(November 5, 2004)
The stakes have been raised for this week's showdown between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles at Heinz Field on Sunday - at least for Allegheny County Chief Executive Dan Onorato and Philadelphia Mayor John Street.

Moments after Mayor Street accepted Chief Executive Onorato's gracious invitation to watch the game with him in Pittsburgh, the chief executive posed a gentleman's wager: On Monday, the losing official would sport the opposition jersey for the entire day - with a smile.

"I am excited about watching our Steelers end the Philadelphia Eagles' winning streak here in Pittsburgh," Onorato said. "I told Mayor Street that with the spirit of our Steelers fans and the talent of Big Ben and the entire team, we know there will be a big win here in Pittsburgh on Sunday.

"Plus, this year Duce Staley will be driving the ball into the Eagles' end zone," remarked Onorato about the former Philadelphia Eagle.

"Not so fast," said Mayor Street.

"I'm really looking forward to being in Pittsburgh and spending quality time with Mr. Onorato - and I happily accept the bet," he replied. "But, I seriously doubt it's a bet I'm going to lose since our Eagles are the only undefeated team in the NFL so far this season - and I'm still feeling lucky."

Onorato and Street agreed to the wager in a friendly telephone conversation in anticipation of the big game between the two conference leaders. Both officials will be watching the game at Heinz Field.