By: Colleen Penaluna Davis

As Nicole Kidman once said, “We come to this place for magic. We come to Grand Assembly to laugh, to cry, to care. Because we need that. All of us. That indescribable feeling we get when the lights begin to dim, and we go somewhere we’ve never been before…”

Okay, so maybe Nicole was actually talking about AMC Theatres and not CAIORG, but the sentiment fits. And ten years ago, the Charming Cheetahs brought the magic of the movies to Fresno at our Hollywood Scene in 2016 Grand Assembly Sessions. The red carpet has long since been rolled away, but this film gets better with every rewatch.

We had an incredible year spent traveling to events, visiting with members around the country, fundraising for Bay Area Cancer Connections, and making joyful memories together. The journey culminated in our March 19 – 22, 2016 Grand Assembly Sessions; a star-studded weekend that featured the Cheetahs in gowns of deep purple, revealed during a dazzling informal opening (wait, was that a limousine I saw cruising around the Arena?). Alongside our state parents, Mr. Jim Kamariotis and Mrs. Vicki Orion, the Cheetahs welcomed a new class of initiates into our order, shared incredible messages from our sister jurisdictions, and announced a $68,234 donation for our Grand Service Project, Bay Area Cancer Connections.

Bay Area Cancer Connections continues to connect patients to the support they need. They have expanded their community network to include some of the most prestigious medical organizations in the bay area, while remaining true to their mission that no one faces breast or ovarian cancer alone.

Though their time on the red-carpet has concluded, the Cheetahs’ stories are far from over. They have all gone on to build remarkable lives – from pursuing higher education and growing into careers, to moving all over the country and falling in love, and even welcoming a few Cheetah cubs! I can’t wait to see what the next 10 years will bring each of these incredible leaders.

 

By: Dawn Carter

Over forty years ago, 79 Dazzling Dragons entered the floor of the Anaheim Convention Center for Grand Assembly, held March 25–28, 1986. Our year invited us on an unforgettable adventure; “Searching for the Treasure”.  Grand Worthy Advisor Marcy Perrucci and Supreme Deputy Mrs. Lois Cook made their grand entrance by boat, setting the tone for our grand assembly defined by imagination, leadership, and heart.

Our year was filled with milestones that made it truly special. We proudly celebrated the first-ever husband-and-wife duo to serve as our Rainbow Dad and Mom, a testament to the deep family spirit that defined our term. We were also honored to have two sets of twins (who all shared the same birthday) represent their assemblies as Grand Officers, an unforgettable and rare moment in our shared history.

Grand Assembly that year was dedicated to Mrs. Marlene Larsen and Mrs. Nathalie Pataky, both past Grand Officers who lovingly oversaw the Pot of Gold. Their guidance and legacy reminded us that the true treasure of Rainbow lies in service, mentorship, and the generations of leaders who come before and after us.

Service is at the heart of every grand officer year.  Our Grand Service Project supported the Alisa Ann Ruch Burn Foundation, an organization that has been dedicated to prevention education and providing vital support to burn survivors, their families, and caregivers throughout California. Through the collective efforts of our assemblies, we raised an incredible $102,700, a powerful reflection of our commitment to compassion and community. Today, the foundation continues its important work, carrying forward the impact of the seeds we helped plant.

Our Grand year was filled with unforgettable moments, traveling together, sharing laughter, and driving throughout California, memories that still shine decades later and friendships that have truly stood the test of time.

As we reunite forty years later, we are reminded of something Marcy so beautifully shared during grand assembly.  “After searching for the treasure in all corners and places of the world, we realized the treasure was here all along, in the love and service of Rainbow, in the lessons we were taught, and in one another. That IS the treasure. Today, Dragons remain active in Rainbow across Washington, California, and Nevada. We have had many “Dragon babies” proudly following in our footsteps as Grand Officers, carrying forward the same spirit of service, mentorship, and sisterhood that defined our year and continues to shape Rainbow and the communities we support. The treasure was never a destination; it has always been the legacy we share and the love that endures.

Fun Facts from Our Year As Grandies!

• Music ruled the moment: Whitney Houston topped the charts with Greatest Love of All, while Prince released Parade, tied to his film Under the Cherry Moon.
• Technology of the time: Cassette tapes and Sony Walkmans were everywhere.
• Must-see movies: Top Gun, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, Pretty in Pink, and Back to the Future dominated theaters.

