Lion Marty Hawkins, centre left, was honored as Westport’s Senior of the Year on Canada Day, surrounded by part of his family, including James Hawkins, Janet Mulville, and Natasha Barber. (Photo provided)
Westport Lions Roar
By Lion Bob Reddick
If you are a resident of Westport, you likely know Lion Marty Hawkins, who is often referred to as the face of the community. Recently, he was recognized by the Westport Village Council for his numerous contributions by being selected as Senior of the Year.
When Westport’s village councillors were tasked with selecting a worthy candidate for Senior of the Year, “everyone submitted Marty’s name. It was unanimous,” says Councillor Ami Carty, “We couldn’t think of a better person. Marty is Mr. Volunteer.”
On most weekends, you will find Marty selling tickets in front of the Westport post office or liquor store to support various organizations and projects. No one raises more money than Lion Marty, whether it is for Friends of the Arena (FOTA), St. Edwards’ breakfast program, or the Westport Lions Club. “He is the main reason FOTA has been able to raise over one million in the ten years,” says Director and co-founder of FOTA, Mark Herlehey. “Marty is a ball of energy; he loves to sell, sell, sell, and he’s also great at taking care of the food for an event.” Mark specifically mentions Marty’s efforts in organizing the dinner for the recent Yuk Yuks fundraiser show.
Marty is a dedicated doer! He served on the Westport Art Council for ten years, including a term as Vice President. Together with Lion Peter Minnelli, he has organized Canada Day events at the Lions’ beach in recent years. Marty has also coordinated various fundraisers for individuals who have faced hardships.
Throughout his years with the Westport Lions, Marty has held numerous executive positions, including that of president. He has successfully chaired Santa Claus parades, $1500 and $10,000 draws, and has initiated and organized Family Day and Westfest events. Thanks largely to Lion Hawkins’ efforts, the Westport Lions can donate approximately $30,000 annually. Additionally, Marty often works behind the scenes, by supporting other Lion initiatives, and volunteering to clean the Lions’ clubhouse and opening and closing the beach washrooms.
When Ken Rose conceived of the idea of Westport Shares, he first approached Marty “because of his contributions to Westport and his knowledge of everyone in town. The idea was to help people in sudden dire need, and it was important to have someone on the board who was familiar with the community and with the character of those people who applied. We needed to make sure that they were genuine and that they were really in need. Marty certainly filled that role. He’s proven to be invaluable in assessing people’s situations.” Ken says it best, “I hardly know any person who has a bigger heart or is more generous than him. He is most deserving to get this honour as Westport Senior of the Year.”
The Westport Lions Club extends its congratulations to Marty for this well-deserved recognition. His contributions have truly made Westport and area a better place to live.
The Westport Lions would like to express their heartfelt condolences to Lion Marty and his siblings, Lions Ross Hawkins and Carol Haapala of the Elgin Lions Club, on the passing of their sister, Lion Jeanette Rice.
Westport Lions Club 