San Quentin News

Written By Incarcerated - Advancing Social Justice

Capturing prison life through art – Avenal artists create historic murals

by

By R. Ramirez, Contributing Writer

Historical murals are being created by the men of Avenal State Prison’s Facility F yard, capturing the pains and transformations of prison life.

A two-part mural was painted on the Facility F chow hall walls. It aims to tell a compelling story. The paintings begin with incarcerated people working on a chain gang, showcasing one of the first forms of punishment in prison life. The paintings were created to help people visually travel, decade by decade, through what prison was like in those times, according to the artists.

“When I was a child I was surrounded by negative influences inside the household and around the neighborhood,” said A. Dupone, one of the artists. “I used art as a way to get away from all the negativity around me. I would put my ear buds on and listen to some music and block everything out.”

To this day, Dupone stills puts his ear buds on while creating his art, even being incarcerated.

All the artists used real photos from other incarcerated people and correctional officers. They even had a photo of the Folsom warden from back in the 1800s. The artists painted a detailed picture of singer Johnny Cash performing “Folsom Blues” for the prisoners back in the ’60s. The mural ends by capturing life in the Pelican Bay SHU (Security Housing Unit).

“I enjoyed creating art,” said artist R. Hernandez. “I discovered that I had some real art skills back in middle school, but I stopped drawing. It wasn’t till I got incarcerated that I started creating art again and regained my drive for it.”

The second part of the mural displays different self-help programs available on the Facility F yard. One of them is YAPP, a youth diversion program, where troubled youth come to hear testimony from the men who are incarcerated at ASP. The program give the kids a glimpse of how life in prison is.

There are paintings of the Actors’ Gang, Defy and GRIP self-help programs on the wall. These programs prepare people for life after prison.

A third and final piece will be about life after prison. It will consist of people continuing on the right path of rehabilitation. The paintings will display returning people who are working to support themselves and their family. It will also showcase them spending time with family and enjoying the precious moments with people they love.

“I have been drawing since the age of eight,” said W. Carrera, artist. “At that time I knew I had a passion for art, and I still enjoy displaying my art to this day.”

The entire mural crew consists of R. Hernandez, W. Carrera , D. Devine, S. Kaslove, and A. Dupone and R. Ramirez.

“We were are honored and blessed to be able to show our art and talent to Facility F and bring a positive environment to our community,” said the mural crew.

KidCAT facilitator Bev Shelby returns home to Texas

by

Leaving a legacy of commitment and connection – she will be missed by many

Bev Shelby walked out of San Quentin State Prison on Oct. 24 with a heart full of emotion and memories.

Before moving back home to Texas, she came to share one last Thursday meeting with her KidCAT family.

“I can’t hug you guys. That really pisses me off,” Shelby said to all the members around her—some of whom she’s known for over seven years while coming into SQ.

“Listening to all of your stories and hearing about how you’ve overcome some of the worst childhoods, I wonder sometimes, ‘How can you even smile?’” Shelby momentarily broke down. “It’s been such an honor to share your continued growth, to be a part of the great work you guys do.”

“I’m going to hug Will real tight for all of you,” she said, referring to new volunteer facilitator Will VanBrackle. He sat across the space where KidCAT traditionally sets up the tables in a square with everyone facing in.

When Shelby arrived that day, the KidCAT guys tried to get her to sit in the middle and be the focal point. “I’m not doing that,” she said, sliding a chair alongside Anthony Ammons. “I’m just one of the guys—one of you.”

Despite the collective sadness at seeing Shelby depart, KidCAT Chair Si Dang wanted the group to celebrate her legacy of commitment and cheer her on toward the next chapter of her life.

“The way you came into this prison, Bev—you singlehandedly transformed KidCAT and transformed me with your big heart,” said Dang. “They say everything’s bigger in Texas, but it can’t compare.”

Dang likes to keep the KidCAT meetings energetic and warm—part of his mission to emphasize strength in community and family.

As a special treat, Dang enlisted K. Tran to perform a re-envisioning of “You’ll Be Back,” one of the showstoppers from Shelby’s favorite musical, “ Hamilton.”

“I wish we could have filmed that and tweeted it to Lin-Manuel [Miranda],” she exclaimed afterwards as the applause erupted. “That was truly a gift.”

Vice Chair Kenny Vernon prompted Tommy Ross and Nou Phang Thou to start a beat on the tables, encouraging every KidCAT member to participate in a rap around session.

With some prodding, Shelby started the rap off and struggled to rhyme. “I don’t know what to say. You guys are the best—and I do not mean that…” [pause] “…in jest.”

Other support groups and classes in SQ’s main education building heard the raucous thumping, blundering lyrics and spurts of laughter. Although there were some complaints, the spirit of KidCAT resonated throughout.

