|
 In
June, cruise industry executive Jim Pollin pledged to match up to $100,000 of
new supporter donations to benefit the SS United States, the trans-Atlantic
liner that captured the Blue Riband for the fastest crossing of the ocean on its
maiden voyage in July 1952, but which has been laid up since November 1969.
Last week, the Conservancy announced that it was only $2,072 away from that
$100,000 goal. "Just one week later, we are thrilled to announce that we have
received $122,167 in donations eligible for matching -- prompting Jim to raise
his initial pledge by $20,000, and match $120,000," the conservancy said.
"Our nation's flagship isn't just an historic vessel," Jim Pollin said recently.
"It also represents the people of a great and determined nation that once again
have demonstrated they can rise to any challenge. In response to the generosity
of so many supporters of the SS United States, I am proud to match their recent
contributions with an additional donation of $120,000 to save this enduring
symbol of our country."
Campaign supporters hailed from 44 states and 17 countries, and their
contributions ranged from one dollar to ten thousand. Every donation made a
major difference, and we are profoundly grateful to Jim Pollin and to everyone
who contributed. The ship would not be afloat today without this extraordinary
collective effort. |
