Editorial: Leading the parade a perfect fit for Mikki

She’s spent a lifetime putting smiles on strangers’ faces.

Now it’s time to put one on hers.

Mikki Stevens will serve as grand marshal of the 2022 American Heroes Parade in downtown Coeur d’Alene. There’s never been a more deserving parade leader.

Stevens, most of you already know, is the brains (and brawn) behind Red Hot Mamas, the wonderful and wacky volunteer troupe that for three decades entertained crowds with their dazzling smiles and dancing prowess.

But how many of you knew that in her earlier life, Stevens was the voice of teenaged Pebbles from Flintstones fame? Mikki is a Coeur d’Alene native who ventured off to the bright lights of Los Angeles, where she enjoyed success acting and dancing before coming home.

Some would say those Hollywood days were merely the warmup to her real career in education at North Idaho College and, of course, creating and choreographing the RHM.

Sadly, the Mamas called it quits last Dec. 31 when ongoing health issues forced Stevens to the sideline. Generations of parade- and festival-goers will be deprived of the joy she and her zany, shopping cart- and walker-pushing colleagues dished out for so long.

Most specifically, they’ll miss out on the magic of Mikki Stevens herself, who would be on the short list of most optimistic and inspirational people you’d ever meet.

Now in her early 70s, Stevens has refused to succumb to an incurable form of cancer, follicular lymphoma. With every reason to give up and drop out, she’s dedicated her life instead to enriching the experiences of others. Her spirituality runs deep, without judging others. She has the rare ability to bring out the best in those lucky enough to cross her path.

Mikki’s emails include a telling quote from the late, great entertainer Victor Borge: "Laughter is the shortest distance between two people."

On Monday when parade attendees line up two- and three-deep along Sherman Avenue, they’ll be a short distance from one of the best laugh generators North Idaho has ever known.

Let Mikki know you’re grateful.