After the silly onslaught of rap subsided, the mood grew serious as men spoke to Shelby in farewell.

Alvin Timbol has seen his share of members get found suitable for parole over the years and become returning citizens. “Every time someone from KidCAT leaves here, I have a hard time saying ‘Goodbye,’” said the emotional Timbol. “I’d rather just say, ‘I’ll see you later.’”

VanBrackle remembered his first group meeting just a few months prior. “We did our fire circle and you told me to go ahead and take the reins,” he said to Shelby. “I’m very grateful for that. It meant a lot.”

Thanh Tran said to her, “That whole institutional barrier between free staff and inmate—I never felt that from you,” he looked around. “We never felt that from you.”

Dwight Krizman agreed. “From day one, you never saw me as a guy behind bars,” he said. “Your boundless compassion continues to give me hope.”

Ross had this to say: “That very first time we worked together, you corrected me and asked me to reframe some of the things I said.

“You know, that did trigger me—I wasn’t used to a woman doing that. I learned a lot from you.”

Ammons turned his head to look at Shelby directly. “I’ll always appreciate the humor you brought with you into this space,” he said. “You helped us connect with our inner child—helped us grow and mature as adults while bringing all that positivity in here.”

Shelby teared up again as she said to Ammons, “You’ll always be my partner in laughter. I’m always reminded of the times I’d get in trouble in school for that. Thank you for being my partner in here.”

Vernon told Shelby, “You’re a big part of the man I am today. I appreciate that. My wife appreciates that.”

Chase Benoit: “Our friendship—every time we talk, you’re being real and I am, too. That’s not always true of friendships.”

Phang Thou laughed as he offered Shelby the same advice he’d given recently paroled Ryan Dietz: “Bev, if you’re ever in a bar and someone tries to hand you a 40-ouncer—WALK AWAY.”

With time running out for her scheduled departure, Shelby looked at all the KidCAT men. “I’m so proud of you guys. This is hard work,” she said. “I can’t imagine you living in your cells. I just can’t imagine that. All of you deserve better than this.

“You cannot judge someone by their worst moment—I learned that from you guys. And I’ve spread that message to my family and friends.

“You’re all going to get out and be great citizens. I truly believe that.”

Shelby originally had planned to be back in Texas by early October, but an institutional lockdown at SQ prevented her from saying goodbye to KidCAT in person—so she delayed her plans until she could come inside the prison again.

“”I make slow decisions, but I know it’s the right thing for me,” she explained about her personal debate on leaving California. “But don’t worry, guys. I’m not rooting for the Cowboys—ever.”

Annual KidCAT banquet celebrates service to others

by

KidCAT members, facilitators, and guests at the 2019 KidCAT Banquet on October 4, 2019

This year’s KidCAT banquet celebrated the magic and power that comes through dedicating one’s self to being of service to others.

Outside volunteers, CDCR staff, incarcerated men and returning citizens gathered in the San Quentin chapel Oct. 4 for an evening filled with food, laughter, reflection, the sharing of personal narratives—even a short skit.

“We’re not just going to tell you what it means to be of service—we’re about to show you,” said the gala’s emcee, Tommy Ross.

KidCAT Chairman Si Dang put the night in perspective by first acknowledging the original KidCAT members who started the youth offender support net- work in 2010.

“Three of those men are right here,” he said, pointing to returning citizens Gary Scott and Charlie Spence— and also SQ’s Nou Phang Thou, the last original member still incarcerated.

“Everyone deserves a second chance to pick themselves back up,” said Dang. “KidCAT’s mission focuses on always serving the most vulnerable group in society—the youth.”

Unveiling the new im- proved KidCAT logo of a global shaped light bulb, Ross asked the audience, “What comes to mind when you look at that?”

Voices from the crowd responded with phrases like “worldwide” and “bright idea.”

Former KidCAT members Gary Scott and Charlie Spence attended the KidCAT Banquet

Vice Chairman Kenny Vernon began the presentations by talking about coming to SQ in 2014. “First Step was the first group I ever took here and to see other inmates facilitating it—I’d never seen that before anywhere,” he said. “I was surprised by the outside facilitators, too.

“I asked them, ‘How much are you getting paid for this?’ I couldn’t believe it when they said they were all volunteers.”

Vernon explained how profound it was for him to hear them say that they got something out of volunteering—something far beyond monetary compensation.

“Later that night, I thought about the things they said about finding purpose, find- ing healing, becoming more empathetic,” said Vernon. “Me, I only did community service twice in my life before prison, and that was be- cause the court ordered me to.

“I asked myself, ‘Is this something I could do?’”

Vernon then described how, for the first time, he made a small donation to a KidCAT fundraiser from his inmate trust account.

“Being recognized just for donating—it filled me with genuine pride. I’d done something that made a difference,” he said. “After that, I was hooked.

