Editorial
One dependable thing -- even when economic times have toughened -- is rural America's generosity. This has been especially true in northwest Ohio, and several recent events and bits of news prove this point in Defiance and surrounding counties.
Let's start with the annual Relay for Life events held in area counties to benefit the American Cancer Society.
Admittedly, there is some unfavorable news: This year's events raised approxinately $100,000 less than last year's, though related fundraising could narrow the gap some.
On the other hand, $709,000 was still raised in our local six counties. This is pretty impressive, given that area unemployment rates have reached double digits and are some of the highest in Ohio.
And, Defiance and Henry counties' Relay for Life activities actually took in more than last year, despite unemployment rates of 16.1 percent and 14.2 percent, respectively.
While events like Relay for Life raise money annually, many other charitable organizations generate and disburse funds throughout the year for equally laudable causes. A good example in Defiance is Eagles Aerie 372.
Last week The Crescent-News reported that the Eagles awarded more than $450,000 in grants during a two-year period that ended on May 31. This is an astounding figure for which its members should be proud.
The money has gone to a wide range of causes, from Special Olympics to youth activities and assistance to the elderly and disabled.
A third, if much smaller, recent example of local generosity is Defiance's free Monday swim days at Kingsbury pool. Spearheaded by the Defiance Eagles, who provided the first $750 contribution to City Hall to make this possible, the freebie will continue on subsequent Mondays through Aug. 10.
The Eagles have been joined by the Moose Lodge, Defiance Optimists and Lions Club in providing the necessary funds while the Elks, VFW and Rotary plan to follow on upcoming Mondays.
Their efforts -- which city records show are producing record-setting attendance at Kingsbury on Mondays -- waive the $3 fee for swimmers who don't have season passes.
This might be a small savings, but it's a significant reminder of the many good things that private dollars and generous donors can do for a community.