CONNECTIONS
The Official Newsletter for the Washington Correctional Association
Summer 2009
Volume XXIII, Issue II
Welcome from the President
The Spring Conference at the Jimmie Evans Performance Center on the grounds of the
Monroe Correctional Complex was successful beyond my expectations. Superintendent
Scott Frakes and his staff made us feel very welcome, and his kitchen crew put out a great
lunch. Secretary Eldon Vail & Deputy Director Scott Blonien also addressed the group. Both
these men are great speakers and having spent their careers in the corrections arena, have
the ability to cut to the chase. With Frakes, Vail & Blonien I always know I’m going to hear a
good, sincere delivery. What blew me away at this conference, as I sat in various sessions,
was the energy of the participants in the breakout sessions, guided by very talented
presenters. This was our first experience with ‘Conference Light’ and rather than groups of
30-50 who basically listened to a lecture we had groups of 10-15 who were actively engaged
and were part of the process in the discussions. The energy was simply contagious. I want
to again thank the planning committee and Superintendent Frakes and his staff for putting
this conference together and showing us a new direction. It was a great day!
And now we turn to the east and look forward to our Fall Conference at the Penitentiary, set
for September 24th. This will again be a combined conference with the WA Chapter of the
National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice and the Women in Criminal Justice. This is
also an election year for WCA and a changing of the guard. Election and ballot information
will be found in this issue. We still have some vacancies - I would again encourage you to
become involved in this organization and make an investment both in yourself in terms of
stretching, growing, personal and professional development, and an investment in your
fellow workers in this field, even though you may never meet them. We will continue to
have challenges in offering training opportunities around the state, and your energy and
ideas will be well utilized.
I have enjoyed my time with you. I have deep respect and affection for you. Even though I
may never have met you, I see you in my travels, my e-mail, my daily work, and I have seen
you for years at conferences. And I mean it when I say: Walk proud - you’re the best!
~ Rich
~1~
Happy
th
4
of July!!!
Thanks to those of you who volunteered your
time to help out WCA and NABCJ
by working the fireworks booth near the
Puyallup Fairgrounds!
This was a fun fundraiser and allowed our
two organizations to work hand in hand.
~2~
Here’s the official ballot for the election of your 2010 – 2012 WCA Board Members.
Please vote for your selection and return to WCA Secretary, Peria Duncan, no later than August 1st, at
wca2@wca.org. Thank you!
Executive Officers
President
Tracy Grunenfelder, Department of Corrections
___________________________________________
President-Elect
Michelle Watson, Department of Corrections
___________________________________________
Vice President
Mark Kucza, Department of Corrections
___________________________________________
Treasurer
William Brown, Department of Corrections
___________________________________________
Secretary
Peria Duncan, Department of Social and Health Services, Juvenile Rehabilitation Administration
___________________________________________
Regional Co-Chairs (Two per region)
Northwest Region
Sally Neiland, Department of Corrections
Nancy Watts, Department of Corrections
__________________________________________
Southwest Region
Pete Hall, Department of Corrections
Melvin Butler, Department of Corrections
__________________________________________
Central Region
___________________________________________
___________________________________________
Northeast Region
Karin Johnson, Department of Corrections
Voncille Molett, Department of Corrections
___________________________________________
Southeast Region
David Snyder, Department of Corrections
____________________________________________
~3~
Nominations for WCA Annual Awards
It’s time again to recognize outstanding individuals and programs that have exceeded the
expectations of our organization. Please take the time to nominate those involved in the
criminal justice system who have provided outstanding service in this field.
We are requesting nominations from you, our membership, to identify deserving recipients.
Please submit your nominations,
along with a brief description of why this individual/program deserves this award,
to WCA Secretary, Peria Duncan,
no later than August 1st, at wca2@wca.org.
Thank you!
The following are the Award Categories and the criteria for nominees:

Citizen Award – To be awarded to an individual or agency not employed by any correctional agency or
program, who has made major contributions to the success of corrections and/or has furthered the aims
of the field of corrections.
Professional Award – To be awarded to an individual employed in the field of corrections who has made
major contributions to enhancing the effectiveness of corrections through that employment, or
professionalism in the corrections field.
News Media Award – To be awarded to an individual or agency employed in the news media who has
made major contributions to enhancing public awareness of correctional issues and goals through that
employment.
Academic Achievement Award – To be awarded to an individual employed in academia, which has
enhanced the success of correctional programs or furthered the aims of corrections through excellence
in education.
Special Award – To be awarded to a member of the WCA who has made major contributions to
furthering the aims and goals of the Association through activities performed on its behalf.
Law Enforcement Professional Award – To be awarded to an individual or agency employed in law
enforcement who has made a major contribution to enhancing the effectiveness of law enforcement
through that employment or who exemplifies the image of professionalism in the law enforcement field.
Helen B. Ratcliff Award – To be awarded to an individual (man or woman) who has, through individual
efforts, enhanced or supported the professional growth of women in corrections.
The nomination process has been made as simple as possible in order to encourage participation. A
committee consisting of members representing the regions will review the nominations received from
our membership and create a slate of recommended candidates who will be voted on at the July 20,
2007 Board Meeting. As noted on the Nomination Applications, a brief description referencing the
specific award is to be included.
~4~
Corrections Pride Month
The month of May signifies Corrections Pride Month in Washington State.
To honor corrections’ staff throughout the state,
events were held by local and state agencies.
Community Corrections Supervisor and WCA President-Elect Tracy Grunenfelder
wrote the following Letter to the Editor that was published in
The Olympian on May 9, 2009:
“The month of May designates the time we show appreciation to the professionals that work
in the corrections field. Working with offenders and inmates is not only challenging but it
can be dangerous. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our community
corrections officers (probation/parole officers) in this state for the work they do in protecting
the community and assisting offenders in leading a crime free life. I would also like to
personally thank my officers who work in my unit. Dan Cochran, Joice Hagen, Allison
Moore, Dennis Fetty, Brian Keel, Dennis Alexander, Sharese Jones, John Lyles, Jennifer
Gable, Randall Tremain, Pete Hall and John Chinn. They do a fantastic job and I am
privileged to work with such a talented group of people.
