Local businessman Paul Brown has served his country for the United States Army and his community in several different ways – and now he is focusing his attention on a 100-year-old friend who resides in the Ohio Veterans Home in Georgetown.
In a story filed by this newspaper in October, 100-year-old Gordon Haerr is a Bengals fan and watches each game from the veteran’s home. Paul Brown, owner of Snappy Tomato Pizza and Cruiser’s Diner created a poster with some details about his friend, Mr. Haerr. Brown has attended multiple games this season and held up the poster asking for a Bengal to come and visit his friend, catching the attention of Cincinnati media.
“This would make a lifelong dream come true,” said Brown in October. “I’m committed to making this happen and anyone that knows me – knows that I don’t give up,” said Brown.
Last week, the lifelong dream was fulfilled when former Cincinnati Bengal Kenny Anderson came to the Ohio Veterans Home in Georgetown to meet with Haerr.
“I heard you wanted to meet a Bengal,” said Ken Anderson, as he walked in to meet Haerr at the Ohio Veterans Home. “I hope an old one’s okay.” Haerr responded, “I can say I met one of the best Bengals that played for them!”
“I want to thank Channel 9 news reporters, Madeline Ottilie and Toyna O’Rourke for making my good friend and brother Gordon Haerr’s dream come true,” said Brown. According to Brown, when Kenny Anderson visited, he also brought a signed jersey by Ja’Marr Chase and a signed football from all of the players.
Anderson holds the Cincinnati Bengals’ franchise passing records in attempts, yards, and interceptions.
