Susan's Record 2000-2009

2000

3-3-00    The African American Women Prisoners Association recognized Susan for “her superb services during our Kwanza Celebration 1999. It is noted that this is the 4th year that inmate Susan has assisted our organization and each time her work is excellent.” 

3-31-00    Susan received a Laudatory chrono for her voluntary participation and leadership as Chairperson for the Sharing Our Stitches Program. During the three months described, quilts were donated to His Shelter Arms and the McKinnley's Children Center to aid those experiencing great need.

4-00    Susan is recognized by CIW for her contribution to the Sharing Our Stitches Community Services Program, by the Community Resources Manager and the Warden.

5-4-00    Susan receives a Certificate of Recognition for completion of Substance Abuse.

5-17-00    Susan receives a Certificate of Participation from AA for "sharing her experience, strength and hope" in AA meetings.

5-31-00    Senior Psychologist Dr. Klebel recognizes Susan as an "active member of the Inmate Peer Helper Meetings, Substance Abuse. These meetings are designed to assist members in understanding their addiction and related consequences of Substance Abuse."

6-30-00    Susan is "commended for her voluntary participation and leadership as an executive member of the Sharing Our Stitches Program" for the last three months. "Susan's act of giving aid and support to those experiencing great need in the surrounding communities has made this program a success."

6-30-00   Susan is thanked by the Long Termers' Organization for six months of attendance, stating that she should be commended for her dedication and support.

7-9-00    Susan participates in the CIW Community Jubilee, representing Sharing Our Stitches at the Presentation of Community Gifts.

7-23-00    Susan is recognized for her participation in AA/NA over the last four months.

9-9-00    Susan is recognized by the Hobbycraft Manager for her participation since 1997 in 18 different hobbycraft classes. "Susan has not only availed herself of these opportunities but has also  acquired the skill to obtain commissions for her work and has managed to sell many of her paintings through hobbycraft, thus enabling her to become more self-sufficient." In addition Susan is acknowledged for donating her own materials to the 1996 12-Steps, 1997 Hobbycraft department and other inmates, 1997 Miller A Unit garden, 1999 supplies to Hobbycraft Department, and the 2000 Gospel Fest as well as special projects. "Susan's interest and great effort have resulted in a high quality of work."

9-11-00     Susan is awarded a Certificate of Appreciation from the members of MARA, the Mexican American Resources Association.

9-18-00    Susan is asked by the Crime Victims Assistance Director for the Mayor of Houston to aid them in stopping the profiteering by crime-memorabilia dealers on the internet.

9-19-00    Susan receives her Membership Validation Form from the American Association of Christian Counselors.

9-30-00     Susan receives a laudatory chrono for three months of "voluntary participation and leadership as the Chairperson in the Sharing Our Stitches Program." "Susan's dedication and hard work has achieved the completion and donation of twenty (20) quilts to Rachels, a shelter for homeless women and children. Susan's assistance and support to those experiencing great need in the surrounding communities has made this program a success."

10-5-00    Correctional Counselor II, Correctional Counselor I, and Lieutenant all acknowledge Susan's continuing positive institutional adjustment at her Annual Review.

10-31-00   Susan receives her Certification from the Literacy Volunteers of America for completing their Tutor Training Program sponsored by El Prado Adult School.

11-2-00    Susan is acknowledged by the Mexican American Resource Association for her efforts and hard work contributed to the MARA banquet.

11-04-00   Susan receives a Certificate of Appreciation for her participation in the Gospel Fest 2000.

11-10-00   Susan is recognized for three months of attendance at AA/NA.

11-22-00  Susan receives a Laudatory Chrono for instructing an art class. She was well prepared and the class was well received.

11-30-00   Susan receives a Laudatory Chrono for her contribution to the development of a new self-help program at CIW, "Breaking Barriers With Jesus Christ." "Susan's commitment to community betterment through helping her peers learn the value of breaking barriers to change their lives, is greatly appreciated. Susan's dedication to this program... has helped to insure the success of this program. Thank you, Susan, for all of your help during the last year."

