It was a picture-perfect night, for the American Hero of the Beijing Summer games. Michael Phelps was billed as the headliner for last week's Star Spangled salute, but Baltimore was truly the main event.

With two national camera crews on hand to document the evening, historic Fort McHenry was given the opportunity to remind us all it is so much more than an elementary school field trip; it's a treasure that can be enjoyed year-round.

This week the spotlight continues to shine brightly on Charm City as it plays host to thousands of athletes and visitors.

The 8th Annual Baltimore Marathon, and its record-number of runners, will wind its way through our community; bringing attention to everything from our vibrant Inner Harbor to bustling neighborhoods throughout its route.

In Baltimore County, some of the legends of golf will gather for the Constellation Energy Classic at the historic Baltimore Country Club.

In recent years, national articles and television shows have chosen to portray our city with a picture of crime and decay, focusing on what is going wrong rather than what is right.

All of these events are a great reminder that there's still much to celebrate and enjoy in our city and State. Like all regions we have our challenges, but let's not forget the process of fixing those challenges is a marathon not a sprint.