“I stand before you today as living proof. Being of ser- vice changed me from a per- son I didn’t like into a man with a head full of kindness and a heart full of love.”

Will VanBrackle recently became a KidCAT volunteer facilitator, and he shared his own personal journey. A professional chef, he encouraged the guests to appreciate each other while they ate.

Quoting the late Anthony Bourdain, VanBrackle said, “ ‘You learn a lot about someone when you share a meal together.’ I hope during our meal tonight you have a chance to learn, grow and love.”

As KidCAT servers made last minute preparations, Ross wanted the audience to acknowledge Phang Thou, “a man who has truly dedicated himself to living a life of ser- vice.”

True to form, Thou was busy working behind the scenes—sporting a plastic apron in the back of the chapel as he arranged plates of food.

“Being recognized just for donating—it filled me with genuine pride. I’d done something that made a difference”

The SQ Jazz ensemble played from the choir box while everyone dug into an institutional meal of quarter chicken pieces, battered fish, vegetables, tortillas, rice and beans. A legitimate and palpable family vibe filled the chapel.

Peter Nguyen recently be- came a member of KidCAT after being at San Quentin for a year. “There were some folks here who are just start- ing to come into the prison to volunteer,” he observed. “It was really awesome to watch them open up, relax and be- come more engaged.

“By the end of the night, they just looked fully comfortable and at home.”

The biggest round of applause greeted Ayoola Mitchell, a fixture at SQ. Mitchell regularly volunteers twice a week at the prison when she’s not out traveling the nation to advocate for juvenile justice reform.

“We love you, Ayoola,” was heard numerous times as she approached the stage to speak.

“Make sure to tell my kids about all this,” she said to Scott, who now works with her after paroling six years ago. “They always say I’m the meanest person in the whole world.”

Mitchell wanted to share her thoughts and experiences about how everyone’s lives are linked together. She described her time as a counselor at the Santa Clara juvenile hall in 1995—and how shocking it was when so many minors came back from their court date with a life sentence.

One juvenile lifer who stood out in her memory then was Vinnie Nguyen, who would go on to become an original founding member of KidCAT and has since paroled. Mitchell noted how one of Nguyen’s best friends at SQ was Scott—her own friend and advocacy coworker.

Peter Nguyen spoke after Mitchell and commented on what a tough act she was to follow.

“What motivates a person to serve can be as different as a fingerprint,” he said. “When I was young, being of service was a nonexistent concept for me.

“Prison forced me to deep dive and reflect on the positive values my family, especially my mother, had tried to instill in me.

“KidCAT gave me the chance to finally return to be- ing the person that my family raised me to be.”

In between speakers, Ross shared his own insights about KidCAT. “I’m one of the elder members—an old guy, and when I first got involved, I really didn’t expect to learn anything from men younger than me,” he said. “I’ve never been so wrong. These young guys continue to teach me new stuff about life every day.”

KidCAT members then performed “The Awakened Spirit of Service,” an original skit written by Dang and K. Tran. Through drama and humor, the performance illustrated a young man’s emotional path toward learn- ing to serve his community.

After the applause died down, Ross introduced Gayle and Phil Towle, who have served KidCAT for years as mentors and personal counselors.

“Not only do they offer us their heartfelt guidance and love every week, but they also show us the model of a perfect marriage,” Ross said about the couple who have been married 55 years. “Because of them, I know what a healthy relation- ship looks like.”

The Towles traded lines from their joint speech. “When I volunteered at SQ, I had this arrogant notion that we were serving criminals who needed our superior wisdom and life experience to re- cover from their tragic lives,” said Phil. “How naïve and embarrassing that looks today.”

Gayle said, “Years later, as all volunteers will attest—we come to prison to have you men in blue teach us about be- ing better human beings.”

Phil asked the prisoners in the chapel, “Are you marking time until you get out of pris- on to live?”

“Or living now, as the best person you can be?” asked Gayle. “While you did not choose to live here—you can choose how you live here.”

Gary Scott came onstage while Ross said, “Give it up for the prodigal son. He has returned. This is what six years of freedom looks like.”

“Coming in here and seeing guys that I know from when I was incarcerated, looking at KidCAT members, facilitators, and guests at the 2019 KidCAT Banquet on October 4, 2019 ago I never would have envisioned this being so power- ful,” said Scott.

KidCAT Vice Chairman Kenneth Vernon

Lastly, Ross introduced keynote speaker Spence by referring to a well-known SQ video that depicted Spence breaking down in tears of vulnerability.

“Yeah, yeah—everyone knows I’m an ugly crier,” said Spence as the crowd welcomed him. “I tried writing a couple of different speeches for tonight, but in the end I just had to tear them up.

“The only way to address you guys is to just speak from my heart.”

Spence paroled last year after serving 22 years in prison since the age of 16. He spoke mostly about the difficulties he has faced in transitioning out.