11-30-00   Susan receives a Laudatory Chrono. Susan "is to be commended for her time and efforts in the development of CIW's Gospel Fest 2000... Thank you, Susan, for your commitment and cooperation efforts with all who worked so hard to make CIW's Gospel Fest 2000, a successful program of bridging the gap between the community outside and inside the prison walls."

12-00    Susan's Counselor documents to the BPT that "Since her last Board of Prison Terms review, Ms. Atkins has enhanced her parole suitability as evidenced by her positive program, her volunteer work, and her continuous involvement in self improvement programs... Ms. Atkins has demonstrated social awareness and compassion for others by involving herself in numerous volunteer activities. ... Reverend Lois Woodard notes that Ms. Atkins' sincere dedication and availability was a valuable asset to the ministers, chaplains, volunteers and peers. ... Presently Ms. Atkins is totally medically disabled... Noted are various laudatory chronos in the C-file after this date which indicate Ms. Atkins did continue in her positive program although she is presently medically disabled." "Despite her medical condition, Ms. Atkins has continued to display exemplary behavior..." ...she has... selflessly distributed her time towards many volunteer activities..."

12-00    Susan is recognized for faithful attendance, support, and input at monthly meetings of the Long Termers' Organization.

12-19-00   Susan is commended for her contribution to the African American Prisoners Association's Kwanza 2000 Event.

12-28-00   2000 Board Hearing

- (Institutional behavior) Faulted for -

1) Insufficient participation in therapy programming (which the Board knew was no longer offered at the Institution.)

2) 2000 Psych Report - still has serious problem with authority. (Which isn’t supported in the record.)
3) 1996 Psych Report - Anti-social personality disorder. (Which isn’t support clinically.)

-"Psychiatrically" deteriorated between 1993 and 1996. (Despite the fact there were no tests done between '93 and '96.)
- One non-serious disciplinary chrono in 1993. (Which was illegal to use against an inmate at a parole hearing.)
- Accused of leaving Psychotherapy. (Which was contradicted by the record.)
-Can be considered at risk for deterioration if returned to community. (Which isn’t supported at all.)

[Shortly after this report the psychologist, Dr. McDaniel , ‘retired’ from the Department following accusations his reports were fabricated.]

- Demands -

1) Remain disciplinary free.
2) Cooperate with clinicians to complete evaluations.

3) participate in NA and other self-help as available.

12-31-00   Susan receives a Laudatory chrono for her voluntary participation as an executive body member in Sharing Our Stitches. "Susan's assistance and support to those experiencing great need in the surrounding communities has made this program a success."

2001

1-01    Susan receives a Certificate of Recognition for co-facilitating the Substance Abuse Education program.

1-5-01     Susan receives a Certificate of Participation and Accomplishment for contributing to the writing, rewriting, and editing of the new Self Help Program Breaking Barriers with Jesus Christ.

1-23-01    Susan receives a request to aid the City of Houston’s Crime Victims Assistance Director in stopping the trafficking and sales of crime memorabilia. “”I appreciate your response about your concerns over such sales ... I also appreciated your sincerity in wanting to assist me to stop the trafficking of these items.”

2-15-01    Susan receives a chrono from the Senior Psychologist, Dr. Klebel, for her active co-facilitation in the Inmate Assistance Modules, designed to assist participants to understand their addictions and related consequences. Susan is noted as having put in five months of work.

3-16-01    Susan receives a Certificate of Achievement for participation in the 1st Annual CIW National Women's History Month Celebration.

3-31-01    Susan received a Laudatory chrono for another three months participation as an Executive Body member of SOS. Susan's dedication achieved the donation of 21 quilts to Chaffey High School Teen Moms and Dads Programs in Uplands.

4-2-01    Susan was acknowledged for the volunteering 22 hours as an inmate tutor in the Literacy of America Tutoring program. "Inmate Atkins is to be commended for her hard work and dedication to helping others."

4-11-01     Susan is recognized by the American Association of Christian Counselors' Center for Biblical Counseling for completion of their course "Caring for People God's Way."

4-12-01    Susan is acknowledged for her donation to the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony given to the Archdiocese. "Her contribution should be recognized as her effort to give to the community where she lives."

4-18-01    Susan is acknowledged for another 4 months of regular attendance at NA.

