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Hernando Today

Dec. 13 Will Stand As 'Perfect Day' In Brooksville

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The Tampa Tribune

Published: December 17, 2008

Once or twice in your lifetime you may be lucky enough to have a "perfect day." I had one of those days last Saturday, Dec. 13.

All because of a young man, Paul Farmer, who found time in his busy schedule as a worldwide humanitarian to come back to his hometown to accept the Great Brooksvillian Award for 2008.

From humble beginnings to worldwide recognition is quite an accomplishment but "our Paul did it," and the pride we felt for him seemed to shine through in so many ways that day. We all claim him as "our own." I hope that does not seem too selfish. I have to admit mother and family come first, Hernando High School comes second but after that we can all get in line in this county and put our claim in too!

The Christmas Parade started it all on that perfect day. Santa Claus was the main focus, but Dr. Farmer seemed to vie for a lot of that attention.

The book signing at the Brooksville Library came next with a line of people on Howell Avenue. Then a quick lunch at the Red Mule, with Dr. Farmer's favorite - pastrami on rye.

Back to City Hall for recognition from people and dignitaries all over Florida, including Gov. Charlie Crist.

And the final trek to a large tent in the Sun Trust parking lot with a reception and a check presented to Dr. Farmer's "Partners on Health." Then came just old reminiscing with friends in "his" hometown.

As I was watching the day unfold, my thoughts always went to Paul and the love for him that his hometown displayed. Not only love, but also pride. I do not think this hometown is any different from towns all over this country. But because this is "our" hometown we feel it is special (of course it is)!

So many hometown people were involved in making Dec. 13 come together with one grand celebration, starting with Tricia Bechtelheimer and her "troops." As I saw it all proceed, I thought to myself, "this is a hometown celebration for one of its own at its best."

Bless you one and all.

Julia Jinkens

Brooksville

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