• • Television favorites (yes, live TV!): Miami Vice and Family Ties.

• Social hubs: Malls were the place to be, food courts, arcades, and record stores included.
• Communication style: Phones had cords, often long enough to stretch into another room.

What Things Cost in 1986

• Gas: approximately $0.90 per gallon
• Movie ticket: approximately $3.50
• New car: approximately $9,000
• Public college tuition: approximately $1,300 per year

 

 

 

 

By: Brenda (Vayer) Yepez

1981 – Ronald Reagan was President; Sandra Day O’Connor was nominated to become the first female justice on the U.S. Supreme Court; a gallon of gas cost you $1.13; IBM in US launches its first PC which uses Microsoft Software MS DOS; Raiders of the Lost Ark was playing in theaters and Dynasty on Television, but for California Rainbow it was the year of the Honey Buns. With a group of 81 officers led by our top hare Sara Fogle, raising a total of $46,000 for Cystic Fibrosis and Camp Harmony. Cystic Fibrosis is a hereditary disease affecting the exocrine (mucus) glands of the lungs, liver, pancreas, and intestines, causing progressive disability due to multisystem failure. Camp Harmony was a dream of a piece of land that would house our annual camp, and though the dream never came true in the original concept, many of you have enjoyed camp today due to the dream of Camp Harmony.

Our Grand Assembly was held in Fresno, CA on April 12-15th 1981 with the theme “Rainbow the Greatest Show on Earth”. It was also the introduction to what is now Grand Talent. Fast forward 45 years later and you will find those rascally rabbits (or some may refer to as “dust bunnies”) still sharing a meal, a weekend, a zoom “Hoppy Hour” because the friendships we made that year have lasted over 4 decades; our paths may change as life goes along, but our friendship will remain forever.

  

 

 

 

By: Caroline Gill Rifold

Ahoy there from the Faithfully Fearless Flamingos of 2011! It’s hard to believe that it’s been 15 years since our Rainbow Cruise Across the Seas. From our sparkly red dresses to the Bon Voyage Bash the weekend was filled with so much love and happy memories. It was the perfect culmination of a year spent traveling and supporting service projects. We were blessed to have raised over $66,000 for Kristie’s Foundation, a non-profit supporting families navigating pediatric hospice and end-of-life transitions. In addition to the financial contributions, rainbow girls, alumni, and supported stepped up and donated over 100 units of blood in the 1st annual Kassie Lee Memorial Blood Drive.
Despite it only feeling like a short moment has passed since our incredible Rainbow Cruise, the 32 faithfully fearless flamingos have experienced much growth and change over the past 15 years. Many of us have found partners and have welcomed chicks (or baby-mingos as we like to call them). Some of us have moved away from our dear state, while others have purchased homes and set their roots in California. We have taken many of the leadership and life skills that we learned from our time in Rainbow and graduated with college degrees and certifications. We are strong women leading the world as lawyers, nurses, teachers, engineers, and mothers. Many of us are still involved in Rainbow, supporting the next generation of amazing Rainbow girls and some of us have gone on to find sisterhood and brotherhood in our adult masonic supporting organizations.

After a virtual 10-year reunion due to Covid-19 we are so excited to gather in Visalia to reminisce and catch-up. It will be sad to not receive love and hugs from our dear Mr. and Mrs. Martin but we will forever be thankful for the bond of sisterhood they helped create amongst our flock. We wish the Compassionate Lion Cubs and all of California Rainbow an incredible Grand Assembly!

 

 

 