“As great as freedom is, I want you guys to know that stepping in here today—it’s the first time I’ve felt normal since I left,” he explained. “It’s really hard for me to connect with people on the outside.

“They haven’t done the kind of work on themselves that we all have. I often question my socialization out there. I go check in at the parole office, and there I feel comfortable.”

He told a story about recently hiking on nearby Mt. Tam, and how looking at SQ from up on the hill caused him to sit down and start crying.

KidCATVolunteer Will VanBrackle

“I broke down because I know so many of you that de- served to be standing there beside me,” he said. “When I look around this room, I’m incredibly proud of all the amazing work you guys continue to do.

“My own freedom came when I learned to be of genuine service and serve others with- out caring about the recognition. Trust me, that’s the real key to your freedom.”

Family, community and music fill Makahiki celebration

by

Auntie Adel’s Ukelele Group’s Neil Prudente, Chanton Bun, Tith Ton, Jackson, Adel “Auntie” Serafino, Jackson, Moua Vue, Sean Koyota, Patrick Makukane and Louis Salé

Sixty men in “Ocean Pacific Blue” along with 24 community members attended an annual Hawaiian celebration called Makahiki, in San Quentin’s Visiting Room on October 4.

Family members drove hundreds of miles to celebrate the feast. “I’ve been to a lot of prisons and there is nowhere like this. It’s all about family and community,” said Louis Sale’s wife who drove from San Diego.

“For today I was very impressed by the men’s newly discovered talent and how it shines through their hard work and dedication,” Adel “Auntie” Serafino, the cornerstone of the group said.

Entrance to the event be- gan at 2 p.m. when all invited inmates passed 30 men who were strategizing about the day’s festivities. Participants listened to a Bob Marley mix provided by event deejay Stephen Piscascio as the stage was set for performances.

(Left to right) D. Kualapai with wife Margaret, Pita and his wife, Margaret and Toalepai

The musical event started with a traditional Polynesian introduction. The story be- hind the song is “the person chanting has a house, a beautiful house in the forest…and my house is perfect except for the one thing missing….you, the visitor—and of course, you only arrive with love and respect,” Patrick Makuakane told the audience, setting the tone of “family” for the show.

The chant was followed by the first dance from the eight-man team. It honored a prince who “went to jail like us be- cause he tried to restore the queen’s leadership against the white puritanical leader- ship that overthrew the culturally-based government,” Makuakane said.

The second dance, called Halo Haina Lei, described Hawaii’s mountain on the island of Lanai, the second wettest place on earth, where torrential rainstorms fertilize the valley. The dance is a metaphor for appropriations of land to, and fertility for, the Hawaiian culture.

“We are a family”

After the chants and dance, ukulele players set up their set. Brother Louis Sale introduced “Auntie” Adel saying, “Without Auntie we all would not be here today.”

Her team opened with a Tahitian song the elders used to sing to their young people as they left for Hawaii. The song was titled “Tamari ‘I Hokulea.”

Other songs included so- los by two men who are leaders in the Pacific community at San Quentin:

Louis Sale rewrote “Paho-ho”, a Tahitian song he dedicated to his wife. Pahoho is about the soothing sounds of the waves crashing against the reef while the approach- ing Queen is offered an apetahi flower by her loved one.

“Auntie” Adel introduced Brother “D” who has been at Auntie Adel’s Ukelele Group’s Neil Prudente, Chanton Bun, Tith Ton, Jackson, Adel “Auntie” Serafino, Jackson, Moua Vue, Sean Koyota, Patrick Makukane and Louis Salé

The Q for 12 years. D asked the audience to travel back to 1972 when he and his wife Margaret first heard Elvis’s recording of “I Can’t Help Falling in Love with You.” “I was only 5 years old,” said Margaret, D’s wife since their marriage as teenagers. “And still going strong,” D proudly responded to a cheering crowd.

At intermission, all comers enjoyed a traditional Hawaiian dinner, including shredded pork, marinated chicken, catfish, poi, coconut yogurt, mixed vegetables, coleslaw, soda and cookies. Tables opened in a traditional luau style that allowed the men, volunteers and family to dine together.

Here, Makuakane took time to reflect on his service at San Quentin.


D. Kualapa leads Makahiki’s culinary team (from left to right): Lay Maka, Tomasi Latu, Masi
Tapealava, David Mageo, Chris Dancel, Kep tuiono, Kay Johnson and Andy Sione

Makuakane teaches island chant and dance to men at the prison every Thursday afternoon. Discussing his four years of service, he highlighted this performance as most rewarding. “This work over the years is gratifying as we provide culture, mentorship and most important of all community to our brothers here,” said the native Hawaiian Makuakane.

