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"Thank You Ladies"
VALLEY STATE PRISON FOR WOMEN
INMATE FAMILY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
Friday, February 8, 2008
Warden’s Conference Room
|
Books
Chaplain Report Christmas Goodie Bags Digital Cameras in Visiting Get On The Bus Mother's Day |
Guest Speakers for Inmates
Parole Clothing SHU Clothing SHU Programming Title 15 |
Logo Created By VSPW Graphic Arts Program
"Thank You Ladies"
VALLEY STATE PRISON FOR WOMEN
INMATE FAMILY COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
Friday, February 8, 2008
Warden’s Conference Room
MEMBERS PRESENT
V. Doran, Chairperson
V. Abrunzo, Deputy Chairperson
J. Videen, Secretary
G. Olmos
E. Muniz
J. Erb
C. Eaton
GUESTS
J. Waltham
STAFF PRESENT
Warden T. Hornbeak
Chief Deputy Warden K. Eichenberger
Family Services Coordinator C. Pellizzario
Administrative Assistant Lt. J. Neeley
Visiting Lt. L. Herron
Health Services Administrator C. Pierini
Director of Nurses J. Tucker
Dr. Daun Martin
Zack Patrick, Principal
Mr. Bobbie Thatcher, Higher Education Dept
Diane Johnson, Sr. Librarian
Ms. Cathy Etchebehere, Corrections Business Manager
Capt. J.A. Rivera
Capt. L.S. Donaldson
Capt. J.C. Anderson
Sandra McFarland
Warden’s Secretary,
Sgt K. Matney, Mailroom Sgt.
Prior to the meeting the IFC was invited to a tour of the children’s visiting areas to view the progress in the African Safari room and to see the completion of the Underwater Sea room. Pictures were taken by Lt Neeley so that the IFC may post some of the pictures on the website.
The meeting was called to order by Ms. Doran at 1:03 p.m.
A motion was brought to approve the minutes and there being no votes against the minutes from December 7, 2007 were approved.
Dr. Daun Martin was present and was asked to bring the members and administration up to date on the appointment of the successor Receiver, Mr. Kelso.
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1. Christmas goodie bags: Goodie Bags for Christmas Distribution was discussed and all seemed to go smoothly. Staff and membership reviewed the program and determined that an earlier delivery date would suit everyone and make distribution to the inmates easier. The issue of Ad Seg/Shu inmates not receiving bags was discussed and after much deliberation it was determined that a modified bag for the women in those units would be prepared for Christmas 2008. Lt Neeley and Chairperson Doran would get together in the summer to determine what would not violate security/safety issues so that these women could receive a gift. C. Eaton advised that modifying a certain number of bags would not be an issue.
2. Books: A discussion regarding the Amazon sub-contractor issue was resolved. Sgt Matney assured the IFC that the sub-contractors are “allowed” vendors and that when they ship there is a bar code that identifies them as shipping under the Amazon logo. Additionally, Sgt Matney stated that if for some reason the bar code does not identify the vendor as such, the boxes can be investigated to determine if they are books and if so, would be delivered to the inmate. It was also discussed the proposed changes to the regulations regarding mail and vendors was before Sacramento and that the issue of approved book vendors would be mute. The matter was tabled until additional information regarding the proposed changes was available. Sgt. Matney stated that if there was a particular issue regarding incoming books to contact him directly.
3. Title 15: Copies of the newest version of Title 15 were provided to the members of the IFC by Lt Neeley and Warden Hornbeak. This version is also available online through the CDCR website and through the www. VSPW-IFC.com website.
4. Digital Cameras In Visiting: Staff noted that a new vendor to provide film at a less expensive cost will be used for future orders. IFC advised administration that Polaroid made a public statement that it would no longer produce the cameras and/or film. The order for digital cameras has been tabled to a future date.
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5. Mother's Day Get On The Bus Program: The issue regarding the low number of applications for participation in this program could be attributed to the success of the Chowchilla Family Express. It appears that all three women’s facility are experiencing the same low interest for Mother’s Day. It was discussed having a pre-Get on the Bus meeting for smoothing out the exit procedure for visitors on that day. Victoria and Vic stated that they are both hosting for the GOTB program and would be available for any meetings.
6. CLOTHING in Administrative Segregation/Security Housing Unit; Ad Seg/SHU: Capt. Donaldson stated that all inmates in this housing section would be receiving new cold weather clothing including extra heavy sweatshirts. These items would be distributed by end of third shift Sunday, February 9th. Capt Donaldson also stated that inmates in Ad Seg/Shu possessed two pair of shoes, tennis and shower shoes and that the inmates that wear the shower shoes in the rain do so at their own choice. No coats were provided even in inclement weather due to safety/security issues. Capt Donaldson also suggested that the IFC be provided with the current matrix for inmates housed in these units. Lt Neeley provided this information to the Chair. Capt Donaldson also stated that replacement of appliances that were broken was allowed. Purchase of not previously owned appliances required approval of the unit supervisor.