5-13-01    Susan is Recognized for her creative endeavors by the Arts and Corrections Supervisor, and the Band Leader.

6-30-01    Susan receives a Laudatory chrono for her participation in Sharing Our Stitches for the last three months.

7-01    Susan receives a Certificate of Recognition for completion of Substance Abuse Education, co facilitating the program for three months.

7-01          Cooperated with the Santa Barbara Sheriff’s Department Criminal Investigations Division investigating unsolved crimes.

7-11-01    Susan receives a Certificate of Educational Achievement showing that she is a member of the Literacy Volunteers of America, dedicated to making it possible for others to improve their lives.

7-16-01    Susan receives a Laudatory chrono for acting as the Chairperson of the Executive Body of Sharing Our Stitches for a year. "You are to be commended for your demonstrated skills, and assistance to others in your role of leadership in this program."

8-7-01    Susan receives a chrono for her active participation as co-facilitator in the Inmate Assistance Modules, Substance Abuse from February through July 2001.

8-29-01    Susan's work supervisor reports that Susan is "mature, thoughtful & helpful beyond her job description. Excellent work..." He also states that Susan has exceptional attitude towards supervisors and staff, as well as fellow inmates and workers.

9-11-01    Susan receives a Certificate of Appreciation from the Mexican American Resource Association for participation in their program.

9-21-01    Susan is commended by the Facility Captain for her assistance with the Victim Relief Rally, which was initiated by the women at CIW to raise money for the victims of the WTC attack. "Susan's time and efforts were greatly appreciated, she also helped to raise $6,244.35 for the tragic loss of the victims and their families at the World Trade Center, Pentagon, Pittsburgh, and the Rescue Workers."

11-19-01   Susan receives a laudatory Chrono from the Facility Captain for her participation in the Women's Advisory Council's annual banquet.

12-01    Susan is recognized as a Full Body member of the Long Termers' Organization, with six months perfect attendance. “She has been very supportive and helpful the entire time. Susan should be commended for her dedication to this group.”

2002

1-02    Susan is given the Perfect Attendance Award from Long Termers' Organization for a full year of perfect attendance.

1-2-02    CIW's Senior Psychologist thanks Susan for her participation in the Christmas Event they planned for the psychiatric inmates. “Thank you for your hard work and positive attitude.”

1-15-02    Susan is commended for two years participation as a facilitator of the Breaking Barriers for Jesus Christ Program. Correctional Counselor Munerlyn states,  “Inmate Atkins has shared her life story, including her crime, and how she realizes the seriousness of her choices. It is this writer's opinion that she understands her past mistakes and takes great pride is sharing with others her understanding of how to deal with situations differently.”

2-20-02    Susan receives a Certificate from Alcoholics and Narcotics Anonymous for sharing her experiences, her strength, and her hope.

2-20-02    Susan receives a chrono documenting her nine months of participation in AA/NA.

2-28-02    Susan's work supervisor reports that her attitude toward supervisors and staff is “exceptional.”

3-02    Susan is recognized as a contributor to the California Institution for Women Hobbycraft “Crazy Quit” 2002. A hand stitched quilt representing “Women's Spirit in the Arts” to be permanently installed in the Education Building.

3-22-02    Susan is given a Certificate of Achievement from the Warden for participation in the 2nd Annual CIW National Women's History Month Celebration. “Your personal contribution on your journey toward being a Woman Sustaining the American Spirit is commended.” Participation in the Painting Contest.

3-22-02    Susan is given a Certificate of Achievement from the Warden for participation in the 2nd Annual CIW National Women's History Month Celebration. Participation in the Essay Writing Contest.

4-3-02    Susan's work supervisor reports that Susan's attitude toward fellow inmates and staff is “exceptional,” as is her quality of work.

4-8-02    Susan is certified as a Charter member of Toastmasters International.

5-20-02    Susan receives a Certificate of Completion from Bible Study Fellowship for completion of eight months of study.

6-02    Susan receives a Certificate of Recognition for completion of ten months of Substance Abuse Education, as a co-facilitator.

6-11-02    Susan is recognized for six months participation in the Long Termers' Organization. “She has shown herself to be very motivated, positive, and encouraging to the entire group. She has always been extremely pleasant and willing to participate.”