By: Victoria LaMar-Haas, Past Grand Editor

Ask anyone who has watched Past Grand Officer escort at Grand Assembly, when one of the Irresistible Ewes wears their bright pink satin gown with the simple white bows there is a certain
generation that remembers that those dresses have more meaning and love in the stitches than any other on the Grand Floor. However, this is not where the story of this flock of 79 Irresistible
Grand Officers began.  
Let me introduce myself. My name is Baaad Newes (I’m a cute little reporter sheep) and I was the mascot of the 1990 Grand Editor. She is a little tied up right now with her job helping with the response and recovery to the LA Fires, so asked me to help out and let this n”ewe” generation of Rainbow Girls know what our lives were like as Rainbow Girls in 1989-1990.
These girls were appointed in 1989 in Fresno during the “Rainbow of Promise and Victory” Grand Assembly sessions with our Grandies, the Eager Beavers. They were the first corps of Grand Officers appointed by our new Supreme Deputy, Anna Lind. During revelations, Mrs. Lind called 79 Grand Officer names. Back then, there were no combined offices and every single state and country had a single girl appointed to the office and this flock was very proud to say that we finished the Grand Year with all 79 Ewes. That was in a large part to our shepherds
of the flock – Virginia Fogle, our State Mother Advisor; Glen “Pop” Gorrell, our State Rainbow Dad, Pat McBride, our Director of Grand Officers and Tina Thomason, our Assistant Director of Grand Officers. The leader of the flock was Shelley Cross Nagel, who you will recognize as one of California Rainbow’s Grand Deputies.
The Irresistible Ewes welcomed California Rainbow to the 60 th Grand Assembly sessions April 8-11, 1990 with the theme “A Rainbow Country Fair.” County Fair goers that year were greeted in the Grand Assembly Room by numerous County Fair Booths and an amazing back drop of an aerial view of a county fair-all designed and hand painted by the girls and adults of Fidelity Assembly! This was quite an accomplishment since that backdrop that soared over our Grand Assembly Sessions measured 27 by 42 feet – about half the size of a small house! Our Grand Choir that year were called the “Harmonious Hog Callers” and our Grand Confidential Observers helpers were called our “Cotton Candy Cops.” The County Fair theme was even
carried though by our “Award Winning” Grand Pages. The highlight was when Shelley and Mrs. Lind joined the Grand Assembly Sessions via an old fashioned hay ride and kicked off some of
the most memorable sessions in the history of California Rainbow!
Of course, no one who attended those Grand Assembly sessions will ever forget the Irresistible pink Grand Officer dresses – especially because they almost did not happen! Imagine being a
Grand Officer and waiting all year to see the Grand Assembly dresses for your special Grand Assembly sessions, only to show up to Grand Assembly and find out that we had no dresses. The
dressmaker had failed to complete the dresses and they were locked in a dress shop in Sacramento – in pieces! Rita Smith, our GEC MA that year, worked tirelessly to get the fabric
for the dresses and had it delivered to Fresno a mere 20 hours before the Irresistible Ewes were to march into the opening sessions of our Rainbow County Fair! Thanks to our amazing
California Rainbow adults, sewing machines began to show up out of nowhere and every person. Even our Supreme Deputy’s husband, Bill Lind, was seen gathering hems until the early hours of
the morning in the Grand Assembly arena. Over 100 people came together to make sure the “show went on” and although the dresses were not able to be made the way Shelley had
envisioned, the amount of love in each of those stitches was more valuable to each and every Grand Officer than anyone would ever realize. We all have memories of having bows stitched as
we were getting ready to walk in, but in the end, 79 Grand Officers, bonnets and staphs in hand like Little Bo Peep, walked on that Grand Floor with pride and more love than we could ever
express. To this day, those dresses are cherished by every one of the Irresistible Ewes.

These amazing ladies put their heart and soul into raising money for two Grand Service Projects that year. The first project was for Camp de Los Nanos in the Santa Cruz Mountains. This camp
was sponsored by the Diabetes Society and was a camp for kids between the ages of 6-17 who suffer from diabetes. At this camp, children are able to meet other kids with diabetes and see that they are not alone in their fight against the disease. The money we raised that year was used to purchase blood testing machines and the strips which are used in the machines. In addition, we
were able to raise enough money to contribute to sponsoring children who could not otherwise afford to attend the camp, to go. At the time, these camp scholarships were $400 each. In all,
California Rainbow earner $69, 364.44 for Camp de Los Ninos. Today the camp is still operating and is managed by the Diabetes Youth Families (DYF) Organization and you can keep
up to date with the activities on the Camp de Los Ninos Facebook page. The second Grand Service project was our own Rainbow Scholarship Fund, then chaired by the
late William Caldwell. In one article, Mr. Caldwell stated that when Shelley announced they would be included as one of the Grand Service Projects that year, the entire Scholarship
Committee was “Thrilled, happy, grateful and overcome!” Unbeknownst to many California Rainbow Girls and Adults at the time, the funds for the Rainbow Scholarships that had helped so
many Rainbow Girls achieve their dreams of attending college, was running out of money. California Rainbow’s generosity that year donated $17,726.10 to help keep the scholarship fund,
and the dreams of countless California Rainbow Girls, alive! Many of the Irresistible Ewes benefitted from these scholarships and were grateful for the assistance as they headed out of the
flock on new adventures after Grand Assembly.
The Ewes have remained a close family over the past 35 years. We would like to acknowledge the members of our flock who gained their wings since our Grand Assembly session. With
heavy hearts, since our Grand Assembly sessions, we said goodbye to Anna Linda, our Supreme Deputy; Glen “Pop” Gorrell, our State Rainbow Dad; Leanne Morris Meyers, Grand Circulation
Manager; and Michelle Stacher, Grand Representative to Queensland, Australia. We will always remember their spirits and their dedication to serving others.
Being a California Rainbow Girl and a Grand Officer sett he stage for the Ewes to leave the flock and find their own adventures. In order to help inspire the Rainbow Girls of today, the Ewes
wanted to share with you how the experiences they had while members prepared them for the future.

