
I Want To Come Back 41-08-01 (Audition) Finding Jobs For Convicts
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Dick Arendt
Gentlemen of the Philip Morris Company, this is Dick Arendt speaking and thanking you for the opportunity to present this radio program. For your consideration. Inasmuch as we cannot at this time be with you in person, permit me to bring out a few important facts regarding the show. First of all, this transcribed audition is not intended so much as an actual sample broadcast as it is to portray the idea in such a manner that you will clearly see the many great possibilities available in its adoption. We have maintained in this audition as much authenticity as possible. You will actually hear the real San Quentin Prison Orchestra. While the selections played by the orchestra proved too long to be used in their entirety in this audition, yet we still wished to show you the available talent. So we re recorded the numbers, omitting a portion thereof in order to keep the show moving. The interview with the warden was read by Warden Clinton Duffy of San Quentin's prison and received his approval before being used in the script. The interviews with the parole candidates also were checked by him. However, as a courtesy to Warden Duffy, we gave the warden a fictitious name for this commercial audition. We did likewise with the governor's name. Now, in the parole candidates interviews, you will hear two separate and distinct methods for handling same choice of which depends on how sensational you desire your show to be. Should you prefer institutional treatment, straight interviews will suffice. As in the Court of Human Relations program. On the other hand, gripping excitement can be injected by dramatizing them, as you will hear in the third and final interview. But the most important thing of all is this. Radio sponsors have given the public newscasts, quiz shows, musical shows from symphony to swing. Dramatic shows, all types from romance to misery. Comedy shows, each trying to out Benny, Jack Benny, out Hope, Bob Hope, out fib, fibber, McGee and Molly. Production costs skyrocketing higher and higher with each new attempt to outdo competitors. And yet, no sponsor has ever set himself up before the nation as a public benefactor. That is a brand new idea. And that is where we come in with our offering to you. Here is a show with music, orchestras, bleep clubs, vocal soloists with comedy available among the thousands of prison inmates through the nation are hundreds of clever comedians. With all the desirable elements of Major Bowes type amateur shows. With drama not fictional, but true. Life drama more powerful and gripping than ever. From the lips of the actual persons involved. And as a climax to such an array of entertainment. Philip Morris comes forward with the greatest humanitarian work ever attempted. Helping our nation to rehabilitate and restore to society men and women who are ready and deserving of a chance to come back. Risky business. Some of you may say, not a bit. National statistics show that 95% of the paroled men and women become model citizens. We often wonder if the general public and boast of an equal record. And furthermore, Philip Morris would be instrumental in saving huge sums of money for the taxpayers throughout the nation. Over $60 million are spent every year in this country. To house and maintain people in prison for crime. You will find verification of these facts and figures in the pressbook which we shipped with this recording. And here's another point. You will immediately enlist the support of every religious and fraternal organization in the country. You will be endorsed by philanthropic institutions. The government itself will thank you for helping in this noble task. So there you are, gentlemen. A new show that embodies every successful feature used in radio heretofore with an entirely new approach. A terrific emotional appeal. A show that can go on for years. Because of the endless source of new material broadcast from within the walls of prison. A different prison, a different state each week. And at a very moderate production cost. We hope you like our idea and we'd like to produce it for Philip Morris. And now, listen.
Johnny
Here comes Johnny, ladies and gentlemen. In his red coat and brass button Johnny. Stepping out of thousands of store windows. Encounters all over the country.
Harlan Dunning
To introduce a new feature in radio. A public welfare service to the nation. Johnny, pray dance. I want to come back. Ladies and gentlemen, this is Harlan Dunning speaking. We are broadcasting from within the walls of San Quentin Prison. Located on the northern shore of San Francisco Bay in California. Through the gates of this prison, a small group of men hope soon to pass. Returning to the world they once lost. Your world and mine. One fervent claret on their lips. A prayer that someone somewhere in this great land will give them a steady job. Their fate is in your hands, Mr. And Mrs. America. For they have already proven their integrity to the prison authorities. And the state board has agreed to their parole. But these men cannot get that parole unless a job is waiting for them. And so tonight, the makers of Philip Morris cigarettes are happy and proud to come forward once again. And as a national public welfare service, present these men to you that you may hear from their own lips their true life story. That you may learn of their rehabilitation and their real character. And we sincerely hope there will be many among you who will find it in your heart to join in this great work and give these men a steady job and their real chance to come back. It now affords me great pleasure to bring to the microphone the man who has, in the short space of one year's time, completely revolutionized the modern day theories for operation of penal institutions. A man whose plans have done away with prison riots, supplanted hatred with friendship and changed irony to industry. Warden Creighton T. Donahue of San Quentin Penitentiary. Good evening, warden.