Tracy Grunenfelder,
Community Corrections Supervisor, Washington State Department of Corrections, Olympia”
YOUR AD COULD BE HERE!!!
Just imagine…
Your business advertisement could be read by
approximately 350 WCA members right now!
Rates for advertisements (per issue) are as follows:
Business Card size ad: $25.00
½ page ad: $50.00
Full page ad: $100.00
If you advertise for a full year (3 issues), get 10% off!
If you’re interested in advertising in the Connections newsletter, please
contact Michelle Watson at mrwatson@doc1.wa.gov
~5~
WCA Members…
If you’d like to present a workshop track for this exciting one day event in
beautiful Walla Walla, please see the next page for the Request for Proposals!
Also, be sure to submit your vote for the 2010 – 2012 WCA Board of Directors!
~6~
2009 Criminal Justice Fall 1 day Conference
September 24, 2009
Washington State Penitentiary
Walla Walla, Washington
Request for Proposal
Conference Tracks
1. Professional Development
2. Health & Wellness
3. Leadership
4. Personal Development
5. Correctional Programs & Issues
Title of Proposed Presentation: __________________________________________________
Conference Track Designation: (See 1-5 above) _____________________________________
Speaker’s name: ______________________________________________________________
Address: _____________________________________________________________________
Telephone: Work: ________________ Home: ________________ Fax: _______________
Email: _______________________________________________________________________
Organization: _________________________________________________________________
Position/Title: ________________________________________________________________
Description of Presentation:
____________________________________________________
Training/Learning Objectives: __________________________________________________
IT Needs: ____________________________________________________________________
Please send all request for proposals to: Makucza@doc1.wa.gov
You may contact direct if needed at: Mark Kucza at 509-526-6462
One Paragraph Biography:
~7~
The Lighter Side of
Corrections
Luckily, CCO's in this rural area know to carry an enticing assortment of oats and grass to gain
entry into offender's homes.
Submitted by Randall Tremain, CCO2, Tri County Field Unit (DOC)
In each issue of the Connections newsletter, we’d like to feature an
article, photo, or humorous antidote from you, our members,
about The Lighter Side of Corrections.
If you have something you’d like to submit, please email to
Jeneva Cotton, Connections editor, at jmcotton@doc1.wa.gov.
~8~
Regional News & Events
Northwest: Sally Neiland & Nancy Watts – No report
Central: Vacant – No report
Northeast: Karin Johnson & Voncille Molett – No report
Southeast: Mark Kucza
Mark Kucza and Correctional Officer and WCA WebMaster David Snyder continue to work on the oneday conference planned for September 24th, 2009, to be held in Walla Walla. Keep your eyes open for
upcoming announcements about this one day exciting event!
In addition, they will soon be surveying eastside corrections professionals to determine topics of interest
for mini-workshops we may be offering in the future.
Southwest: Pete Hall
Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run
On May 29th Community Corrections staff, from all the Thurston County offices along with the Regional
Administrator, Jim Harms and Deputy Secretary Karen Daniels ran the Torch for the Special Olympics
through Tumwater, Olympia, Lacey, and Nisqually. This was the 6th time that Department of Corrections’
staff has participated in the Torch Run in Thurston County. Helping carry the torch on different legs of the
run was Sheriff Dan Kimball of Thurston County and Chief Gary Michael of Olympia PD. Deputies from
the Sheriffs' Department, officers from Lacey and Olympia Police Departments and Thurston County Jail
staff also participated. Much needed water and Gator-Aid was provided by WCA SW Region Co-Chair,
Pete Hall, at the Capital, the traditional first stop for the Torch, where DOC hands it off to the Chief of
Olympia Police. Many DOC staff stayed with the torch as it progressed from the Capital to the county
line. The Special Olympics is a great organization that Criminal Justice staff take pride in supporting.
Special note:
CCO Brandi Murphy from the Olympia Metro Unit was the only person
who ran the Torch the whole way. She was joined by her son, Chase Murphy.
Way to go Brandi!
(See next page for photos of Thurston County Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run…)
~9~
Thurston County DOC Staff, Law Enforcement, and Jail Staff
05/29/2009
Running with the Torch
CCO Brandi Murphy with her daughter, Jenell
~ 10 ~
Spring Criminal Justice Conference
Monroe Correctional Complex
May 28, 2009
MCC Honor Guard & A Heartfelt Star Spangled Banner
Michelle Watson &
Tracy Grunenfelder
MCC Superintendent Scott Frakes
Networking at its finest!
WCA President Richard LaRosa
DOC Assistant Secretary Scott Blonien
Conference Attendees, including DOC Secretary Eldon Vail
~ 11 ~
Listening & Learning
Attendees Actively Involved in Workshops
Talking food!!
Wonderful lunch by MCC Food Service
Connections & Craft Time – Great Combination!
~ 12 ~
Healthy & Happy!
Martha Plotkin: (240) 482-8579 mplotkin@csg.org
Seth Prins: (646) 383-5729 sprins@csg.org
March 31, 2009
New Guide Helps Policymakers and Practitioners Make Research-Driven Decisions on
Responding to People with Mental Illnesses within Community Corrections
New York—The Council of State Governments Justice Center announced today the release of Improving Outcomes
for People with Mental Illnesses under Community Corrections Supervision: A Guide to Research-Informed Policy
and Practice, which was supported by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation and the National
Institute of Corrections, U.S. Department of Justice. The Guide reviews the body of recent research on community
corrections supervision for people with mental illnesses and translates the findings to help officials develop effective
interventions.
The number of people under community corrections supervision is at an all-time high nationwide—a March 2009
report from the Pew Charitable Trusts' Public Safety Performance Project confirms that more than 1 in 45 adults are
on probation or parole. Based on other recent prevalence studies, the Guide indicates that an unprecedented number
of these individuals have serious mental illnesses. These individuals are more likely than others to have their
community sentences revoked, return to jail or prison, and become more deeply involved in the criminal justice
system. This first-of-its-kind guide helps program planners and policymakers apply research on promising practices
to improve outcomes for people with mental illnesses under community corrections supervision.
