As reported on today's front page, Gene Hardin, longtime editor, publisher, city councilman, legislator, civic leader, father, husband and much, much more will be honored this Saturday by the Alabama Press Association with its Lifetime Achievement Award.

Hardin is quick to shun the spotlight onto others.

However, the spotlight deservedly rests on him for his willingness to go the extra mile, to never quit and to always strive for the best.

Those of us in the journalism field, and especially at The Greenville Advocate are lucky to know him.

His tales of the "old" days are always entertaining and we always take some nugget of wisdom from them.

WIth his leadership and guidance, Hardin's acts over the years laid the groundwork for future improvements to city, one being Cambrian Ridge.

You have to wonder what Greenville without Gene Hardin would be like?

As his daughter Mollie said he likes to say that he doesn't believe in reinventing wheel.

However, he always wants to improve it.

It's easy to see that he continues to improve everything to this day.

So congratulations Mr. Gene on your lifetime of achievement.

You are truly a person that we could all pattern our lives after.

You are a giant among men.