Warden Clayton Donahue
Thank you, Mr. Dunning. And good evening, ladies and gentlemen.
Harlan Dunning
Warden Donahue. There's been quite a wave of public discussion since this program took to the air. One question in particular has been raised.
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Dick Arendt
Points Cap apply is the advisability of.
Harlan Dunning
Publicizing the fact that a man with a prison record is seeking to place himself again in the ranks of the American public.
Warden Clayton Donahue
I'm very glad you brought that up in the first place. The majority of people have a very distorted idea of what the word parole, convict or ex convict really means. The mere mention of these words invariably strikes fear and abhorrence in the minds of most people. They visualize some ruthless character whose every thought, waking or sleeping, is to kill, rob or to otherwise destroy. Well, yes, I know what you're thinking, and there are cases with big shot or gunman complexes. But they represent only a very small percentage of the imprisoned men throughout the country. And don't forget for one single moment that such types will never be allowed on this program. The great majority of convicts are paying for crimes which were simply the result of dictates of a momentarily sick mind. And in many instances we might, all of us well say, but for the grace of God, there Stand.
Dick Arendt
I.
Harlan Dunning
Well, Warden Donohue, by that do you mean to infer that many of the prisoners who are not really deserving of punishment?
Warden Clayton Donahue
Nothing of the sort. Each man here is definitely in need of discipline. And he gets then, when he's had the fact burned indelibly into his mind that he's no privileged character, that his responsibility to his fellow man is just as great as anyone else's, that man is entitled to return to everyday life.
Harlan Dunning
And the chances are he'll be a better citizen than a lot of us who have never gotten into trouble.
Warden Clayton Donahue
Right. Nobody has to tell him what will happen if he doesn't respect other people's rights. He knows from personal experience. And that's our purpose. Straightening men out and getting them back into useful life. But not until they're ready.
Harlan Dunning
Well, how do you get these men ready, as you put it?
Warden Clayton Donahue
By making available to those who need it and have earned it, educational training, all courses from high school through college. And for those who prefer it, vocational training in practically all fields. And then, of course, recreation plays an important part. All forms of athletics and talent activities. For example, let me present our prison orchestra playing one of the latest popular hits. Say When.
Harlan Dunning
Say, that's really a fine band. Those men played as though their very hearts were in it.
Warden Clayton Donahue
Mr. Dunning, they've been looking forward to this broadcast ever since you gave us this date to appear. This is really an occasion.
Harlan Dunning
Well, don't forget, it's an occasion for Philip Morris too. Philip Morris has enjoyed the privilege of giving Americans a cigarette that is not only the finest for their smoking pleasure but best for their health. And now we're able to extend our efforts to life itself by restoring deserving men and women to youthful citizenship. And that brings us to the most important part of this program, Warden Donahue. As I understand it, there are men eligible to leave San Quentin on parole at this time, provided they can get a job. Is that correct?
Warden Clayton Donahue
It is.
Harlan Dunning
All right, then, let's get down to cases. We'll interview as many of these men as time permits. Will you please bring the first candidate to the microphone?
Warden Clayton Donahue
With pleasure.
Harlan Dunning
Harold Waters.
Harold Andrew Walters
Yes, sir.
Warden Clayton Donahue
Step forward, please. This chap has served only three years and seven months of his sentence. He's been a model prisoner and really earned his right to parole. Going on a national broadcast is a rather unusual way of trying to get out of prison, isn't it, Harold?
Harold Andrew Walters
It certainly is, and I'm grateful for the opportunity.
Harlan Dunning
Harold, it's the purpose of our sponsor to help you and the rest of the parole Candidates gathered here tonight to find steady employment. Now, will you please describe yourself to the air audience. Give a little of your history and qualifications.