“More than 1.5 million people released from jail each year have serious mental illnesses and many will require
special supervision strategies and treatments to safely and successfully rejoin their communities,” said Nevada
Assemblywoman Sheila Leslie, the specialty courts coordinator of the state's Second Judicial District and Justice
Center board member. “State lawmakers in Nevada, as is the case everywhere, are concerned about the costs and
public safety issues associated with high probation and parole revocation rates among people with mental illnesses.
In particular, we need to improve how this population is supervised, and this report highlights the research we
should use to inform state policy and funding decisions.”
The Guide indicates that community corrections and mental health officials are increasingly aware that they are
serving the same individuals without positive effect. It explores the extent to which people with mental illnesses
become involved in the community corrections system, and why traditional supervision and treatment strategies are
not generally effective for this population. It also summarizes evidence-based and promising programs, strategies,
and techniques to improve results for the justice system and people with mental illnesses. The Guide discusses how
the current body of knowledge can help shape agency operations, program design and implementation. Research
questions that should be investigated further to expand the evidence base are also identified.
“Community corrections agencies and mental health treatment providers are trying to figure out the best ways to
coordinate or integrate their efforts to better serve people with mental illnesses and tailor new programs in ways that
reduce recidivism and encourage recovery,” said Morris Thigpen, Director of the National Institute of Corrections.
“The Guide is an exciting new resource for two systems that are coming together around commonly defined goals to
tackle these challenges.”
Click here to download the Guide. It was produced under Grant No. 05-82376-000-HCD for the John D. and
Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, and by cooperative agreement number 07HI03GJP4 for the National Institute
of Corrections, U.S. Department of Justice. Additional resources can be found at
www.consensusproject.org. A limited number of hard copies are available at www.nicic.gov or by
calling the NIC Information Center at 1.800.995.6429, option #4 (Publication accession number 023634).
~ 13 ~
On 02/18/2009, WCA Secretary, Peria Duncan, attended a Webinar sponsored by ACA and the GEO group.
The following is the key notes and highlights from the broadcast.
Webinar Presentation – Branding of Corrections
Sponsored by ACA and the GEO Group
Presenters:
Joyce Jackson: Oklahoma DOC
Ed Winbaugh: Indiana DOC
Michael Kwan: LA Sheriff Dept
Dr. Mary Livers: Louisiana Juvenile Justice
Information is provided by GEO regarding The Center for the Correctional Workforce of the Future link on the ACA website. The
center offers resources for recruitment, employee retention and also positive support for the profession. You can access the link
by going to: www.aca.org/workforce/ .
Joyce Jackson of Oklahoma DOC spoke to the varied programs exercise for recruitment and retention:
 Online “virtual toolkit” for potential recruits with all applications submitted electronically online.
 Connect & Collect program. Employees are viewed as ambassadors for the Department. The program provides up to
a $500 savings bond incentive for a successful referral and recruitment that they initiated.
 Veterans receive on the job training. The length of the training is determined in conjunction with the Department of
Veterans’ Affairs, and ranges from six months to two years. Veterans receive GI Bill Benefits plus earn wages during
the duration of their training.
 Tuition assistance of up to $33,000 for courses relation to Corrections and education reimbursement.
 Incentive sign-on bonuses of $5000 for CO’s, $3000 for LPN’s, $5000 for nurses.
 Website job postings at all colleges in the state and the idea that a position with DOC is “Not a job – it’s a career!”
 Job Fairs – establishes relationships with specific community groups and work with state employment security office.
 Billboard ads, logo on the side of DOC trucks, stationary ads – on a building, sign, etc.
Ed Winbaugh , a representative from Indiana DOC presented information on the successes of programs used by his
agency: (Disclaimer: I may have his name wrong; and missed his title. There were a few technical difficulties throughout the
entire presentation.)
 Website with “career section” - provides job bank, mission statements, benefits offered, compensation information, etc
 Public newsletters, local radio broadcasts, display monitors, brochures
 Emergency Response Celebration Day honoring Emergency Response Officers. Invite stakeholders, media, & family.
 Career Fairs – state, local, military, colleges
 Hiring of former parolees. These individuals are employed in non-custody positions & are great success stories.
 Have employees “spread the word.”
 Build community relationships –They often know what stores may be laying off people and could use job opportunities.
 Realize the benefit of a strong internship program. Interns provide great feedback on the program, and many stay on
with the agency as paid employees. Internship programs are a great way to build good partnerships with colleges and
universities.
 Tools for retaining employees are as follows: job shadowing; two tier wages (new employees must pass a “working
test,” once complete, they become full-time and receive a pay increase; training academies, on-the-job training;
mentoring, strategic planning engaging staff of all levels; holding “ family days” during Corrections Week – including
local leaders, providing facility tours, having cookouts and presenting staff recognition awards
 Performance based wage increases of up to 10% per year. The increase is dependent on performance evaluations.
 Employees that go above and beyond the call of duty can earn up to a $1000 cash bonus.
 Hazardous duty pay, monetary death benefits to survivors as well as education assistance to family when family
member is killed in the line of duty.
 Tuition reimbursement (employee must sign an 18 month contract or return the money)
~ 14 ~




Emerging Leaders Program – Ideas from these employees are recommended for change for the department. There is
a year-end ceremony commemorating staff members. Many in this program have become DOC leaders.
Reflections of Pride employee store (store carries lanyards, coffee cups, t-shirts with Department logo, etc.) made by
Correctional Industries.
Encourage the idea of “ Measure up & Follow up” by reviewing and posting scores of Quality Assurance Reviews
Ind. Corrections Officers Foundation interactive website.
Captain Michael Kwan – Los Angeles County Sheriff offered insight into their agency’s tools for recruiting and retaining
employees:
 1,400 Medical staff is servicing 21,000 inmates. The only services contracted out are lab work and dialysis treatment.
 Implemented a Wi-Fi medical data-base to create a paperless record retention program.
 Technology based approach has become a “workforce multiplier” as the recruiting process is efficient and streamlined.
 Employees are hired as Deputy Sheriffs, Custody Assistants or Medical staff and are issued a badge. There is a great
sense of responsibility and pride with the ownership of their badge.
