1664
1664 – just another number in a prison system where everyone is reduced to a collection of integers in a specific order. State Identification number; employee number; court case number; DPSST number. By its nature the justice system removes the humanity from each of us in the name of accuracy, fair treatment, and consistency. Welcome to a new number: 1664. 1664 focuses on the arts and human-interest stories of the people who live and work here. They aim to: 1. Showcase writing and artwork from incarcerated members of the community 2. Explore issues that affect the lives of people who live and work in the prison setting 3. Capture the humanity of people throughout the justice system and offering inspiration to others 4. Highlight efforts at rehabilitative practices within the Oregon Department of Corrections.
2025 Print Issues
Staff members
Phillip Luna, Editor-in-Chief
Phillip Luna was born in Antioch, California and is of Hispanic and white heritage. He is the editor of both The Echo and 1664 and is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists. He has also written for the Prison Journalism Project and PonyXpress. During his incarceration, Phillip has facilitated a beekeeping program, earning a Journeyman certification from the Washington State Beekeepers Association. He has also facilitated Roots of Success, an environmental literacy course, and has an apprenticeship through the Department of Labor to become a certified technical educator in environmental literacy. In his spare time, he is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in English. Phillip has been incarcerated since 2015.
Christopher Ainsworth, Staff Writer
Ainsworth was born in Portland, Oregon and is of Italian and Scandinavian decent. He began writing in high school when he discovered an affinity for poetry and could be found performing at open mic nights at any number of Portland bars in his 20s. He later started a photography busines for events, bands, and music festivals. His love for writing was briefly forgotten until he began attending a writing workshop in 2023, Pony Xpress, who published his poetry. Since early 2024 he has been a journalist writing for The Echo and now 1664, something he believes has had a positive impact on his life.
Kurtis Thompson, Staff Writer
Thompson grew up in Medford, Oregon with his mother and sister. His artistic interest began in his early years and carried into the present when he started at The Echo and 1664 in 2024. He believes he’s discovered his purpose in the written word. Thompson is a Christian who knows he’s not better than anyone, and cares about people no matter their background. He believes everyone has a story and a purpose, and wants to write about them so others know. Thompson has been married, had two amazing children, is a huge gaming and anime nerd, and his favorite food is a good authentic ramen bowl.
James Paulk, Correspondent
Paulk joined The Echo and 1664 in January 2025. He is finishing a Bachelor’s degree in psychology and is in an apprenticeship to become a certified technical educator through the Department of Labor. He is passionate about fitness and nutrition and is certified as a trainer and nutritionist through the International Sports Science Association. He enjoys time with his family, writing, and helping others. James has been incarcerated since 2007 and goes home at the end of 2025.