inmate has defi nitely shaped my “OG” experiences that I must empha- word “elder” or the courtesy af- The California Supreme to make a written request to perspective, this column is not size and pass on to the younger forded an older person as in the Court has upheld the voter- have an earlier hearing at any about my life story. It’s not about generation. You should listen use of “Mister.” This deference approved initiative called time following the denial of my political views, my prison because I have some personal today is based largely upon age, Marsy’s Law, which increased parole at a regularly scheduled escape or the many years I’ve and vital information about re- not necessarily on reputation, the deferral period between hearing. spent in South America. Rather, spect, family, community, and insight or how one conducts this column provides a conversa- the historical bridges that car- himself. An “OG” can be an old parole hearings to a maximum BOARD HEARINGS of 15 years. tional space and an open invita- ried us over. As an “OG”, I be- fool. The court on March 4 reject- If the board grants an ear- tion to the younger generation to lieve in human equality, social “OG”, as I’m using it in this ed a challenge brought by Mi- lier hearing and the inmate is consider and engage an “OG’s” justice and peace, and I have column, comes from a particular chael Vicks, a prisoner serving again denied parole, the in- perspective. come to realize that all forms of time period and out of a specifi c a life term with the possibility mate must wait three years be- I have not walked the streets violence, no matter how it is jus- set of experiences. It emanates of parole, and upheld the law fore submitting another writ- of this country in 45 years. So I tifi ed, eventually consumes the from a certain mindset shaped as written. Vicks claimed the ten request. won’t pretend to have some kind human spirit and undermines by the social and political move- law violated the ex-post facto When Vicks was convicted of “guru-insight” into the minds the very purpose it is intended ments of the 1960s. “OG” (as clauses of the state and federal of his crimes in 1983, the pa- of young people and their activi- for. it’s being used here) stands for role board could defer parole ties outside these prison walls. “Old Guard.” These “OGs” to- constitutions because it retro- CHANGING DEFINITION: actively increased the punish- for one, two or three years. In But I do want to fi nd effective day (too often silent) are now in ment for his crime. 1994, the maximum increased and informative ways of utiliz- Now I realize that the term their sixties and early seventies. to five years for prisoners con- ing this “OG” column to raise “OG” does not have the same This writer himself is sixty-fi ve RULING victed of murder. relevant questions about the cul- meaning today as it used to have. years of age, an elder with the The Supreme Court deter- Marsy’s Law was approved ture of violence and encourage Its meaning has shifted over the determination, responsibility, mined that Marsy’s Law does by voters in 2008. Under serious dialogue on a number of years. The original use of “OG” patience and courage to engage not violate the ex-post facto Marsy’s Law, the board also critical issues. stood for “Original Gangster.” and not give up on our youth. clause and does not create a has discretion to deny parole Why should you listen to me? From its inception “OG” had a This column is open to sug- significant risk of prolonging for five, seven or 10 years. First of all, I’m a father, grand- specifi c meaning. It fi rst began gestions, and when you see me incarceration, even though the father and great-grandfather, as a title of respect from for- on the yard or in the unit, you minimum period between sub- The case is In re Michael and a man who feels partially mer gang members who “paid are welcome to give feedback on sequent parole hearings was D. Vicks on Habeas Corpus, responsible for and concerned their dues” and earned the sta- topics that you think an “OG’s” increased from one year to Case No. S194129 about the destructive and devas- tus of “OGs” in their “hoods.” viewpoint can illuminate. March 2013 SAN QUENTIN NEWS www.sanquentinnews.com Page 13 LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Words of Love and Kindness Editor: East. She visited many, many the right to be proud of her and By now you know that Miss countries and enjoyed the peo- I am. Being involved with the Kimberlee Rasmusson went ple everywhere. The mail has inmates at San Quentin thru home to be with the Lord on poured in from all around the volunteer work with the Catho- Feb 1. Although this was un- world where she touched hearts lic and Protestant churches as expected and leaves an enor- and changed lives. an intern was something that mous hole in our hearts, we Kimberlee was attending the she believed in. She believed know that she is in heaven and seminary and would have grad- in you, she believed you could even though she loved her fam- uated with a Master’s in Divin- have a better life and become ily and friends more than any- ity in late May. I want you to the people God