Hi Jolly Daze Parade Success!

The Annual Hi Jolly Daze Parade was held Sat. Jan. 9. Joannie Qualls, Parade Coordinator, pulled off an amazing "miracle". With just 5 weeks to plan this event, she proved to be a huge asset to the community! Proud Neighbors of Quartzsite (PNQ), in cooperation with the Town of Quartzsite provided many volunteers to make this the best parade in many years!

Helen Madden-Hoffman was our Grand Marshall this year. She is the owner of the Yacht Club and has helped the community in so many ways over the years. Acting Mayor Wes Huntley had fun riding in the parade, too. The Quartzsite Clowns almost disbanned last week, but a young group stepped in to save the organization. There were so many wonderfully creative floats this year, along with musicians, La Paz County youth royalty, local businesses, cars, ATV's, pets, horses, tractors, old and young participants, and even a political entry. Paul Winer did a fantastic job as MC for the parade and also at the park.

Almost 50 entries competed for the coveted new trophies. PNQ artists painted rock slabs with unique camel desert scenes. The artists were supervised by Frankie Adams, who also was responsible for the fundraising booth at the park.

After the parade activities continued at the Town Park. At the rock painting table, children and adults kept coordinators, Helen and Bev busy all afternoon. The rock games led by Tom and Joann Cunningham provided an alternative challenge for the children.

Hamburgers were provided by the Quartzsite Fire Dept. Cadets and Fire Fighters, who also gave demonstrations for the crowd. The Rotary also provided chili boats and had a raffle for a computer. The First Assembly of God served up so much food they sold out too.

Operation Hero Comfort had a display of their work for our local troops. Cencus 2010 gave out flyers and information.

PNQ sold desserts, "Quartzsite Rocks!" Bumper Stickers, and raffled off a Boulder Art Piece painted by Oney Budge and the community on Nov. 14, 2009. Linda Ward, of Quartzsite, won the boulder. As it turns out, some of "her kids" at the Quartzsite Elementary School helped paint the boulder. How perfect is that?

The Colorado River Riders provided a cowboy re-enactment with a great sense of humor! Their float and costumes were so beautiful.

It was a fun filled day for many in Quartzsite!