The fast-growing "green economy" sector presents unprecedented opportunities for Providence businesses and our workforce. As a result, we have been working closely with partners like the Chamber of Commerce, our colleges, universities and hospitals, as well as businesses both large and small, to better leverage our existing assets, foster business opportunities and accelerate job creation in this sector.

Earlier today I visited the state-of-the-art, CHPS-certified Providence Career & Technical Academy to sign an Executive Order requiring that all new municipal buildings are LEED or CHPS certified, nationally accepted benchmarks for the design, construction and operation of high-performance green buildings. As I stood on the school's roof, surrounded by high-tech solar hot water panels, I reiterated our emphasis on renewable energy and sustainable design.

Reporters from Boston were in Providence recently and they discovered what you and I have known all along: Providence is a vibrant city with one of the most exciting arts and cultural scenes in the region. They were so impressed they produced an extended piece called "The Providence Performance" highlighting some of the attractions and venues that make Providence the Creative Capital.

I decided to run for Mayor six years ago because I wanted to change the old politics of this city and put an end to the corruption that held us back for so long.    I love this city and I knew we could do better.

I talked about what Providence could be with honest government; a center of entrepreneurship and creativity where jobs are being created; a safe city with vibrant neighborhoods, excellent public schools, great public parks and exciting cultural opportunities.