Release #161-98

Contact: Colleen Roche (212) 788-2958 or Dwight Williams (212) 788-2972

MAYOR GIULIANI ATTENDS THE 1998 NEW YORK YANKEES HOMECOMING DINNER

Benefit Dinner Raises Funds for Young People

Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani today helped kick-off the 1998 baseball season at the New York Yankees Homecoming Dinner, benefiting the Yankee Foundation which assists New York City's young people. Tonight's benefit at the Sheraton New York Hotel honored Yankee greats Hank Bauer and Bill 'Moose' Skowron and Stadium announcer Bob Sheppard with the annual Pride of the Yankees Award. Joining the Mayor and tonight's honorees were Yankee owner George Steinbrenner, Yankee manager Joe Torre and the 1998 New York Yankees.

"The Yankees' return to the City is the most exciting rite of spring," Mayor Giuliani said. "If we could harness all the eagerness and anticipation buzzing around the Stadium before tomorrow's game, I bet we could light the New York City skyline for a year - that's how much New Yorkers love this team. And this year is particularly special. It is the 75th Anniversary of Yankee Stadium, marking another chapter in the most remarkable team history in all of sports. But that is only a small part of the enthusiasm. All around the City, people are excited about our chances. This year, the Yanks have assembled a lineup that rivals the old 'Murderer's Row' of the Ruth and Gehrig era.

"I want to acknowledge tonight's honorees, who have each played a pivotal role in crafting Yankee history -- 'Moose' Skowron and Hank Bauer as great players and Bob Sheppard as a terrific announcer behind the microphone," the Mayor continued. "Lastly, I'd be remiss if I didn't thank the Yankee Foundation on their Silver Anniversary. By giving thousands of young New Yorkers college scholarships and assisting community organizations, you have ensured that the legacy of the Yankees extends far beyond the Stadium and into the hopes and dreams of our young people."

The Yankee Foundation, celebrating its 25th Anniversary, has helped hundreds of needy young people receive a college education through scholarship programs. The Foundation has given more than $3 million to support and sponsor community organizations and educational programs for children throughout the New York City area.

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