Here are some updates from our flock:
Jennifer Bailey, Hawaii: “I married my high school sweetheart and we had two children, daughter 28; son 25. I completed my BS in Child Development, teaching credential, and
started teaching elementary grades. Over the years, I earned my Med and administrative credential. I’ve held many positions over the years and am currently serving as the proud
superintendent of the King City Union School District in my hometown. My years in Rainbow certainly contributed to comfort in front of crowds, public speaking, memorization and
organization. With all assemblies near us closed, our children grew up with similar lessons through 4H, FFA, Girl Scouts, and lots of athletics all of which we supported.

Karen Tozier Gray, South Carolina and Virginia: “My first job after finishing college was as Special Events and Volunteer Program Coordinator for the Sacramento Zoo. My resume for that job was entirely volunteer experience – much of which I gained while in Rainbow! I continued working in event and volunteer management and led training sessions on managing volunteer
programs for several years until I took time to stay home with my twin boys for 4 years. For the past 20+ years, I have worked as the Executive Assistant at Carmichael Presbyterian Church
where I continue to apply Rainbow lessons in welcoming all, serving our community, and keeping things organized. In my spare time, I sing and play handbells at church, take weekly
walks with my dad, play with our goofy dog, and love spending time with my husband and sons(now 26 years old!)”

Penelope Deleon, Charity: “I have three grown children and just retired after 30+ years as a public school teacher, administrator and superintendent. My husband also just retired, so we are
enjoying each other and planning our next chapter! It is so great to read everyone’s posts!” Merritt Ons, Immortality: “I have had several careers (higher education, tech startup,
freelance writer) but I came to a saving faith in Jesus 20 years ago and that changed everything for me. Today I am a life coach, leading a movement among Christian women who have a God-
shaped dream. I shepherd them through the process of defining their dream, overcoming mindset challenges, learning to talk about it off the cuff, as well as planning and executing the steps to get
it off the ground. I’ve hosted the Devoted Dreamers Podcast, going on 9 years now. I am also parenting two daughters (10 and 6) that my husband and I adopted as embryos. They are the
greatest gift!”

Terri Boland, Maryland: “After Rainbow I went to college for my liberal studies degree yet decided to pursue finance instead of education after graduation. For the past 23 years I have
been a Finance Controller for a global manufacturing company that is the international leader of food and nutrition innovation. I have overseen the finances both at plants on the west coast and
two on the east coast. Currently I oversee a plant in Fort Worth Texas. I use my skills in Rainbow to help influence and navigate the success of business with Senior Leaders and
stockholders. I also coach and train new upcoming Controllers to be successful in their new roles. I have been with my wonderful, amazing husband for over 32 years and we live in Texas
with our two dogs and cat. We continue to explore and find new adventures. In my spare time I joined a Woman’s club and have found new friends to enjoy activities with like bunco, Bookclub,
yoga, wine and of course lots of laughs.”

Carolyn Alyanakian-Smith, Drill Leader: “After our grand year I finished my BS in biological sciences at UC Davis and went on to dental school at UCSF. I’ve been in private
practice with my husband, also a dentist, since 1996. I have two children 24 and 20 (21 by the time this publishes) and my old girl golden retriever. I enjoy traveling and spending time with
my family. Over the years I have continued my volunteer work with local schools, health fairs/dental screenings, UC Merced, and my local Arts Council.”

Ronna Ross, New York: “After Rainbow, I was able to have a successful 30-year business in Graphic Design. Because of Rainbow and its various service projects, I also ministered to the
homeless, the church, and the elderly. God changed my path to now enjoy a second career and ministry as a Chaplain serving Hospice and Palliative Patients.”

