The two cities had approached the director last November - again, within a few days of each other - to sound him out.

It's pleasing that the city is approaching the millennium with an extraordinary appreciation for the history it has passed through to get there.

They turned serious when the city approached and, with it, the chance for the last piece of glory.

All credit agencies now rate the city as one fast approaching a default.

State lawmakers raised the city's borrowing limit in 1996, but the city is rapidly approaching the new cap.

That means the city may approach Mr. Keane and others about buying their land.

Some found it encouraging that as the city approaches a series of sad commemorations, thousands could still come together to celebrate.

But the city itself was not captured and again winter was approaching.

Other cities have approached the league about investing in new franchises, league officials said.

"Just a few years ago many worried that the city was approaching the fiscal brink," the report said.