 Present information in several mediums: professional journals; online, taxi-tops (offers a high visibility), bus stops,
career fairs, college presentations, facility tours, radio ads (very effective as L.A. is a commuting community),
billboards, YouTube, mailers, recruitment fairs, national job fairs (especially focusing on returning troops
 “Giveaways” of products with Department “brand” including the badge. Include pens, key chains, squeeze balls, etc.
 Realize the importance of not losing momentum, maintaining public awareness and revising strategic plans as needed.
 Value, reward and cherish employees as who they are as part of the agency “family.”
 Poll recruits as to where they heard of the agency.
Dr. Mary Livers – Deputy Secretary of Juvenile Justice for the state of Louisiana introduced a presentation entitled,
Maintaining Brand Loyalty in Employees:
 Relayed the successes of interns in the agency.
 Although it may be a cost – you must spend money to get the right people. To recruit and then retain employees is the
key to success. It is a big cost to train an individual and create a knowledge base.
 Morale Committee – recognize employee accomplishments and specify time to celebrate the successes of the agency.
 Reinforce the brand with t-shirts and other logo items.
 Provide adequate staff development and create opportunities to promote individual growth.
 Specialized trainings for Civil Service tests.
 LEADERSHIP! – FROM Line Supervisor to Head of agency. This means:
 Lead by example
 Remain mission focused
 Prioritize professional growth and advancement of employees
 Develop top leaders
 Ensure middle management and supervisors are trained
 This principle promotes a positive culture. The major reason for an individual leaving a job besides
salary – is a bad boss.
 Create a credible organization.
 Ensure that all staff knows the mission of your agency.
 A strong strategic plan ensures that employees:
 Know where we’re going
 Know what we are doing and why
And that leaders communicate openly (internally & externally:)
 Share information quickly
 Respond consistently in times of crisis
 Send out e-blast from headquarters to provide info, talk about mission, discuss guiding principles, current events, etc.
 Create internal press release or information bulletins.
 Staff newsletter- praise staff, recognize accomplishments, promote the good
 Send a quarterly newsletter to stakeholders - this is a formal and informative way to keep them “in the loop”.
 Provide REGULAR feedback (1 on 1 especially ) on the impact of employees and their hard work for the youth they
serve. Remember that employees spend most of their time at their place of work.
 Reward the value of hard work and commitment
 Check in with staff and youth.
 Create light-hearted moments.
~ 15 ~
Juvenile Rehabilitation Administration
By Peria Duncan
WCA Secretary
Washington’s 2009 legislative session saw lawmakers faced with an unprecedented $9.3 billion
revenue shortfall. To balance the 2009-2011 budget, legislators had to make sweeping cuts to
state services. No state agency or service was immune.
Juvenile Rehabilitation Administration (JRA), budget cuts most prominently entailed closure of a
secure institution and elimination of Enhanced Parole services.
Closure of an institution represents the largest cut to JRA services; although, it is difficult to
project the actual closure date of an institution. The state Office of Financial Management is
coordinating a study to be completed by November 2009 on the feasibility of closing either Green
Hill School in Chehalis or Maple Lane School in Centralia.
However, the most immediate service reduction challenge faced by JRA and the one to be
addressed in this article is the elimination of Enhanced Parole effective July 1, 2009.
Enhanced Parole is one of 4 parole types JRA has provided. The other three types - Intensive
Parole, Sex Offender Parole, and Auto Theft Parole - continue to be funded in the 2009-2011
Budget.
Youth classified for Enhanced Parole made up approximately one-third of the JRA parole
caseload. Eliminating Enhanced Parole means approximately 500 JRA youth will be directly
discharged to the community annually without transitional supervision and ongoing linkages to
services.
Enhanced Parole Description:
Enhanced Parole provided 20 weeks of post release services to JRA youth and their families.
JRA’s parole service model is referred to as Functional Family Parole (FFP). This promising
practice intervention is a family focused therapeutic intervention to improve communication,
build hope, and engage families in understanding, supporting, and reinforcing positive change
made by youth as a result of services received in JRA residential facilities. FFP is based on the
Functional Family Therapy Blueprints Model for reducing juvenile recidivism.
A recent study by the University of Indiana showed a 15% reduction in felony recidivism among
youth who received FFP services from an experienced parole counselor proficient in the FFP
model service requirements
Additionally, FFP counselors helped youth on Enhanced Parole and their families access a variety
of services including mental health and chemical dependency treatment and assisted youth in
school enrollment, finding employment and stable housing, and connecting with community
service opportunities.
~ 16 ~
Community Impact
Youth who will be released without parole after July 1, 2009 are among the highest risk juvenile
offenders in Washington State. Without the services and supervision provided under Enhanced
Parole, young people released from JRA residential facilities will be at an elevated risk to reoffend.
JRA parole is pointed to by organizations such as the Urban League as a critical service in
addressing the gang problem in Washington communities. Many of the young people who will be
released from JRA commitment without parole services are deeply gang involved. With no
parole supervision, such youth will be more active in the gang lifestyle and associated crime and
violence.
Client Impact
Approximately 60% of JRA youth have serious mental health problems, about 60% are
chemically dependent, and 40% are to some degree cognitively impaired. Most JRA youth are
behind in school or need vocational training to enter the workforce.
Services addressing these issues are at no time more critical than during the post-release transition
period. Without Enhanced Parole, the linkage to services it provides, and the consistent support of
parole counselors for engaging with treatment services, youth with mental health problems could
quickly destabilize, and youth with chemical dependency struggles quickly re-use. Neither will
youth have the support of parole counselors in maintaining protective factors such as school and
vocational college enrollment and assistance in finding employment leading to independence.
Females committed to JRA will be most impacted by the elimination of Enhanced Parole. 86%
of girls currently in JRA residential care will be discharged directly to the community without
parole services and ongoing assistance from parole counselors for making connections with
treatment providers, education, or employment, etc.
To mitigate the effects of Enhanced Parole’s elimination, JRA is developing pre-release re-entry
strategies that will provide youth and families with basic assistance in establishing treatment
resource connections, preparing for enrollment in school, getting ready to find employment and
housing, and knowing where to turn for help in times of crisis.
