Duluth has been a tourist destination for a long time, but under Don Ness's leadership, the Zenith City also is becoming a business destination. He can't (and wouldn't) take all the credit for that. Many of the projects and businesses that have driven the city's improved economic position began before he became mayor, and business organizations and nonprofits have taken the lead on many major economic development projects. But he can take credit as the outgoing, positive face of the city--while avoiding the backslapping, gladhanding booster image. In short, he's put Duluth firmly back on the state's economic map.