Hawkins recovering

Concern for Century's Mayor Henry Hawkins mounted as rumors he was in failing health swirled after he was hospitalized last Wednesday, Jan. 22.

Although town employees had no comment, Century Council President Ann Brooks said she received an email sent to council members last Friday stating he was in the ICU (intensive care unit) at West Florida Hospital as of Wednesday, Jan. 22.

Brooks said she had been told Mayor Hawkins had elevated sugar, kidney problems and flu symptoms.

Serving as mayor while Hawkins is incapacitated, Brooks said she was not really sure exactly what the situation was beyond what she was told.

"I understand as of last Friday, he was still in ICU," said Brooks. "We hope he makes a speedy recovery."

Century City Manager Vernon Prather said that Hawkins was moved out of ICU Tuesday and had been fighting the flu, pneumonia and some other health issues.

"He was in pretty bad shape for a while," said Prather. "But he is on the way to recovery."

Brooks said that according to the email she received, Hawkins could have visitors.