Jonathan Witz Quotations

We've gone into hard rock this year, with bands that have number one hits out now. Historically, we have not hit the harder-edge rock with current artists. We've hit the rock with classical performers.

I think the layout will make it easier for people who don't like crowds. The festival will have the excitement of the people but will not feel as crowded. If you like art and a mellow feeling, come between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. Saturday, Sunday and Monday. It's always a little bit less congested.

We've stepped up our game by expanding Motown Winter Blast and bringing even more excitement to downtown Detroit. Come Super Bowl Sunday, we expect people to not only talk about which team they're cheering on but also the great time they had at our outdoor extravaganza.

This is the first time people are going to see the new covered roof up there (on the Phoenix Plaza). Our event is important for selling this new venue. We are proud of the lineup. We think it is going to draw capacity crowds because it is so big and it is free.

In creating this event, we researched some really cold winter events, taking into consideration fun for the family and celebrating what's great about winter in Michigan. Last year was a huge success and we promise an even more spectacular event in 2006 -- the perfect backdrop for Super Bowl XL.

I'm confident we are going to have a great festival under any (weather) conditions. We are not dependent on snow or cold weather to pull this festival off; snow would simply be the icing on the cake.

I don't think there's a soul in the city that won't like at least one of these artists.