7-2-02    Susan is commended by the Recreation Supervisor for organization and performing in a special production for the entire general population.

7-8-02    Senior Psychiatrist Klebel recognizes Susan for ten months of active co-facilitation in the Inmate Assistance Modules for Substance Abuse. 

7-12-02    Susan is thanked for her assistance with the Mexican American Resource Association's Cinco de Mayo Celebration ”This is an important day in the Hispanic culture meant to inspire and uplift all people. Susan had a positive attitude as she helped... Without Susan's assistance, the Cinco de Mayo Celebration would not have been as big a success.”

7-30-02    Correctional Counselor commends Susan for her participation in the CIW mass choir. “The purpose of this organization is to motivate positive change... She worked diligently with her peers to make the C.I.W. mass choir a reality and has given back to the community in a giving way.”

7-30-02     Correctional Counselor recognizes Susan for eight weeks facilitating Breaking Barriers with Jesus Christ. “Inmate Atkins openly shared her crime, personal life, how she has progressively changed...”

8-6-02     Susan is recognized for being an active member of the Mexican American Resource Association, which was established to “share the positive aspects of the Hispanic culture with those who are unfamiliar with it.”

8-8-02    Correctional Counselor recognizes Susan for 8 weeks active facilitation of the Breaking Barriers with Jesus Christ program. “She has shared how her past choices directly affected her past, present and future, and through the ... program she is able to teach others how to deal with situations positively.” “Her insight on how to turn a bad situation into a positive, productive opportunity to give to others is commendable.”

9-9-02    Susan is awarded a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of her valuable contributions to the CIW Mass Choir.

9-27-02    Susan is recognized by the Freedom Speakers Toastmasters Club for successfully completing the required work for the Competent Toastmaster Award. “You have shown yourself to be a very positive and encouraging example to all of us.”

10-02    Susan is presented a Certificate of Achievement “For daring to be the BEST by attaining Competent Toastmaster.”

10-2-02    Susan is recognized for six months participation in Toastmasters Public Speaking Class. “She has shown herself to be very motivated, positive, and encouraging to the entire class. ... She has been very supportive of the program and has worked hard... She should be commended for the effort she has put forth into the Toastmasters program.

10-9-02    Susan is documented by the Warden for participating in the production of a Hobbycraft display. “Inmate Atkins is to be commended for her dedication in the completion of this project... Thank you for a beautiful job.”

10-18-02   Susan is Certified a Charter Member of another Toastmasters International club.

10-30-02   Susan is presented a Certificate of Appreciation by the Mexican American Resource Association for participating in institutionally-sponsored programs and outside programs.

10-31-02   Susan is recognized by the Executive Director of Toastmasters International for successful completion of a section of the Toastmasters International Communication and Leadership Program.

12-09-02   Susan is thanked by the HIV Peer Education Program for her participation in the World Aids Day event. “Your time and effort for this event was significant in making it a success.”

12-09-02   Susan receives recognition for six months participation in Long Termers’ Organization. Susan has “shown herself to be very motivated, positive, and encouraging to the entire group. She is always pleasant and an asset to the organization. Susan should be commended for the effort she has put into this program and the concern she displays for her community.”

2003

3-03    Susan is recognized for completion of Substance Abuse Education.

3-03    Susan is documented for eight months as an active co-facilitator in the Inmate Assistance Modules, Substance Abuse,
where she participated in assisting other inmates in understanding their addictions and the related consequences of substance abuse.

3-19-03    Certificate of Participation for NA.

5-12-03    Susan is commended for using her free time “in the deeper exploration of spiritual and moral values, indicating a sincere desire to practice these principles in her daily life.”

5-21-03    Susan is recognized for six NA meetings from 9-11-02 through 5-21-03.

7-03     Certificate of Recognition for four months as co-facilitator in Substance Abuse Education.

7-14-03    Susan receives thanks from Shalom Sisterhood for her assistance in their Fundraiser.

7-14-03    Susan is thanked for participation in Shalom Sisterhood meetings over last six months.

11-25-03   Contacts the National Marrow Donor Program to see about initiating a recruitment group within the prison. 

