David Ditto

Annual Christmas Banquet brings out the holiday spirit

January 1, 2020 by David Ditto

Guests dining at a previous Christmas Banquet

The spirit of the holidays filled the San Quentin Protestant Chapel for more than 300 volunteers and prisoners at the annual Christmas Banquet.

“It’s such a joyous occasion. It’s the best day of the year for so many of us!” said Fred Cole, one of about 250 men in blue.

Some 50 volunteers and the inmates braved the rain and wind on the cold gray Saturday morning, Dec. 7. Inside they joined in a heart-warming celebration to begin the holy holiday season.

Chaplain Mardi Ralph Jackson, dressed in festive red and black, greeted the guests with a warm smile and a handshake. “God bless you,” she said as they passed through the foyer into the beautifully decorated chapel.

Golden angels stood 12 feet high on both sides of the entrance. Green holly and pine garlands and wreaths with red ribbons and bows and glowing lights decked the windows, bannisters and walls.

“Rejoice, Christ is Born,” announced two of the festive banners. The gathering crowd mingled and engaged in lively discussions.

Guests filled the hundreds of seats at place settings with red cups and Christmas napkins on tables draped with red tablecloths. Mini Christmas tree centerpieces glowed with alternating color lights and “Believe” ornaments glittered with gold on each of the 34 tables.

The annual banquet acknowledges the hundreds of dedicated volunteers who share the love of Christ with the chapel’s congregation throughout the year. The guests of honor, the volunteers from all the Christian fellowship groups, sat side-by-side with the men in blue at each table.

“Hallelujah, praise the Lord!” began the emcee as the entire crowd rose to its feet. “The Lord is good.”

Chaplain Jackson joined the Garden Chapel Worship Team, a choir of nine with four musicians – in singing, “We worship You for who You are…hallelujah.”

Then an elder opened in prayer “Thank You, Father God, sup with us, bless us and keep us while we worship You…Amen.”

“Hallelujah!” praised Chaplain Jackson. “On behalf of the men in blue and myself, we welcome you. Thank You, Jesus. We worship Him today. We honor Him. He is worthy.

“We acknowledge every man who worked to turn this sanctuary into a place of celebration. Thank you, Elder Derrick Holloway, thank you brother Christopher Harris. Thanks to the men in the kitchen cooking right now, the crew at the door, musicians, men in leadership and Spanish ministries. Thanks to all our volunteers who sacrifice without any pay and give of themselves in the Lord’s service.”

“Joy to the world, the Lord has come,” rang out through the chapel as the Worship Team began singing anew. The audience, still standing, joined in the spirited performance, “Let earth receive her King.”

The next song had everyone clapping and swaying to the rhythm, “…Glory to the newborn King.”

Next came Tim Young on acoustic guitar, followed by an a cappella solo of “He is Able.” Both performers received standing ovations.

Evangelist Paula Bates from Prayer Garden, who volunteers inside San Quentin with the Greater Love program, had this message: “I can’t help myself but lift my hands and say, ‘Glory hallelujah.’”

In her bright red, black and white dress, Bates complimented the stage decorations that included poinsettias, wrapped packages, wreaths and stockings and a 12-foot-high Christmas tree with lights, garlands, balls and an angel on top.

The entire audience stood as Bates began to sing, “Jesus, Jesus, Jesus, what a wonder you are.” The musicians joined in and guests sang along, waving their raised hands.

The Prodigal Sons quartet then captivated the audience with a medley, “Merry Christmas to you…Silent night, holy night, Christ the Savior is born…”

The audience responded with joyous praise, cheer and applause. The in-house talent continued with two brothers rapping, “The plan God has for you,” a Spanish prayer, “Gracias Padre bendito, todo para Ti” and “Amazing Grace” a cappella.

Then came the feast served to everyone: barbequed chicken leg and thigh, turkey ham, macaroni and cheese, barbequed beans, corn, potato salad, a roll with butter, cake with chocolate icing and punch. The banquet was so well attended, some of the premium table seats were used twice.

“This is way better than standing in line in the rain for a tray of the same old stuff,” said one San Quentin resident, thoroughly enjoying the top-notch dining experience. “This is even better than Thanksgiving!” commented another.

The voices of fellowship from each table’s conversations kept the chapel warm during supper, even as the cold storm continued outside. A couple of volunteers were talking with a San Quentin resident at one table. Chris Clark, a volunteer with Cornerstone Fellowship, has been coming into San Quentin for six years.

“This is amazing. God is bringing glory right to where we are,” said Clark. After struggling with addiction for 28 years, faith transformed him. “I had my come-to-Jesus moment and woke up with a new hope and a new high,” he shared.

“I really love coming here, I love being here, I love the fellowship and the testimonies,” said Ronda Clark, who has been volunteering with Cornerstone at The Q for about a year. She and Chris have been married for five years and they share the same sobriety date in 2012.

“I tried it once and I was hooked,” said Ronda about the Christian Fellowship volunteer program. “You don’t even know how much we are blessed by you. It warms my heart every time. Even after we leave the prison, we keep you in our hearts and prayers.”

The Clarks pray with the inmates during the evening services. They will be here two more times in December, including Christmas caroling in the cell blocks.

Rick Burger has been a San Quentin resident about three years. He expressed appreciation for the chapel volunteers and the opportunities they bring: “Thank you for sharing your blessings with us. I hope I can be as big a blessing to others, inside and out.” Burger continued, “If someone would have told me when I was in county jail that when I go to prison, I would attend college, go to church and work, and become an amazing soldier for God, I would have told them, ‘Let’s pray for something a little more realistic.’ This chapel is a miracle.”

As the dining slowed down, entertainment resumed. Soothing acoustic guitar by David was followed by a “parable” by comedian Jesse Ayers that got the crowd roaring with laughter.

Chaplain Jackson took the stage once again to present the certificates to the volunteers. “The San Quentin Garden Chapel Christian Fellowship presents these certificates to you to express our gratitude for you and all you do to share the love and fellowship of Jesus Christ with us,” she said to each group. Representatives came onto the stage to accept the certificates and say a few words.

Some of the groups and volunteers recognized were 19^th Street Baptist Church, Second Chance Ministry, Man to Man Ministries, Hillside Covenant, Tiburon Baptist Church, Malachi Dads, Aldo Yannon, Steve Wiegert, Overcomers, Evangelist Leslie Smith, New Faith Cathedral, Brother Donald Mack, Pastor Tom Pham, Elder Darryl Jenkins, Pastor and Sister Hipple, Evangelist Sam and Karen Knapp and Larry Wilson.

“How many mighty men of God we have here!” said Chaplain Jackson. The audience burst into a standing ovation.

“During this season, if you feel like giving up or if you feel like you’re all alone, remember God loves you. Jesus is your hope,” said Evangelist Paula. Then she closed the celebration with a strong and soulful song, “He is the reason…Jesus is the reason…”

The sun shone in through the chapel windows as the storm outside cleared and the guests began to trickle back out to the garden.

