The recent controversy over a large illuminated sign on a building in Winnipeg's downtown led IUS Director Jino Distasio to comment in the Winnipeg Free Press that, while the installation of such signs must follow permitting rules we do need to consider that most of the world's famous cities -- Manhattan, Tokyo, Las Vegas -- are awash in neon eye candy. Perhaps it's time, he writes, for Winnipeg to follow suit:
"we must...recognize the need for downtowns to be a bit brash and bold. We need the neon, the lights and the action to create an identity."