Former Middle School Teacher Fran Call Wins 2011 Flash Family Inspirational Award

According to a press release from the  department, retired teacher Fran Call will be awarded the 2011 Flash Family Inspirational Award. The award, conferred to senior citizens in the community, will be presented formally by Mayor Jim Pearman at the on July 17 at noon. 

According to the press release:

Fran is an outdoor enthusiast being honored for her work in leading hikes and walks for seniors for the past 13 years. After retiring Fran began leading 3 ½ to 4 miles walks through Seattle and suburban neighborhoods through the Parks and Recreation. She began in 1998 with 10 people. In 2011 the group now has 35 to 40 members who walk each week (rain or shine) on 35 Wednesdays from September through May. Over the past 13 years more than 200 people have participated in this activity. Currently eight members are in their 80’s, with the remainder in their 60’s and 70’s. Most impressively, Fran is NOT PAID. She volunteers her time planning and leading these folks. Fran has led her fellow citizens with knowledge, humor and kindness. She is an especially important leader to the senior population who surely would not have this critical opportunity without her. She truly embodies the spirit of the Flash Family Inspirational Award. 

(Ed. Note: This story's headline was changed to reflect Fran Call's career as a teacher on Mercer Island was at the middle school, not Mercer Island High School. Mercer Island Patch regrets the error.)