Riverside Republican Women Federated Gather for Luncheon at Canyon Crest Country Club
The banquet room at Canyon Crest Country Club in Riverside, CA, was filled with optimism and hope on Friday afternoon. The tables were adorned with red, white, and blue balloons, and members of the Riverside Republican Women Federated (RRWF) wore the same patriotic colors. As they gathered, the conversation centered on the upcoming administration, particularly the recent announcements by newly re-elected Republican President Donald J. Trump.
Trump had spent the week unveiling his cabinet picks, including tech mogul Elon Musk, who was appointed to lead a newly-formed department designed to eliminate waste. Trump also placed his former opponent, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., in charge of the Department of Health and Human Services. The members of the RRWF were also supportive of Trump’s decision to eliminate the Department of Education, particularly as one of their own—board member Amanda Vickers had just been elected to a local school board position.
For this group of women, the luncheon was more than just a monthly social gathering. It was a celebration of years of hard work, dedication, and countless hours of volunteering. From donating time and money to supporting conservative values, these women are committed to the Republican Party and its ideals.
After the invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, the meeting got down to business. Although Republicans had secured victories in the presidency, Senate, and House, members acknowledged that California remains a predominantly Democratic state. There was still work to be done. Attendees were asked to volunteer and contribute funds to support the efforts of Leticia Costillo's campaign to "cure" ballots and ensure her victory over Clarissa Cervantes.
New board members for the 2025/2026 term were nominated and elected during the meeting. These individuals will be formally introduced at the next meeting, scheduled for December 6, 2024, at the same location.
As members and guests enjoyed a delicious lunch provided by the country club, they heard from Riverside County District Attorney Mike Hestrin. Hestrin discussed the implications of the newly passed Proposition 36, which garnered overwhelming approval with roughly 70% of the vote. The proposition, Hestrin explained, would allow prosecutors to charge repeat offenders with a felony after their third offense for petty crimes, such as theft or drug-related offenses. Under the current law, repeat offenders often face no significant consequences, allowing them to continue committing crimes with little fear of retribution. The new version of Prop 36 aims to change that, offering the option of treatment for those with addiction issues instead of incarceration. Hestrin noted that both families and addicts have long advocated for tougher penalties, and the passage of Prop 36 is clear evidence of public support for such reforms.
The event concluded with a Q&A session with Hestrin, followed by the monthly raffle and the annual toy drive to benefit a local church. Volunteers helped load up the donations, ensuring the success of the charity initiative.
For those interested in attending a future meeting of the Riverside Republican Women Federated, please contact them via email at rrwf1953@gmail.com.