Legislator Picks Newport Resident as Woman of Year

Longtime Newport Beach resident and community activist Becky Karns was named woman of the year in the 35th state Senate district by Republican state Sen. Tom Harman.

Karns was recognized Thursday during a meeting of the Newport Harbor Republican Women, where she has served variously as president, publicity chair and board member, according to a press release from Harman's office.

“Becky is an amazing leader who fully embodies the spirit of the award," Harman said in a statement. "I am very pleased to be able to recognize her many accomplishments.”

Karns, who has lived in the city since 1975 and attends Mariners Church, is also involved with Orange Coast Christian Outreach Week, which organizes the annual Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast, and the Orange County Family Impact Council. 

Harman praised her "tireless dedication” and presented a senate resolution honoring her activities.

The Woman of the Year Award was started in the Legislature in 1987 as a way to commemorate the contributions of women throughout the state.

Harman's state Senate district includes Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, Fountain Valley, Rossmoor, Costa Mesa, Newport Beach, Irvine, Cypress, La Palma, Los Alamitos, Laguna Beach, Dana Point and portions of Buena Park, Garden Grove, Santa Ana and Westminster