BMORENEWS.com

They are both at the top of their games: dynamic, appealing, charismatic and determined beyond reason. They both know of the challenges facing young people – and older people, too, for that matter – in a city like Baltimore.

Nonetheless, they insist on putting their permanent imprint on Charm City in the most positive way. Both young men have foundations with similar missions: to help empower young people.

In a majority black city where it is easier for young black men to go to jail than to Melo’s Syracuse … in a majority white country where black males alone comprise some 44% of America’s prison population – especially considering that blacks at-large comprise some 15-20% of the US population – NBA superstar Carmelo Anthony and R&B powerhouse Mario apparently understand their day-role.
 

Yesterday was one for the record books. 'Twas a day to make most Baltimoreans smile, and maybe even shed a tear or two. And those would be tears of joy, I might add.

Let me explain. First, you gotta give it to Carmelo Anthony. The man loves his city and unselfishly gives back to it time and time again. He is one of the most philanthropic people hailing from our beloved East Coast city and has never lost sight of what's important ... like the children.
 

NBA All-Star Carmelo Anthony and R&B Sensation Mario Barrett have joined forces on behalf of Baltimore’s young people. The two Baltimore-born celebrities will host the  “Melo & Mario Face-Off Weekend” from Thursday, September 3^rd to Saturday, September 5^th, 2009. With an action-packed line-up, the weekend will feature both private and public events that will highlight both men’s foundations.

The kickoff press conference is on Thursday, September 3, 2009 at 4 pm at the Carmelo Anthony Center at 1100 E. Fayette Street. Attendees include Baltimore Mayor Sheila Dixon. The highlight of this event is the distribution of school supplies to hundreds of Baltimore youths.