wanted you to thing. I know that she would know that everything she did be. Do that in her memory. Re- not leave the Savior’s side even she earned by herself but with member the things she taught if she could. God’s help. Her life was not al- you and shared in her mes- Photo By Michael Nelson Kimberlee was a world ways easy but she made some- sages. San Quentin’s 2012 Day of Peace celebration traveler. She started in New thing of herself through hard I would like to leave you with Zealand as a missionary, put work, determination and trust this thought: “God loves you so herself thru college earning a in God. much that if you were the only Days of Peace Master’s in English as a second A naturally quiet and re- person on earth, He would have Language. She used that edu- served person, she would not sent His Son to die for you.” cation to teach in South Korea like all this attention, but as the With Respect, Promoted by Action and many years in the Middle mother who adored her, I have Roberta Folmer By Chris Schuhmacher energy created continues to fl ow Contributing Writer throughout the year. “It was a An Unforgettable Experience lovely day,” said prisoner Jarone On May 11, San Quentin is “J.B.” Bartee, “I actually felt Editor: about seven lifers, who changed are now doing things to not only scheduled to hold its third Day a sense of peace inside prison My trip to San Quentin was an my view about prisoners for- better themselves, but to help the of Peace – a day dedicated to walls.” unforgettable experience. When ever. These men all took full community around them. This promoting peace throughout the HOPE I fi rst arrived, I had some precon- responsibility for what they did experience has taught me that prison. ceived notions, and was terrifi ed in the past, and are now working no matter what you have done During the event, inmates and Prison administrators hope at how I would be treated and towards a better future. All of in your past, people can change guests from outside of the pris- this year’s event will carry on looked upon. After only being these men were some of the most for the better, and I truly feel on gather on the Lower Yard for the tradition of spreading peace in there for a mere fi ve minutes, genuine people I have ever met. that these men deserve a sec- the day’s activities. Committee throughout the San Quentin I met the most amazing men I felt very safe and comfortable ond chance at life, and will do members have been in the plan- community. Invitations have who welcomed our group with around them. They were not anything I can to help make that ning stages for this year’s event been sent to musical artists like warm arms. After being given only very accommodating, but happen. for months as they work out the Carlos Santana, Michael Franti an amazing tour by Red, we they truly cared for us and the logistics for bringing the day to and East Coast sensations Coali- were able to sit down and talk to people around them. These men – Ali Baurer life. tion Hip-Hop. “The fellas and I would love HISTORY Regarding the New Pope the opportunity to travel west San Quentin’s fi rst Day of to San Quentin and spread our I was very pleasantly surprised were started originally to serve the Gospel in a time when poli- Peace was held in 2006. After positive message of overcom- (shocked really) to learn the new the poor. Our motto is As Majo- tics and corruption had crept into several subsequent attempts ing adversity through the power Pope is a Jesuit. Like Fr. Barber, rum Dei Gloriam, which means its governance. failed, the event returned in of dynamic and creative style,” who preceded me here, I too am in Latin, “For the Greater Glory Cardinal Bergoglio was 2012 with great success. Men said Coalition Hip-Hop Man- a Jesuit. The Jesuits are the larg- of God.” known in his native Argentina as fi lled the yard, wearing white to ager Jason Fink. est order of religious men in the There has never been a Jesuit a strong defender of the poor and symbolize their commitment to PARTICIPATION Catholic Church. The word “Je- Pope before because we were so oppressed. He turned down the peace. suit” was originally used by the infl uential. Many feared making Cardinal’s elegant mansion and “Our goal is to stem the tide Organizers are also seeking opponents of the Jesuits – our a Jesuit a Pope would give the chauffeured car to live in a sim- of violence saturating our pris- guest speakers from the outside offi cial name is “The Society Society of Jesus too much power ple apartment, did his own cook- ons and society,” said Richard community and sending invita- of Jesus.” We were founded in in the Church. But clearly the ing and took the bus to work each Poma, chairman of the Day of tions to mayors from the sur- the 1500s by Saint Ignatius of Cardinals who selected Cardinal day. He lived what he preached. Peace committee, which orga- rounding area. Loyola, a Basque soldier who ex- Jorge Bergoglio were impressed This new Francis comes at a nizes the event. The Day of Peace committee perienced a conversion to Christ not with his power, but with his time when the Catholic Church Last year’s event began with encourages