WHY BILL AND MARGARET HAWKINS GAVE UP THEIR BEACH HOME

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Originally uploaded by Laurel Grove

Bill and Margaret Hawkins don't need a job. Until recently, when they were hired as co-managers for Holiday Retirement, they themselves were retired educators --living what most people would consider the "American dream." They had a comfortable pension, occupied a large house on the beach, and had plenty of free time to do as they pleased.

In December, they had just one week and two days to pack their things and move into their apartment at Laurel Grove. This was the only job they had applied for mainly because of Margaret's growing desire to work with senior citizens. When asked if they would miss their roomy coastal home, they both agree that there is only so much you can do at the beach. "We've done it all," says Margaret. "We've rode bikes at the beach, walked the beach, we got the sand between our toes...there is only so much you can do on a beach."

Margaret Hawkins' buttery soft southern voice is easy on the ears. It's hard to envision her manning a high school science class --which was her profession for many years. But behind her gentle demeanor, she exudes such direct sincerity that it's hard not to pay attention to what she has to say. Margaret, even when she was a child, has always shared a special connection with senior citizens. Her compassion for seniors grew even deeper when her own parents needed assistance. After living through her own personal experience, Margaret made a vow to herself that she would find a way to help senior citizens any way she could. Her husband says; ""She is so sweet and so good with people. For her, this job is like landing in a field of diamonds."



While he prefers to consider his wife's benevolent ambitions, Bill Hawkins is rather modest about his own impressive list of achievements. A true educator at heart, he started his career as a popular high school teacher and coach. At a school's request, Bill earned his Masters Degree of administration from Appalachian University in the high mountains of North Carolina so he could take a role in administration. As a former high school principal, he is no stranger to managing a large staff of people as well as handling the needs of a very transient population: students. Experience in delegating, problem solving, and dealing with the public make Bill a valuable asset to Holiday Retirement. Working in education administration also taught Bill to be observant as well as a good listener. After a brief conversation with him anyone can see that interacting one on one with people is his specialty. With a mentor-like enthusiasm, Bill Hawkins truly enjoys people and it shows.
After being retired from education for only a year, both Bill and Margaret Hawkins grew bored. "We enjoy being around people. When you've been with kids and teachers for thirty two years, it's hard not meet and greet people on a daily basis," says Bill. It's obvious this couple is excited with their decision to become managers for Holiday retirement. The residents and staff of Laurel Grove are lucky to have Bill and Margaret Hawkins on their management team.