It began as a simple
thought ...
You decided to embrace the
old town. It has always been there in its faithful allegiance
throughout 200 years, but perhaps you just didn't take the time to
appreciate her steadfast virtues. Maybe you grew accustomed to the
town's firm influence in your life and you took the village for
granted. She didn't seem to mind.
But, this year was
different – you decided to honor the people and the history of your
hometown and commemorate all that she represents. In doing so, you
made all the difference. On her 200th birthday, you
realized she deserved a little recognition. You committed your
efforts to the Lucasville Bicentennial.
You see, you cared enough
to draw all the area's resources together, and, in doing so, you
germinated a seed of love that flowered with beautiful friendships
and connections that only a small town preserves. For what lies at
the core of such a wonderful community is its people and their loving
support. This bedrock remains.
The year-long celebration
features a dinner gathering at the barn; a time capsule ceremony; a
queen pageant; a quilt show; a Scioto River Anthology; a
commemoration of an honorary mayor, a parade marshal, a standard
bearer, and an Ohio governor; a War of 1812 grave marking; a historic
home tour; a community church service; and a founder's day
celebration. Plus, the community is gracing the 200th
birthday with so much more – visible and behind the scene acts of
kindness that sprouted from the celebration of the bicentennial. An
overwhelming spirit of kindness emerged.
The folks in the old town
smiled in anticipation of all the events. People cleaned their
businesses and decorated their homes as they wished the village
“Happy Birthday.” The youth absorbed history that took place in
their area – events and people of which they had no prior
knowledge. Even the air in the old town seemed a little sweeter.
As links grew, friendships
renewed. New, strong associations were established. Lucasville, Ohio,
in looking to the past, found a bright, new future. With 200 years of
progress under her belt, the village proudly took its rightful place
in the sun. It established its roots in a beautiful, natural valley
of opportunity, and it sustains progress in that fruitful locale. The
people there knew once more how fortunate they were to occupy a part
of the history there. They gained a great insight into the future in
doing so.
Once during the
celebration, I swear I heard the grand old lady whisper, “Thank
you. I didn't realize you cared so much.” And, I thought I saw a
tiny drop of moisture falling from her cheek as she mouthed … “I
love you, too.” Perhaps you witnessed that also.
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