Rebecca Nunes, Michigan: “ I have had several professional and personal accomplishments in the last 30 years, the highest would be adopting and raising three boys. I have had a 10 year
career in higher education, followed by a 20 year career as a top sales in Purina Animal Nutrition. I have spent 5 years on the board of a local PTA serving two of those years during
COVID as President.”

Julie Schultz-Leininger, Japan and the Republic of China: “After graduating with a Business-Accounting degree, I began working for the State of California. I have used the skills I learned and developed in Rainbow over my entire career. Whether it was stepping up to plan celebration activities that connect us, or taking on thankless jobs that benefit all in the organization, being willing to make presentations and do training, or working countless hours without pay for an IT project that will improve the way business is done for at least the next two decades, I raised the bar and did what I thought was best for greater good. My faith and Rainbow lessons have helped me to succeed in ways that I could not have imagined.”

Shelley Cross Nagel, Grand Worthy Advisor: After years of being a stay at home mom, I worked as a resource aide for just over 9 years. I went back to school and finished my BS and went on to get my masters and teaching credential in special education. I have been a resource teacher for 8 years. I also got back involved with rainbow and went on a board, then a member of the Youth Protection Team, then grand deputy, and am now an area grand deputy. Being in rainbow gave me life long friends and skills such as project planning, confidence, and the ability to speak in front of others. I never thought I would go back to rainbow after I stepped away to raise my family, but there I am and I love being a mentor and giving girls the opportunity to love the organization that helped make me the person I am today!”

Darice Kirby Hammen, Recorder: “Rainbow gave me the confidence and skills to create a successful life producing corporate and entertainment events around the world while balancing all the things life throws at ewe.”

Kim Morse, Illinois: “It’s hard to believe how much time has flown by. Life has been such a journey, and I’ve spent most of it working in healthcare-a field I’m truly passionate about. I’m
blessed with four wonderful kids who keep life full of joy and excitement. When I’m not with them, you can usually find me spending time with my black-and-white labs, who are my constant
companions and always ready for a walk or a snuggle. I hope this reunion finds you all doing well and surrounded by happiness. Wishing you the very best!”

Karen Heine Tostenson, Alabama: “I worked in corporate HR for a number of years. When my kids were in school, I became an elementary school teacher. For the last 5 years, I have
combined 2 of my passions (kids and animals) by providing educational programming at a Nature preserve just north of Atlanta, Georgia. Rainbow really developed my love of
community service. I currently work at a non profit and love being able to provide programs to underserved communities.”

Molly Shock, Massachusetts: After my majority in rainbow, I have worked as a television editor for 33 years. While I am proud to say that I have received 3 Emmy award nominations
and 4 Eddie award nominations for my work, my proudest contribution to my industry is serving for 9 years on the Board of Directors for the Motion Picture Editors Guild. Int hat time, I was
able to use so many skills that I learned from Rainbow; my sense of civic duty to make the lives better for my union coworkers, public speaking to communicate to my colleagues the benefits
and advantages the union could offer them, as well as being a strong advocate for the members needs to make sure the union was serving them as well. Even the sense of ceremony, order and
civility that was necessary to conduct what could be emotionally fraught board meetings came from the foundations that Rainbow has built for me. I am proud that I know my fellow board
members looked to me for council in how to communicate with others and conduct themselves. I even got to use my old Worthy Advisor Gavel a few times over the years to lead our general
membership meetings. The deeply ingrained teachings of Rainbow that we “should be of some service each day” has always consoled me whenever I felt adrift or that the world’s problems
were too large. If I could find a way to help someone in need, to volunteer for good cause, to be a good friend or partner, I always knew that things would work out. I’ve also been happily
married for almost 24 years and very happy being “the cool Aunt” to my amazing niece and nephews.”

Julia Park Lamma Tao, Wisconsin: Following our grand year, I was a Grand Bethel Girl for Job’s Daughters and served as Worthy Matron in Eastern Star with my dad as my Worthy Patron.
In College, I joined a sorority which I am still actively involved with as well as a coed Business fraternity where I met my husband. I got a BS in Business and a MA in Education which led to a
30-year career in School Business. I’m currently the Director of Fiscal Services of a school district in Orange County. In my spare time, I’m in a pool league and enjoy spending time with
my husband and four dogs.”