11 annual Walk for a Cure

November 14, 2019 by David Ditto

Correctional and administrative staff in support of Breast Cancer Awareness month in front of SQ’s Tower 1

A sea of pink flooded the San Quentin Lower Yard as more than 100 prisoners and dozens of volunteers enjoyed a sunny fall weekend to support the fight against cancer. They joined to build, serve and inspire their SQ community in the 11th annual “Walk for a Cure.”

“We begin with a lap of silence to remember those we have lost to cancer and show support for survivors and those currently in the fight,” the public address speaker announced as the walk began shortly after 9 a.m. on Sunday, Oct. 12.

Participants wore pink ribbons and “SQ CARES” wristbands as they enjoyed live entertainment and inspirational testimonies. Many shared their personal stories while walking together during the two-day event.

“I love being in here,” said Kevin Eshleman, a restaurant manager in the North Bay. He also volunteers with another group inside San Quentin. “These are genuinely good people,” he said while walking with a couple of inmates.

Willie Burrell said he was walking because he enjoys doing something positive. He said he is serving three years “this time” and has been learning skills during his three months at San Quentin.

“I feel so privileged to be here,” said Amanda Nixon, visiting prison for her first time. She works with breast cancer patients and is a 13-year survivor of breast cancer herself. “I began crying during the first lap, remembering those who have passed from cancer.”

Nixon said she has done other cancer walks and learned about this event through her connection with the Women’s Cancer Resource Center (WCRC) in Oakland.

The WCRC receives all the proceeds from the “Walk for a Cure” this year—about $7,000. Over its 11 years, the San Quentin event has raised over $50,000 toward the fight against cancer. Inmates, volunteers and outside sponsors donate to the cause each year.

“It is a huge honor to once again be the recipient of your contributions,” said Penni Hudis, WCRC executive director and chairperson of the Board of Directors. Addressing the crowd, she commented, “Thanks to people like you—our donors, who make all this possible … we make life a quality life for women with cancer.”

“About 70% of the people we serve are low-income,” said Hudis. She described some of the services the center provides as a lifeline for cancer patients, including an information and referral hotline and emergency financial assistance. “Thanks to Warden Ron Davis, all staff, volunteers and the internal committee.”

“You are truly making a difference in people’s lives,” said Christine Sinnott. She is the development manager for WCRC. Sinnott read letters from cancer patients whom WCRC helps, expressing how they are inspired by the donations and the stories of heartfelt community service by the incarcerated people in San Quentin. “I think these clients’ letters say it all. From the bottom of our hearts at WCRC, thank you,” said Sinnott.

“I’m so grateful to San Quentin CARES and the dedication of the committee volunteers and inmates,” Sinnott added. She said the donations of $5 each from the inmates are so meaningful because they equal about one week’s income.

San Quentin CARES (Compassionate Accountability Responsibly Expressed through community Service) has organized the “Walk for a Cure” since its beginning in 2008. It is an inmate-run program headed by a committee of a dozen inmates and four community volunteers.

“This is a great opportunity to build community,” said Hieu Thai, who joined the committee this year. Incarcerated since 2005, he will be eligible for parole consideration in about 10 more years. “Volunteers who come in begin to understand us and see that we are able to serve our communities.”

TienPhamisanothernew committee member who sees the value of community ser- vice. He said he is following in the footsteps of outgo- ing member Son “Sonny” Nguyen. They met in prison 14 years ago.

Participants begin the walk with a “lap of silence” on San Quentin’s Lower Yard

“He’s a good role model to follow. I’ve seen the change in him. Now I want to be of service,” said Pham. “My hopelessness has been con- verted to a sense of purpose. Today is the highlight—seeing my contribution.” Nguyen was on the SQ CARES committee for about three years and was recently found suitable for parole.

“I’m really proud to be part of this,” said inmate John Levin, who also joined the committee this year.

Pink-clad volunteers mingled with the men in blue, circling the quarter-mile track.

“This walk was started by inmates and keeps going because of the amazing things they do to keep this community alive,” said Kim Bailey, a community volunteer who co-founded SQ CARES 11 years ago. “Thanks to all of you for your contributions and for sharing your stories.”

“When you think of prison, you don’t think of this,” said B. Rousse, a philosophy writer who was in San Quentin for his first time. “The people I’m meeting today are hugely inspirational—full of resilience, good humor, friendliness, strength of spirit and a sense of community.”

Rousse facilitated getting a San Quentin inmate art show hosted by Cords Gallery in Oakland. The show is another annual event sponsored by SQ CARES.

Inside and outside committee members of San Quentin CARES

“The entire gallery is dedicated to the show with dozens of pieces—drawings and paintings—during the First Friday street fair,” said Alicia Maria, who also came in to the prison for the first time for this year’s “Walk for a Cure.” She is an artist and art teacher who also helped facilitate the art show space and has held shows there for her high school students.

Kim Bailey, a community volunteer who co-founded SQ CARES

Maria’s student artists attend their shows. “People really want to make the connection between the art and the artists. During the San Quentin shows, the artists are missing. That’s what brought us to this event here— to make that connection.”

“It’s frustrating to me how much you are forgotten by so many people,” said Rachel Bailey, a volunteer with SQ CARES, helping pass out the ribbons and wristbands. She has been coming into San Quentin for about 11 years. “But we want you to know that people outside care about you,” said Bailey.

“They show us that people care about us and that we are a part of their community too,” said incarcerated artist Chanthon Bun. He has donated art to the art shows and designed the pink T-shirts for this year’s walk.

“This is a community- building event where the unique San Quentin inside community inspires people outside to invest in them- selves, improve, and redefine themselves,” said SQ CARES co-founder Chris Bailey. He said that all prison staff and volunteers from all programs and groups are encouraged to sign up online and participate.

This is the second year the SQ CARES “Walk for a Cure” was in October, which is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Showcasing their talent the Soulbillies shake San Quentin

October 23, 2019 by David Ditto

A Bay Area band stirred the souls of a hundred San Quentin prisoners with a high-energy Sunday night concert on Aug. 25.

Fliers posted in the cell blocks promised “A Night of Classic Soul.” The Soulbillies delivered with a whirlwind performance that spurred the audience to dance, sing, laugh and clap for two hours of not-so-pure enjoyment.

The five musicians, dressed in all black, took the stage in the prison chapel and began with a couple of cover grooves, including Aretha Franklin’s “Chain of Fools.” Lead singer Shelley Flint belted out the lyrics as drummer Dan Babior and keyboardist Melinda Borello backed her up with the “Chain-chain-chain…” The energy had the audience nodding their heads and tapping their feet.

The five friends, who worked together at a nearby high school, formed Soulbillies in 2015. “We’re from just up the road a bit. We’re teachers. That’s what we do,” said bassist Ian Sethre. Sethre is also an instructor in the Prison University Program at San Quentin. On this night he brought in the whole band for their prison debut. “We do covers and some original stuff. Some are not appropriate for church—for example this next song. …”

Soulbillies broke into their original mambo “Another Lost Soul,” getting the audience swaying again.

“How many of you have had Ian as a teacher?” asked Flint, as several hands went up. “Now you get to hear him sing.”

“I don’t think that’s why they came, but it’s going to happen anyway,” replied Sethre as he flipped his silver-and-black hair back and took the microphone for another Soulbillies original, “Almost Rock Bottom.” The country sound had the crowd bobbing, clapping, and singing along. Every face in the chapel was smiling, from the stage to the last pew.

