News Release

Dozen Seniors to be Honored at Annual Senior Inspiration Awards

Outstanding desert seniors will be honored at the 17th Annual Senior Inspiration Awards Luncheon this Thursday at the Westin Mission Hills in Rancho Mirage.

All nine Coachella Valley cities have selected an honoree-in the case of Rancho Mirage, a married couple- and the County of Riverside traditionally has two selections. 
The event recognizes residents over the age of 70 who, after a lifetime of community involvement, continue to actively donate time.
These honorees serve as role models for all desert residents, young and old.

Cy Breen, Cathedral City                                          Lee Simmons, Palm Desert

Raquel Medina, Coachella                                         Hal Ball, Palm Springs

Elizabeth Luce, Indian Wells                                     Mr. & Mrs. Marcus Lewis, Rancho Mirage

Arthur Preciado, Indio                                               Vera Ballen, Riverside County

Mildred Donley, La Quinta                                        Norman Cady, Riverside County Santa Rosa

Maureen Williams, Desert Hot Springs

The event is a sold-out affair, with approximately 550 guests again this year, and many dignitaries on hand, including Anndee Laskoe and Patrick Evans of KPSP-TV, who will be doing the M.C. duties again this year, along with Supervisor Jeff Stone, Chairman of the Riverside County Board of Supervisors.  Rancho Mirage Mayor Ron Meepos will lead the assemblage in the Pledge of Allegiance, the invocation will be provided by the Rev. Stephanie Parker of St. Paul in the Desert Episcopal Church, and Presentation of Colors is by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department’s Color Guard.

This year’s event also features celebrity honorees Buddy Greco and Lezlie Anders.