Kim James Williams, Nature: I have been a high school math teacher for 28 years. Rainbow taught me to speak naturally in front of groups and have a heart of service for kids. Penny Owen
DeLeon was my superintendent for several years and has served kids in education for her entire career.”

Angela Robertson, Washington/Idaho: “I did several things after college and landed at PG&E 24 years ago. I have had the opportunity to do a variety of different roles and I use my Rainbow
teachings daily working with my team to problem solve and to care for my co-workers and customers. On a personal note, I am the proud mom of my 3 now adult children (2 adopted) and
I recently became a grandma! I love volunteering at a local no kill animal shelter. I work with our big dogs to prepare them for adoption, fundraising and adoption events.”

Michelle Thibault Sullivan, Kentucky: “I earned a PhD in psychology at UCSD and have spent my career working with autistic children. I’m currently the Executive Director of a
company that provides ABA services to young autistic kids and their families near Boston. I have also been married 28 years and a mom to three kids of my own.”

Jennifer Whittaker Marshall, Oregon: “I had a successful career in corporate Human Resources and then became a teacher for the last 18 years. I currently use my rainbow public
speaking skills by teaching Speech and Debate to middle school students. I have continued my Masonic journey as well. I am currently the Associate Grand Conductress for Idaho Eastern Star
and will hopefully serve as Worthy Grand Matron in 2027-2028.”

Jodie Carmichael-Owens, Nevada: “We have three grown children and have been married 32 years. I have had a successful career as a nail technician for over 28 years being self employed.
Most of my services are helping seniors with foot care.”

Francisca Mar, West Virginia: “My sister and I have talked about the lasting lessons from rainbow-public speaking and public service. I worked for 23 years as an environmental consultant serving as project manager and senior associate preparing environmental documents under California and federal laws. I use my public speaking skills to present projects to members of the public, interest groups, and elected officials. I also taught seminars on environmental compliance and guest taught a couple of times at Sacramento State.(I don’t think I could have done all that without Rainbow). I recently shifted to State employment and now work as a senior transportation planner at Caltrans. I served on the boards of two non-profits (Cal Aggie Christian Association and currently WTS-Women’s transportation Seminar) for a combined 15 years. Thanks Rainbow!”

Alice Hunter, Patriotism: “I have three marvelous adult children – two girls, 26 and 19 and a son, 21. For close to twenty five years I’ve been in the Direct Consumer/Hospitality segment of the wine industry in Sonoma County. The last three years I’ve owned my very own wine shop, Sophie’s Cellars, in a sweet little historic village called Duncans Mills, just 8 miles east of the coastal town of Jenner. I enjoy being an active member of Easter Star – Gold Ridge State Chapter #161 in Sebastopol, CA, and was just installed as Associate Conductress.”

Lori Stouch Luck, Hope: “After earning my Masters in Classical Voice, raising 2 children(daughter 23 and son 25), and substitute teaching for many years, I decided to get my teaching credential with a Masters and I now teach elementary resource mild/moderate special education for the last 7 years. Most of my TK-5 th grade students have an IEP and need extra help in reading, writing, and math. I am also on the Fidelity Assembly #242 Advisory Board ad a member of Conejo Valley #632 Easter Star Chapter.”

Danielle Mathews, Christian Flag Bearer: “I have been a paralegal for 26 years in family law and did a few in civil representing the county. I married my high school sweetheart. We
have two boys, one girls and one granddaughter.”

Victoria “Pebbles” LaMar-Haas, Editor: “After receiving my majority from rainbow, I studied broadcasting and received a BA in Government Journalism with an emphasis on women
in politics. I was fortunate to work for FOX Television in the 90’s before leaving that position and moving to the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services where I have been for the last 28
years. My job has taken me all over the state working with local governments and community members to help respond to, recover from and mitigate the effects of natural disasters. I
currently serve as the Mitigation Planning Branch Chief where I use the skills I learned in Rainbow for public speaking, training and interacting with various levels of government
officials. I stayed involved with Rainbow for many years and led the efforts to write California Rainbow’s first Strategic Plan when Sara Lee Martin was Supreme Inspector. I also served on
the original Public Relations Committee for several years, as well as the Pledge Mother and an Advisory Board Member for Rose Assembly in Elk Grove. I have been married for 28 years and have two daughters, 23 and 21. I am planning to retire in 2026 and my husband and I are in the process of moving from our home of 25 years in Elk Grove, to a beautiful piece of paradise in Pollock Pines, CA. I plan to continue my work in disasters following retirement, concentrating on the populations who are most underserved following disaster events as well as to pursue my passion for antiques – especially vintage Christmas ornaments.”