Soulbillies shifted next to rocking out with “Hard to Handle.” Flint was back on lead vocals. “Baby, here I am, I’m the girl on the scene / Come on baby, let me light your candle / ’cause I’m sure hard to handle now…” Her silver-blonde hair bounced as she danced, and Mike Sloan tore into a solo on his bright red electric guitar. Borello followed with a solo on the keys, her long, dark-brown ponytail swinging down to the bench. Applause roared through the chapel.

The next song slowed the tempo down a bit with, “You tell me that you love me / It’s a good thing you don’t hate me…”

“If you haven’t figured it out yet, most of our songs are about relationships gone wrong—they’re a lot more fun than the other kind,” said bassist Sethre. Soulbillies then took the crowd on a four-song journey, beginning with a cover of “Midnight Rider.” The chapel swayed to the grooves. Then Flint pulled back her hair and straightened her blouse.

The band ripped hard into “Tell Mama,” their biggest hit of the night. The audience yelled and cheered to Flint’s “Mama’ll make everything all right…” while she and Sethre danced to the hard-driving rhythm. The energy in the room crackled and the San Quentin crowd burst into thunderous applause.

A couple songs later, Babior sang the lead on a rendition of a Joe Cocker hit that had the crowd dancing, clapping and “Feelin’ All Right.”

“How much time do we have left?” Sethre asked the crowd. “We got life!” one concert goer yelled back. The band and inmates laughed out loud. “Let me rephrase that,” interjected the bassist. “What time is it?” Time for a dozen more songs, it turned out.

One of the crowd favorites was “Voodoo Woman,” which featured soulful vocals, an energetic drum solo and a groovy guitar solo by Sloan—all to uproarious applause.

The debut of the Soulbillies original duet “Damned If I Do,” co-written by Flint and Sethre, kept the audience fired up. Then musician Jeffrey At- kins jumped up from the audience on to the stage with the band, introduced as “The sixth member of The Jackson Five.” He and Flint danced and sang to the band’s lively rendition of “I Want You Back.”

The groove culminated with two soul-satisfying encores that sparked standing ovations.

“That was awesome—really good energy!” said one concertgoer named Robert. “She knocked that Aretha Franklin out of the park!” commented another.

The inmates, in their prison- issued blue pants and shirts, approached the Soulbillies on stage to meet and mingle. “I had a great time,” said drummer and vocalist Dan Babior. “When the crowd enjoys us so much, then we enjoy it even more.” He said they play at area bars and events in Marin, Sonoma and San Francisco regularly.

“We’ve never played in a church before,” said keyboard- ist Melinda Borello. “We’ve never played for a crowd so in- teractive with us. That was re- ally awesome!”

Lead singer Shelley Flint responded to a fan asking what inspires her to sing: “This may sound funny coming from a white girl. As a young girl, I used to sing the theme from The Jeffersons, ‘Movin’ On Up,’ into my hairbrush. Later, I started singing Janice Joplin.” Flint continued, “Now, I enjoy singing as an opportunity to release ‘the beast within’ and express myself.”

Soulbillies will perform at Hotel Utah in San Francisco on October 19. Some of their recorded music is available at Soulbillies.com.

The soul-fulfilling concert was coordinated by Bread & Roses, a nonprofit, volunteer- based organization that brings “Hope and Healing Through Live Music” into San Quentin and other Bay Area institutions. “I just love bringing music in and seeing all the smiles,” said organizer Lisa Starbird after the concert.

San Quentin’s college class of 2019

August 12, 2019 by David Ditto

On a sunny June morning over- looking the bay, 12 incarcerated scholars were honored at the 2019 Prison University Project (PUP) graduation. University instructors, staff, classmates and family of the graduates gathered in San Quentin’s main visiting room to celebrate the conferring of Associate of Arts degrees in liberal arts to the men in blue.

As “Pomp and Circumstance” sounded, the 2019 graduates began their procession, and PUP Board Chair Maddy Russell-Shapiro’s eyes were already welling up with tears.

“One of the things I love about PUP is that the students are going to become a growing body to represent the carceral state and represent the truth of what’s really going on in here,” she said.

“This is an achievement we all can be proud of,” said valedictorian Tommy “Shakur” Ross.

Rick and Renee Roberts, Valedictorian Tommy “Shakur” Ross, Adrienne Skye Roberts, Fania Davis and Reggie Davis

He described to the audience the research project he did in one of his PUP courses. “I am most proud of this work because it altered my worldview about women, igniting the initial spark that led to my identity as a feminist.

“Now who would’ve thought that I, a former full-fledged, hard-core, misogynistic gangbanger, would be writing papers on feminist theory? But here I am!”

The alluring calls of a higher education resonate within the walls of this prison

Ross thanked his family, including his fiancée, “She has been my inspiration.”

“I’ve seen him become more of a critical thinker,” said Ross’ fiancée, Adrienne Skye Roberts, after the ceremony. “He’s always been hardworking and disciplined.”

Graduate Matthew Nguyen’s family was also in attendance.

“I’m so happy my son finished college!” said San Nguyen, Matthew’s father. “I believe his future will be very good.”

Matthew translated in Vietnamese for the San Quentin News interview with his father, who was dressed in a suit and tie for the occasion. San Nguyen said his son looked very handsome in his cap and gown. “This is my first time attending a college graduation,” he said. “It’s very emotional.”

“I’m really proud of him,” said Matthew’s sister Martha Nguyen. She said that before her brother was incarcerated, the two of them went to college together.

“I had no idea about the Prison University Project,” she said, “I’m thankful Matt had the opportunity to get his degree.”

“Even though he did something bad, he turned his life around,” said Matthew’s mother, Theresa Nguyen.

“I’m overwhelmed,” she said during the post-ceremony celebration, “just trying to take everything in.”

Matthew’s niece Jessica and nephew Brian were also celebrating the graduation. Brian said his uncle’s accomplishments in college at San Quentin inspired him to excel in high school, where he graduated the week before.

Graduate Timothy Young’s family also attended the graduation. “It’s a huge accomplishment!” said his sister-in-law Anjeanette Young. “I’m very proud of Tim and everything he’s learned on his journey.”

“The college program changed my life and the way I see the world,” said Timothy Young, “It opened doors, and I have more hope for my future.”

“He’s very humble, and he doesn’t start trouble,” said Tim’s brother Clifton Young. “He’s 100% genuine,” added their sister Sandra Webb.

“People are capable of becoming better than their worst moments,” said key- note speaker Kenneth Hartman, development coordinator and prison programs specialist at the Catalyst Foundation. He was incarcerated for 38 years with an LWOP (Life Without Parole) sentence until he received a sentence commutation from Gov. Jerry Brown and was released in December of 2017.

“People outside are not waiting to throw rocks at you when you get out,” Hartman said. “I have not had a single negative encounter with a single person out there.”

“I attribute my success to all the instructors and tutors who treated me as the student they knew I could become,” said graduate Sumit Lal to PUP Development and Communications Director Lauren Hall in an interview. Lal is the youngest member of the graduating class.

