WINNIPEG January 31, 2006 - Committed to building on our city of opportunity, Mayor Sam Katz today delivered his 2nd annual state of the city speech before a record sold out crowd, which focused on how Winnipeg has captured the attention of North Americans who 'choose' Winnipeg.

“Winnipeg is a city that needs to step back and see its own success. We are often our own worst critics,” said Katz. "It is time for Winnipeggers to believe in themselves because confidence is contagious. We need to say 'yes' to Winnipeg, a city that works."

During his speech, Katz featured video testimonials from a diverse range of North Americans including Tom Wright (CFL Commissioner, Toronto, ON), Mayor Kay Barnes (Kansas City, MO), film maker Frank Von Zerneck (Zerneck/Sertner Films, Los Angeles, CA), and Garth Whyte (CFIB, Toronto, ON).

Everything from the Mayor’s approach to making city government friendlier to small business and citizens, to our reputation for hospitality, and the renaissance underway in our downtown was cited as reasons to say yes to Winnipeg.

Katz further outlined a number of major initiatives he intends to undertake this year such as the 2006 city budget, tackling the infrastructure deficit, and improving the way the city delivers services to the taxpayer.

“We have the eyes of North America looking at us in a positive light,” said Katz. “People from all walks of life are realizing that Winnipeg is a city where you can live, work, and have fun. A city grows on momentum, and it is up to all Winnipeggers to keep that motion growing strong."