Archives of the Mayor's Press Office

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Monday, October 4, 1999

Release #387-99

Contact: Sunny Mindel/ Edward Skyler (212) 788-2958
Kim Serafin, NYC 2000 (212) 788-2000


MAYOR GIULIANI ANNOUNCES $1 MILLION MILLENNIUM GRANT TO SUPPORT CITY'S PUBLIC SCHOOLS

American Express and Continental Airlines Partner with NYC 2000

Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani today announced that, through a partnership with NYC 2000, New York City's official millennium committee, Continental Airlines will team up with American Express to provide $1 million in support of New York City Public Schools. The money will be divided equally between an initiative to re-build libraries in New York City elementary and middle schools, and a college scholarship program for graduating seniors. The Mayor was joined by Continental Airlines Chairman and CEO, Gordon Bethune; American Express Establishment Services Worldwide President, David C. House; New York City Schools Chancellor Rudolph Crew; and artist Peter Max.

"The new millennium is more than a unique opportunity for celebration; it is a chance to redouble our efforts to better prepare our children to face the challenges of the next century," said Mayor Giuliani. "This public/private partnership with Continental Airlines and American Express will go a long way in educating our children and ensuring that they are ready to face those challenges."

"I want to thank Continental Airlines and American Express for their generosity in funding these school libraries and college scholarships," said Chancellor Crew. "Beyond my sincere thanks, though, are congratulations to both companies for working together to identify two areas of great need for our children in our schools that are striving to reach and exceed a higher academic standard."

Continental and American Express plan to fund the Millennium Library Project through a marketing effort which will emphasize the new partnership. The funds will be used to improve libraries in New York City elementary and middle schools and will provide much-needed books and software titles. The New York City Board of Education has identified schools that have low reading scores to receive the funds.

The two companies have also joined together in creating the Continental/ American Express NYC 2000 Millennium Scholarship. For the next five years, the fund will award fifty $2,000 scholarships to students who have demonstrated superior academic and community achievement. The program is open to graduating seniors throughout the city who attended high schools that have been identified by the Board of Education as in need of significant improvement in student performance.

"It is vital to us and all New Yorkers that we educate our youth so they can help us be successful in the next century. As a major employer in the region, with more than 11,000 employees locally, we're proud to contribute to this pool of future talent that makes the Big Apple a great place to do business," said Gordon Bethune, Chairman and CEO of Continental Airlines.

Continental is the fifth largest airline in the U.S., offering more than 2,000 departures daily to 130 domestic and 85 international destinations. Operating major hubs throughout the country, Continental has extensive service throughout the Americas, and to Europe and Asia. Continental is in the top half of Fortune magazine's "100 Best Companies to Work for in America," and has won first or second place Frequent Flyer magazine and J.D. Power awards for four consecutive years.

"We are so pleased to be joining Continental Airlines in an effort to improve New York City public schools. Giving back is one of the core values that governs American Express-- and there is no issue that more deeply affects our future than the education of our children," said David C. House, President, Establishment Services Worldwide, American Express.

American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc., is a wholly owned subsidiary of the American Express Company - a diversified worldwide travel company founded in 1850. It is a leader in charge and credit cards, Travelers Cheques, travel, financial planning, investment products, insurance and international banking.

Continental Airlines Commissions Peter Max to Create
NYC Millennium Plane Featuring NYC 2000 Logo

The Mayor also announced that Continental will be an official sponsor of NYC 2000. To help celebrate New York City's millennium, Continental is commissioning renowned artist Peter Max to paint a new jumbo jet in honor of the City. The commemorative Boeing 777 will feature the NYC 2000 millennium logo emblazoned on the side and will make its inaugural flight on November 15, 1999. A model of the plane was displayed at the City Hall announcement.

Peter Max's art has been a fundamental part of American pop culture. He has been the official artist for dozens of events; music award shows, the Super Bowl, World Cup Soccer, and the New York City Marathon. He has painted for the past five presidents and has created art to grace millions of products.

NYC 2000, the official millennium committee for New York City, was established through an Executive Order by Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani to ensure that the City's millennium celebrations showcase New York City as the capital of the world in front of an international audience. Composed of a dynamic group of business and community leaders, and chaired by actor Ron Silver, NYC 2000's events will reflect the best that New York City has to offer and feature celebrations honoring New York City's diverse industries. The celebration will continue until the official start of the millennium on New Year's Day, 2001.

NYC 2000's most recent event, the NYC 2000 Fashion Show in Times Square, featured over 90 one-of-a-kind fashions created by some of the world's most renowned designers, which will be auctioned off with proceeds going to the Center for Arts Education.

www.ci.nyc.ny.us


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