In honor of Dr. Ann Paris, Mayor Smith has declared Wednesday, August 12th “SilverSneakers Day” in Mesa. SilverSneakers, SecureHorizons by UnitedHealthcare and the Mesa YMCA will honor Dr. Paris for inspiring others to lead a healthy and active life. Councilwoman Dina Higgins (District 5) will present Dr. Paris with the mayoral proclamation.

The event will be held August 12 at noon at the Mesa Family YMCA (gym), 207 N. Mesa Drive, Mesa, AZ 85201. There will be a SilverSneakers class at 11:00 a.m.

Mesa resident Dr. Ann Paris defines the word “spry.” She is truly an amazing woman who has inspired countless others through her healthy lifestyle and overall zest for living. This 86-year-old great-great grandmother/former dance instructor/psychologist is a member of the SilverSneakers program at the Mesa YMCA. Fellow classmates call Dr. Paris a “ball of energy,” making everyone feel welcome and at ease. In her “spare time,” she participates in other Y classes.

Dr. Paris was nominated by her fellow SilverSneakers members for the national 2009 Richard L. Swanson Inspiration Award, given each year to one SilverSneakers member who has been touched by the program and inspires others. Dr. Paris was one of the top five nominations from nearly 400 received.