“I’ve seen such a tremen- dous change in him. He’s made such a big change in such a small time,” said Lal’s brother, who attended the ceremony. Lal paroled from San Quentin just days after his graduation.

“Me sentí muy emocionado, contento porque fui capaz de lograr algo que cambiará toda mi vida,” (I felt very excited, happy be- cause I was able to accomplish something that will change my whole life), said graduate Juan Espinosa, de- scribing the ceremony. He said that learning English, his second language, at the same time was difficult and sometimes frustrating—but worth the effort.

PUP’s mission is to provide excellent higher education to those at San Quentin, to support increased access to higher education for incarcerated people, and to stimulate public awareness about higher education access and criminal justice.

Louis Calvin, Nythell Collins, James Evans, Jose Luis Lopez, Corey McNeil, Jerry Smith and Kamsan Suon rounded out the dozen graduates of PUP’s class of 2019.

“Congratulations to all the graduates!” said Jody Lewen, Ph.D., Executive Director of PUP, after the degrees were conferred. “It’s not possible to describe the dedication to the unbelievable work you do.” Director Lewen acknowledged the extraordinary teachers, staff, Board of Directors, donors and tutors. “We couldn’t do everything you see here today without you.”

SQ Garden Chapel hosts Christmas banquet

July 15, 2019 by David Ditto

“Jesus is not only the reason for the season – but for all 365 days a year.”

The gospel song “Lord, We Praise Your Name” rang loudly throughout the San Quentin Garden Chapel as the prison choir greeted more than 300 inmates and guests to celebrate its annual Christian Banquet.

Pastor Tom Pham praying with Vietnamese Bible study group

The May 11 event brought fellowship, food and festivities to honor the hundreds of volunteers who have steadfastly shared the love of Christ with the inmates throughout the year. The banquet is the only time members of the dozens of churches that participate can get to know each other.

The event was scheduled for Christmas time, but was postponed twice due to prison lockdowns, including a quarantine. A gold and white banner hanging on the pulpit simply said “Victory,” capturing the faith and determination of the worshipers, volunteers and organizers.

“I am pinching myself because it is finally happening,” said Chaplain Mardi Ralph Jackson, who welcomed the crowd. “It was a long journey. Thank you, Jesus – Halleluiah!”

Elder Derrick Holloway opened in prayer, “Jesus is not only the reason for the season – but for all 365 days a year.”

New Faith Cathederal with Andress Yancy, Darnell Hill, Leonard Walken, Greg Dixon and Markee Carter

The dozens of volunteers mingled with the incarcerated worshipers as they all sat together at tables spread with tablecloths and bouquets. The overflow crowd meant extra chairs were placed around the walls, where many prisoners wait- ed for an opening at a table.

The music by the prison’s Garden Chapel Worship Team had bodies swaying with hands waving high in the air as the large crowd joined in singing “We praise your name, Lord, and we lift you higher, higher.”

The audience remained standing for the uplifting performance by The Prodi- gal Sons – a inmate quartet – that sang an original gospel song titled “God Answers Prayers.”

Sanet Allen, sporting a red jacket, took the stage next. She dazzled the crowd with an operatic solo of The Lord’s Prayer, prompting a rousing standing ovation.

Tiburon Baptist Church volunteers John Eagan, Susie Erin & Sanet Allen

“Music ministry is part of my life,” Allen told a San Quentin News reporter. “I like to give something back.” She began volunteering in San Quentin last fall. She said she found something unexpected in the prison.

“There was so much love and joy; it was overwhelm- ing,” Allen said. “Now I’m addicted.”

Allen’s professional music career includes singing with the Cape Town Opera in South Africa and touring internationally.

Allen volunteers with the Tiburon Baptist Church, one of dozens of churches and groups that sponsor Christian services in the prison chapel.

“They guide us and let us know we’re not alone,” said Quincy Paige, a 31-year-old inmate. He has attended the services on Saturdays and Sundays since transferring to San Quentin about a year ago.

“When I’m in this chapel, I don’t feel like I’m in prison.”

Paige added that today he was here for the fellowship and the food.

The meal was far finer fare than standard prison chow. Each guest was served roast beef, barbecued chicken, macaroni and cheese, potato salad, corn, carrots, a biscuit, punch, apple crisp, and a cookie.

“This is a banquet indeed,” said one content diner.

“Hace 10 años que no me siento en una mesa con un florero,” (It’s been 10 years since I’ve sat at a table with a bouquet), said 64-year-old inmate Arnoldo Rivas. It reminded him of being home – with friends and family. Rivas attends the services in Spanish on Friday and Sunday nights.

“I was a soldier for a prison gang for years,” said 53-year-old David Rodriguez. Incarcerated for 27 years, he rededicated his life to Christ in 2010. This was Rodriguez’ first banquet. Two days earlier, he was found suitable for parole. “I’m a true miracle of the Lord – He opened the doors.”

Volunteers & Inmate guest chatting in pre-banquet fellowship as music plays

This was also the first banquet for Susie Erin, who has been volunteering in San Quentin for over five years. Every three months she comes in with Tiburon Baptist Church on Saturday evenings. Their pastor delivers the message and Erin sings with their choir.

“The guys sing better than we do, but we sing anyway and they appreciate it,” Erin said.

“The guys that come in are really exuberant. They’re not just coming here to get out of their cells. They really want to worship.” Erin said that was unexpected at first.

After the meal, the celebration continued with some comedy by inmate Jessie Ayers. On stage, he said he was asked to do a clean comedy act, but couldn’t comply – because he got barbecue sauce on his shirt. The comedian wished the mothers a happy Mother’s Day and added, “I want to invite you all to the Mother’s Day banquet. It will be in December – right around Christmas.” The chapel roared with laughter through Ayers’ entire routine.

Musical worship by Sister Linda Jackson and The Well got the audience sing- ing and moving again.

Then Chaplain Jackson took the stage. “We’d like to acknowledge all the volunteers with certificates of appreciation,” she said.

“The San Quentin Garden Chapel Christian Fellowship presents this certificate to (each group) with our deepest gratitude and thanks. This certificate expresses our gratitude for you and all you do to share the love and fellowship of Jesus Christ with us,” Chaplain Jackson read.

Some of the groups and volunteers recognized were Cornerstone, One Accord Ministry, Malachi Dads, Aldo Yannon, Steve Wiegert, Overcomers, Evangelist Leslie Smith, Brother Donald Mack, Pastor Tom Pham, Elder Darryl Jenkins, Nathaniel Sparks, Anthony Evans, and Sister Hipple.

Chaplain Jackson concluded, “I really do love each and every one of you. God bless you.”

The Prodigal Sons delivering "God Answers Prayers" — The Prodigal Sons delivering “God Answers Prayers”

Solid gospel by New Faith Cathedral had the entire crowd on their feet, clapping, swaying, and repeat- ing full-volume, “Halle – Halle, luiah – luiah!”

After the grand gospel finale, the audience settled down for the closing prayer by Brother Patrick Baylis.

—Marcus Henderson contributed to this story

Get On The Bus unites families at SQ

July 9, 2019 by David Ditto

Families eating, playing games, and enjoying GOTB 2019

The laughter, tears and warm embraces of family reunions filled the San Quentin visiting rooms during the day-long Get On The Bus (GOTB) event on Friday, May 31.

