ROSEMEAD, Calif. (February 2026) — Lively conversation and mariachi music filled the Rosemead Community Recreation Center on Feb. 7 as the aroma of food and sweet refreshments welcomed Veteran women and blank canvases gradually filled with vibrant color during an afternoon honoring their service, strength and community.
Around 50 women veterans came together for the 2026 Galentine’s Sip n’ Paint, hosted by Veterans Stand Together in partnership with the Veteran Peer Access Network in Supervisorial District 4 and supported by local elected officials, service organizations and community wellness partners.
Navy Veteran Earaina R. Hahn said she was immediately drawn to the event when she saw the flyer.
“It was exciting. When I saw the flyer, I thought, ‘Oh, I can be around other veterans and shoot the breeze like we used to,’” Hahn said. “My friend Tammy also joined me, and that made me more excited.”
Throughout the afternoon, attendees rotated between painting tables, wellness stations and resource booths. The Legacy High School mariachi band provided live music, while massage therapists and Reiki practitioners offered restorative services alongside community partners sharing information and support.
For Hahn, the painting experience stood out most.
“It went above and beyond. My favorite part was the painting. I have never done anything like this before, but it was actually everyone doing what they wanted to do in a way, and it felt liberating,” she said. “It was really nice. I felt relaxed, and I’ve enjoyed it.”
She said being surrounded by fellow veterans brought back powerful memories of military camaraderie.
“Being around fellow military members brings back that feeling you had when you were in the service with your fellow comrades,” Hahn said. “You don’t realize how big it was having comrades like that until you grow older and think back on everything you did together. Seeing all the ladies here smiling and having a good time filled my heart.”
Hahn added that the wellness offerings elevated the experience.
“I’ve never done Reiki in my life. It made the experience above and beyond,” she said. “From the food to check-in to when we were leaving, everyone had a wonderful personality. It was incredible.”
Josie Martinez, an organizer with Veterans Stand Together, began planning the celebration in December. The Galentine’s Sip n’ Paint marked the first large-scale event she project managed.
“I wanted it to be successful and for the women to be happy and impressed,” Martinez said. “I was hoping everyone had a great time, that we had everything for them and that they felt pampered.”
Martinez credited the collaborative effort behind the event.
“I love my team. They all rallied together, not just the team but also volunteers and the community. They just jumped on it,” she said. “I hope they walk away knowing that they are valued and admired and that we appreciate them.”
As the afternoon concluded, finished paintings were carried out alongside resource materials and raffle prizes, reflecting a gathering centered on connection, recognition and shared experience.
Story and photos by Ashley Cohen, Public Information Associate, Los Angeles County Department of Military and Veterans Affairs
