WILMINGTON, Ohio — In a region stung by layoffs and the pullout of a major employer, comedian Jay Leno was good for a few laughs.
The host of "The Tonight Show,” shown above, put on a free stand-up performance Sunday for 4,000 people as part of his "Comedy Stimulus” tour.
"I don’t think Jay Leno can do anything about our local economy or the situation here, but at least he empathizes with us,” said John Porter of Wilmington. "He realizes there is something big going on here and it could get a lot bigger.”
Wilmington, a city of about 12,000 residents, has drawn national attention as a vivid example of the economic struggles of small U.S. communities during the recession. The main presidential candidates discussed its plight last year.
About 8,000 workers were employed at the Wilmington Air Park a year ago when delivery company DHL Express announced it was pulling out. About 3,500 remain. Wilmington Mayor David Raizk says at least half of them will lose their jobs when DHL leaves this summer.
Leno, who also has performed free comedy concerts in the recession-wracked Detroit area, spent 75 minutes delivering jokes at the Roberts Centre.
He drew cheers from the crowd as he wrapped up the show.
"We’re all brothers and sisters,” he said.
Leno made no specific mention of layoffs during the show. He quickly launched into his stand-up routine, joking about marriage, movies, family and other topics.
by the associated press
The host of "The Tonight Show,” shown above, put on a free stand-up performance Sunday for 4,000 people as part of his "Comedy Stimulus” tour.
"I don’t think Jay Leno can do anything about our local economy or the situation here, but at least he empathizes with us,” said John Porter of Wilmington. "He realizes there is something big going on here and it could get a lot bigger.”
Wilmington, a city of about 12,000 residents, has drawn national attention as a vivid example of the economic struggles of small U.S. communities during the recession. The main presidential candidates discussed its plight last year.
About 8,000 workers were employed at the Wilmington Air Park a year ago when delivery company DHL Express announced it was pulling out. About 3,500 remain. Wilmington Mayor David Raizk says at least half of them will lose their jobs when DHL leaves this summer.
Leno, who also has performed free comedy concerts in the recession-wracked Detroit area, spent 75 minutes delivering jokes at the Roberts Centre.
He drew cheers from the crowd as he wrapped up the show.
"We’re all brothers and sisters,” he said.
Leno made no specific mention of layoffs during the show. He quickly launched into his stand-up routine, joking about marriage, movies, family and other topics.
by the associated press
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