Senior Inspiration Awards lunch recognizes role models in the community

Eleven locals will be honored at the 22nd annual Senior Inspiration Awards lunch in Palm Desert today.

More than 500 people are expected at the event, honoring seniors 70 or older from the Coachella Valley’s nine cities and other Riverside County communities who demonstrate “a zest for physical and mental well-being through volunteerism and active engagement in the community,” according to Supervisor John Benoit’s office.

Supervisor Corky Larson started the luncheon in 1992 to recognize local role models.

The event starts at 11:30 a.m. at the JW Marriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa.

The 2014 honorees are:

— Inez Hall and Jack Schleicher (Riverside County);

— Carol Bingham (Cathedral City);

— Ramona Lujan (Coachella);

— Alicia Salinas (Desert Hot Springs);

— Stella Ohanesian (Indian Wells);

— Betty Morgin (Indio);

— Barbara Paumier (La Quinta);

— Louise Kermode (Palm Desert);

— Barbara McQueen (Palm Springs); and

— Linda Bray (Rancho Mirage).

Brooke Beare and Patrick Evans of CBS Local 2 will serve as masters of ceremonies.

Tickets are $25 per person and include lunch. For tickets, call (760) 863-2556.