12-10-03   Susan receives a Certificate of Appreciation from Locks of Love Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, “and all the children whose lives you will touch.”

12-10-03   Susan is thanked by the National Marrow Donor Program for her heartfelt interest in becoming a volunteer marrow and blood stem cell donor.

12-31-03   Susan receives recognition as an active co-facilitator in Inmate Assistance Modules, Substance Abuse. Five Months.

2004

2-16-04    Susan is recognized for six months participation in Shalom Sisterhood.

3-26-04    Susan receives a Certificate of Participation, National Women’s History Month, Art Contest Winner.

4-21-04    Susan is recognized for six months of NA participation.

6-08-04    Susan is thanked by the African American Women Prisoners’ Association (AAWPA) for her participation in six months of their Drug Awareness Counseling and Relapse prevention program. “Your honesty helped everyone in “keeping it real”. Your input was appreciated.”

7-21-04    Susan receives a meritorious Certificate of Participation from NA for sharing her experience, strength and hope.

10-04    Susan is recognized for six months of participation in Shalom Sisterhood, learning and exploring different cultures.

11-03-04   Chaplain Woodard acknowledged Susan as an active participant for three months of the “Pathways to Wholeness” program, which emphasizes important issues of attitudes and behaviors, forgiveness, relapse triggers, family dynamics, past traumas, addictions and coping skills, both for today and after release.

12-24-04   Susan is commended by the Case Manager for Friends Outside for her completion of Creative Conflict Resolution seminar. “Ms. Atkins put forward initiative and perseverance to gain acceptance into this third program at CIW” “Ms. Atkins actively participated in her personal growth and was an asset to the group.”

12-31-04   Susan is acknowledged by the Catholic Chaplain for another three months participation in “Pathways to Wholeness” including the development of coping strategies for today and for release.

12-31-04 Susan begins researching anti-racism groups with whom to organize an anti-racism program at CIW.

2005

1-3-05 Dr Smith stated in his Evaluation for the BPT, that Susan is “a socially poised woman of above intelligence. She is articulate and expresses herself very well.” “She readily accepts responsibility for the murders...” “She disavows this kind of thinking at present, and recalling these things resulted in expressions of grief and tearfulness during our interview.” Susan stated “that she feels that she “lives with [the victims] every day.” She feels that the scope of her crimes is such that there is not a way she could make amends, but that, in spite of this, she must try to do so daily.”... “She was asked whether memories of any particular victim stood out in her mind. She responded, “No, each one of their lives were valuable – each one.” “Inmate Atkins does admit responsibility and she offers what appear to be credible expressions of insight and remorse.” Summary: “1. This inmate is mentally stable, with no history of recent dangerousness in a controlled setting. There is no immediate threat of dangerousness, should this inmate be released to the community.   2. This inmate has a favorable risk profile for release to the community conditional on her continued abstinence from alcohol and/or illegal drugs. That is, if she remains alcohol and substance free, future dangerousness is NOT REASONABLY FORESEEABLE, should she be released from custody.” 3. I am “fully supportive of a release” in accordance with these conclusions.

1-31-05 Correctional Counselor, in his Report to the BPT, states that the crime is mitigated by the fact that it was “committed during or due to an unusual situation unlikely to reoccur.” States that despite being denied for 4 years in 2000, Susan has “enhanced her parole suitability by remaining disciplinary free, continuing to program in a positive manner, and maintaining a positive outlook toward future parole possibilities.” “Ms. Atkins’ parole plans appear to be stable and well thought out. She is highly employable and it does not appear that she would have any problem securing employment. ...[she] appears to be well prepared for transition into society if granted parole.” Prisoner Behavior “Exceptional overall.” “If released, she appears to have developed the professional, and social skills to make a smooth transition into society.”

3-24-05 Susan contacts the Center for the Study of Hate & Extremism at California State University, San Bernardino, to see if a program could be initiated at CIW to educate and confront issues of racism and cultural hatred.

3-25-05    Susan contacts the American Cancer Society to establishing an information project within the prison to inform women about the risks, about early detection methods, about appropriate check-ups, and about the things they can do to prevent cancer becoming an issue in their lives. 

