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Some fans could get Arizona trip if Rendell wins bet
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HARRISBURG -- If -- WHEN? -- the Steelers win the Super Bowl Sunday night, some lucky Steelers fan will get a super duper, all-expenses-paid trip for two to Phoenix, including three nights at the landmark Wigwam golf resort and spa, two rounds of golf at one of its 18-hole courses, dinner at a fancy restaurant and two seats at a baseball, football, basketball or hockey game in the City of the Sun.
But in the unlikely event that the Cardinals pull an upset, two Arizona residents will spend three days in Pittsburgh, staying at a luxury hotel, riding on the Duquesne Incline, dining at the LeMont restaurant, getting tickets to a Pirates, Steelers or Penguins game, and visiting the Heinz History Center, the Warhol Museum, the Mattress Factory and a performance at one of the Cultural District's five theaters.
It's a bet set up by Gov. Ed Rendell and Arizona Gov. Janice Brewer. And it's certainly more than a Primanti Brothers sandwich, which is what Mr. Rendell usually wagers. All the accommodations, meals and tickets to the venues were donated by the respective companies and organizations.
While he's confident Pittsburgh will win, if two Arizona residents do come to the Steel City, Mr. Rendell said, "They're going to find a vibrant, progressive city that offers a variety of things to do and alluring neighborhoods, like the South Side and Strip District, and plenty of history, culture and recreation.''
As for the Cardinals, "Arizona has had a great post-season run this year, but that comes to an end Sunday,'' said Mr. Rendell, who is a major football fan and a commentator after games of the Philadelphia Eagles, his favorite team, with the Steelers second.
"There's no question the Cardinals have talent on offense, with players like Kurt Warner, Larry Fitzgerald and Edgerrin James, but they haven't gone up against an intense defense like Pittsburgh. I see Pittsburgh with a sixth Super Bowl title.''
If the Steelers do prevail, a contest to see who goes west will start Monday at www.pa.gov. Contestants can enter their essay of 500 words or less on why they are a Steelers fan and the best essayist will head west.
First Published January 30, 2009 2:15 pm