“Makahiki” originated hundreds of years ago during a three-month moratorium placed on Pacific Island cultures during ancient and historical battles. Warring parties agreed on this cease fire to allow their warriors time to reflect, re-nourish and celebrate life,” said Makuakane.

After intermission the men performed two more songs from “the land of the cowboys,” known as Maui. The first invited people to learn a song about hot lava hitting rocks as it pours down the mountain. Then everyone in the room performed a song that included a volcano, which, in part referred to the power of a glowing sky “hot above the crater.”

The day’s final song Makuakane first learned as a child — “Boy From Lapohoehoe.” It was the first hula he learned and tells the story of a boy who likes to do what all young men in Hawaii aspire to do; they like to fish, eat and paddle.

“Auntie” Adel then shared her experiences with the group.

She reflected how she came to San Quentin through her relationship with Jun Homomato, who teaches origami.

(Left to right) Falau Toalepai with wife Lynette, Makukane with Makahiki guest

In March of 2015, Homomato recognized Adel’s passion for teaching and invited her to San Quentin. From that point on she was committed.

“Not one day after I started the ukulele class at San Quentin did I ever think this would end,” Adel said. Her dedication and passion shows. “We are a family,” she said, referring to Pacific Islanders.

The Native Hawaiian Religious Group (NHRG) al- lows them the opportunity to teach chants and traditional dance for San Quentin’s men. NHRG gives men the ability to connect with their roots, providing a spiritual platform for any inmate wishing to find a peaceful path full of love from the Pacific Island community.

Through the years, Aun- tie Adel has spent countless hours with men who are driven by heritage to learn music and songs of the Hawaiian culture. Auntie Adel teaches the men performance styles of singing Island vocals and playing the four-string and eight-string ukuleles. “And remember with men being blessed to go home, we are looking for another 10-15 people of any race and ethnicity to join the NHRG. We hope each will get a slice of paradise,” said Auntie.

Stanford professor audited Creative Writing class

by

Adam Johnson

Professor Adam Johnson of Stanford University came to San Quentin to sit in on a creative writing class for incarcerated men, facilitated by Zoe Mullery and sponsored by the William James Association. The Aug. 21 get-together between students and professor focused on: what led to Johnson’s writing career, what creates a compelling narrative, and a review of Fortune Smiles (2016), Johnson’s collection of short stories.

“He really encourages all of us, me included, to go to the difficult story – don’t turn away from it – go to the story that we don’t fully understand or have any understanding of,” said Mullery.

The Pulitzer Prize winning author, who worked as a mason in his youth, said building solitary confinement cells in Arizona changed his life.

“We’d bring the walls up, and then I’d think about who’s going to occupy this thing, and it was depressing the hell outta me,” Johnson said.

After that, Johnson took a creative writing class to boost his grade point average and “that’s that,” he said.

Johnson talked about what he learned from Ron Carlson, his first writing teacher.

“The secret to great writ- ing is learning to tolerate the not knowing of what might be and moving forward in a story in the face of uncertainty and that it might fail,” Johnson said.

The students had read Johnson’s collection of six short stories prior to his visit and were ready with comments about the stories. Dark Meadows is the only story Johnson said he did not research.

Johnson said it was about people “who could go down paths where they could do the unthinkable” and be redeemed.

“The character was in a situation of struggling every day in his life to do the right thing,” Johnson said. “He was a character that readers don’t want to like, but he had characteristics that readers find likable.”

Johnson said Dark Meadows challenges readers’ beliefs about good and bad.

He told the students that the space for fiction is getting smaller and smaller as publishers looking for longer stories are dwindling.

As an early writer, he says, he had great experiences with editors. But, as he developed, he has found his own voice, even if he has to labor to write a single paragraph.

“The act of writing is a noble endeavor,” Johnson said. “It’s meditative – I feel that I’m an average person, but to orchestrate my thoughts, I can say something above myself.”

Mullery noted later that she’s “picky” about people interacting with the class.

“The writers that I invite are people that I really re- spect, not only as writers, but also how they conduct themselves as a writer—not to just make a buck or be famous. And I think Adam Johnson is a great example of that,” said Mullery.

Poet and thespian Donté Clark visits San Quentin

by

Donté Clark

Poet and thespian Donté Clark, 29, visited a classroom at San Quentin on Aug. 11 to talk about his experiences of being a young Black writer from North Richmond, Ca.

“On the surface, my writing is about my feelings, but it’s also about freedom,” Clark told a group of six incarcerated men sitting with community volunteers, who are educators for Academic Peer Education Program (APEP).

Clark added, “I always wanted to come inside a prison to teach–but what can I offer? I came to understand, if I can’t give information, I’ll get information.”

James Metters, one of the APEP incarcerated educators, said, “Donté came in and taught me the power of resilience. He models success as an African American growing up in an urban community. He reminds me that the sky is not the limit.”