Harold Andrew Walters
Gladly, Mr. Dunning. My name is Harold Andrew Walters. I'm 33 years of age and I weigh 170 pounds and I'm 5ft 10 inches tall.
Harlan Dunning
What education have you had?
Harold Andrew Walters
Well, I've had three years of college.
Harlan Dunning
Have you any relatives?
Harold Andrew Walters
Yes, sir. A wife and a small son.
Harlan Dunning
I see. Where are they?
Harold Andrew Walters
Well, they're living in Oregon at present.
Harlan Dunning
Do they plan to rejoin you when you're released?
Warden Clayton Donahue
Yes, sir.
Harold Andrew Walters
They've been down here to visit me every month.
Dick Arendt
That's fine.
Harlan Dunning
For what offense were you committed?
Harold Andrew Walters
Embezzlement. I work for a finance company and, well, I used some of their money to play the stock market on the.
Harlan Dunning
Side, and it didn't work.
Harold Andrew Walters
I'll stay at dinner and.
Harlan Dunning
Well, candidly speaking, that's not too good a background to paint when you're trying to enter someone and giving you a new job.
Harold Andrew Walters
Mr. Dunning, after what I've been through, disgrace for my family and me, and loss of what little we did have of our own in almost four years of imprisonment. Well, there isn't enough money in the world to justify it. All I want is another chance. You won't have to worry about me again. Ever.
Warden Clayton Donahue
I think you can rely on him, Mr. Dunning.
Harlan Dunning
Well, you certainly ought to know, warden, if anyone does. Harold, here's a check for $25. You can rely and really call your own. It's a paycheck from Philip Morris for appearing on this broadcast.
Harold Andrew Walters
Thank you very much, Mr. Denny.
Harlan Dunning
And there you are, Mr. And Mrs. Public. Harold Andrew Walters stands before you a high school and college education, a fine record of behavior while paying his penalty in San Quentin, and a family waiting for his release. His hand is outstretched to you, asking for a chance to come back. It is our hope that before this broadcast is finished, some gracious American firms will have telegraphed their offers to give Harold and these other parole candidates a position. No names will be announced. Offers will be held strictly confidential, and all negotiations will be handled by the official parole board. And now then, Warden, before interviewing our next candidate, how about the music?
Warden Clayton Donahue
Fine. The orchestra's all ready. And here is one of the boys to sing, Pete the.
Johnny
Raise Four, Peter Piper. When he plays a song the kids will never fail him they sing the song along with Peter Piper People gather round when they hear the sound of the camels are coming Hooray, hooray When their lively feet catch the piper's beat they start to sway and then it isn't long till all the folks are dancing Their hearts are gay when he.
Lester Hawkins
Will play them a song when he's.
Johnny
Done all that they pass the hat for Fascinating Pete the piper man.
Harlan Dunning
Say, you really have talent. Over here, Warden. Now, who's our next parole candidate? Bring him to the microphone, will you?
Warden Clayton Donahue
He's already at the microphone.
Harlan Dunning
He is? Why, just a moment. You don't mean this chap who just sang?
Warden Clayton Donahue
That's the one. Parole candidate Lester Hawkins.
Harlan Dunning
Well, I am surprised, Lester, with a voice like that. You certainly are a shining example of the well known bird in a gilded cake.
George Winters
I guess you're right, Mr. Dunning.
Harlan Dunning
Only this time the cage hasn't been gilded, has it?
George Winters
No, sir. And this bird is a little tarnished himself.
Harlan Dunning
I see what you mean. Well, just how bad is that darnish, Mr. Dunning?
Warden Clayton Donahue
What little there is will soon come off when he's able to rub shoulders with the outside world again.
Harlan Dunning
Well, I'm sure you're right, Warden Donahue. Lester, let's have your story.
George Winters
Well, I'm 38 years old, about six feet tall, and I weigh 180 pounds.
Dick Arendt
Family?
George Winters
None. Now, my mother died just before I was sent here two years ago.
Harlan Dunning
Oh, I'm sorry. What charge were you convicted on?
George Winters
Receiving and selling stolen property. I had a Nauto wrecking business down south in the city of.
Harlan Dunning
No, excuse me. No specific names or locations, please. We reserve that information only for your next employer.