3-25-05 Susan is awarded a Certificate of Participation for participating in National Women’s History Month, and winning the art contest.

3-30-05 Susan receives a Certificate of Recognition for completion of Purpose Driven Life Course.

3-31-05 Susan’s participation in “Pathways to Wholeness” is documented by the Chaplain for three months, October through December. Pathways to Wholeness is a spirituality based self-help group for following a 12-step program, recognizing relapse triggers and coping strategies for family dysfunction.

4-5-05 Susan is awarded a Certificate of Achievement in recognition of completion of the training course Introduction to Conflict Transformation Skills.

4-30-05 Susan is documented for eight weeks participation in Conflict Transformation Skills conducted by the Restorative Justice Center and St. Vincent de Paul’s.

6-05 Susan is given a Certificate of Attendance for six months participation in Pathways to Wholeness.

6-1-05 2005 Board Hearing

- (Institutional behavior) Faulted for -

-Board claims psych. Report is “inconclusive.” (Despite the fact it ends with the single sentence, “I am ‘fully supportive’ of release for this inmate.”)

- Demands -

- keep programming as you have.

6-1-05 The Board of Parole Hearings commends Susan for her schooling, extensive AA/NA participation, Breaking Barriers, CODA, Bible Study Fellowship, Sharing our Stitches, Mexican American Resource Association, the African American Women Prisoners Association. The Victims Family members state that “The incarceration behavior of Susan Atkins is commendable.” (145:16) And that Susan “has all of these things that she’s done, all these committees, all of these organizations, all of these degrees. And I am 60 years old and I don’t know of anybody that has done all of these things.” (153:5)

Susan offers to meet with the victims’ family members “when they are ready” in a structured setting facilitated by restorative justice professionals. The victims’ family members never reply… and then continue to insist Susan has never made any attempt to make amends to them.

6-30-05 Susan is documented as participating in three months of Pathways to Wholeness.

7-18-05 Susan is awarded a Certificate of Excellence in recognition of her successful completion of the Training Course Introduction to Conflict Transformation Skills.

7-30-05 Susan is documented as an active Peer Helper in a nine week training course in Conflict Transformation Skills conducted by the Restorative Justice Center and St. Vincent de Paul’s.

8-17-05 Susan is documented as a member of NA for eight months.

9-30-05 Susan is documented for three months participation in Pathways to Wholeness.

10-16-05 Susan is given a Certificate of Participation from NA for sharing her experience, strength and hope in ten NA meetings.

10-18-05 Susan is documented for eight weeks in a training program in Advanced Mediation and Conflict Resolution conducted by Restorative Justice Center and St. Vincent de Paul’s.

10-18-05 Susan is awarded a Certificate of Qualification in recognition of successful completion of training for Peer Mediation.

11-14-05 Susan is presented an Certificate of Appreciation for her help providing input to support efforts to reduce recidivism for female inmates from the Time for Change Foundation.

11-14-05 Susan is documented for a years participation in the Shalom Sisterhood Organization to promote tolerance and bridge gaps between cultures and ethnicities.

12-31-05 Susan’s participation in “Pathways to Wholeness” is documented by the Chaplain for three months, October through December. Pathways to Wholeness is a spirituality based self-help group for following a 12-step program, recognizing relapse triggers and coping strategies for family dysfunction.

2006

06              Susan contacted the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame to ask them to reconsider their display of Charles Manson, stating it was irresponsible in a forum where so many young people are present. They never responded. Susan also wrote the Mayor of Cleveland, the Cleveland Plain Dealer, and the Victims' Rights groups to see if they could convince the RnR Hall of Fame that this was a poor choice. None of them ever responded. 

06 Susan is acknowledged for her participation and contribution to the publication by the Time For Change Foundation, “Invisible Bars, Barriers to Women’s Health and Well-Being During and After Incarceration.”

1-06 Susan gets credit for eight weeks participation in Victim Offender Reconciliation, put on by the Restorative Justice Center of the Inland Empire and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul’s Institute for Conflict Management, discussing victim impact, crime, remorse, responsibility, atonement and justice.

1-4-06 Susan’s initial Work Supervisor Report for her new job states she has adapted well and is “exceptional” in her attitude and effort.

