Recognizing the Anita C. Carboni Athletic Association On Its Many Contributions to the Children of Our Community.

WHEREAS, The Anita C. Carboni Athletic Association, which has its home in Southwest Philadelphia, at 63rd Street and Lindbergh Boulevard, was founded by Jason Mango in 2003. It is named in memory of Anita C. Carboni, a beloved community activist, teacher and tireless youth advocate, who died of cancer in 1991. A true champion for children, Mrs. Carboni knew the value of education, but also recognized the need for young people to have healthy outlets for their boundless energy and enthusiasm; and

WHEREAS, In 1998, Southwest Philadelphia resident Jason Mango began coaching a flag football league once run by Our Lady of Loreto Catholic School. The league enjoyed a faithful following for years, until the school closed its doors in 2000. With the support of family, friends and other community leaders, Mango took over the league and, in 2003, changed it to its current name. Starting with just 30 children from three area schools, the Carboni League has grown to include 150 children from over 30 different schools in Philadelphia and its surrounding area. Although the players and their families come from diverse ethnic and economic backgrounds, they prove everyday that they have much in common. The Carboni League provides a safe, family-oriented environment where young people may build character and make lifelong friendships while thriving through positive athletic competition; and

WHEREAS, The League offers 10 teams engaged in flag football, peewee basketball and cheerleading. A devoted cadre of interested and engaged parents, coaches, local businesses, and supportive government and community leaders are also instrumental in making the Carboni Athletic Association the success it has become. Among those most active are Jason Mango, Founder; Brian Mango, Commissioner; Robert Hodges, Recreation Advisor; Anna M. Brown, Advisory Board Member; Paul "Earthquake" Moore, Board Member; State Senator Anthony H. Williams; State Representative Robert C. Donatucci; and City Council President Anna C. Verna; now therefore

RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That we hereby recognize and celebrate the accomplishments and community spirit embodied by the Anita C. Carboni Athletic Association and the positive influence it continues to have for the children of our community.

FURTHER RESOLVED, That an Engrossed copy of this Resolution be presented to the Association as evidence of the sincere congratulations and warm wishes of this legislative body.

End