everyone attending after he was wounded in a battle. humility and holiness. needs new leadership who can prayers for peace from various to wear their freshest white T- The mission of the Jesuits, then I never heard of him until this get us back to the basics of Jesus’ religious groups, and several shirt. and now, is to go to anyplace in Wednesday when he was chosen teaching – to Love God and to community leaders gave moti- To make a monetary con- the world where the Church most to be the new Bishop of Rome. love our neighbors. vational talks about the impor- tribution to the Day of Peace, needs service – Jesuits were in (All the Popes are fi rst and fore- I was particularly moved that tance of peace in our society. contact Kara Urion or Jody the vanguard of missionary work most the Bishop of Rome, follow- the very fi rst thing the new Pope The day featured refreshments Lewen at the Prison Universi- to both North and South Amer- ing in the direct footsteps of St. did was to ask for the blessing of and live music from Rupa & the ty Project: (415) 455-8088 ext. ica, Asia, and Africa. We were Peter, who was the fi rst leader of the Church – he bowed in humil- April Fishes. Supporters of the 1 or go to info@prisonuniver- also instrumental in defending the early Church in Rome.) ity as the servant of the Church Day of Peace sponsored the en- sityproject.org. the Church against many who at- He chose the name “Francis” – showing that he understands tire event. Donations may be sent to: tacked it. after St. Francis of Assisi – a fully the role that Jesus intended Inmates and free staff alike Prison University Project, Now, Jesuits are associated very humble and holy man who for the leadership of the Church. can still be seen wearing souve- Note: For Day of Peace, P.O. mostly with our successful helped restore the Church to its nir wristbands from last year’s Box 492, San Quentin, CA schools and colleges. Our schools real calling as the announcer of – Fr. George Williams, S.J. event, showing that the positive 94964.

NO BEAUTY IN CELL BARS By Spoon Jackson Restless, unable to see Vegetating faces, lost faces For the silence of a rain drop After a pounding rainfall A tear that may engender Keys, bars, guns being racked Dusted faces Falling gently to earth Picnics in a rich green mead- A waterfall Year after year A lifer The magnifi cence of a rose ow The memorie Endless echoes A dreamer Blooming into its many hues We saw the beauty in butter- The dreams Of steel kissing steel Tomorrow’s a dream Of color fl ies Are now Noise Yesterday’s a memory The brilliance of a rainbow We made it our symbol Love is now Constant yelling Both a passing of a cloud When it sweetly lights up the Tiny grains of sand There’s no beauty in cell bars

Nothing said How I long sky One hour glass From: Longer Ago, spoonjackson.com Page 14 SAN QUENTIN NEWS www.sanquentinnews.com March 2013 AAskedsked OOnn TThehe LLineine Different Farming Ideas and Opinions How Would People Utilize Land in Today’s Society?

By Angelo Falcone Terri would grow apples, Ka- would grow corn for food and and also grow coffee as a cash shoots,” said Hong. Journalism Guild Writer mal Hill would grow grapes, for ethanol,” said Hutchin- crop.” More than 60 percent would and Tristan Jones would grow son. Floyd Palmer would grow grow something to sell or trade. With spring drawing near, pomegranates. wheat, Eddie Griffi n would The rest would grow food to “Asked on the Line” con- “I like grapes and it would grow mustard greens, Clarence feed their communities free of ducted 27 random informal be profitable,” said Hill. Kev- Long would grow cabbage, and charge. “I would grow mustard interviews with men in blue in Carr insisted on growing “I would grow Tim Thompson would grow greens, because of the nutrition- and outside community mem- more than one fruit. He would a specialty spinach. al value and because it is lacking bers, and asked, “You are grow cantaloupes, tomatoes, Edwards said, “I would grow in the inner cities.” said Griffi n given charge of land, money and watermelon. product- corn and hemp. Corn is mul- Literacy Coordinator Tom and resources to plant and About 56 percent would something tifunctional and has subsidies Bolema said, “I would grow a grow anything you want for grow vegetables or grains. with the government.” He would specialty product - something al- any purpose. What would you The most popular choice almost no one grow hemp to weave it into most no one is growing. I would grow?” was corn. is growing” clothing. “Hemp can be grown research it heavily and learn About 44 percent would Lawrence Romero, Quin- anywhere and is durable.” about its market. Something like grow fruit. ton Walker, Chance Edwards, Syyen Hong would grow a rare orchid or an exotic nut. It Reginald Hola would grow Orlando Harris, and Zakee Centerforce employee Jason Bamboo. “There is a market for would be the most expensive pineapples, Nelson Erick Hutchinson were among those Walsh said, “I would grow making furniture with it, and crop that can be grown and would grow oranges, Desjuan who would grow corn. “I corn to feed the community the Asian community eats the sold.”