We hope you enjoyed reading about what some of the flock have been to and how Rainbow helped to get them “ready for life.” The Irresistible Ewes are excited to celebrate 35 years of our
love, friendship, and service and wish Grand Worthy Advisor, Ella, and all of her Grand Officers, a Grand Assembly session that will remain in their hearts for a lifetime!

 

By: Isabella Lynch, Past Grand Worthy Advisor

Hello California Rainbow! We cannot believe it’s already been five years since our time in The Enchanted Forest! The 2020 & 2021 Leading Lemurs have spent the past five years going down our own paths and following our dreams. We are glad to reunite and celebrate our reunion at Grand Assembly!
Here’s a little update about what the Leading Lemurs have been up to during the past five years!

I am overjoyed to share that I got married to my high school sweetheart in July of 2024! Evan and I traveled to Punta Cana for our honeymoon and we had a blast! We are hoping to travel again sometime soon. We enjoy hiking, eating sushi, hosting our friends at our little place in Bonsall and we’re just really grateful for all God is doing in our lives. Soon after our Grand Years came to a close in 2021, I began an awesome two year internship program to study the Bible and graduated from The School of Ministry in 2023 while simultaneously earning my Associate Degree in Communication Studies. I was then hired to work at my church as the High School Ministry’s Director and I absolutely love it! I have the amazing opportunity to encourage my students and their relationships with Jesus, teach God’s word, direct our student leadership team and plan super fun events, camps, and parties!!

Hannah Boatman, Grand Worthy Associate Advisor & Historian says “I am currently living in Santa Cruz while attending UCSC. I am double majoring in sociology and feminist studies and my expected graduation is June 2026!”

Caitlyn Dawson, Grand Faith and Rep to Australia & the Orient Pacific, says “I have been finding ways to connect with nature, and I have made it my new year resolution to take more time to connect with friends and loved ones.”

Morgan Kuhnle, Grand Treasurer, Honorary Drill Leader and Rep to Main and Massachusetts says, “I’ve been great! I’ve been super busy with work so I’m staying busy 🙂 I actually recently got promoted to branch manager of our company so I’m the youngest and the first woman in my position for the entire company! I have a new boyfriend from Ireland but other than that I’ve just been focusing on my health and trying to get back into my normal groove. I’m still healing from surgery so just taking it one day at time :)”

Beth Hawes, Grand Chaplin and Rep to Bolivia says “I graduated with a BA in Education and have spent the last 2 years teaching elementary! My brother just got married at the start of this year, and I am trying to spend more of my free time taking small adventures to beautiful places nearby”

Anna Liese Tschoepe, Grand Drill Leader and Rep to Arizona & New Mexico, says “ I graduated with my Masters in Taxation in 2023 and am working as a tax associate for high net worth individuals. I
recently moved to San Diego with friends from my masters program! I have been spending my weekends getting fresh air at the beach, doing yoga, and traveling!”

Amanda Milam, our Grand Love and Rep to Indiana & Kentucky, says “I am a supervisor at bath and body works and I have my AA in Social Science. I have gotten into word searches and recently Lego. I am an auntie for the first time!!”

From your naturally leading lemur, Sarah Blincoe, Grand Nature and Rep to Montana & North Dakota, ”I moved into my own little completely accessible apartment. That is the best and most exciting thing I’ve done since our grand years. I stay busy volunteering at a science museum and helping at community events when asked. I naturally like spending time outside cruising in my yellow wheelchair. Hugs to my lemurs.”

TaylorAnn Quick, Grand Fidelity and Rep to Alaska & Hawaii, says “I have finished all certifications, and I am now a licensed tax preparer. I have been trying to travel more and enjoy life! Still an extroverted introvert but working on myself to open up better.”

Darrion Kirkley, Grand Patriotism and Rep to Iowa & Missouri says “In October 2024 I welcomed my son into the world with open arms and nothing but love! I have continued to work as a Registered
Behavior Technician and upon returning back to work I received a promotion!”

