Published: June 24, 2009 05:42 pm      

‘More than a Feeling’

North central Indiana, particularly Howard, Miami and Tipton counties, have had a pretty tough year.

Chrysler’s factory shutdowns, brought on by the automaker’s brief bankruptcy, sent Howard County unemployment to 19.3 percent in May. Delphi cut salaried retirees’ health and life insurance benefits and seeks to default retiree pensions to the federal government. Many, if not most, area residents are working longer hours for less than what they made a year or two ago.

Kokomo needs a party. The annual Haynes Apperson Festival kicks off today, and it couldn’t come soon enough.

This community has a lot to celebrate – namely its automotive heritage.

The first American car was made here. An early Indianapolis 500 racer was made here. The first carburetor was made here. The first pneumatic tire was made here.

Kokomo has quite a bit to be proud of – not the least of which is its people. The economy has knocked many down, but they get back up. Families, friends and churches lift up those experiencing worry and heartache.

It’s what we do. It’s what we’re supposed to do.

People here need a diversion, if only for a moment. So attend one of the concerts over the next three days. And Saturday, take in the parade, the car show or the fireworks.

And when members of the ’70s supergroup Boston are playing the band’s favorite songs, remember this: Civic pride is more than a feeling.