LA JOLLA — Esther Viti, the ubiquitous La Jollan of hat-wearing fame, was given a token of acknowledgment for the time and effort she donates to her community on Tuesday. District 1 City Councilwoman Sherri Lightner honored Viti by proclaiming Dec. 7, 2010 “Esther Viti Day.” Lightner, who said she has known Viti for several years, felt Viti was an obvious choice for the award. “She is certainly an amazing volunteer and has always cared passionately about La Jolla,” she said. “People appreciate Esther.” Viti, 78, who has been doing volunteer work “since a single-digit age,” said that while she appreciates the recognition, approval by her peers is not what drives her. “I have no hidden agenda. I get enjoyment out of volunteering my time,” she said. “But it’s exciting to think that I’m alive and I’m enjoying the benefits of my work.” Since 1996, Viti said she has been instrumental in helping make sure La Jolla stays beautiful and is up to code. She has volunteered with the Neighborhood Code Compliance Department since 1999. At that time she also started a village bench dedication program, in which community members can pay $5,000 to have a La Jolla bench dedicated to a loved one. Viti has also been the chairperson of the Nell Carpenter Beautification Committee for the past five years. She donates an average of 35 hours a week to her various causes, but said the idea of having an essentially full-time, unpaid job only spurs her on. The La Jolla Town Council will also honor Viti on Thursday, Dec. 9, at 5:20 p.m. —Kendra Hartmann