Daughters, sons and grandchildren reconnected with their incarcerated fathers and grandfathers after years—even decades—of separation.

Get On The Bus supports family relationships

“It’s amazing—it’s finally happening!” said 57-year-old inmate Nathaniel Sparks. “Today I saw my daughter and wife together for the first time in 24 years.”

His 25-year-old daughter Natalia was born when he was in county jail.

“I still have every letter my daughter has written me. At times it was the only thing that kept me going,” said Sparks.

Sparks also met his six- year-old grandson George for the first time at the visit.

“He was really excited,” said George’s mom, Natalia. “When I came to see my dad when I was little, it was exciting and fun. I knew it would be for my son. Six years old is old enough to remember.”

Benito Muro with his mother Socorro Delgadillo Ayala, wife Susana Aguirre Luna, and children

“Those are memories they’ll have forever,” said GOTB volunteer Sabrina Coca de Gómez. She is a bus coordinator who has volunteered with the program for the last four years. Coca de Gómez helped organize a bus that left from Sacramento at 3:15am with about ten visiting family members, then picked up more in Oakland on its way to San Quentin. Buses from southern California left the night before.

“I do it for the children— that’s my passion,” said Coca de Gómez.

“The joy on their faces— some have tears—it’s just beautiful. I couldn’t stop crying,” she said about the morning’s reunions.

Another first-time meeting was between Terron Toliver and his incarcerated father, Curtiss Frazier.

“I wanted to cry,” said Toliver, “It’s been 25 years and I never met this man. I wanted to know where I come from.” He said that although he had a great step- dad, he never felt like he belonged.

“I’m happy and sad. Sad that it took so long. Sad that he’s behind bars,” Toliver explained. “Happy because today I get to meet my dad— my biological dad. It’s a great feeling.”

“We look the same,” said Toliver, “I found my twin!” Then he laughed, saying, “When I first saw him, I wanted to take off my name tag and run like hell.” Toliver works, goes to school and is a father himself now, helping raise two small children of his own.

“I’m proud of him,” said Toliver’s father, Curtiss, who is paroling soon. “My number one goal is to make things right and build a relationship with my kids and grandkids,” he said.

Ángel Villafan is another incarcerated father going home soon. “When I first came in I was crying because I hadn’t seen my son in three years,” he said. He hadn’t held him in about five years, be- cause their visit in county jail was behind glass.

“It’s definitely a lot of work, but this is what we get: happy people, happy families…”

“I ran to him because I missed him,” said Villafan’s six-year-old son, Alex Servin. “I feel so happy.” Servin said he is graduating from kindergarten and can’t wait to play soccer with his dad when he comes home.

“He was so excited,” said Alex’s grandmother, Gloria Servin. “We broke into tears.

What Ángel wants most is to be with Alex.” She expressed her gratitude to the GOTB program for the joyous reunion, “Thank you so much!”

“It’s so uplifting,” said Stephanie Stubbs, a volunteer GOTB bus coordina- tor. She helped organize families for pickup at the Saint Columbus Church in Oakland. The bus took them to Saint Sebastian’s Church in Kentfield, where volunteers prepared and served breakfast to all the families before heading to San Quentin.

“It’s definitely a lot of work, but this is what we get: happy people, happy families—at least for a little while,” said Moisés Farias, who has volunteered with Stubbs for five years.

“I can really connect with them because I haven’t seen my mom for 12 years. Not because she’s in prison, but because she’s in Mexico. I can’t go to Mexico,” said Farias. “It’s really satisfying to see them connect,” he added.

“I’m excited! I haven’t seen my kids since 2013,” said 42-year-old incarcerated father Dion De- Merrill. “When I left, my youngest son was still in Pampers.”

Nathaniel Sparks with his wife, daughter, and grandson

His daughter D’oni just turned 18, old enough to chaperone her younger brothers on their first GOTB visit with their dad. “Today is about holding, touching, and hugging our dad—that’s the main thing,” she said. Dion Junior, 12, and Dr’Lon, eight, agreed.

DeMerrill explained that his wife cannot come because she is on the same criminal case. “Thank you for letting me spend the day with my kids,” he said to the GOTB program.

Benito Muro and family have been reunited five times through GOTB. Muro has been incarcerated at San Quentin for over seven years and about 15 years total. He was visiting with his four children, wife and mother.

With the help of dozens of volunteers, sponsors and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, GOTB has held the annual event for 19 years. Each year, GOTB reunites thousands of children with their parents at many of the men’s and women’s prisons across the state.

Millions of children have incarcerated parents nationwide. The strong family connections built by programs like Get On The Bus contribute to successful reentry when parolees rejoin their communities.

“Today is a blessing— thanks to Get On The Bus and Walkenhorst,” said 32-year- old incarcerated father Juan Navarro. He was visiting with his daughter Emily, 13, son Ivan, 11, and their mother LuzMaria Velis, 31.

Navarro said the program was not available at the other three prisons he was in, but he read about it in the San Quentin News. He transferred to The Q about a year ago. “It would be great if this program was available in every prison,” he said.

“I’m overwhelmed with emotion—happy and sad,” said 47-year-old incarcerated father Tyrone Douglass, who also arrived at San Quentin last year. He was teaching his 13-year-old daughter, Kassara, sign language and teaching his 11-year-old son, Tyrone Junior, how to play chess.

“Time flies—it’s almost over,” Douglas said, glancing up at the clock. “I’m already missing them.”

Bread & Roses presents tribute to honor Audrey Auld

May 15, 2019 by David Ditto

Audrey Auld singing for Day of Peace on lower yard in SQ

A parade of San Quentin musicians entertained about 100 inmates while honoring the late folksinger Audrey Auld, a favorite performer at the prison.

“She opened up her heart; she brought her music. She was amazing!” guitarist Richie Morris said of Auld.

“Audrey’s final performance at San Quentin was the performance of a life- time—the show to top all shows. She left exhilarated. It’s an example of the healing power of music,” said Lisa Starbird of the music organization Bread & Roses.

Audrey Auld, commenting about that night: “If I died in my darling’s arms today, I would be the happiest woman knowing that I have succeeded in connecting with those men in such a true way. I am so touched by their heartfelt statements of connection and acknowledgement.”

Starbird welcomed the crowd and promised high- caliber music—after a video tribute to Australian folk singer/musician/songwriter Auld.

The Sunday night concert showcased in-house musicians in a tour-de-force of jazz, blues, funk, pop, R&B, rap and rock ’n’ roll.

Starbird told the San Quentin News that Auld brought her heart, soul, and talent into San Quentin to collaborate with incarcerated talent.

“Inmate musicians wrote lines that Audrey weaved together into songs.” Auld recorded their songs, including “Hey Warden” and “I Am Not What I Have Done” in Nashville and produced the CD in 2015. The music is available for loan in the San Quentin Catholic Chapel loaning library (on CD) and for purchase through Walkenhorst and online.

Tower of Power song accompanied by the “oohs” of the back up singers: Jason Griffin with Paul Comauex and Tony O’Neil from music group NSF. The crowd roared.

