From the desk of:
Ingrid Lake
CFRW President
August 21, 2026
Welcome to this week’s SPARK
Spotlight, Positivity, Action, Reflection, and Knowledge
Conference Dinner Speaker Announced Below
PRESIDENT’S WEEKLY SPARK
SPARK: Reflection
Gratitude for the journey. Purpose for the road ahead.
For those who may not know, I have spent this week traveling across the country on a road trip from California to Washington, D.C., with my two sons, who will be attending different universities there this fall. As we enter the final day of our scenic journey, I realize just how much of my time in the car has been spent reflecting.
Of course, I’ve reflected on the significance of this trip for our family and the changes ahead. But after driving through so many states over the past several days, I’ve also found myself looking at life through a wider lens.
Like most people, my daily life naturally revolves around MY family, MY state, MY responsibilities, and MY problems to solve. This week has reminded me just how limited that perspective can become when we’re busy simply doing the work in front of us.
OUR family is changing. Sending two sons off to college brings plenty of emotions, but it is also a reminder that change brings new opportunities to learn, grow, and experience things we haven’t experienced before.
OUR country is beautiful. There is something incredible about watching the landscape change as you travel from one state to another and being reminded of the vastness and diversity of the country we call home.
And OUR state may not be perfect, but California is beautiful too. Every state we have traveled through has had something uniquely beautiful to admire. It reminded me that we can recognize challenges and work to improve the places we love while still being grateful for what makes them special.
I hope we can all find moments to widen our perspective. First, to be grateful for the blessings we have been given. And second, to remember that gratitude shouldn’t lead us to simply sit back and watch—it should inspire us to remain active and involved.
This world is certainly beautiful enough to sit back and enjoy the view. But some of its greatest beauty comes from jumping in and helping shape the direction it goes.
That is the opportunity each of us has as members of our local clubs and our larger Federation. There are countless places where our individual time, talents, voices, and experiences can make a difference.
So enjoy the scenery—but don’t just watch it pass by. Pick a spot, jump in, and make an impact!
SPARK in Practice:
Club Presidents, set aside 15 minutes at your next board meeting to create or review your prospective member list, assign each name to a board member, and make a personal invitation before your next club meeting.
PRO TIP: Don’t skip the underlined text! Each link opens the door to valuable resources, connections across our Federation, and simple next steps to help you take action.
Dinner Speaker Announced for Burbank!
As we shared last week, our September Conference lineup continues to grow! We are excited to welcome Michael Gates, candidate for California Attorney General; Gloria Romero, candidate for California Lieutenant Governor; and Mike Howell, President of the Oversight Project, who will bring perspectives on California government, public safety, and government accountability. CFRW Legislative Analyst Michaela Swaney will also provide an informative overview of the propositions appearing on California’s November ballot. These speakers join an already exciting program—and with Bill Whittle now joining the lineup, there is even more to look forward to when we gather in Burbank September 25–26!
And the lineup keeps growing! This week, we are excited to introduce another speaker joining us in Burbank—Bill Whittle, whose timely reflections on America’s history, founding principles, and 250th anniversary make him a fitting addition to this year’s conference program.
Meet Bill Whittle
As America celebrates its 250th anniversary, Bill Whittle has been taking a thoughtful—and optimistic—look at our nation’s founding, the principles that have shaped America, and what the next chapter of the America n story might hold.
In his recent “America at 250” program, Whittle reflects on how far our country has come and why he remains optimistic about America’s future and the enduring promise of the American Dream.
He has also turned his attention to the Declaration of Independence. In “The LOST Declaration,” Whittle explores the history surrounding Thomas Jefferson’s original draft of the Declaration and uses America’s 250th anniversary as an opportunity to revisit the people, ideas, and decisions behind our nation’s founding document.
These are especially timely topics as CFRW celebrates America’s 250th Birthday at our September conference. Bill Whittle’s commentary brings together American history, our founding principles, patriotism, and a belief that America’s story is still being written.
Remember that registration cost goes up again on August 28th, so lock in the lower price by registering THIS WEEK!
As our nation celebrates 250 years of independence, we have a remarkable opportunity to share the mission of both CFRW and NFRW with those around us. This milestone reminds us that freedom is preserved not by chance, but by informed, engaged citizens who are willing to lead and serve.
The America 250 celebration provides a natural opportunity to invite friends, family, neighbors, and colleagues to attend a meeting, participate in a club event, or become a member. When we welcome new members into our Federation, we are strengthening a network of women committed to educating voters, developing leaders, supporting Republican candidates, and advancing the principles of limited government, individual liberty, and personal responsibility.
Every conversation is an opportunity to grow our Federation. As we honor the legacy of the past 250 years, let’s also invest in the next generation of leaders by inviting others to stand with us. Together, we can ensure that the values that shaped our nation continue to inspire and guide California—and America—for years to come.
From Sacramento to Washington: A Conversation with Congressman James Gallagher
The wait is almost over! Our next CFRW Distinguished Speaker event featuring Congressman James Gallagher is this Monday, August 24, from 6:00–7:00 PM!
Congressman Gallagher brings a unique perspective to our conversation after more than a decade in the California State Assembly, including serving as Assembly Republican Leader, and now representing California in Congress. He understands firsthand the issues facing our state and can share what he is seeing and experiencing in Washington.
There is still time to be part of the conversation! When you register, you can submit a question for Congressman Gallagher that may be selected for our discussion.
Don’t miss it—register today and join us Monday evening!
If you need any help or have any questions, please email me, CFRW 3rd Vice President, Bibi Mesmer.
Register Now for July 9th
Now that our Summer Board of Directors Meeting has concluded, I encourage you to register today for our next Distinguished Speaker Series event on Thursday, July 9, from 6:00–7:00 p.m., featuring California State Senator Tony Strickland.
Senator Strickland represents California’s 36th Senate District and has dedicated decades to public service at both the state and local levels. Known for his focus on fiscal responsibility, public safety, economic opportunity, and government accountability, he brings a wealth of experience and insight on the issues shaping California’s future.
I was thrilled to see so many clubs come together to host watch parties for our Summer Board of Directors Meeting. The fellowship, shared learning, and enthusiasm demonstrated the strength of our Federation. I encourage clubs to consider hosting another watch party for this Distinguished Speaker Series event. It’s a wonderful opportunity to learn together, engage in meaningful discussion, and strengthen the friendships that make CFRW so special.
As a valuable benefit of CFRW membership, this event is completely free for all members. Our Distinguished Speaker Series offers a unique opportunity to hear directly from the leaders making decisions that impact our state, gain valuable insights on current issues, and participate in a live question-and-answer session.
Registration is now open! Reserve your spot using the registration link below, and invite your fellow CFRW members to join you for what promises to be an informative and engaging evening.
ACTION ITEMS RECAP
Our next Distinguished Speaker will be Congressman James Gallagher.
Join us August 24th from 6-7pm
Use the button below to register and submit your question ahead of time.
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