1. Juneau, Alaska — State of- reports The Associated Press. fi cials predict the Alaska prison 12. Corsicana, Texas — Ran- population could reach capac- NNewsews BBriefsriefs dolph Arledge, 58 served nearly ity by 2016, so plans are in the 30 years in prison for a murder works to build a new prison, ac- 1 conviction that has been over- cording to The Associated Press. turned by DNA evidence, reports However, offi cials say a new The Associated Press. Arledge prison may be delayed because was convicted for the 1984 stab- they are focusing on reducing 14 bing of Carolyn Armstrong. the number of released offenders 15 Arledge’s attorneys, prosecutors, re-committed to prison. 7 and the Innocence Project agreed 2. District of Columbia — 4 he should be set free after the New job training, health care and DNA matched another person. social services are being provid- 13. New Mexico — Treating ed for all of the nearly 2,000 of- 6 substance abuse prisoners and fenders who return to the district 11 5 2 former offenders is possible and annually, after being released 10 cost effective, the League of from prison. Services are pro- Women Voters of Central New vided by the Offi ce of Returning Mexico says. “In 2009 the Fed- Citizens Affairs in coordination 13 3 eral Substance Abuse and Mental with Court Services and Offend- 9 Health Services Administration er Supervision Agency and the 8 said that on average $1 invest- U.S. Parole Commission. ORCA 12 ed in treating addiction yields is the only offi ce in the country a savings to the public of $12 that is mandated by law to help in medical and criminal justice released offenders, according to costs. Dealing effectively with the Washington Post. addicted persons requires recog- 3. Atlanta — A new sentencing nizing the chronic nature of their law intended to keep non-violent brain disease either in incarcera- drug and property offenders out nor to have their voting rights re- judge’s decisions were “incom- not always reliably investigated tion or in the community. Failure of prison made its way out of stored. McDonnell has restored prehensible,” reports the New with the process often kept se- to do so means that the problem the state’s House of Representa- more voting rights to felons than York Times. cret, according to the AP report. is likely to continue its ruinous tives, according to The Econo- any of his predecessors, accord- 8. Dallas — County District At- 10. Jefferson City, Mo. — More course and cost the taxpayers a mist magazine. Offenders would ing to the Washington Post. torney Craig Watkins is known than 12,000 criminal defendants great deal of money,” the group be diverted to drug courts, day- 6. Charleston, W.Va. — A non- for fi ghting for wrongfully con- have successfully fi nished treat- said. reporting centers, mental health partisan panel reported that the victed prisoners, according to ment programs in the past 20 14. Burlington, Vermont — A court, geared toward treatment state could save more than $100 The Associated Press. Watkins years, says the state’s chief jus- grassroots campaign is under and rehabilitation, instead of million by 2018 by expanding said he wants lawmakers to tice, according to The Associated way to curb Vermont from send- punishment. community-based substance think about the Racial Justice Press. Jackson County opened ing felons to a for-profi t prisons, 4. Lansing, Mich. — Gov. Rick abuse treatment programs. The Act, which is designed to allow the state’s fi rst drug court to di- according to Jonathan Leavitt, a Snyder (R) recently the signed recommendations are: requir- defendants to introduce evidence vert nonviolent, substance abuse journalist and community orga- legislation designed to reduce ing post-release supervision for into trial contending their case is offenders to drug court supervi- nizer who teaches college classes the state’s $1.9 billion correc- all prisoners, including those infl uenced by race. “The issue sion instead of prison. The state about social movements. Ver- tions budget by privatizing its who have served their entire that we’re bringing to light is to currently has drug courts in all mont spent more than $14 mil- prisons. The GEO Group is ex- sentence, and not placed on pa- make sure that everything is fair, but two of its 45 judicial circuits, lion last year to lock up Vermont- pected to profi t from the legis- role upon release, and improve no matter what you look like, no the AP reports. ers in for-profi t prisons like Lee lation as it anticipates fi lling a community-based supervision of matter where you come from, 11. Vandalia, Ill. — News Adjustment Center in Kentucky. 