“She opened up her heart; she brought her music. She was amazing!”

The final number by Just Us, “Rejuvenation /Play That Funky Music White Boy,” burst the audience into ovation.

The solo act hip hopper “Flame” took the stage next. After a sound check, he rapped, “Ease the Pain,” then sang—a cappella—“Your Love Is Like Magic” into an R&B groove.

Gino & Friends filled the stage next, featuring Gino Sevacos on lead vocals and guitar, Mark Kinney on keyboards and vocals, and Jaspar on bass. Liam Atkins on cajon, Dwight Krizman on drums, and Chris Thomas on mandolin completed the sextet.

They played three conscious awareness songs, beginning with “Planet Love.” Gino introduced their second song, “We learn to love each other…diversity is what I like about our country.” The crowd of inmates was fired up as the band moved into its final piece, featuring “too busy to connect…” in the lyrics.

The final act was Quentin Blue, featuring three guitarists: Richie Morris on acoustic guitar, Chris Koppe on lead electric guitar, and Dwight Krizman on bass. Mark Kinney on keyboards, Liam Atkins on percussion, and Thomas on mandolin completed the group of six.

Quentin Blue began its set with “I’d Send You Home to Mama.” Morris then introduced their next piece by telling the audience, “Music is an opportunity to do something beneficial for the outside —beyond the wall.” The song, “Upward I Fall,” was a peaceful, more tranquil style, reminiscent of Guns N’ Roses’ “Patience.”

The final Spanish-sound- ing number, “Baby I Knew You Were Leaving Me,” got the audience rockin’ again. The “Olé” ending triggered applause, but signaled the end of the concert— just in time for lock-up.

Here are comments about Audrey Auld from those present: Gino Sevacos – “I knew her for 10 years. I was there for her first visit—cool, collaborative writing. Audrey was friendly, fearless, like a breath of fresh air.”

Lee Jaspar – “Her biggest impression was her willingness to bring what she loved—her music and her friendship—into this institution and make us part of her family.”

Charles Ross – “She was always warm-hearted and smiling. It’s an honor to be picked to play in her memory.”

Comments on the in-house talent concert: Chris Thomas – “This is a great venue to showcase the rehabilitation, dedication, and drive to be better people.”

Jeffrey Atkins – “It’s so nice of Lisa to showcase the in-house talent.”

Inmate in audience – “It’s always good—you always get your money’s worth around here.”

Lee Jaspar – “It was good. The evening went off really well. Thanks to Lisa—she gives tirelessly.”

Tom Lapinski of the Through The Bars Foundation – “Enjoyed watching all these musicians mixing into different bands. It was great!”

Lisa Starbird – “A wonderful success…a lot of fun having the diversity of music.”

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Bread & Roses bringing music into San Quentin State Prison. They are a nonprofit organization that sponsors volunteer music events, including about one each month inside San Quentin.

is available for loan in the San Quentin Catholic Chapel loaning library (on CD) and for purchase through Walkenhorst and online.

“Audrey came back home from Nashville because she got cancer,” Starbird said. “She died in 2015, about a month after her last performance in San Quentin.”

“In Loving Memory—We Love You 2015,” began the video featuring Auld’s folk music performance with Pam Delgado and Jeri Jones on the San Quentin Day of Peace on the prison recreation yard in April 2015. “I love you like the storm, I love you like the sea, I love you like the birds that are flying free,” Auld sang in her peace sign tie-dye t-shirt. The audience applauded the video.

Then the live music by five groups of San Quentin musicians began.

Jazz and Friends, featuring Lee “Jazz” Jaspar on electric guitar, got the crowd moving. Dwight Krizman on drums and Mark Kinney on key- boards completed the jazz trio. They began with “Impressions” by John Coltrane, followed by Jaspar singing the bluesy jazz number “Gee Baby.” Their finale, “Well You Needn’t,” energized the audience, responding with cheers.

Next up was the group Just Us featuring Jeffrey Atkins on keyboards and vocals, Charles Ross on drums, Lynn “Funky” Walker on bass and Liam “Lee” Atkins on electric guitar. They began with the ’80s pop song “Rumors.”

Then they switched to up- beat funk that got the crowd’s heads nodding and J. Atkins’ dreads flying, “giddy up,” “do some blues.” Then L. Atkins’ guitar solo took over the Tower of Power song accompanied by the “oohs” of the back up singers: JasonGriffin with Paul Comauex and Tony O’Neil from music group NSF. The crowd roared.

“She opened up her heart; she brought her music. She was amazing!”

The final number by Just Us, “Rejuvenation /Play That Funky Music White Boy,” burst the audience into ovation.

The solo act hip hopper “Flame” took the stage next. After a sound check, he rapped, “Ease the Pain,” then sang—a cappella—“Your Love Is Like Magic” into an R&B groove.

Gino & Friends filled the stage next, featuring Gino Sevacos on lead vocals and guitar, Mark Kinney on key- boards and vocals, and Jaspar on bass. Liam Atkins on cajon, Dwight Krizman on drums, and Chris Thomas on mandolin completed the sextet.

They played three conscious awareness songs, be- ginning with “Planet Love.” Gino introduced their second song, “We learn to love

each other…diversity is what I like about our country.” The crowd of inmates was fired up as the band moved into its final piece, featuring “too busy to connect…” in the lyrics.

Lee Jaspar – “Her biggest impression was her willingness to bring what she loved—her music and her friendship—into this institution and make us part of her family.”

Charles Ross – “She was always warm-hearted and smiling. It’s an honor to be picked to play in her memo- ry.”

Comments on the in-house talent concert: Chris Thomas – “This is a great venue to showcase the rehabilitation, dedication, and drive to be better people.”

Jeffrey Atkins – “It’s so nice of Lisa to showcase the in-house talent.”

Inmate in audience – “It’s always good—you always get your money’s worth around here.”

Lee Jaspar – “It was good. The evening went off really well. Thanks to Lisa—she gives tirelessly.”

Tom Lapinski of the Through The Bars Foundation – “Enjoyed watching all these musicians mixing into different bands. It was great!”

Lisa Starbird – “A wonderful success…a lot of fun having the diversity of music.”

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Bread & Roses, a nonprofit organization that sponsors volunteer music events, including about one each month inside San Quentin.

Veterans’ toy drive is “all about the kids”

February 19, 2019 by David Ditto

Toys collected for the Veterans’ Toy Drive in the SQ visiting room

It was toys and smiles all around as dozens of children came to visit their dads in San Quentin State Prison at Christmas-time.

“It’s all about the kids,” said Tony Burch, vice chair of the veterans group that sponsored the Toys for Tots event in its thirtieth year.

“I just love to see the expressions on the faces of the kids,” said Army veteran Garvin Robinson, long-time secretary and treasurer of the Veterans Group at San Quentin.

Robinson admitted that sometimes he has as much fun as the kids playing with the toys.

“I can see they got the spirit in them — the joy on their faces shines as bright as on Christmas Day. It reminds me of me when I was a kid,” said Army Vietnam veteran Adam Sinegal.

