Last week, I wrote a blog about a local retail executive who, when discussing the prospects of a Downtown location, said there wasn't enough going on Downtown.

Of the many Talkbacks posted and e-mails I received, more than a few people took a negative approach to what they perceive as a "rah-rah" attitude toward Milwaukee.

Personally, even though I disagree with the notion that we blindly pump Milwaukee, I say, "So what if we do?"

There are enough people who feel compelled to point out every negative aspect of our community, our city and our region. What, exactly, is wrong with giving equal coverage to the things that make Milwaukee a great place?

I've never understood my friends who sit around on the weekends and crow about there being nothing to do. None of the bars are swanky enough, none of the shops are hip enough, fashion, many say, is behind the times. If Milwaukee is so bad and Chicago is so great, why stay here?

Personally, I think there is a great deal wrong with Milwaukee. The city lacks a visionary, strong leader in the Mayor's office. Tom Barrett is a great guy. He's personable. But this is a time for a strong leader to step for and rejuvenate the city.

Our schools are in trouble, our roads are falling apart, our city is divided socially, economically and racially, the economy is struggling and the crime rate is freighting. But every news report in town is chronicling those things; as well they should.

Conversely, there are a lot of very good things going on here, too. Our Downtown IS making a comeback. It's slow and painstaking in some aspects; a lingering effect of the city's close-to-the vest mentality. We're seeing people emerge with ideas, despite knowing full-well that the "establishment" looks down upon change.

Where are the stories about the good things? Who in this town is singing the praises of our thriving performing arts scene? Where else are the stories about people getting their own businesses -- even if it's "just another bar or restaurant" as is often said -- up and off the ground; fulfilling a life-long dream?

I don't think any of my co-workers would ever suggest boycotting any and all national retailers or businesses just to "buy local." We do, however, think it's important to help the local guys, many of whom lack the advertising ability of their larger competitors, get their name in lights every now and then.

These are stories that deserve to be told. And if it's a niche that falls upon us to fill, then so be it. There are things that need to get better, and we're the first ones to call for it.

But singing the praises of a city, especially the city which is home to our advertisers, readers and employees, is important. The news is filled with stories on everything that, for lack of a better term, sucks around here. Maybe, just maybe, by being the person who talks about the positives, I will get others to notice that there is, in fact, a light at the end of the tunnel.

Is it naive? Perhaps. Is it necessary? You bet.

I'm proud of Milwaukee. This is a great, great city with a rich history and a future full of possibility. I love living Downtown, surrounded by Cream City Brick in one of the city's most historical neighborhoods. It's not bragging, it's just pride.

Call me a rah-rah cheerleader. Tell me I'm blindly optimistic. There are worse things to be accused of being, and I'll wear the label with pride.

As always, the Talkback feature below is here for you to voice your opinion, even -- and especially -- if you disagree.