~ 17 ~
problems, anxiety, confusion, insomnia, mood
disturbances, and violent behavior. Chronic abusers
can also display a number of psychotic features,
including paranoia, visual and auditory hallucinations,
and delusions (i.e., the sensation of insects creeping
under the skin).
DRUG OF THE MONTH
Also, transmission of HIV and hepatitis B and C can
be consequences of methamphetamine abuse,
especially among those who use the drug
intravenously. The intoxicating effects of
methamphetamine, regardless of how it is taken, can
also alter judgment and inhibition and lead people to
engage in unsafe behaviors. Methamphetamine abuse
may also worsen the progression of HIV and its
consequences. Studies of methamphetamine abusers
who are HIV positive indicate that the HIV causes
greater neuronal injury and cognitive impairment
compared with HIV-positive people who do not use
the drug.
Methamphetamine
Speed, Meth, Crank, Ice, Crystal, Glass, Chalk
Who’s Using Meth?
In 2006, 1.9 million Americans age 12 and older had
abused methamphetamine at least once in the year
prior to being surveyed. Of the 259,000 people who
used the drug for the first time in 2006, the mean age
at first use was 22.2 years, which is up considerably
from the mean age of 18.6 in 2005. From 2005 to
2006, lifetime methamphetamine abuse increased
among those 26 and older, particularly among those
26–34 years of age.
Methamphetamine is a very addictive stimulant drug
that affects the central nervous system. It is a
Schedule II stimulant, which means it has a high
potential for abuse and is available only through a
prescription that cannot be refilled.
Methamphetamine is a white, odorless, bitter-tasting
crystalline powder that easily dissolves in water or
alcohol and is taken orally, intra-nasally (snorting the
powder), by needle injection, or by smoking.
Getting Help
Effects of Methamphetamine
Currently, the most effective treatments for
methamphetamine addiction combine behavioral
therapy, family education, individual counseling, 12Step support, drug testing, and encouragement for
non drug-related activities. Contingency management
interventions, which provide tangible incentives in
exchange for engaging in treatment and maintaining
abstinence, have also been shown to be effective.
Methamphetamine increases the release of very high
levels of the brain chemical dopamine, which is
involved in motivation, the experience of pleasure, and
motor function, and is a common mechanism of action
for most drugs of abuse. Chronic abuse significantly
changes how the brain functions. Recent studies in
chronic methamphetamine abusers have revealed
severe structural and functional changes in areas of
the brain associated with emotion and memory, which
may account for many of the emotional and cognitive
problems observed in chronic methamphetamine
abusers.
There are currently no specific medications that
prolong abstinence from and reduce the abuse by an
individual addicted to the drug; however, this is an
active area of research for NIDA.
Taking even small amounts of methamphetamine can
result in increased wakefulness, increased physical
activity, decreased appetite, increased respiration,
rapid heart rate, irregular heartbeat, increased blood
pressure, and hyperthermia.
Contact Information
Long-term abuse has many negative consequences,
including extreme weight loss, severe dental
To find publicly funded treatment facilities by state,
visit www.findtreatment.samhsa.gov.
For more information on the effects of
methamphetamine abuse and addiction, visit
www.drugabuse.gov/drugpages/methamphetamine.html
~ 18 ~
~ 19 ~
~ In the News ~
Friday, February 13, 2009
Spiraling prison budgets — there is a smarter way
By Neal Peirce
Syndicated columnist
WASHINGTON — Red-ink-smeared budgets are pushing an array of states — Virginia, Kentucky,
California, Alabama, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, South Carolina among them — to consider early
release of hundreds, possibly thousands of convicted criminals. Colorado Gov. Bill Ritter even wants to
close down two prisons.
As Josh Goodman writes in Governing magazine, "Budget crises have a way of making the politically
impossible suddenly possible."
Even more significant, though, may be a wave of reassessment, from localities to state governments to
the U.S. Sentencing Commission, about the effectiveness of America's vast criminal-justice enterprise.
A primary reason is the sheer magnitude of our incarceration rates. We have placed one in 100 adults 18
and over behind bars, a nationwide prisoner total of 2.3 million. Probation and parole swell the total to 7.2
million Americans under some form of criminal-justice-system supervision. Why should we be
incarcerating more people than do such regimes as China or Russia?
The costs are eye-popping — $50 billion a year to state and local governments, and $5 billion to the
federal prison system. And what does it say about our priorities (and our future) when at least five states
— Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, Oregon and Vermont — spend as much or more on corrections as
they do on higher education?
In Florida, where the prison system has surpassed 100,000 inmates, the call for reassessment is coming
not only from Gov. Charlie Crist and the Center for Florida Fiscal & Tax Reform, but from such top
business organizations as Associated Industries of Florida, Enterprise Florida, Florida TaxWatch and the
Florida Chamber of Commerce.
It makes more sense, the Florida reformers suggest, to shift nonviolent offenders from prison (where they
cost the state at least $20,000 a year each) to community probation, work release or parole, where they
~ 20 ~
are required to pay their court costs and fines, make restitution to their victims, and perhaps most
important, keep up their child-support payments.
Last year, Congress broke from its unthinking "law and order" attitudes of the past decades to approve —
with "aye" votes by both Sens. Obama and Biden — the "Second Chance Act" authorizing major grants to
states and localities to help rehabilitate former offenders.
"After 20 years of going down the 'tough-on-crime' road and seeing what it has wrought, we now know
better," declared Rep. Bobby Scott, D-Va., one of the act's backers. President Bush signed the law but
failed to fund it, a decision the Obama administration is expected to reverse.
The "burden of proof" on corrections has shifted in today's tough economic climate, says Adam Gelb,
director of the Pew Center on the States' Public Safety Performance Project. For decades, the dominant
case was that more prison cells were the best way to protect citizens against crime — indeed, anything
short of prison was denigrated as "soft."
But now, beyond the cascading costs, says Gelb, "there's mounting evidence we have passed the point of
diminishing returns for new prisons — indeed, the more people we lock up, the less we get for it in public
safety."
But if we "can't build our way to public safety," Gelb notes, there are huge gains to be had in community
corrections. He's referring to more thoughtful probation and parole systems, drug courts, transition
centers and the like. "If we shift some of the funding from prisons to community corrections, we could
spend less and have less crime," he insists.