Hundreds of toys and smiles of joy greeted the children as they entered the festively decorated San Quentin visiting rooms to visit their inmate family members and friends.

The toy event is scheduled for the weekends before Christmas and on Christmas Day each year.

San Quentin Veterans Tony Burch, Adam Sinegal, Stanley Baer, Garvin Robinson and Gary Cooper

Robinson, who has been incarcerated for 33 years and has three sons of his own, said about the toy giveaway, “It fixes me – I can put a smile on a kid’s face. This is the best thing I’ve done in my life.”

“We treat all kids equally,” said Marine Corps veteran Stanley Baer. “It ain’t the kid’s fault,” he said about the children visiting their incarcerated loved ones. He explained that many of the children come to visit inmates who have been convicted of serious crimes with lengthy, life or even death sentences. “They’re the most grateful because it’s so unexpected.”

Baer helped a young girl pick out the doll she wanted. After consulting with her mom, the girl embraced the doll with both arms and a beaming smile. Baer commented, “That moment right there – that one genuine moment – made the whole day worthwhile.”

“Some of these kids are like family to us”

“Some of these kids are like family to us,” Marine veteran Gary Cooper said, “We’ve seen them grow up over the years.” Cooper said it reminds him of the joy he and his own kids shared when shopping and opening presents during holidays past.

On their way to the main visiting room, visitors walked by the children’s playroom. Looking in, they were surprised to see tables stacked with hundreds of toys for the visiting children,

Reactions included: “Oh, look at that, Michael. Wow! Yay! I want that!”

Each child entered to choose the toy they wanted to take home, but with so many options, which one? The choices included a wide range – from the Millennium Falcon, Kylo Ren’s Tie Silencer, BB-8 and R2-D2, to dolls, play walkers and play mats for toddlers and infants. From basketballs, soccer and footballs to high-tech electronics like the Vtech Alphabet Apple and the Leap Frog learning tablet.

“I wanna take that!” said one young girl. With parent’s approval, she was given her toy, and with a huge smile said “My Num Noms – Yum!” She then began dancing joyously, repeating, “I got Num Noms!”

One inmate with his child said, “I used to get so excited,” remembering Christmases from his own childhood. Another said about the game “Operation,” “That game’s been around since when I was a kid.” Other games that have been favorites for generations included Sorry, Monopoly, Connect 4 and Trouble.

The veterans group’s staff sponsor, Rachael Murray, a CDCR employee, worked with the SQ veterans group to put the event together. “Rachael was instrumental,” said veteran Baer. She drove a van to the Toys for Tots warehouse where it was filled – front to back, floor to ceiling – with the toys she then brought to the prison.

Murray said she enjoys working with the veterans because they are all team players. She said the toy giveaway “always has been and always will be about being able to bring some joy to the kids … making sure they have something to smile about.”

VGSQ members Earl Orr and Samuel Gaskins gave out the toys in the other visiting room in San Quentin’s H-Unit.

The veterans group also does food sale events inside San Quentin to raise funds to donate to the Toys for Tots program — usually several thousand dollars each year, according to VGSQ member Fred Cole.

This year’s donation was under $2,000 because of a statewide suspension of food sales in prisons, said Cole. He added that VGSQ hopes the sales will be reinstated.

Dozens of children receive toys each day during the event. One of them was 5-year-old Troy Jackson. He happily picked out a toy with his grandfather, Kenji Jackson, whom he came to visit.

Ten-year-old Riley and 5-year-old Kai, visiting their “Uncle Nick,” chose Num Noms and slime to take home with them. “I wanted the slime,” said Riley, as Kai described how he would stretch the slime and make noises with it: “You can do this.”

Kai Kane, Nicola “Uncle Nick” Bucci, Riley Kane and Frank Jernigan picking out toys in the visiting room

Thirteen-year-old Jayla Watts, daughter of Jerome Watts, was happy to get a toy but said that the best thing about Christmas is “spending time with my family.” She continued, “Even though this is a prison, I still enjoy spending this time with my dad and my family in here – it feels like it’s not a prison.” Jayla’s dad, Jerome, said that the visit is the highlight of his holiday season.

The grandmother of another visiting child said that she was excited to see all the toys given away because it was completely unexpected. She said in 13 years of visiting her son, “in so many prisons – this is the first time I’ve seen anything like this. It’s a real blessing.”

Kenji Jackson with grandson Troy Jackson

10th annual San Quentin CARES "Walk for a Cure" builds community

December 30, 2018 by David Ditto

Community members, volunteers and San Quentin inmates joined forces the first weekend in October to fight breast cancer at the 10th Annual “Walk for a Cure.” The two-day event featured live music, personal messages, poetry and prayer to entertain and inspire about 100 participants.

SQ CARES – Volunteers and organizers on Lower Yard

The inmate-run program San Quentin CARES (Compassionate Accountability Responsibly Expressed through community Service) organized the “Walk for a Cure.”

SQ CARES is a committee of a dozen inmates and four community volunteers.

Prisoner Rafael “Nephew” Bankston walked for his mother Michelle. She was approved to visit him and see him get his GED, but passed away from cancer the day be- fore his graduation. Bankston expressed the loss he felt in poetry he read to the gath- ered participants, “If home is where the heart is, then I’m homeless.”

Another inmate, Hieu “Rocky” Nguyen has participated in the walk since 2012. He has served on the SQ CARES committee for two years. His sister passed away from cancer 12 years — to the day — before this walk. He walks to support the community, create awareness and remember and honor his sister. He remembers how she held his hand and taught him to read and write in a concentration camp in Vietnam, where there was no school.

Charlie Thao began working with SQ CARES this year. In 2016, he found out that the victim of his crime suffered from cancer. “It felt like a stab in my heart,” Thao said. He stipulated (postponed) his parole board hearing for five years so that she would not have to endure the additional hardship it would cause her. “I want to give back to my community,” Thao said.

SQ CARES – Stephen Pascascio donates hair

Stephen Pascascio is the only one of the 10 founding committee member inmates that hasn’t gone home yet. He cut his 171⁄2-inch-long hair — six years’ worth — on stage during the event Saturday to symbolically support a program that provides wigs for cancer patients.

Women and men — incarcerated and free, wearing pink wristbands and pink ribbons — walked and talked together on San Quentin State Prison’s Lower Yard. Pink T-shirts mingled with blue state prisoner shirts in a unified community event to improve the quality of life for women with cancer.

Volunteer Tammy Crane walked for her sister, whose cancer has been in remission for six years. “This will not be the end of me,” Tammy shared with the crowd, reading her poem relating her sister’s difficult decisions dealing with her breast cancer. “I’m here six years later… with flowing sister locks, flawless skin and fully reconstructed,” she read to the crowd.

Each day of the Walk for a Cure, the participants began with “a lap of silence to remember those that we have lost to breast cancer, to stand in solidarity with those who are currently fighting, and to pay homage to the survivors,” as announced by the emcee Edmond Richardson. Richardson walked in the event for the first time this year. He walked to give back to a community that he took so much from and to “do something bigger than myself.”

