Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary: The President General Visits California
Jennifer Jones, California State Chaplain

I was thrilled to finally meet in person with the California Daughters after last year’s weather challenges kept me away! The dedication and impact of the California Daughters in their communities are truly inspiring, and their work ahead of the US Semiquincentennial is wonderful. A special thank you to my Page Sarah Rao, Susan Broderick for providing my transportation, and State Regent Christina Ramos for her efforts in making this visit seamless. It was wonderful to see so many DAR friends, including Honorary President General Deanie Kemper and meet many new ones!

- Pamela Wright, President General 

President General Pamela Wright recently visited California to celebrate the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States. A highlight of her trip was a meeting with District II – Northern California, where attendees heard from esteemed keynote speaker Rosie Rios, former U.S. Treasurer and current Chair of the U.S. Semiquincentennial Commission (America250).

The nonpartisan America250 Commission is dedicated to engaging every American in commemorating this historic milestone. DAR is a proud partner of the Commission, having been the first lineage society to offer its support. Honorary President General Lynn Forney Young serves as a presidentially appointed member of the America250 Commission.

At the event, held at the beautiful Timber Creek Golf Course, District II Director, Bobbi Bennett welcomed California State Regent, Christina Ramos, as well as Honorary President General Dorla E. Kemper; Past Corresponding Secretary General Karon Kading Jarrard; Vice President General Susan Broderick; Past Vice President General Adele Lancaster; National Chair, America 250!, Kathryn West; and State Chair, America 250!, Patty Schned.

During the meeting, Mrs. Wright emphasized the importance of DAR’s involvement in the America250 celebrations. “As an organization dedicated to preserving American history and promoting patriotism, the NSDAR is thrilled to play a vital role in commemorating this momentous occasion,” she stated. “We believe that by engaging our members and communities in these celebrations, we can inspire a renewed sense of national pride and a deeper understanding of our shared history.”

Rosie Rios shared valuable insights into the America250 Commission’s plans and encouraged DAR members to actively participate in local and national initiatives. “The 250th anniversary presents a unique opportunity for all Americans to come together and reflect on our nation’s journey,” Ms. Rios said. “We encourage everyone to contribute, whether through educational programs, community service projects, or simply taking the time to learn more about our history and heritage.”

Following her visit to Sacramento, Mrs. Wright traveled south to Bakersfield, California, where she participated in the unveiling of an official America250! Marker by District XV at the Kern County Museum. This marker serves as a visual reminder of the upcoming anniversary and encourages residents and visitors to learn more about U.S. history. Despite a rare rainy day in California, Daughters and guests were joined by Senator Shannon Grove, Mayor Karen Goh, and representatives from the offices of Congressmen David Valadao and Vince Fong, all showing their support alongside Sharon Homer, District XV Director, California State Society.

Christina Ramos, California State Regent, was instrumental in coordinating these two events, working tirelessly with the California State Board and the two districts over the past few months to bring them to fruition. California State Society C.A.R. President, Karlie Dice presented Mrs. Wright and Mrs. West with an adorable “Paws 4 Patriots” State Project Pin.

It was a wonderful weekend full of friendship and we are deeply grateful to Mrs. Wright for her visit and the valuable insights she shared with our California Daughters. She graciously spent time with everyone, taking pictures, hugging old friends, and making new ones during the reception. Her visit coincided with some of the most devastating wildfires in our state’s history, prompting her heartfelt message: “Our thoughts are foremost with all who have lost loved ones and suffered physically, emotionally, and in ways that we will never know. At this time, we also honor the courage, valor, and bravery of the first responders who themselves have faced imminent danger in a time that most of us cannot even imagine. Please know that members across the National Society, throughout our nation and abroad, are ready to assist you when the time is appropriate.”

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