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The Local Flavor

Sep 6, 2007
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Several years ago, I went to Nashville, Tennessee to see Elvis Costello at the Ryman Auditorium. And during my few days there, it was impossible not to notice that all the talk amongst the locals was about music. (I guess that’s why they call it “Music City!” Duh!) Here in Indianapolis, the local banter is generally about sports. (sigh).

Yes, I live in a sports town. And, not being a true sports enthusiast, this can have its drawbacks, but there are benefits too. Por ejemplo, today the town is awash in a lovely shade of blue because the Mayor issued a proclamation making today “Blue Thursday,” in honor of the Indianapolis Colts who will play their first regular season game tonight. And, in case you didn’t know, the Colts totally kicked ass and won the Super Bowl last year. Damn!

And yes, dear Internet, I was there in my living room last winter, watching every Colts play-off game and jumping out of my seat as the final seconds ticked down. During those weeks leading up to the Super Bowl, the entire city pulsed with enthusiasm.

But, really, in this day and age, it’s hard not to be cynical about professional sports. Just the thought of those bloated players’ salaries is enough to sour any sort of home team pride. And the amount of money being shoveled into our new stadium? Horrifying! The cost to take a family to a professional football game? Obscene! Long gone are the days when local sporting events were more provincial and communitarian in nature. When players and coaches stuck with one team during their whole career and were grateful for the chance to do so.

But this is my town and, for better or worse, I love it. In fact, I always get a little miffed when I hear or read someone slamming Indianapolis. Of course, it’s not perfect. What city is? I spent a childhood moving from city to city; and, as an adult, I returned to Indy because it always felt like home to me. And I’ve been here for 20 years now. So, if Sports is the local dish, I guess every once in a while, I’ll take a bite.