Community volunteer Kim Bailey co-founded SQ CARES 10 years ago. She highlighted the importance of establishing connections between prisoners and the outside community. Bailey sees the volunteers that walk with the inmates leave with a different, more positive perception: “It gets them to see that people in here are just like them.” Bailey also walks in remembrance of her sister who died at age 45 after undergoing treatments for breast cancer.

Regarding the money raised by SQ’s “Walk for a Cure,” the other co-founder, Chris Bailey, husband of Kim Bailey, said that there are bigger donors, but the way this money is raised — community building — really makes a difference: “The little dollars can make a bigger difference.” Most inmate participants donate $5 for the cause — some making as little as eight cents an hour.

Bailey asks, “What if everybody gave a week’s pay to the cause?”

Community volunteer Shannon Gordhamer was working in San Quentin at Center Force when she was invited to join the SQ CARES committee four years ago. Gordhamer enjoys volunteer- ing with SQ CARES because it keeps her connected with the people inside even though she doesn’t work in the prison anymore. “Community building is extremely important,” she said. She also volunteers to support improving the quality of life for women with cancer, a cause that is very important to her personally.

Gordhamer also worked for Avon, a previous beneficiary of funds raised by the Walk. She recruited and trained men and women preparing for their 39-mile walks. Gordhamer has also done that walk on the outside, but she says that the walk at San Quentin is “at the top of my list.”

“This is my very favorite event that I have done,” she said. Why? “Amazing work is being done here,” Gordhamer said.

When people come in to the prison to walk, they are inspired by the heart and commitment of the incarcerated participants. She says the soul overflows to bursting and, “you get more than you give.”

The newest community volunteer committee member is Samantha Feld. She worked for the San Francisco AVON walk to end breast cancer for years and recalls hearing of the prison program from Gordhamer. Very intrigued, Feld decided to visit San Quentin a few years ago, for the ceremonial presentation of the SQ CARES check to the AVON walk. “I was so struck by the stories that I was hearing,” she said.

Impressed by the work of the men on the SQ CARES committee, Feld was inspired to join the prison walk team herself. This is her second year walking with the San Quentin inmates and is now an official committee member. “Miss Sami,” as she is now called by them, recognizes that cancer affects everyone – across walls, borders, and communities. She said, “I’m very proud and honored to be working with the committee. It’s a very inspiring group.”

Over its 10 years, the event has raised more than $45,000. That is “amazing!” said Penny, the chair of the board of directors of the Women’s Cancer Resource Center (WCRC) in the East Bay. The event raised about $4,000 this year to support the center’s mission of improving the quality of life for women with cancer. The WCRC provides 100 percent free services.

“There are thousands of people in the Bay Area who support the center. Every event is special, but there is something about this one,” Penny said. “We can only do this work because of you.”

Bailey has seen Walk for a Cure raise a lot of money over the last 10 years.

“Our primary mission is to create a community-building social event,” Bailey said. By walking together with a common cause, he explains, “We connect with each other and our humanity.”

—Marcus Henderson contributed to this story

Editor’s Note
The reporter also walked to honor his sister, who suddenly became very sick with cancer this year. “My sister Doreen has always been there for me, and always will be,” he said. She has decided to discontinue her cancer treatment. “I walk thinking of her beauty and love, and praying for her comfort and health.”

Pastor Pham's message of love in and outside of SQ

November 16, 2018 by David Ditto

Pastor Tom Pham and Sister Kim Lam with students in chapel

Decades ago, in the midst of preaching the gospel, Pastor Tom Pham exited the podium, hopped onto a motorcycle and escaped the scene as the Vietnamese authorities approached. If caught preaching, he would face incarceration for violating laws prohibiting religious services. Now, he sits in prison, once a week, with his colleagues sharing the gospel with the men inside.

Pastor Pham said God called him to San Quentin five years ago. He came to San Quentin’s Protestant Chapel as a guest and met several of the incarcerated Vietnamese men.

He has returned ever week since. Pastor Pham, along with the few incarcerated Vietnamese men, formed a Bible study group that has since grown into a group of about 20 men. Pastor Pham said the group’s purpose is to bring love and hope to the men and provide them a place for sharing that love and hope with each other. The group outgrew the small room in the chapel area and now meets in the main chapel. It has expanded from a strictly Vietnamese group to a diverse group including Laotian, Cambodian, Russian, African American, Mexican, Chinese and Hmong members.
“It encourages me to see people that care that much about us…instead of judging us, they show us love,” Son “Sonny” Nguyen reflected appreciatively.

Nguyen recognizes the change and growth within himself and the other students. He and fellow inmate-student Gary Vong shared a dream to continue spreading the message of hope through ministry after their release from prison.

Another student from the beginning, Phirak “Kid” Kim, described the group as “the family I never had on the streets.” He is Cambodian and recruited many new students to the group for the same support and love he has received through the years. He explained that he feels a lifelong bond with the group and plans to continue the connection even after incarceration.
Pastor Pham’s message helps create positive relationships within the Bible study group that extend outside the prison walls. His message of love and hope encourages his students, even beyond their incarceration. During his five years at San Quentin, 15 formerly incarcerated Bible study students have been released. They continue to benefit from and build on the message of love and hope that Pastor Pham instilled. His “15 brothers” are rekindling positive family relationships, and three are beginning new families of their own. Pastor Pham even performed the wedding ceremony for one of them, Hong Syyen, a life-term inmate who paroled a couple of years ago. Another former Bible study student, Gary Vong, was released from prison a couple of months ago and is continuing to learn and share the positive message of the Bible in the Second Chance Life ministry group in San Francisco that Pastor Pham teaches.

Through the years, Pastor Pham recruited Pastor Hai Luong, husband and wife Craig and Kim Wilson, Pas- tor Lộc Lê, and Sister Kim

“The hour-long drive is worth it,” said Pastor Lê, who drives more than 40 miles to fellowship with the incarcerated men. He is encouraged by “Vietnamese— speaking the way I love.”

Pastor Lê is a pastor at a Vietnamese Missionary Baptist Church in Oakland.

At Pastor Pham’s invitation, Kim Lam first visited San Quentin in December 2016 for Christmas caroling. She remembered walking with a group of visitors into the West Block housing unit, where more than a hundred prisoners were waiting along the tiers in front of their cells. Some of the inmates sang along with the visiting carolers. Sister Kim recalls the angelic voices and her husband’s vision of a beautiful angel overlooking everyone in the entire block. “I was amazed!” she said about her first visit.

Sister Kim returned to San Quentin for a Sunday night Easter service when Pastor Pham delivered the message in Vietnamese. She felt that she was be- ing called to serve and, at that moment, she knew she wanted to answer by teaching San Quentin prisoners in the Bible study group.

Pastor Pham and his col- leagues each found their way into San Quentin by following their hearts. They volunteer as teachers in the Bible study group for the glory of God. Their message of love and hope en- courages prisoners inside San Quentin and as they find their way out.

By David Ditto and David B. Lê – Staff Writers

The group meets Thursday mornings at 10:30 in the Protestant Chapel. All are welcome to attend and share the message of promise.

Pastor Pham with formerly incarcerated Bible study group members, family and friends

http://sanquentinnews.com/lop-ho%cc%a3c-kinh-thanh-vie%cc%82t-nam-ta%cc%a3i-san-quentin/

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