1,725-bed prison that has been prisoners on probation or parole, and you’re treated like anyone media access to the state’s pris- 15. South Burlington, Vermont vacant since 2005, according to including expanding day report else,” Watkins said. ons became a major issue when — A state-run prison has been the Huffi ngton Post. center programs, according to 9. Montgomery, Ala. — A the prison population reached given the Facility of the Year 5. Richmond, Va. — Nine bills the Charleston Gazette. 2012 Justice Department study near-record highs and a prison award for 2012 by the National intended to automatically restore 7. Brooklyn, N.Y. — A federal found Alabama’s only prison for worker’s union fi led a lawsuit Commission on Correctional voting rights to nonviolent felons judge overturned the conviction women is rampant with sexual to prevent Gov. Pat Quinn from Health Care. The Chittenden were rejected by a House panel, of William Lopez, who spent 23 misconduct by workers, reports closing several prisons. Recently, Regional Correctional Facility even though Gov. Robert F. Mc- years in prison for murder. The The Associated Press. Prisoners journalists were given access to was recognized for its variety of Donnell (R) and Attorney Gen- judge said the trial prosecutor who reported sexual abuse did a southern Illinois prison in the programs and features nearly 500 eral Ken Cuccinelli supported was “overzealous and deceitful,” not have their complaints treated wake of reports of overcrowd- prisons, jails and juvenile facili- the measures. Under current law, Lopez’s lawyers were “indolent properly, the study fi nds. As an ing, fl ooding, crumbling and un- ties were examined by the com- felons must appeal to the gover- and ill-prepared,” and the trial example, rape complaints were sanitary basement dormitories, mission. March 2013 SAN QUENTIN NEWS www.sanquentinnews.com Page 15 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

SSnippetsnippets Book Review Complete Thiss PuzzlePuzzle ucky charms is associated By Randy Maluenda Win a Prize! Lwith St. Patrick, who was British, not Irish. HOW TO WRITE A BUSINESS pon escaping and becom- PLAN (By Mike McKeever) Ex- Uing a priest and bishop, cellent roadmap from proposals Patrick returned to Ireland as thru fi nancing. Explain the order these numbers have been placed in. a missionary. lovers are a type of small COLLAPSE (By Jared Diamond) 8-5-4-9-1-7-6-3-2-0 herb with three leaves. C Thorough eco-history of why civ- The type referred to as a shamrock is the white clover. ilizations have and will collapse Hint: Find a formula or look for a pattern to the arrangement Florist often sell wood sorrel, due to environmental concerns. of these numbers. which is not considered the The answer to last month’s puzzle is: 40 Cigarettes traditional shamrock. FREEDOM (By Jonathan Fran- Congratulations to: William DeConter, and Bernie H. Castro for arat is the standard mea- zen) Sour riffs this quiet story of winning last month’s puzzle. Ksure of gold. Pure gold a couple’s marriage in freefall. is 24 karats. 12-karats is 50 Congratulations to: Kevin Alexander, Wayne Boatwright, percent gold. The largest use Brian Carnes, Robert DeSylvia, Eddie DeWeaver , Nick for gold is in the electrical in- CRIMINAL LAW HANDBOOK Garcia, Jimmy Gonzalez, Leland Maes, Chand Prem, William Robinson, Anil Sagar, Chris Schuhmacher, Anthony Sully, dustry. (By Paul Bergman & Sara J. Mike Tyler Berman) General reader-friendly ellow is the predominate resource on the ins and outs of color of gold. Mixed with Rules Y the system. copper, nickel, palladium, or The prizes will be for completion of brain twister puzzles. All puzzle submis- sions should be sent via u-save-em envelope to San Quentin News/Education silver, it makes white gold. Department. Only one entry per person. BIRDSONG (By Sebastian All correct submissions will be place in a hat. The winners will be picked by rystals of gold, an inch or drawing the fi rst two answers from that hat. Faulks) Compelling experiences Cmore in size, have been found in California. An ounce and fl ashbacks of a WWI vet.. First Place: San Quentin Fitness Gray Ball Cap of gold can be beaten into a Second Place: 4 Granola Bars RATINGS: 300 square feet sheet. Prizes will only be offered to inmates with privilege group status that allows for the prize items. Inmates transferred, sent to ad/seg, or otherwise not avail- eat conditions during Top responses are four ribbons able to claim their prize will result in forfeiture. Hthe California gold rush The answer and winner’s names will be published in the next issue of the San Quentin News. were deplorable. In the sum- progressing downward to one: Puzzle concept By Binh Vo mer, prospectors sweated pro- Responses which are two or less are not recommended reading. fusely in 90-degree heat.