Clark talked about his early days of writing. He said the anger he felt from the lack of social or community issues showing up in literature was quelled through his own writing.

“When I was growing up, I was going through a lot,” Clark said. “My parents and teachers didn’t know how to handle me. But, writing down my feelings not only made me feel better, it helped other people.”

Clark said appreciation for his writing passion showed up through community support for a workshop geared toward youngsters. The workshop participants began performing for each other, which gained attention—which grew the workshop until the performances became community shows.

“I’m trying to help raise awareness of what’s happening in Richmond,” Clark said. “I’m getting rid of that anger. If you still have anger and bitterness, you’re still lost. I want to get to that place of harmony. I have to get rid of that emotional blockage.”

Rick Ayers, an APEP volunteer, chimed in saying, “Donté would show up any- where, paid or not paid.”

Clark responded, “The workshops are for kids in the community — they help keep them out of trouble, inspire them to stay in school— with the goal of keeping the kids going.”

Clark performed a couple of poems from his new book, KnowFreedom. Peer educators Raiveon “Ray Ray” Wooden and Philippe “Kells” Kelly followed with original spoken-word pieces of their own.

Referring to the performances, Diane Kahn, a PREP volunteer, said, “I felt as though Donté is on the level that he could speak to the experiences that incarcerated people go through.”

Clark is working on a new piece called Money and a book based on a 14-day trip he took to Indonesia that speaks to peace and love.

Retail giant Alibaba gives workshop on working in E-commerce

by

As part of an interviewing workshop, Peter Stern, from online retail giant Alibaba, told about two dozen incarcerated computer coders that learning Mandarin is a big plus, if they want to get a job with the E-commerce company.

Although the Chinese firm does not have a policy on hiring formerly incarcerated people, Stern said that his inspiration to be involved with San Quentin’s incarcerated population came after visiting the entrepreneurial program, The Last Mile (TLM).

TLM, established in 2012 by venture capitalists Chris Redlitz and Beverly Parenti, prepares prisoners for today’s business world by teaching them how to engage in social media and other new technologies. The nine-month program helps students develop business plans that are presented to corporate leaders during a Demo Day.

Redlitz and Parenti expanded TLM in 2014 by creating Code.7370, which is a computer-coding course. Since then, Stern has dropped into the Code.7370 class to inspire the students.

Prior to the Aug. 21 workshop, Stern prepared a PowerPoint presentation to show the incarcerated coders Alibaba’s rapid growth. It currently has surpassed Wal-Mart with over $1 trillion in sales.

The workshop began with Alibaba representatives using employer/potential employee role players to demonstrate the STAR system.

The STAR system role players show that when a potential employee understands an employer’s Situation (S) the job requirements are revealed. The role players then illustrate that potential employees must be able to identify the specific Tasks (T) that are needed to perform the job. Understanding the

Situation and Tasks allows a potential employee to understand what Action (A) he or she needs to take in order to secure the job. Successfully demonstrating these aspects would Result (R) in employers recognizing that the potential employees know the job and would be a successful hire.

At the end of the workshop, there was a question and answer session. Many of the coders’ questions centered on when to bring up former incarcerations to employers.

“When to bring up being incarcerated is important. Tell the employer what you’ve learned from your incarceration experience. Tell them about the programs that you’ve taken. Show them the change in your life. Look at it as an opportunity to demonstrate who you are at the time of your interview,” Stern told the incarcerated men.

Alibaba representative Tobie Louw told the incarcerated coders, “Thank you for letting us know about your world.”

Avenal State Prison holds first annual Children’s Hospital art donation

by


All those who created artwork pieces featuring roses, cards, and knitted R2D2 and BB8 (inserts) for the Valley Children’s Hospital

This is the first annual Valley Children’s Hospital hobby donation on C-yard. By Ms. D’s graciousness we were able to host a hobby donation for the children. Those photographed participated by putting their talents together, in a joint effort to bring joy to a child’s heart through arts and crafts. The items donated included: drawings, paintings, cards, colorings, models, paper-mâchés, bracelets, necklaces, beanies, stuffed animals, etc. We have so many talents and what better way to use those talents than donate to a child who must en- dure much more than we do at such a young age.

I encourage every yard in this facility to find the time to donate to those less fortunate. As difficult as our struggles maybe, they do not compare to a sick child’s. Your thought alone can bring strength; our prayers can expand their horizons, and our change and growth can bring healing. If it’s just a smile on a child’s face then that should be enough. A special thanks to Ms. D for making this a reality. Make a difference!

Artists holding up their work

The pain, suffering, and damage that our hands have done is unthinkable. For many of us, we can never make up for the harm we have caused. But does that excuse us from giving back? From making an effort to repair our lives and the lives of others? There is no better way to accomplish this than giving to those less fortunate.

