Guest Columnist: Katie O'Malley

I’ve been a Baltimore resident since I was born and so it only makes sense that any team that hails from my hometown will have my support. But, I must say, the Ravens got my attention quickly when they powered their way into the Super Bowl during the 2000 season. My husband was the Mayor of Baltimore for only a year, and we had this great opportunity to rally the community around this amazing team. Suddenly everywhere you looked, folks were wearing purple and painting their faces and homes and businesses were lit with purple lights. It didn’t stop there – my own home was overflowing with purple beads, purple wigs, and jerseys of different numbers. “Purple Reign” was the talk of the town. It was all-consuming. And then they did it; the Ravens won the Super Bowl!

Baltimore celebrated by throwing a party, which was followed by a parade through the city, ending at City Hall where a rally was held. It was an exciting and exhilarating time and to see folks in the City and around Maryland come together to support the Ravens was extraordinary. I will never forget that season.

Everyone knows the Ravens have the best fans – and the strongest 12^th man – so on behalf of Maryland and Baltimore residents; I’d like to say good luck this season!

Go Ravens!