u is the chemical symbol Afor gold. In 1795 there Sudoku By Anthony Lyons was a local gold rush in Ire- land that lasted six weeks and resulted in 80kg being recov- 942 ered from the Minor River. 2769 enwick, an American ar- Rchitect, designed St. Pat- 7 1 rick’s Cathedral, which is the Roman Catholic Archdiocese 328 of New York. 16 arch 17th is the offi - Mcial day of celebration 79 1 for St. Patrick’s Day. It is a religious holiday. According 75 to legend, St. Patrick planted shamrocks in Ireland because 854 6 the three small leafl ets repre- sent the Holy Trinity. 649

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Featured artwork of “Bam Bam” Page 16 SAN QUENTIN NEWS www.sanquentinnews.com March 2013 Looking for Solutions to Complicated Questions

Continued from Page 1 ing up behind bars. According to criminal justice experts, Aro- oners who participate in one or che’s position has no equivalent more of the rehabilitation pro- in any prosecutor’s offi ce in the grams offered in the prison. country. Prisoners who spent years Gascón hired Aroche with examining and evaluating their state funds from Gov. Jerry juvenile delinquency explained Brown’s realignment plan, to why their lives turned to crime. help slim the overcrowded pris- The district attorneys said this on system, where two-thirds new knowledge gave them valu- of released prisoners return to able insight to criminal behavior custody within three years. The they could use to help in the pre- intention is to keep kids from vention of juvenile crime. being sent to prison among high- Gascón is looking at some of er-risk offenders. the youth going through the sys- “Every time I meet with you tem in San Francisco who had guys, it truly motivates me to or have parents in prison. “This continue to try and change what may have become the norm, and I need to do to keep doing the Photo by Sam Hearnes we would like to stop this cy- right thing,” said Aroche. “We Staff from the D.A.’s offi ce gets a glimpse inside San Quentin’s historic dungeon cle,” he said. Intervention that are grateful for this opportu- habilitation. It also allows us to on the prison yard, to wanting to Aroche said with his street includes the parents being part nity to speak with you today. It share what we’ve learned.” come and discuss their actions knowledge and his education, he of youth guidance is a key factor helps us to better understand the One of Gascón’s interests with in a group like the San Quentin can see someone and say, “This in where these young people end young people we work with.” at-risk offenders is to “get them Forum. person’s a bad dude. Based on up in life. Assistant DA Marisa Rodri- to that place where they want to “What would you tell me as a his rap sheet and history, this According to Kris Himmel- guez was instrumental in ar- involve themselves in similar community member that would person is not safe to go back to berger, in prison for attempted ranging for Gascón to meet with activities, the activities that have help me to help others?” asked the community. I can also know murder, “While life is complex, San Quentin prisoners. Rodri- made such positive changes in Woo. How a prisoner got to the what it means to give somebody people ultimately chose to com- guez accompanied about a doz- the lives of you men here at San place where he wanted to make a a second chance.” mit crimes,” he said. “The en- en assistant DAs last November. Quentin.” positive change seemed to be the Assistant DA Christine Soto vironment plays a key factor. This was her second visit to a “Many of these men in San question of the day. Education DeBerry said, “I have been Without proper parental guid- San Quentin News Forum. Quentin today should be out seemed to be a large part of that with the San Francisco District ance, rational decision-making “The most powerful part was there in society,” San Quentin conversation. Attorney’s Offi ce for two years. in chaos is diffi cult. We often observing my friends and col- News Senior Adviser John Ea- Prisoner Sam Johnson Sr. Our district attorney has a real- make impulsive decisions and leagues taking in all of this,” gan said. “After what they’ve ac- said one of the fears he suffered ly interesting and different per- regret them later,” added Him- said Rodriguez. “It is important complished while in here, they growing up was “being terror- spective on making the commu- melberger. for us to know all aspects of the are the best role models imagin- ized by my dad.” He said he nity safe. I am optimistic that All the prisoners speaking at criminal justice system.” able.” believes a large part of the prob- there are many solutions and I the forum agreed they chose to lem was that his dad