George Winters
I see. Thank you, sir. Well, anyhow, things were going along pretty fair when a couple of guys started coming in every few days with used parts, accessories and radios and selling them to me awfully cheap. I figured there was something funny going on, but with the prices I got the stuff for, I was cleaning up. So after a while I got so I didn't care. Finally, one of them got caught, confessed, and then the police picked up the whole gang.
Harlan Dunning
And you were the fence for the deal.
George Winters
That's right. The police pulled me in a week later.
Harlan Dunning
What happened to your auto wrecking business?
George Winters
Well, after the insurance companies got through reclaiming stolen parts, there just wasn't any business.
Harlan Dunning
Well, when you are released, Lester, it takes capital to operate a wrecking business. You're in no position to manage that, Mr. Dunning.
George Winters
The mere sight of even a hubcap sends chills up and down my back. I couldn't go into that business again. Those nights of restlessness, wondering whether the cops were coming the next morning, finagling the books to try and cover up all that it's not worth it. Money can buy some things, but it can't buy peace of mind when you're doing wrong.
Harlan Dunning
Well, what other kind of work can you do?
Warden Clayton Donahue
Mr. Dunning, I personally recommend him very highly as a physical culture trainer. He's assisted in our athletic program for the past year and has done a fine job of conditioning the men for the various sports.
George Winters
I'd like very much to go in for that work, Mr. Dunning. You know, one of these athletic clubs where they have massage rooms, weightlifting, that sort of thing. I've reconditioned myself physically as well as mentally, and I'd like to help others.
Warden Clayton Donahue
Hawkins is a good man. He has a fine record and needs outside help. Now, he has no relatives to try getting him work. And we don't like to hold up paroles for such men.
Harlan Dunning
And without a job, Warden, a satisfactory one from the standpoint of the parole board, he'll have to stay here for the full term, good behavior or not.
Warden Clayton Donahue
That's correct.
Harlan Dunning
Well, doesn't that tend to sour a man after he's tried to make amends?
Warden Clayton Donahue
It's bound to. Not that he'll necessarily go back to crime, but it does take the heart out of him.
Harlan Dunning
Well, Esther Hawkins, here's your twenty five dollar paycheck from Philip Morris for appearing on this program. That should make your heart feel good. And now here goes the call for work somewhere for Lester Hawkins. Good at physical culture training, but glad to get any kind of honest work approved by the parole board. Mr. And Mrs. America, there's a telegraph office near you. Let's have those wires. And remember, all communications will be kept strictly confidential. And now, Warden, I think would be a good time to hear that quartet we've been telling me about. Buddy Boys, let's go.
Lester Hawkins
Tell me what band that Sunday morning what band Sunday morning what band Sunday morning, Sunday morning Band. Tell me what band Sunday morning what band Sunday morning what band Sunday morning, Sunday morning band. There's one, there's two, there's three little angels there's four, there's five, there's six little angels there's seven, there's eight, there's nine little angels there's ten little angels in the band Tell me what band Sunday morning what band Sunday morning what band Sunday morning, Sunday morning band. There's 11, there's 12, there's 13 new languages there's 14, 15, 16 new angels there's 17, 18, 19 O'Langz. There's 20 little angels in the band Tell me what band Sunday morning what band that Sunday morning what band? That Sunday morning, Sunday Morning Band. 21, 22, 23.
Dick Arendt
The Ladies.
Lester Hawkins
24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 There's 30 little ladies in the band Tell me what band Sunday morning what band Sunday morning what band Sunday morning, Sunday morning band Tell me what band Sunday morning what band that's Sunday morning what band Sunday morning, Sunday morning fan.
Harlan Dunning
Warden Donahue, in our last interview, you mentioned the vocational training Mr. Hawkins had received here. I think our listeners would like to know more about this work.
Warden Clayton Donahue
Our next parole candidate will have something to say along that line. George Winters.
Harlan Dunning
Yes, sir.
Warden Clayton Donahue
Please step over here.
Harlan Dunning
Oh, good evening, George.
Dick Arendt
Good evening, Mr. Dunning.
Harlan Dunning
Ladies and gentlemen, here's a fine looking chap. I'd say about 28 years old, 5ft 10 and weighed about 160 pounds. How close did I come, George?
Dick Arendt
Just about right on the height and weight. But I'm only 26, sir.
Harlan Dunning
Why were you sent here?