7. PROGRAMMING in Ad Seg/SHU: Mr. Thatcher stated that the women in Ad Seg/Shu are given the opportunity to continue their higher education. Certain program requirements required adjustment due to the security/safety issues of the housing unit, but that he and his staff were more than willing to accommodate the inmates. Additionally, Mr. Thatcher stated that the success of the VSPW program was unbelievable. Over 500 women at VSPW were enrolled in higher education. A much higher percentage than the other two woman’s facilities. Mr. Thatcher spoke to the fact that the books and supplies were limited and asked that any assistance in this area was greatly appreciated. C. Eaton stated that GOTL would very much like to be involved in this endeavor. Chairperson Doran also stated that this might be a very good endeavor for the IFC as a long term project. The request for special consideration of Ad Seg/Shu inmates to have access to the lawyer visiting rooms for contact visit with family members was denied due to safety/security issues.
Return to Top
8. Chaplain's Office Report: All services of every faith are offered to the inmates on a weekly/daily basis/religious holiday schedule. Classification of the inmate is not at issue for observation of a religious matter. Unfortunately at this time there is no program available for inmates and family members to attend services together. Warden Hornbeak announced that the facility was breaking ground for an all denomination Chapel. The Chapel is set to complete in about three years. This project will be a first for the prison system and Warden Hornbeak stated it was one of her dreams for the women of VSPW. The website for the artist renderings was given to the IFC to post on their website. The IFC applauds Warden Hornbeak for her dream coming true.
9. Parole Clothing Donations: Warden Hornbeak acknowledged that after checking she determined that release clothing was needing replenishment. The shortages seem to be in the smaller and larger sizes. Small amounts can be taken to the visitor’s center, larger donations need to be coordinated with Lt. Herron. All items are needed, clothing, underclothes, shoes, purses. No jewelry.
10. Proposed Guest Speakers for Inmates (IFC Sponsored): C. Eaton stated that she has made contact with various persons regarding scheduling appearances at the facility to speak to the women. Warden Hornbeak stated that advanced dates needed to be coordinated in advance but that speaking engagements were a very worthwhile goal and was very much encouraging such an endeavor.
The meeting was adjourned
The meeting was adjourned at 3:25 p.m.
Next Meetings:
Friday, April 4, 2008
Friday, June 6, 2008
Friday, August 8, 2008
Friday, October 3, 2008
Friday, December 5, 2008
V. Doran, Chairperson
V. Abrunzo, Deputy Chairperson
J. Videen, Secretary
G. Olmos
E. Muniz
J. Erb
C. Eaton
GUESTS
J. Waltham
STAFF PRESENT
Warden T. Hornbeak
Chief Deputy Warden K. Eichenberger
Family Services Coordinator C. Pellizzario
Administrative Assistant Lt. J. Neeley
Visiting Lt. L. Herron
Health Services Administrator C. Pierini
Director of Nurses J. Tucker
Dr. Daun Martin
Zack Patrick, Principal
Mr. Bobbie Thatcher, Higher Education Dept
Diane Johnson, Sr. Librarian
Ms. Cathy Etchebehere, Corrections Business Manager
Capt. J.A. Rivera
Capt. L.S. Donaldson
Capt. J.C. Anderson
Sandra McFarland
Warden’s Secretary,
Sgt K. Matney, Mailroom Sgt.
Prior to the meeting the IFC was invited to a tour of the children’s visiting areas to view the progress in the African Safari room and to see the completion of the Underwater Sea room. Pictures were taken by Lt Neeley so that the IFC may post some of the pictures on the website.
The meeting was called to order by Ms. Doran at 1:03 p.m.
A motion was brought to approve the minutes and there being no votes against the minutes from December 7, 2007 were approved.
Dr. Daun Martin was present and was asked to bring the members and administration up to date on the appointment of the successor Receiver, Mr. Kelso.
Return to Top
1. Christmas goodie bags: Goodie Bags for Christmas Distribution was discussed and all seemed to go smoothly. Staff and membership reviewed the program and determined that an earlier delivery date would suit everyone and make distribution to the inmates easier. The issue of Ad Seg/Shu inmates not receiving bags was discussed and after much deliberation it was determined that a modified bag for the women in those units would be prepared for Christmas 2008. Lt Neeley and Chairperson Doran would get together in the summer to determine what would not violate security/safety issues so that these women could receive a gift. C. Eaton advised that modifying a certain number of bags would not be an issue.