Here at Avenal State Prison, on Facility C, the men had the opportunity to put their talents together for a cause very precious and dear to every one of our hearts, giving back to children less fortunate who must endure a struggle far greater than our own.
These gentlemen you see here helped, with the use of their hands and creative talents, made the items on display. From drawings to paintings, from bead items to sculptures, even a knitted R2D2 and Darth Vader were made for the kids at the Valley Children’s Hospital in Madera. The amends process begins here, and being a part of this was a tremendous blessing and a privilege.

I would like to give a special thank you to Mrs. DeArmand for being the link we needed for this special event to take place. Her willingness to help us get the hobby donations to the children made all this possible.
The weight of the harm we caused weighs heavy. With every moment we spend dwelling on the weight how will we ever be free of it? The only way to lessen the weight is to give what has so freely been given us. The majority of us have second chances in life, one of those children might not. To give back what we’ve taken; peace, stability, security, and maybe even a life, seems impossible. But with each kindness, with each selfless act of service, help, and giving we have the opportunities to bridge the gaps that our decisions and crimes have created. It’s never too late to give back. I am so thankful to be a part of the healing and what is happening here at Avenal State Prison. Even beyond these fences, for all my fellow incarcerated men who take the initiative and make amends by giving back, I applaud you. I’m encouraged. Now becoming men of honor. Our crimes do not define us, they have the potential to rebuild us, if we let them. Let the past give you motivation in giving to those who need us in the present which will inevitably create a safer tomorrow.

Barry Wilson, Avenal participant

TRUST facilitators go home but find new blood to lead

by

TRUST participants, members and facilitators share one last photo before leaving prison

Great companies and organizations are the ones that can stand the test of time and San Quentin’s T.R.U.S.T rehabilitative group is one of those programs.

The transformative group hosted its 14th Annual San Quentin T.R.U.S.T Graduation Ceremony and banquet. The October 10 event honored more than 60 people graduating from three different programs: The Health and Wellness Group, Project L.A., and T.R.U.S.T. (Teach- ing Responsibility Utilizing Sociological Training) classes. The Spanish Anger Management group was also in attendance.

TRUST’s Lanie Melnitzer, Christina Eckstrand, Anna Shoop, graduate Michael O’Neal, with Project LA’s Catherine Lonazo and Saun Hough

Robb Rogers, Project L.A. chairman, and Philip Senegal, T.R.U.S.T vice chairman, both received warm goodbyes and congratulations for be- ing found suitable at the pa- role board. The two longtime members expect to be released at the end of the year.

The men who “do programs” at San Quentin get out, said Steve Emrick, SQ’s recently retired Community Resources Manager. “The parole board and the outside community recognize the work that is being done in these programs. I hope all of you who take part in the programs walk away with the things you learned and become productive re- turning citizens.”

Susanne Siciliano, Melnitzer, Eckstrand, Shoop and Quilley Powers cheer as Diana Kronstadt speaks

The large crowd of volunteers and graduates recognized Rogers for his humble and direct personality that helped shape the Project L.A. program.

“After 38 years, I look for- ward of being home. This program provides all the necessary tools to survive upon release,” said Rogers. “I’m going to get involved with the Jericho organization once released. I look forward to helping the people coming after me.”

Project L.A. is a goal-set- ting and pre/post release program that assists people from Southern California with their re-entry needs. The Jericho organization, based in Los Angeles, works closely with the program.

Graduate Sergio Alvarez

“When people from our community are housed this far away they need this type of program,” said Saun Hough, executive director of Jericho, who also was formerly incarcerated. “We let the men know that they have a team when they come home. I once walked this road (incarcerated and reentry). I’m honored to be a part of some- one else’s team. We are on the ground, we provide real-time support and help those returning navigate the resources.”

Graduate Matthew Medina

Hough served more than 20 years in prison and has been free for eight, but every so often he reflects on his life journey.

“I was sitting in Dunkin’ Donuts the other day and I start thinking about my freedom. I began texting my daughter, then my wife and I just said, ‘I’m home—I’m home!’”

Hough said he prays to keep having that feeling.

Senegal is waiting for his second chance at freedom. He is one of the last founding members of T.R.U.S.T., established in 2003.

“I shall not do harm to myself, my family or my community; that is the golden rule of T.R.U.S.T,” said Senegal. “I’m no longer the cancer that did harm to my community. Now, I’m that healing agent.”

What motivated the founding of the group was when former Gov. Jerry Brown, who was the Mayor of Oakland at the time, stated on a news program that the core problem and the rise of crime in the community and the surrounding area of Alameda County was due to the influx of incarcerated people coming from San Quentin, said Senegal.

“This program provides all the necessary tools to survive upon release”

Graduate Anthony Waldrip

“We took offense to that statement and wanted to change that perspective. So with the help of the prison administration, they brought the curriculum inside and we developed the program,” he said. “If you don’t invest in yourself, change can never come about.”