Dick Arendt
Manslaughter.
Harlan Dunning
Manslaughter? Yes, sir.
Dick Arendt
I was one of those wise guys who thought it was smart to get tight. And I kept on until I drank myself out of my job and finally lost my wife and home. And then one night when I was really.
Harlan Dunning
Liquor. What do you want to leave so early for, George? Party just in.
Warden Clayton Donahue
Aw, nuts.
Dick Arendt
This is a lousy party.
Harlan Dunning
I'm going home.
Dick Arendt
Come on, George, I'll drive you home.
Harlan Dunning
You.
Dick Arendt
They live down my way.
Harlan Dunning
Well, Georgie, don't you think you'd better leave your heart here and call a taxi? Who, me?
Dick Arendt
Say, what are you trying to do, give me the business? Listen, sweetheart, I can drive better this way than when I'm cold. So come on, dude, I'll give you a lift. It's all right, so don't worry.
Harlan Dunning
You'd better not ride with him, Joy.
Dick Arendt
Listen here now, Bill, you keep out of this, see, you just keep up. I know what I'm doing. Come on, baby, let us go.
Harlan Dunning
Oh, George, look where you're going. You almost hit that car.
Dick Arendt
Oh, I did not. You're just imagining things. I just wanted to give you a thrill.
Harlan Dunning
Well, I don't like that kind of thrill. Please keep over on your own side of the tree.
Harold Andrew Walters
All.
Dick Arendt
All right, all right.
Harlan Dunning
There now.
Dick Arendt
I'm on my own side of the road now. Is that better? After about a little kiss, honey?
Harlan Dunning
George, will you stop? Keep both hands on the wheel and look where you're going.
Dick Arendt
Say, listen here, what are you trying to do, play hard to get? Come on, warm up, will you, sweetness?
Harlan Dunning
Look out, George. You're going to hit him.
Warden Clayton Donahue
Stand back there, everybody. Let that ambulance through. Over here. Jack.
Harlan Dunning
Help me get these two out.
Warden Clayton Donahue
No use bothering with the other car. They're both still dead in a mackerel. George Winter, rise and face the court.
Harlan Dunning
George Winter, the jury has found you guilty of manslaughter. And I hereby sentence you to the term prescribed by law of 1 to 10 years in San Quentin Penitentiary.
Dick Arendt
That's it. If you don't mind, Mr. Dunny, I'd rather not talk about it anymore.
Harlan Dunning
Well, I can understand how you feel.
Dick Arendt
I was a wreck when they sent me up here. None of my family came near me during the trial. I didn't care whether I lived or died.
Harlan Dunning
Yeah.
Dick Arendt
Finally, after about six months, my wife wrote to me. And then she brought my father and.
Harlan Dunning
Mother to visit me.
Dick Arendt
And that's when my whole outlook. I made up my mind that with them sticking by me, I'd be man enough to try and amount to something.
Harlan Dunning
But what did you do? I began to study. Study? Yes, sir.
Dick Arendt
They gave me my choice of courses. Carpentering, machine shops, welding. Practically all of the trades or any business course I wanted.
Harlan Dunning
What did you select?
Dick Arendt
Public accounting. And it's turned out fine.
George Winters
For the past two years, they've had.
Dick Arendt
Me in the administration office handling most of the detail work.
Warden Clayton Donahue
And I'd like to assure you he's done an Excellent job, Mr. Dunning.
Harlan Dunning
Well, all right, George. Here's your $25 paycheck from Philip Morris. You can use it as an opening account in your own book.
Dick Arendt
I'll be mighty glad to Open those books, Mr. Denning. Thank you very much.
Harlan Dunning
Warden Donahue, I'm afraid time will not permit any more interviews. But here are five more checks for $25 each made out to Thomas Jordan, Sylvan Thompson, James Sullivan, Richard Jennings and Lawrence Rose, all of whom have equally fine records of rehabilitation and who are with us here tonight. Ladies and gentlemen, these men came to prison to pay penalties for crimes against society. Crimes which would never have been committed had they been given the proper training in earlier life. A training they now have voluntarily sought and received because they so desperately want to come back this time as useful American citizens. Warden, I feel the people of this country owe you and your board of prison directors a huge debt of gratitude for the magnificent work you have accomplished here at San Quentin. Tranquility where unrest once reigned, intelligence where indifference prevails. You men have worked hard. And to see standing before you such a fine group of parole candidates salvaged from broken minds and spirits must make you feel very proud?
