Women of Wisdom announces 25th anniversary celebration

Five exceptional women have been selected as the 2024 class of Women of Wisdom, Women Honoring Women committee members said. Selected are Jean Elsaesser, Linda Gibbs, Ina Loman, Carlene Peterson, and Marcia Pilgeram. 

"Over the course of their lives, these five women have contributed to the betterment of our community through their leadership and service and have served as inspirational role models in Bonner County," the committee's Barbara Buchanan said. "We invite all family and friends to attend our Gala Brunch to recognize these outstanding women and to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Women Honoring Women."

Women Honoring Women will host its gala brunch June 15 at the Ponderay Event Center, 401 Bonner Mall Way. The event begins at 11 a.m.

Reservations are being accepted until June 7, from Diane Stockton at 208-290-6362 or stockton_diane@yahoo.com. Tickets are $30. The brunch includes great food and beverages, and a program honoring the 2024 Women of Wisdom and celebrating the 25th anniversary of Women Honoring Women. 

"Please plan to attend to honor these extraordinary women and the many women who have come before them," Buchanan said.

Women Honoring Women is an organization committed to recognizing Bonner County women who have contributed to the betterment of the community through their service and leadership. The organization has recognized over 135 women since its inception in 1999. 

To be nominated as a Woman of Wisdom, candidates must be 65 years or older. The committee looks for women with vision, who achieve goals through collaboration, who love to learn, and who are committed to serving the community. 

"She demonstrates dedicated leadership that results in admiration and respect from others," Buchanan said. "She is an inspiration to others and an example for future generations of women. She faces life’s challenges with grace and courage, and lives with dignity, integrity, and honor."

It was difficult to select among the community's exceptional women who were nominated for this year's class, committee members said in thanking those who submitted a nomination letter.

"The fact that there are so many exceptional women in our community makes the selection process difficult," Buchanan said.

The 2024 Women Honoring Women committee members are Sue Brooks, Barbara Buchanan, Cassandra Cayson, Kathy Chambers, Patti Clemons, Deanna Harris, Alana Hatcher, Jenni Hewitt, Julie Jurenka, Carrie LaGrace, Pat Lewis, Barb Merritt, Jeralyn Mire, Marlene Rorke, Sandy Ross, Tina Sleyster, Diane Stockton, Sally Transue and Cherie Warber.