Bailee Weiglein, Grand Service and Rep to South Carolina & Virginia says, “ I graduated in December with my BA in Elementary and Mild to Moderate Special Education. I began working on my MA in
Curriculum and Instruction right away. I’m looking forward to beginning my career in August!”

Amber Holloway, our Grand Confidential Observer and Rep to Kansas & Nebraska says “I just graduated with an AA in English and Liberal Arts, and I earned a dance specialist certificate. I’m currently in Florida working in the Disney college program.”

Rebekah Sperry, Grand Outer Observer and Rep to Oklahoma & Texas says “I graduated with my Bachelors of Animal Science and moved to Oklahoma where I now work as a Veterinary Assistant.”

Angellina McGill Grand Editor says “I’m graduating from Sacramento State in May 2025 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Marketing and a Minor in Fashion Merchandising and Management. I’ve
been interning with a local, small fashion business learning sewing and fashion event planning.”

Shalyn Miller, Grand Circulation Manager, Member of the Grand Executive Committee, California Flag Bearer and Rep to Michigan says “I’ve been teaching at a private Christian preschool for the last 2 years. I’m teaching 2-3 year olds all the fun things in the world and loving every bit of it. I am currently looking into moving out of state. Which comes with all the feelings of excitement, nervousness and excitement for new exploration.”

Rhiannon Corgan, Grand Color Bearer and Rep to Colorado & Nevada says “I have been busy working and attending college full time, continuing to work towards my Bachelor’s Degree in Child and Family Sciences at Fresno State. I’ve been working at a family-owned daycare for about a year now that I love! I work with a variety of ages of children there, ranging from 2-12 years old.”

Christian Weaver, Grand Rainbow Flag Bearer and Rep to Canada, New Hampshire & Vermont, says “I’ve been working for Starbucks for about 5 and half years. I’m currently taking classes online through Arizona State University, with the goal of being an autopsy tech in the future. I’ve started reading a lot more and I’m slowly amassing a book collection because of it.”

Jeida Lavender, Grand Christian Flag Bearer and Rep to Aruba, Florida, & Tennessee, says “I graduated with a BA in Studio Arts and have been trying to dedicate more time to making paintings.”

Alurea Radtke, Grand Lecturer and Rep to Arkansas, Louisiana, and Mississippi, says, “I’ve just mostly been working on my art portfolio so I can start looking for a tattoo apprenticeship again. I have a very sweet boyfriend who supports me endlessly 🙂

Karen Marshall, State Mother Advisor, says “I’ve spent the last five years continuing to work with the Rainbow Girls in my area. In my personal life, I’m working toward retirement from my job in 2026 so I can spend my time with my husband Kevin and our dogs traveling and having fun creating things with all of my different hobbies!”

Steve McCrea, State Dad says that he and his wife Ginger “enjoyed our time with CA Rainbow and these past years have added to a wonderful experience with all. In June 2020, we gained two new grandchildren Henry and Hazel. In January 2022, we gained another grandson, Micah. We now have six grandchildren. In November of 2022 Ginger finally retired. We now have fun glamping and traveling to Cabo San Lucas on vacation and any local sites.”

Our Grand Service Project, The Painted Turtle has been continuing to do amazing work for children and families by providing incredible camp experiences for kids with life threatening medical conditions and it is still completely free of charge. In December of 2024, The Painted Turtle celebrated 20 years of camp and has served over 225,000 campers since it opened in 2004. Because of The Painted Turtle, campers are able to have the fun summer camp experience that every kid deserves and it is completely accessible and full of new experiences that bring laughter, joy and resilience. The Painted Turtle is continuing to make an effort to fundraise to ensure that camp remains free of charge and they have some creative events coming up like their Pickleball Tournament and the Bruin Run, Walk & Roll.

They say, “To the wonderful Order of Rainbow Girls Club: The Painted Turtle organization is truly appreciative of your partnership, purpose, and continued support. Your dedication to help make life
better for others is remarkable. Thank you for being such an awesome group. We were thrilled that we were picked to be your Grand Service Project, but what we could NEVER have imagined is how
successful you would be at raising funds to make sure that children with chronic and life-threatening illnesses could attend Camp! With your support we were able to continue to bring laughter and joy to hundreds of campers.”

Each of the Leading Lemurs has faced many hard challenges over the past five years but we have also experienced victories both big and small. Time has flown by but we are all still trying to believe in our dreams and are grateful to celebrate each other and the people we have become. Here’s to the next five years!