Warden Clayton Donahue
Not proud, Mr. Dunning. Grateful. Grateful for the opportunity to extend a helping hand to other human beings who happen to be less fortunate than ourselves.
Dick Arendt
Beg pardon, sir. A message from Mr. Dunning from the footboard.
Harlan Dunning
Oh, thank you. Hey, Warden Donahue, We've already received 120telegrams from American firms willing to consider employing these men. And more wires are still pouring in.
Warden Clayton Donahue
That is brand new. We'll have the state parole board contact these firms immediately and go into details with them.
Harlan Dunning
This really calls for music. Let's hear from the San Quentin Orchestra once again.
Johnny
Numbers I've got by the dozens everyone's uncle and cousin But I can't live.
Lester Hawkins
Without buzzing.
Johnny
I've got a sweetie I know there Someone who sets me a glow there Gives me the sweetest of.
Lester Hawkins
Love There.
Johnny
We never say how are you? And seldom say but.
Harlan Dunning
And now, Warden Donahue, on behalf of the makers of Philip Morris cigarettes, I want to thank you for permitting us to present this broadcast from San Quentin Penitentiary, for allowing us to join you and your associates in this noble task of rehabilitation so vital to the welfare of Americans everywhere. Once again, ladies and gentlemen, comes our call to you. For these men who want to come back, a telegram or letter addressed to Warden Donahue of San Quentin Penitentiary stating your willingness to consider employing one of these parole candidates will be treated with the utmost privacy and the state parole board will contact you further on the matter.
Warden Clayton Donahue
Mr. Dunning, I've just been handed a wire from the governor. It reads as follows. Warden Clayton Donahue, San Quentin Prison. Permit me to offer my congratulations for the glorious work of rehabilitation you are accomplishing and for which the radio program I Want To Come Back marks the crowning achievement. Signed, Claude Osborne, Governor, State of California.
Harlan Dunning
This is Harlan Denning saying good night and returning you now to Nelson Case in our New York studios.
Johnny
What do you suppose happens when smokers change to Philip Morris? What do they discover? How pleased are they? Well, listen to the findings of a group of distinguished doctors who in authoritative medical journals report that when smokers change to Philip Morris, every case of irritation of the nose and throat due to smoking cleared completely or definitely implanted. That's what they discovered. Protection added to pleasure even when you inhale. So join Johnny's call for Philip Morris, made by Americans in America to suit American tastes. America's finest popular price cigarette.
George Winters
I Want To Come Back was prepared for radio and produced by Dick Arendt and Adrian Landis. The persons appearing on this broadcast were the actual parole candidates themselves and the stories were those of their own true lives. Names were fictionalized and will be revealed only to their new employers in order to further help these men begin life anew. Next week I Want to Come Back will be broadcast from the federal penitentiary at Atlanta, Georgia. You will hear about the gigantic US Defense program which is being carried on by other men who are waiting for the day when they may return to society as honest, upright citizens.
Dick Arendt
Johnny again returning now to the thousands of store windows and counters all over the country.
Lester Hawkins
Look for me.
Dick Arendt
I'll be waiting for you.
Lester Hawkins
Come in and.
Harlan Dunning
Goodbye Johnny. We'll be hearing you over the same stage station next week at this same time. Help Your Uncle Sam.
Johnny
10 cents buys a United States Defense Savings Stamp 1875 and up an interest bearing bond. Johnny presents a Philip Morris program on the air three times a week, Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. For time and station consult the radio column of your newspaper. This is Nelson Case saying good.
Podcast Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
Host/Author: Harolds Old Time Radio
Release Date: March 1, 2025
Episode: I Want To Come Back 41-08-01 (Audition) Finding Jobs For Convicts
The episode titled "I Want To Come Back 41-08-01 (Audition) Finding Jobs For Convicts" delves into an innovative radio initiative aimed at aiding parole candidates from San Quentin Prison in securing employment upon their release. Sponsored by Philip Morris, the program intertwines human interest stories with musical interludes performed by the prison orchestra, highlighting the rehabilitation efforts within the penitentiary system.