Since the start of the program it has graduated hundreds of men within the prison. It also hosts the SQ Health Fair, the largest medical event, probably in the country, for a prison.

TRUST participants, members and facilitators share one last photo before leaving prison leadership but we welcome the new blood coming in,” said Diana Kronstadt, one of T.R.U.S.T’s sponsors. “Phillip bought us the history of the program with him. Robb is such a talented guy. I think they will do good things on the out- side—their presence will be missed.”

Graduate Robert Rush

Kronstadt expressed confidence about the continued longevity of the program while the new graduates smiled as they walked across the chapel stage to receive their certificates of completion.

“I feel selfish because we learn so much more than we give to these programs,” said Christina Laird, program volunteer. “These guys are masters of de-escalation. I learned how to use the ‘I statement’ from them. I had a chance to use these techniques at my job and I just own that space.

“These guys are preparing themselves for society,” Laird added.

Graduate Jess Puentes

Louis “Louie” Light, T.R.U.S.T member and MC of the event, kept the mood festive and on schedule with his humor, plus seriousness. He made sure everyone had their time to speak and get their picture taken.

The SQ Jazz band provided soul-soothing instrumentals as the participants enjoyed their meals and their accomplishments.

No More Tears violence prevention program originates from the heart

by

No More Tears’ Lonnie Morris right) and members of Healing (center) with Mattie Scott (center for Our Families and Our Nations

As the sun was setting on San Quentin, dozens of incarcerated men and Bay Area citizens gathered in the Protestant Chapel to break bread, on Sept. 14, in celebration of No More Tears, a violence prevention program.

Mick Gardner, executive director of the program established in 2002, revealed that in the last three years, 43 participants of No More Tears returned to the community and none returned to prison.

Pointing to the incarcerated men, Gardner said, “They put it together— the idea came from the heart and mind of Lonnie Morris. The sincere passion that this man has for this organization—he deserves an award, and with that said, this certificate is for the shining success of No More Tears.”

Morris accepted the award as Gardner chanted, “We are community—stop the violence,” and asked the audience to respond with, “We’re community stopping the tears.”

The give and take was repeated several times.

“When I received the appreciation award, I felt overwhelmed,” Morris said later. “We don’t work to stop violence because we look for awards or recognition but because it is work that is de- signed to save lives. However, it’s good to know that your peers recognize the work you do.”

Morris has served more than 40 years in prison on a 7-year-to-life sentence. He was recently denied pa- role in May 2019. His next parole board appearance is scheduled for 2022.

“We recognize the unique perspective of former perpetrators and value their ability to bring solutions to the communities where they once contributed to the problem,” the event program read. “Our work is made possible by the support of community leaders, correctional staff, concerned citizens, and families impacted by violence and crime.”


No More Tears’ inside and outside facilitators with participants

Alameda County Supervisor Keith Carson, who regularly visits the program, talked about seeing people who once participated in No More Tears walking around or working in the community.

“We continue to struggle to come in here on a regular basis to provide services for housing and employment,” Carson said. “My instruction and learning is what can I do for your return to be successful. I’m blessed to work with other elected officials that listen to you to understand what you need to return you back home.”

Returning citizen Joey Mason with volunteer Chérie McNaulty in the audience

Joey Mason, a former No More Tears participant, left San Quentin to freedom about a year ago.

“One thing that struck me here is that there was a lot of empathy in this room,” Mason told the audience. “We know to keep showing up, keep doing the work. Our lives are being enriched by being here.”

Incarcerated No More Tears facilitator Dwight Kennedy added, “Doing the work—that means getting to know yourself. Don’t do it for the board, do it for yourself.”

While everyone feasted on hamburgers with cake and cookies for dessert, musical acts provided entertainment.

The hip-hop vocals of Jennifer Johns and keyboard of Kev Choice were inspired by “love, humanity, love and community,” Johns said.

Rafael Banskton on stage

Rafael “Nephew” Bankston performed spoken word, highlighting how the No More Tears philosophy affected his incarceration experience by focusing on its workshops aimed to put “a face on violence.”

What no more tears means to me, truthfully
All the workshops combined confined in my sleep Reflecting who I was— not who I be
Allow me to express my no more tears dream.

Ear Hustle podcaster Antwan “Banks” Williams acknowledged the people who inspired and mentored him throughout his incarceration.

“The way that these men have treated me has changed the way I treat others,” Williams said. “It was the people who told me that I was some- body to them. Now that I am somebody, I want to tell somebody that you’re some- body to me.”

Williams then went into a spoken word performance repeating the lines:

I never really felt like somebody
Till somebody told me that I can Be somebody
Now I’m somebody who just wanna tell Somebody that you’re somebody, you’re Somebody to me!

Translate »