But it won't work unless the community corrections are well planned and adequately funded. One reason
parole and probation now so often flounder, fueling high recidivism rates, is that enforcement officers tend
to hunker down in large, centrally located headquarters, failing to get into and know the communities and
situations offenders live in. And too often officers focus on discovering any infraction, however minor — a
system some call "trail 'em, nail 'em and jail 'em."
It's true, says Gelb, that "swift and certain sanctions" for breaking probation rules are essential — "it's
important to test clean, report to probation or parole officers on time, and the like." But huge portions of
the readmissions that keep swelling prison rolls, he adds, are for purely technical violations.
What's the solution? Focus, says Gelb, on "effective ways to hold people accountable for breaking rules
without jamming them back into a $25,000-a-year prison cell." How? Short-term jail stays, electronic
monitoring, community service, residential programs as examples — "a staircase of options," he insists,
that in totality "are far cheaper and more effective than putting people back in prison."
Convulsed by budget shortfalls this year, all states would do well to think through these inventive
strategies to restrain or reverse our prison-building mania while keeping offenders close to home,
monitored — and with far brighter prospects for long-term rehabilitation.
~ 21 ~
Neal Peirce's column appears regularly on editorial pages of The Times. His e-mail address is
nrp@citistates.com
~ 22 ~
UPCOMING EVENTS
~ 23 ~
~ 24 ~
WCA Board Meeting Minutes
3-27-09 9:00-3:00
Cedar Creek Corrections Center
Present: Rich La Rosa, Michelle Watson, Tracy Grunenfelder, Peria Duncan, Bill Frank, Dean Mason, Pete Hall,
Hisami Yoshida, Pamela Maddess, Jeneva Cotton, Ned Newlin, Wanda McRae, Bill Brown
Attended by Phone: Sally Neiland and Dave Snyder
Minutes: Reviewed. Motion made by Bill F; seconded by Michelle W. Approved.
Website: Dave Snyder has been updating the site and needs info to complete the Board Member page. Peria will
gather updates from members and send out. Discussion was held regarding the laptop and associated program costs,
as well as the need for use of a credit card in order to purchase online should that be the best deal. Michelle will
cost compare at Costco once more before purchase in the next 30 days.
Connections: Jeneva has been using Word for the newsletter. Michelle would like to see Dave S’s picture and bio in
the next newsletter. Since we are asking for people and business to advertise in Connections, we needed to decide on
advertisement costs and how many issues to include the ad on. Fees were decided upon: $25 for a business card size,
$50 for a half page and $100 for a full page add, per issue. There would also be a 10% discount for a full year.
Michelle Watson made motion, seconded by Dean Mason. Motion passed.
Please ensure you are sending regional reports and articles of interest to Jeneva so that we can maintain having the
newsletter. There were no regional reports this last issue. There was good feedback on the last issue. It has opened
some doors since going on-line and there are other agencies and organizations we could share this with to garner
interest. The next date articles are due no later by is July 1 st for the August issue.
Bi-Laws: Bill F and Hisami still plan to set a date to edit any bi-laws language prior to being sent out to the
membership.
Membership: History and archived minutes are important to maintain for the future, and to help better orient new
members. Communication needs to be open and ongoing. Pamela and Hisami started working on the survey we
discussed at the last Board meeting. We need to balance what we provide to the general public and the benefits we
provide our 208 members. A discussion was held over posting active member names and or information on the
website and possible privacy issues. Part of WCA’s benefits is networking, and to share member names could work
well in this regard. We could also highlight members in Connections. (Good article idea if someone is looking for
one!!)
We are still finding that the ACA and WCA member lists don’t match. Efforts were made to address this, yet the
problem is ongoing. Discussion was held on ways to obtain and maintain a current active list. We need to update
member contact information as well. Rich will make a follow up phone call to ACA. Direct payroll seems to be an
issue for some, but not for others. Bill will try to get a list of DOC staff having membership dues deducted from
their paychecks to compare to the membership lists we get from ACA. There was ongoing discussion about what
benefits we receive (or not) as having dual membership w/ACA and how we should be proactive about touting
WCA. We do receive $7 from every ACA paid membership which provides a steady income to WCA. The website
still shows insurance benefits which ACA cancelled a long time ago, so these need to be removed ASAP.
Jeneva will send Peria, Michelle and Dave the WCA email address and related info to keep current. No one has been
checking the email address for awhile. Dave will add the email address and “contact us” on the website.
Conference Planning: There won’t be a big conference this year or next, but we have decided to hold two smaller
one day conferences this year, one on each side of the state. The first will be held in May at the Monroe Correctional
Complex. (MCC) Sally is doing a lot of logistical work to organize the host site to get this going in a short amount
of time. MCC also has a color guard to provide the presentation of colors.
~ 25 ~
Tracy provided a draft handout outline to continue discussion over the details for workshop tracks and timeframes.
Michelle provided a handout to show a “giveaway” she is negotiating for conference attendees. It was decided to
stick with the theme from the conference we had planned for last year, to focus on staff since May is Corrections
Appreciation/Pride Week anyway. There were some great RFP’s submitted last time, and we should take a look at
these first. It was decided to have a few limited non-profit vendors on site. Michelle will research whether training
credits could be available from conference offerings.
There was discussion whether this was jointly sponsored with other CJ organizations or a stand-alone WCA event.
Each participating organization should ensure participation in the planning and implementation process, and those
heading it up should be more open and amenable to offers of help. One idea was to have non-sponsoring
organizations sponsor a specific track or workshop that might be especially pertinent to their membership. May 28th
was selected as the date at MCC. Giving the option of pre-registration might be helpful for traffic considerations and
commuters. Having a membership registration booth set up was another good idea. The fall conference will be held
in Walla Walla, date TBD.
Nominations and Elections: This position is vacant and this is an election year. Ballots are required to be sent out
in May. WCA will try to send as many as possible electronically from updated membership lists. Jeneva and
Michelle offered to work on covering this.
Regional Reports: None
Affiliate Reports:
WCJ: WCJ recently held an event at Headquarters honoring Women in Corrections.
Western: The conference in Idaho for 2009 will be cancelled.
