I was born in a small town.
These words were made famous in song by John Mellencamp, a native of Seymour, Ind. (current population 18,000, about the same size as Defiance).
Rural northwest Ohio residents can relate to Mellencamp's lyrics, even those of us who were born elsewhere.
One of today's realities is that we watch our young adult children leave this area because there are few careers here. It is also a fact that our bustling downtowns are gone forever, at least in the form they took in the 1950s.
But Mellencamp, who currently lives in Bloomington, Ind., knows that small town living provides familiar and comforting routines many people cherish.
Much like life itself, attitude is everything.
There is no reason why small town residents " including those of us here in the six-county area " cannot choose to become a contributing part of our communities. Rather than passively yearn for the "good old days," we must adopt can-do attitudes that promote change, excitement and pride.
That's exactly what's happening in Defiance this weekend.
It all kicks off Friday at 7 p.m. in the Defiance Arts and Media Center (the former New Beginnings Church at 319 Wayne Ave.) with the city's 185th birthday/hall of fame induction ceremony.
The new inductees are Jacob Greene, W. Oscar Jones, Robert Talbot Whitaker, John Nolan and Ted Hench. Their lives have been researched and will be chronicled in presentations by Defiance High School social studies students.
This feel-good event provides a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our heritage, recognize its goodness and honor those who brought honor and fame to our city.
Saturday's downtown Lilac Festival offers live entertainment, delicious food, children's activities and an opportunity to walk the streets, mingle, and enjoy our many specialty shops, stores and restaurants.
New this year is a local artist's gallery at the old Home Saving and Loan Association building. The Defiance Development and Visitors Bureau is currently seeking benefactors to make this a permanent gallery.
In keeping with the tradition of the festival, 500 lilac seedlings will be given away to visitors.
Another noteworthy event is the DHS senior athlete/hall of fame banquet slated for Saturday at 6:30 p.m. in the high school gym.
The new inductees are the late Max Gecowets, the winningest basketball coach in school history (1950-62), Jerry "Jeb" Harris (class of 1958), Martha Mallott (class of 1977) and Christian Snavely (class of 2000).
Also being honored with the "Pride of the Bulldogs" award are former city schools staff members and athletics loyalists Otto Beindorf and Vince Polce. The fete will also recognize the unbeaten football teams of 1933 and 1942 and the 1940 basketball team, the only hoop squad in school history to advance to the state tournament.
More than 600 people are expected at the banquet, which is open to the public. Tickets are $10 and available at the DHS athletic office or by calling 419-784-0102. They will also be available at the door.
Wait, there's more.
Sunday is graduation day at Defiance College for 221 students and their families. Baccalaureate will be held at 10:30 a.m. in Weaner Community Center, followed by commencement at 12 p.m. in the colonnade green in front of Pilgrim Library. There is no admission for either event, and the public is welcome.
The 22nd Sousa Concert, presented by Defiance City Schools instrumental music department, will be held Sunday at 3 p.m. in Defiance Community Auditorium.
This annual patriotic extravaganza is presented in a pops-style setting, featuring light pop selections and highlights of the music of America.
Tickets are $8 for adults and $5 for gold card holders and students. For reservations, call 419-438-1048.
Hope to see you this weekend.