2. Books: A discussion regarding the Amazon sub-contractor issue was resolved. Sgt Matney assured the IFC that the sub-contractors are “allowed” vendors and that when they ship there is a bar code that identifies them as shipping under the Amazon logo. Additionally, Sgt Matney stated that if for some reason the bar code does not identify the vendor as such, the boxes can be investigated to determine if they are books and if so, would be delivered to the inmate. It was also discussed the proposed changes to the regulations regarding mail and vendors was before Sacramento and that the issue of approved book vendors would be mute. The matter was tabled until additional information regarding the proposed changes was available. Sgt. Matney stated that if there was a particular issue regarding incoming books to contact him directly.
3. Title 15: Copies of the newest version of Title 15 were provided to the members of the IFC by Lt Neeley and Warden Hornbeak. This version is also available online through the CDCR website and through the www. VSPW-IFC.com website.
4. Digital Cameras In Visiting: Staff noted that a new vendor to provide film at a less expensive cost will be used for future orders. IFC advised administration that Polaroid made a public statement that it would no longer produce the cameras and/or film. The order for digital cameras has been tabled to a future date.
Return to Top
5. Mother's Day Get On The Bus Program: The issue regarding the low number of applications for participation in this program could be attributed to the success of the Chowchilla Family Express. It appears that all three women’s facility are experiencing the same low interest for Mother’s Day. It was discussed having a pre-Get on the Bus meeting for smoothing out the exit procedure for visitors on that day. Victoria and Vic stated that they are both hosting for the GOTB program and would be available for any meetings.
6. CLOTHING in Administrative Segregation/Security Housing Unit; Ad Seg/SHU: Capt. Donaldson stated that all inmates in this housing section would be receiving new cold weather clothing including extra heavy sweatshirts. These items would be distributed by end of third shift Sunday, February 9th. Capt Donaldson also stated that inmates in Ad Seg/Shu possessed two pair of shoes, tennis and shower shoes and that the inmates that wear the shower shoes in the rain do so at their own choice. No coats were provided even in inclement weather due to safety/security issues. Capt Donaldson also suggested that the IFC be provided with the current matrix for inmates housed in these units. Lt Neeley provided this information to the Chair. Capt Donaldson also stated that replacement of appliances that were broken was allowed. Purchase of not previously owned appliances required approval of the unit supervisor.
7. PROGRAMMING in Ad Seg/SHU: Mr. Thatcher stated that the women in Ad Seg/Shu are given the opportunity to continue their higher education. Certain program requirements required adjustment due to the security/safety issues of the housing unit, but that he and his staff were more than willing to accommodate the inmates. Additionally, Mr. Thatcher stated that the success of the VSPW program was unbelievable. Over 500 women at VSPW were enrolled in higher education. A much higher percentage than the other two woman’s facilities. Mr. Thatcher spoke to the fact that the books and supplies were limited and asked that any assistance in this area was greatly appreciated. C. Eaton stated that GOTL would very much like to be involved in this endeavor. Chairperson Doran also stated that this might be a very good endeavor for the IFC as a long term project. The request for special consideration of Ad Seg/Shu inmates to have access to the lawyer visiting rooms for contact visit with family members was denied due to safety/security issues.
Return to Top
8. Chaplain's Office Report: All services of every faith are offered to the inmates on a weekly/daily basis/religious holiday schedule. Classification of the inmate is not at issue for observation of a religious matter. Unfortunately at this time there is no program available for inmates and family members to attend services together. Warden Hornbeak announced that the facility was breaking ground for an all denomination Chapel. The Chapel is set to complete in about three years. This project will be a first for the prison system and Warden Hornbeak stated it was one of her dreams for the women of VSPW. The website for the artist renderings was given to the IFC to post on their website. The IFC applauds Warden Hornbeak for her dream coming true.
9. Parole Clothing Donations: Warden Hornbeak acknowledged that after checking she determined that release clothing was needing replenishment. The shortages seem to be in the smaller and larger sizes. Small amounts can be taken to the visitor’s center, larger donations need to be coordinated with Lt. Herron. All items are needed, clothing, underclothes, shoes, purses. No jewelry.
10. Proposed Guest Speakers for Inmates (IFC Sponsored): C. Eaton stated that she has made contact with various persons regarding scheduling appearances at the facility to speak to the women. Warden Hornbeak stated that advanced dates needed to be coordinated in advance but that speaking engagements were a very worthwhile goal and was very much encouraging such an endeavor.
The meeting was adjourned
The meeting was adjourned at 3:25 p.m.
Next Meetings:
Friday, April 4, 2008
Friday, June 6, 2008
Friday, August 8, 2008
Friday, October 3, 2008
Friday, December 5, 2008
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