Peyton Manning talks up New Orleans

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NEW ORLEANS, Aug. 30 (UPI) -- Quarterback Peyton Manning of the reigning Super Bowl champion Indianapolis Colts has made a pitch for his hometown of New Orleans.

On the second anniversary of Hurricane Katrina Wednesday, he urged people to visit the revamped city, hoping its recovery efforts will continue, and suggested those who have left to not be afraid to return.

"Most of the people who are back there now are there for the long haul," he said, noting the recent successes of the New Orleans Saints, coach Sean Payton, and running back Reggie Bush have re-fueled interest in the port city.

His father, Archie, a former Saints quarterback, and older brother, Cooper, still live in the city.

"People around the country need to know they can still use their help and support," Manning added. "(People) need the tourists to come back."