Son of New Orleans urges people back

As the New Orleans Saints prepare for their final preseason game tonight (vs. Miami, 7 CT), a former resident of the city has come to the defense of the town, and it's not at all surprising who it might be.

Super Bowl MVP Peyton Manning, who has done much for the city since Katrina, did a little bit more by publicly endorsing New Orleans to a group of reporters, and consequently, the public at large.

"People around the country need to know they can still use their help and support," Manning said. "Prayers and money are good, but there has been progress in certain areas and people can visit those areas. They need the tourists to come back."

I'm not sure it could be stated any better than that. It's too bad the Saints' season-opening game with Manning's Colts won't take place in New Orleans, as it would certainly be a wonderful homecoming reception for the stellar signal-caller. Still, Manning's remarks are just one example of the sort of positive press the Saints and their hometown are sure to receive as participants in the NFL's first showcase game of the season.

I have to commend the NFL for that. Whether intentional or not, the Saints and New Orleans now figure to be in the nation's eye even more then they might have been without this game, and that's a fantastic thing for this city.




Peyton Manning has thrown his support behind the Saints and the City of New Orleans.