had only a am impressed with the way you commit the crimes for which sixth-grade education. “I take all opened up in this dialogue to they are imprisoned. They full responsibility for all my ac- help others. I am appreciative agreed it is important to get at tions, and part of that responsi- of your candor.” the parents who also need the bility was to get an education. Gascón thanked the forum tools to steer their children from While in prison, I’ve become saying, “I personally fi nd this a life of crime. Home is where the fi rst person in my family to be of great value. The people the cycle needs to be stopped. to obtain a college education,” who came with me today are all When you do not have the tools Johnson said. volunteers who want to help our or the opportunity to do what is The consensus among pris- community, help our youth, and right, wrong things will happen oners and Gascón’s staff mem- help you men upon your return every time. bers was that education is the to society. I am thankful that “We are here to learn from key to more productive lives you guys shared your stories Photo by Sam Hearnes you men,” said Gascón. “Our and careers. Getting young at- with me and the city of San Miguel Quezada, George Gascón, and Tommy Winfrey hope is to listen to you and fi nd risk offenders to “that place” Francisco,” he concluded. out what you have learned about consider ideas during the San Quentin News Forum can be helped by dialogue from At a meeting with the visi- those who made bad choices yourself, and how you got to “It was a life-changing expe- Assistant DA Sharon Woo tors before the forum, Warden but turned their lives around, the place where you wanted to rience meeting prisoners for the thought, “I had to be really de- Chappell pointed out that San Gascón and Woo said. change your life.” Gascón ac- fi rst time, in such a candid way. tached from the criminal -- that Quentin offers numerous re- In the case of Aroche, he en- knowledges that in order for re- I’m coming in here because I has all changed now,” she said. habilitation programs led by rolled in City College, and then habilitation to work, there needs care about victims,” said Rodri- “Any kind of forum that will some 3,000 volunteers. He and went on to San Francisco State, to be support from everyone. guez. help change those who are com- Gascón discussed the possibili- where he ended up on the honor Among the guests was Luis She commented that public ing back to our community is ty of modifying sentencing pro- roll and graduated with a de- Aroche, the fi rst alternative sen- safety is her number one con- important to all of us.” cedures to encourage prisoners gree in social work. He started tencing planner hired by a dis- cern, so it is helpful for pros- “The second year of realign- to participate in rehabilitation working with Project Rebound, trict attorney in California. It ecutors to communicate with ment implementation will bring programs. a program for ex-offenders. In is part of a new statewide plan those who have been through more partnership, collabora- Gascón vowed to continue to addition, he received some ther- to work with low-risk youth. the system in order to fi nd an- tions, programs, services, and be part of this endeavor for pub- apy. The former gang member helps swers. “When I came here to innovations to San Francisco’s lic safety. low-level offenders from end- San Quentin, I thought, ‘What a criminal justice system,” ac- think tank; what a place to solve cording to a report issued in a problem.’” December. “There will be a Gascón says he is passionate Community Assessment and and devoted to reducing recidi- Services Center; the Adult vism. “If I can, I will do this,” Probation Department and the he insists. “It will be a long Sheriff’s Department will open process and it will take a lot of a Reentry Pod for individuals to people working together. What be released from state prison for I’m trying to do is create an reentry planning and assessment evidence-based system to create purposes.” practices that will keep the com- San Francisco City and munity safe.” County agencies and commu- Prisoner Malik Harris said, nity organizations will provide “This is one of those rare op- comprehensive reentry servic- portunities that we can actu- es to clients on AB 109 com- ally have someone from outside munity supervision, the report Photo by Lt. Sam Robinson come in and listen to us. In the added. Photo by Sam Hearnes Gary Scott and Sharon long run, this helps us on the Woo wanted to know what Sgt. Baxter, Warden K. Chappell, D.A. Gascón, Christine Woo discuss ideas inside to continue with our re- drove prisoners from being out Soto DeBerry, Marisa Rodriguez, Sharon Woo, Luis Aroche