NEW YORK GOING FOR THE GOLD WITH 2008 SUMMER GAMES?

     New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani is among the "key
torchbearers" in a drive to bring the 2008 Summer Games to New
York City, according to the N.Y. DAILY NEWS.  With the support of
top business and civic leaders, Giuliani agreed last week to go
forward with preliminary plans.  Giuliani: "We're the largest
city in the U.S. and the capital of the world.  From the
Olympics' point of view, you couldn't choose a better place if
you want attention."  Giuliani and NY Gov. George Pataki have
been briefed on the bid process, and Giuliani has tapped key
officials, including Deputy Mayor Fran Reiter, Business Services
Commissioner Rudy Washington, and Senior Advisor Richard
Schwartz, to assist in the effort (Dean Chang, N.Y. DAILY NEWS,
6/23).
     GRAND PLAN?  Giuliani also said new homes for the Mets and
Yankees should be considered part of any plans to build Olympic
facilities (N.Y. TIMES, 6/24).