GROUPS: Two that enhance N. Idaho

Moving to Idaho I expected new adventures, friendships and enjoying what life offered. In 2003 I joined the Red Hot Mamas created by Mikki Stevens. This started a whirlwind of fun and friendship. With this group I participated in local parades and so much more. I went with the group to the Hershey’s 100 Birthday Celebration 2003, London 2004 New Year’s Parade, President Bush inauguration 2005 and Macy’s Thanksgiving Day 2005 parade. The group went away shortly thereafter.

In 2010, The Blazen Divaz was started by Julia Parmann. We do local parades and community events. The RHMs came alive again in 2014 and were in last week’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. I was in Idaho cheering on my friends.

North Idaho should be so proud they have not one, but two groups that offer women the opportunity of fun and friendship. The BD will be traveling to West Chester, Pa., to participate today in the OLD-FASHIONED CHRISTMAS PARADE. The parade was named by USA Today as one of the top 10 places to experience the arrival of Santa Claus during the holiday season. QVC broadcasts live during the parade, also airing portions of the parade on Christmas Eve night and Christmas Day.

I say to my friends in RHMs and BDs, thanks for giving me your friendship and providing opportunities that I am not sure I would have experienced, if not for forward thinking women.

BRENDA ELLIFF

Coeur d’Alene