JIB: Discussed fork lift certification programs that are being expanded, thanks largely to the donation of a fork lift.
Fireworks Presentation: Dave Swisher presented to the WCA board an opportunity to sell fireworks for the fourth
of July. We would have a 40’x 60’ stand in the Gold parking lot, across from the Puyallup fairgrounds. TNT would
provide the tent, tables, bunting, lights, fencing, & baskets. We would get 20% of sales. It’s expected that we would
generate at least $4,000 profit. WCA would split the shifts and profits with NABCJ. WCA would need to provide
labor to staff the stand, after hours security, cash register, credit card machine (which can be provided thru Dave at
cost) and a generator. We would also pay $100 for an insurance rider. Through use of a white board, a preliminary
schedule was developed
Next board meeting is June 4th. (Thursday) Location TBD
~ 26 ~
WCA Board Meeting Minutes
6/4/09 10:00 a.m.
JRA Region 5 Office
Present: Rich La Rosa, Tracy Grunenfelder, Peria Duncan, Bill Frank, Bill Brown, Dean Mason, Jeneva Cotton,
Pete Hall, Mark Kucza (by phone), Dave Snyder (by phone), Pamela Maddess, Wanda McRae, Michelle Watson,
Belinda Stewart
Minutes: Reviewed. Motion made by Bill B. Seconded by Pamela. Approved.
Old Business:
Spring Conference: A discussion was held regarding the Spring Conference held in May at Monroe. There were 90
participants, and it was well received. Sally Neiland of MCC set up tours of the facility, with the highlight being the
new IMU and reformatory. MCC staff were accommodating and excellent to work with. Scott Frakes and Eldon
Vail supported the event. Lunch was good. Some workshops were better attended than others. Tricia’s class was
especially well received. There was no conference evaluation form done at the spring conference, and it may be a
good idea to include it at the fall conference for feedback. Three WCA memberships were gained at this event.
Membership/Survey/Bi-Laws: Peria used the distribution list Dean compiled to email nominations and elections info
from the WCA website, but some members didn’t receive it. There are still a couple of Board member assignments
to follow up on contact information, and many corrections were made to the list. Bill B and Dean M will compare
lists and try to get this list current so it can be kept up to date easier. There are currently 195 WCA members. When
the survey is complete, it can go out via the WCA email. Dean will re-send the updated list to Peria.
Dean will re-contact ACA regarding membership applications not having accurate info. There are multiple reports
that create redundancy and don’t have corresponding information. Rich and Tracy will draft a letter to precede Tracy
and Dean’s upcoming trip to the summer ACA conference (Topics to include rebates, payroll deductions, and an
accurate membership list.) Pamela recommended they attend the Chapter President’s and the Dual Chapter/Affiliates
meetings.
Discussion was held over appointing co-chairs and it was decided to waive the one-year membership requirement to
serve on the board and to modify it in the bi-laws. It was suggested that all Board members review the Bi-Laws. Bill
F and Hisami are still working on the language for updating the bi-laws that were decided on in previous meetings.
We still need to finalize the MOU’s with our partner agencies. Wanda will check with Earl (NABJA) and Hisami
was going to check with Belinda and Earl.
We need to re-group as a Board to get Bi-Laws up to date, move forward as opposed to being stuck on
“housekeeping” items, train and support new Board members and actually work on agenda items instead of tabling
them. We also need to re-light enthusiasm of the Board and the membership. The use of facilitators was brought up,
but that costs money that we don’t have right now. Additionally, it would be good if WCA could support their
membership in some way in these very tough times. (Workshop, letter to staff, etc.)
New member Nina Muehlen has been appointed to the Nominations and Elections Chair, and will also handle this
year’s awards. Jeneva will work with her on these 2 areas.
Website: Dave needs the new membership application to post on line. Bill F will get current Bi-laws to Dave to post
on line.
Laptop: Was purchased for $150 above the allotted price. Discussion was held on where it should “live” and who
should use it and how it should be used. Michelle donated a printer to go with it. It was determined that Michelle
will hold on to it and bring it to all meetings and events for use by the Secretary and others who may have a specific
need for it.
Connections: Jeneva needs articles and pictures by June 30th to complete the next issue. Michelle and Tracy will do
a write-up on the spring conference for inclusion, and it was suggested that someone do a write-up announcing the
upcoming fall conference. It was also suggested that the nomination and elections, and awards forms be posted in
~ 27 ~
Connections, as well as a request to update membership contact information. A reference to the opportunity for
advertisements in Connections with the price list is slated for inclusion as well. The opportunity to make money
through EBay and Google “clicks” is an option to look at (barring inappropriate posts/ads issues.)
Fall Conference: Mark and Dave are following the spring conference format with a date of Sept 24th in Walla Walla,
It was suggested that Mark get east side Co-Chairs involved, and Michelle will help with communications of the
event. Mark is still working out location details, whether it will be held on-site at WSP or the Mill Creek Center.
Women in Criminal Justice have agreed to partner, and Wanda will check with Earl to see if NABJA wants to
partner on this. Jeneva will post RFP’s for the conference in Connections.
New Business:
Fireworks Stand/Staffing: The most current schedule was sent around to fill in some open spots for staffing the
stand. (There are still some vacancies that need filled. Contact Pamela if you know someone who can volunteer a
few hours of their time.) Belinda is working with someone on security, and the stand will be at the Puyallup
Fairgrounds. There are 2 safety meetings (6/11 & 12) for staff to attend. Early shifters may need to wing it and help
the oncoming crews with details on sales, opening/closing and other related info. Tracy will bring the WCA banner.
Bill B and Dave S are checking on conflicting sales tax information.
Email Account: Jeneva and Peria requested the Board’s input on changing from the current email account to another
free email account. The current email account is not user-friendly. The Board supports Jeneva and Peria following
up with finding a more user-friendly email account. They will get new link to Dave to post online.
Reports:
Legislative: It was suggested that Frank access the legislative website instead of DOC to access legislative updates.
This way other Criminal Justice news can be included as well. Dean and Rich will work with Frank on how to
access the state site. Belinda shared 25 DOC impact related bill summaries as Frank was unable to attend.