The show opens with Harlan Dunning (07:57) introducing Warden Clayton Donahue, who provides an insightful overview of the rehabilitation programs at San Quentin Prison. Warden Donahue emphasizes the importance of education and vocational training in transforming inmates into productive citizens. He states:
"Each man here is definitely in need of discipline... that man is entitled to return to everyday life." (09:57)
Donahue explains the variety of courses available, ranging from high school equivalency to college-level education, as well as vocational training in trades such as carpentry and welding. He underscores the role of recreation, including athletics and talent activities, in the rehabilitation process.
The heart of the episode features interviews with parole candidates, showcasing their backgrounds, challenges, and aspirations for reintegration into society.
Harold Andrew Walters (13:02) is introduced as a 33-year-old with a history of embezzlement. Despite his financial missteps, Harold expresses a strong desire to rebuild his life:
"All I want is another chance. You won't have to worry about me again. Ever." (14:14)
He highlights his educational background, having completed three years of college, and underscores the support of his family, who are eagerly awaiting his release in Oregon.
Next, Lester Hawkins (17:30) shares his story of involvement in receiving and selling stolen property, which led to his current predicament. Lester reflects on his experiences:
"Money can buy some things, but it can't buy peace of mind when you're doing wrong." (19:02)
With no immediate plans to return to his former auto wrecking business, Lester expresses interest in pursuing a career as a physical culture trainer, aiming to help others achieve both physical and mental well-being.
George Winters (22:27), a 26-year-old convicted of manslaughter, recounts the events that led to his incarceration. Through his narrative, George illustrates a transformative journey:
"They gave me my choice of courses... Public accounting. And it's turned out fine." (25:28)
George's story highlights his commitment to personal growth and his readiness to contribute positively to society upon release.
Interspersed between interviews are performances by the San Quentin Prison Orchestra, adding a creative and uplifting dimension to the program. These musical segments not only showcase the talents of the inmates but also symbolize the harmony and potential within the rehabilitation process.
Philip Morris plays a pivotal role as the sponsor, positioning itself as a humanitarian force in the initiative. Harlan Dunning (14:32) emphasizes Philip Morris's commitment:
"Philip Morris has enjoyed the privilege of giving Americans a cigarette that is not only the finest for their smoking pleasure but best for their health." (12:25)
The sponsorship not only funds the program but also reinforces the message of second chances and societal reintegration.
As the program progresses, Harlan Dunning (27:06) announces an overwhelming response from American firms eager to employ the parole candidates. This influx of support underscores the program's success in bridging the gap between rehabilitation and employment, offering tangible opportunities for the inmates to reintegrate smoothly into society.
Warden Donahue receives commendation from Governor Claude Osborne for the exceptional rehabilitation work at San Quentin, further validating the program's effectiveness.
The episode concludes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to support the parole candidates by offering employment opportunities. George Winters (30:09) teases future broadcasts from other federal penitentiaries, promising to showcase more stories of rehabilitation and transformation.
"Next week I Want to Come Back will be broadcast from the federal penitentiary at Atlanta, Georgia." (30:42)
The program wraps up with a heartfelt message from the host, Harlan Dunning, reiterating the importance of community support in the journey of these men and women striving to rebuild their lives.
Warden Donahue:
"Each man here is definitely in need of discipline... that man is entitled to return to everyday life." (09:57)
Harold Walters:
"All I want is another chance. You won't have to worry about me again. Ever." (14:14)
Lester Hawkins:
"Money can buy some things, but it can't buy peace of mind when you're doing wrong." (19:02)
George Winters:
"They gave me my choice of courses... Public accounting. And it's turned out fine." (25:28)
Harlan Dunning:
"This really calls for music. Let's hear from the San Quentin Orchestra once again." (20:55)
"I Want To Come Back 41-08-01 (Audition) Finding Jobs For Convicts" serves as a compelling narrative of hope, transformation, and the power of community support. Through heartfelt interviews and uplifting musical performances, the program not only highlights the positive outcomes of rehabilitation efforts but also mobilizes public participation in facilitating the reintegration of former inmates into society.
For listeners unfamiliar with the episode, this summary encapsulates the essence of a pioneering initiative that blends storytelling with actionable support, championing the cause of second chances and societal betterment.