Rik Hawkins: Short tenure, big accomplishments

TOPIC: Rik Hawkins
OUR VIEW: A job well done

If Rik Hawkins had a checklist of things he helped the Elizabethtown-Hardin County Chamber of Commerce and other chambers around the county accomplish during his 14-month stint as the organization’s executive director, it would be full.

Hawkins led the way for significant progress with the chamber of commerce arena in Hardin County and played a key role in many of the superb events we have seen here.

Like Cruisin’ the Heartland in downtown Elizabethtown.

Like the salute to Vietnam veterans. The event, held over several days, partnered  local chambers with Fort Knox and included ceremonies to honor Vietnam veterans.

Like drawing Western Kentucky University’s Mountain Workshops to the county.

Like joining the Kentucky Heartland Festival with the city’s summer concert series in June.

Like being a key piece in the puzzle to unify the chambers of commerce of Elizabethtown, Radcliff, Vine Grove and West Point into one — the Hardin County Chamber of Commerce. Today at 11 a.m. at Severns Valley Baptist Church, the chamber officially will launch as one.

Hawkins seems to have been everywhere in the last 14 months. Proudly we can say he has worked to do what is best for all of us.

He shattered the status quo mentality around the county. He made many think outside the box and reach for what seemed unreachable.

Recently he said, “I leave at peace. I’m not struggling with leaving because I know it’s the right thing to do. I gave everything I had, every ounce of stamina and creativity.”
Hawkins said he is tired and needs a rest.

It’s rest he deserves. And this is a community pat on the back that he has earned as well.

Good job, Rik.

This editorial represents a consensus of The News-Enterprise editorial board.