WCJ: Belinda reported that they held a July meeting at Cedar Creek to work on deciding whether to be their own
association. The paperwork and tax ID has been completed. They had hoped to do a women’s east side event as well
as a west side, but the budget is not allowing for that at this time.
NABJA: They are sponsoring two “Gear Up” events for Junior Achievers in Lakewood on June 10 th/18th. The
national conference will be in Little Rock, Arkansas this year.
Co-Chair Reports:
Southwest: Pete H attended the Special Olympics LE run in Thurston Co the end of May and brought water and
snacks on behalf of WCA. In light of “Correctional Pride” month, he also brought snacks via WCA to the DOC field
offices to community corrections staff who don’t have the same opportunities the institutions do. Great job, Pete!
Southeast: Mark and Dave are gearing up for the fall conference and are considering conducting a staff survey to
determine workshop topic interest. Dave was appointed co-chair pending elections and was nominated for the next
term.
No other reports.
Next meeting date will be separate from the fall conference. This will include the annual general membership
meeting, installation of officers, presentations for any west side award winners and other board business. This
meeting will be held Oct 16th at DOC HQ.
~ 28 ~
2008 - 2010 WCA BOARD MEMBERS
President
Olympia, WA 98504
Richard LaRosa
(360) 486-2229, (360) 407-0844 (Fax)
PO Box 40907
wfbrown@doc1.wa.gov
Olympia, WA 98504-0907
(360) 493-9275, (360) 493-9287 (Fax)
Northwest Region Co-chair
(rplarosa@doc1.wa.gov
Sally Neiland
16500 177th Ave SE
President Elect
Monroe, WA 98272-0514
Tracy Grunenfelder
(360) 794-2524
PO Box 41147
sjneiland@doc1.wa.gov
Olympia , WA 98504-1147
(360) 407-0174, (Fax) 360-407-0182
Northwest Region Co-chair
(Cell) 360-507-2618
Nancy Watts
tlgrunenfelder@doc1.wa.gov
16500 177th Ave SE
Monroe, WA 98272-0514
Vice President
(360) 794-2761
Michelle Watson
newatts@doc1.wa.gov
Out of State & Jail Facilities Unit
Department of Corrections - Prisons Division
Phone: 360-725-8909
Southwest Region Co-chair
Fax: 360-586-7273
Pete Hall
mrwatson@DOC1.wa.gov
PO Box 41147
Olympia, WA 98504-1147
Secretary
(360) 407-0180
Peria Duncan
prhall@doc1.wa.gov
8517 E Trent, Suite 202
Spokane Valley, WA 99212
Southwest Region Co-chair
(509) 363-4669, (509) 363-4684 (Fax)
Vacant
(509) 981-3048 (Cell)
Central Region Co-chair
duncapm@dshs.wa.gov
Vacant
Treasurer
William Brown
Central Region Co-chair
PO Box 41145
Vacant
~ 29 ~
Legislative Chair
Northeast Region Co-chair
Frank Feeley, Ph.D.
Karin Johnson
191 Constantine Way
Broadway Building
Aberdeen, WA 98520
Spokane, WA
(360) 537-2094, (360) 537-2075 (Fax)
(509) 324-8395
fafeeley@doc1.wa.gov
kljohnson@doc1.wa.gov
Membership Co-chair
Northeast Region Co-Chair
Pamela Maddess
Voncille Molett
6302 Woodlake Drive West
12406 E Desmet, Ste C
University Place, WA 98467
Spokane, 99216
(253) 310-7418 (Cell)
(509) 921-2395
Pamela@newtacoma.com
evmolett@doc1.wa.gov
Membership Co-Chair
Southeast Region Co-Chair
Dean Mason
Vacant
Jail Industries Board
801 - 88th Avenue SE
Southeast Region Co-Chair
Tumwater, WA 98501
Mark Kucza
(360) 725-9179, (360) 753-0219 (Fax)
1313 North 13th Avenue
(360) 239-9019 (Work cell)
Walla Walla, WA 99362
damason@doc1.wa.gov
(509) 526-6462, (509) 526-6453 (Fax)
(509) 956-6112 (Cell)
Public Relations Chair & Connections Editor
makucza@doc1.wa.gov
Jeneva Cotton
PO Box 41121
Nominations & Elections Chair
Olympia, WA 98504-1121
Vacant
(360) 493-9466, (360) 407-0075 Fax
jmcotton@doc1.wa.gov
Conference & Training Chair
Vacant
Resolutions Chair
Bill Frank
Finance & Budget Chair
10109 South Tacoma Way, Bldg C4
Vacant
Lakewood, WA 98499
(253)-983-7134 (W)
wcfrank@doc1.wa.gov
~ 30 ~
NABCJ Chair
WCJ Chair
Wanda McRae
Belinda D. Stewart
3420 N.E. Sand Hill Rd.
PO Box 41101
Belfair, WA 98528
Olympia, WA 98501
(360) 277-2401
360-725-8821
wpmcrae@doc1.wa.gov
bdstewart@doc1.wa.gov
ACA Representative
Richard LaRosa
PO Box 40907
Olympia, WA 98504-0907
(360) 493-9275, (360) 493-9287 (Fax)
rplarosa@doc1.wa.gov
Western Correctional Association Representative
Hisami Yoshida
Cedar Creek Corrections Center
12220 Bordeaux Rd
Littlerock WA 98556-0037
(360) 359-4101, (360) 586-0095 (Fax)
hyoshida@doc1.wa.gov
Jail Industries Board Representative
Chief Ned Newlin
Corrections Division
Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office
614 Division Street, MS-33
Port Orchard, WA 98366
(360) 337-7003, (360) 337-5780
NNewlin@co.kitsap.wa.us
Criminal Justice Training Center Representative
Susan Hubbard
Corrections Division Manager
19010 1st Avenue South
Burien, WA 98148
~ 31 ~
(206) 835-7306 (206) 835-7922 (Fax)
Walla Walla, WA 99362
shubbard@cjtc.state.wa.us
(509) 525-3610 x 5300
dlsnyder@doc1.wa.gov
WCA Webmaster
David L. Snyder
1313 N 13th Ave
~ 32 ~