On the evening of October 4th, at The Puritan Backroom Restaurant in Manchester, the community of Hooksett came together to honor one of its most devoted members: John Danforth, named the 2025 Hooksett Citizen of the Year by the Hooksett Lions Club.
With a long record of service, leadership, and local impact, Danforth’s recognition is a reminder of how one person’s consistent dedication can shape a town. John Danforth has lived in Hooksett for more than two decades and has planted roots with all the good work and groups he is a part of.
Some of John’s accomplishments mentioned at the dinner were his work with the boy scouts, cub scouts, work with the Lions Club, past presidency of the Lions, board member of the American Legion Post #37, and more. John served in the military with special note to his time serving in Desert Storm which is part reason why he is creating a monument/memorial at Veterans Park at Jacob Square.
It was a lovely evening that followed the traditional format of a cocktail hour, color guard thanks to cub scout troop 292, introduction from famous emcee and Hooksett resident Sean Mcdonald, then followed by dinner, with the family members speaking about their father and this award, then opening up to the community to share, followed by dessert closing remarks and a group photo of all the former citizens of the year who were in attendance.
Next year’s selection / closing thoughts:
Since 1959 a local civic group in the town of Hooksett has selected and presented an exemplary citizen who has devoted their life to the town in different forms. The Hooksett Lions Club encourages people from the community to nominate outstanding citizens who give of there time and talents to the betterment of the community.
