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Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani today traveled to Phoenix, Arizona with families of emergency personnel lost in the World Trade Center attack to attend the sixth game of the World Series. The trip was made possible by the generous support of Continental Airlines, which provided a chartered jet at no cost from LaGuardia Airport, and Major League Baseball, which donated an entire suite of World Series tickets for the families. Modell's Sporting Goods also donated gift bags and gift certificates to children on the flight.

"Thanks to the incredible generosity of Major League Baseball and Continental Airlines, these families will be able to cheer on their home team in person," the Mayor said. "It's yet another compelling example of the enduring spirit of our City and the extent to which all New Yorkers have come together following the September 11th attacks. It's also a reminder that even as we continue to grieve and mourn the tragic loss of so many people, we must also allow ourselves an opportunity to enjoy life -- and even take in a ballgame. I look forward to tonight's game and returning to New York City when the Yankees are once again World Series champions."

Gordon Bethune, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Continental Airlines Inc. said, "As the official airline of the New York Yankees, Continental is as excited as every other New Yorker about the big game. We're proud to have onboard our flight to Phoenix some of New York's heroes and their families because they represent so well the City's courage and pride. It is our sincerest hope that when the Yankees come home to New York on Continental, they will be bringing the World Series Championship with them."

Timothy J. Brosnan, Executive Vice President of Business, Major League Baseball said, "We're honored and grateful to be able give something back to the families of the heroic emergency personnel who were lost in the World Trade Center attack. We look forward to hosting them in Arizona and making their World Series experience as enjoyable as possible."

Mitchell Modell, President of Modell's Sporting Goods, said, "We are honored to be involved in making this a memorable day for the family members joining us. Modell's sporting goods is pleased to help in way we can."

Approximately 25 family members traveled with the Mayor to Arizona onboard a Continental Airlines jet. The Boeing 737 departed LaGuardia Airport at noon and will return Saturday night if the Yankees win game six. Should it be necessary to play a seventh game, Major League Baseball will once again donate a suite for the families, and Continental Airlines will fly the families back to New York City on Sunday following the game.