1-26-06 Susan is recognized for her contributions to the general prison population by the Recreation Supervisor for teaching a class in Pilates.

3-06 Susan is commended for three months participation in Pathways to Wholeness, a self-help group concerned with healing and recovery.

4-19-06 Susan gets recognition for seven months participation in NA.

5-15-06 Susan is documented as an advisory team member of the Young Adult Networking Group (YANG), which works to resocialize and rehabilitate young adults 18-25.

5-30-06 Susan is documented as participating in the Victim Offender Reconciliation Training class for ten weeks.

6-28-06 Susan is documented for participating in another four months of Pathways to Wholeness.

8-3-06 Susan is documented as Vice President of Membership at Toastmaster Liberty Club. “she is responsible for organizing and implementing a continuous marketing program.”

8-7-06 Susan is documented for participating in “Doing Life Together” Community Fellowship Group for two months.

8-7-06 Susan is awarded a Certificate of Participation for her valuable contribution to the “doing Life Together” Study Group.

9-24-06 Susan is documented as an Officer in the CIW Toastmasters International Club, Vice President in charge of Membership.

9-29-06 Susan is lauded by Toastmasters International Liberty Club for the installation of the Smedly Award. Susan’s Smeldy race not only exceeded the requirements for the award, but she brought in more members than any other club in Southern California. “Your tenacity is immeasurable, thank you!”

9-30-06 Susan is documented as having participated in three months of Pathways to Wholeness.

10-5-06 Susan is commended by Liberty Speakers Club for contributing to and Annual Ralph Smedly Membership Drive Competition. Susan’s efforts helped bring their club into the limelight of Toastmasters International World Headquarters.

10-17-06 Susan is awarded an excellence award from the Young Adult Networking Group for her contributions in leadership and management, as an advisory Team Member.

10-21-06 Susan works on the Toastmasters International “Methods of Communication” membership drive seminar.

10-31-06 Susan is documented as participating in the Victim/Offender Reconciliation Group offered by the Restorative Justice Center for five months.

11-6-06 Susan’s work supervisor states that Susan is an excellent Breaking Barriers Facilitator, giving her straight “Exceptional” marks in all areas of work.

11-8-06 Susan is documented as Vice President of Membership for the Liberty Club in the CIW Toastmasters International Club.

12-1-06 Susan is congratulated for her contribution to the Union Rescue Mission, providing help and aid to the homeless and impoverished in Los Angeles.

12-12-06 Susan contributes to the Mirage Teen Center in Wellington, Kansas, a non-profit arts and entertainment center for teens.

12-31-06 Susan is documented as participating in three months of Pathways to Wholeness, a spirituality based self-help group dealing with incarceration issues.

2007

3-23-07 Susan is awarded winner for crafts at the Seventh Annual Women’s History Day Celebration, “Generations of Women Moving History Forward.”

3-23-07 Susan is awarded First Place in the Essay Contest at the Seventh Annual Women’s History Day Celebration, “Generations of Women Moving History Forward.”

3-31-07 Susan is documented as participating in another three months of Pathways to Wholeness, a spirituality-based self help group offering several different means of achieving sanctity and inner peace.

4-29-07 Susan is presented a chrono of excellence from the Young Adult Networking Group (Yang), for completing The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, the first such program within a prison setting.

4-29-07 Susan is presented with a Certificate of Effectiveness for completing The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People workshop, a 15 hour course.

6-07 Susan completes six months participation in the Victim/Offender Reconciliation Group, exploring the ramifications of crime on both victims and perpetrators alike.

6-21-07 Susan is presented with First Place in the Toastmasters International Club Speech Contest.

6-30-07 Susan is commended for participating in another three months of Pathways to Wholeness.

6-30-07 Susan is recognized as an Advanced Communicator Bronze, by Toastmasters International.

7-10-07 Susan is acknowledged for her participation in Toastmasters International, reaching the status of Advanced Communicator Bronze. “The achievement of this award demonstrates a high degree of self-motivation and a strong interest in self-improvement. It also exhibits the ability to apply communication skills in professional and community environments.

7-12-07 Susan is honored by Toastmasters International for participation in Club Officer Training.

