The cremated remains of Thelma Contreras disappeared sometime last Friday night. The remains were being stored on Sunshine Rainbow’s fireplace mantle, still in the small cardboard box in which they were received from the mortuary several months ago. Ms. Rainbow has repeatedly requested the community make some decision regarding the disposition of these remains, “…before Itches (her dog) gets ahold of them.” Itches has apparently been showing increasing interest in molesting Ms. Contreras’ remains.

This issue has been a matter of discussion at several recent Homeowners Association meetings. Scattering the ashes on Arroyo Loco – HOA property was vetoed by three residents. The same three residents also vetoed spending HOA funds to inter the remains either in an urn or among the roses maintained for that purpose at the nearby Garden of Eternal Repose cemetery.

According to her report, Ms. Rainbow accepted an impromptu dinner invitation Friday evening at the home of her neighbor, Freda von Leising. Also invited were Nina Arriaga and Helen Auroch. The party was joined later by Estela Nogales. When Ms. Rainbow returned home at approximately 8:45 p.m. she discovered both the box and the ashes missing. No sign of either were found in or around the house.

The only neighbor home at the time of the disappearance was Raymond Watts. Mr. Watts did report seeing an unfamiliar vehicle in the vicinity of Ms. Rainbow’s house, and at least one figure wearing a black jacket. Unfortunately, Mr. Watts could not reach his glasses in time to read the colorful logo on the back of the jacket or identify the individual(s).

It is hoped that whoever is responsible for liberating Ms. Contreras’ remains will treat them with respect and place them in an appropriate location.

On a related note, the community has decided not to retrieve and place in use the freezer that was removed by the county for evidentiary purposes after being temporarily used as a crypt. Although at least one resident was heard to remark on ‘what a damn shame’ it was, the county will be instructed to dispose of said freezer at their own discretion.