7-16-07 Susan is presented a Certificate of Facilitation for The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.

7-20-07 Susan is given a “chrono of excellence” for her completion of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, the first training of its kind within a prison setting, where Susan trained as a facilitator.

7-24-07 Susan is congratulated by Toastmasters International for completing their Competent Leadership program.

8-21-07 Susan is documented as completing the Inmate Assistance Module, Substance Abuse, studying “The Addictive Personality.”

8-29-07 Susan is given a Certificate of Appreciation for her willingness to share her time and knowledge and wisdom of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People with the “Forever Free” Therapeutic Community.

8-31-07 Susan is documented as facilitating The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People for the Re-Entry Program, inspiring the inmates to take responsibility for their lives and to begin to live by a set of principles that will enable them to maintain their liberty and freedom. “Susan is an excellent facilitator.”

9-30-07 Susan is documented as participating in another two months of Pathways to Wholeness.

11-15-07 Susan is documented as participating in the inmate assistance Module, Substance Abuse, studying “The Addictive Disorder” to better understand the addictive process.

12-15-07 Susan is congratulated by Toastmasters International for earning her Advanced Leader Bronze award.

12-31-07 Susan is commended for an entire year of active participation in Restorative Justice, a forum for interaction with Crime Victims.

12-31-07 Susan is documented as participating in another three months of Pathways to Wholeness.

2008

Susan wrote to NAACP to try to establish a center at CIW to deal with race relations.

                  Asked to participate in the Sexual Abuse Survivors’ Art Show in New York. Asked to return for other shows.

1-1-08 Susan is enrolled as a member of the National Geographic Society in recognition of her support.

2-14-08 Susan is documented as volunteering her time to be trained for operating and instructing the CURVES Fitness System Resistance Training Circuit. “Moreover, inmate Atkins is one of nine facilitators trained and highly skilled in assisting the general population, special population (CCCMS) and geriatric population work toward achieving an increased level of physical health and well-being…"

3-18-08    Susan is diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor and given 5 weeks to live. 

5-15-08    Prison Doctors petition for a Compassionate Release for Susan. The Medical Staff support her release. The Warden at the Prison where she has lived for the last 37 years supports her release. And the Prosecuting attorney, Vincent Bugliosi, supports her release. The doctors tell the Board Susan has less than six months to live and that she is permanently and extremely disabled - paralyzed over 85% of her body, unable to even feed herself and unable to communicate either in writing or speech. 

7-15-08    The Calfornia Parole Board holds a Compassionate Release hearing for Susan and unanimously denies her release. The District Attorney states that Susan is currently (while paralyzed and uncommunicative) "the most dangerous woman in America." He also claims Susan "was responsible for all 16 wounds to Sharon Tate." The Victims' Family members claim Susan "killed Sharon Tate by slitting her throat." (Sharon Tate did not have her throat cut.)

11-15-09    Susan out-lives the neurologists' prognosis.  

2009

09              Psychologist Joey Hochman, who was used by the prosecution at Susan's trial, writes her a letter stating that he always felt his testimony was misused at the trial. He claims that what he told the prosecution was that anyone could have ended up in the same situation Susan did as part of a group psychosis.

09              Susan agreed to contributed to Mick Foley’s latest book concerning social programs and the ways cultures deal with cultural violence.

09              Contributed to Candor Trust as a supporter of their charities work to support victims and wished to assist them with a book being written by their staff to aid homicide victims in coming to terms and adjusting to life after homicide.

9-2-09       Susan has her 18th Parole Hearing. The prosecutor, Vincent Bugliosi, continues to support Susan's release and the victims' family members attack him for it. Both the District Attorney and Sharon Tate's sister are exposed for lying about the crime at the Compassionate Release hearing (the DA claims he made a "mistake" and Sharon Tate's sister claims she got her information off a "Charles Manson website"). The DA makes fun of Susan's inability to speak and Sharon Tate's sister taunts us on her way out of the Board room. The Board denied Susan parole, claiming that though the medical reports show Susan is now permanently disabled to the point she can not even feed herself, can not communicate either in writing or speech, and needs 24-hour care, she would be a danger to society if released. 

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