American Queen Featured Tomorrow on 'Today'

[Jason]

Subsidiary of Delaware North Companies helps viewer realize lifelong dream

BUFFALO, N.Y., May 19 -- Tomorrow morning, the American Queen and Delta Queen Steamboat Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Delaware North Companies, will be highlighted during NBC's "Today" show as part of its Live for Today segment. Live for Today fulfills viewer dreams as part of a month-long series, and "Ride a steamboat down the Mississippi" made the show's list of 50 things to make your life complete.

"We understand that Betty Jo Smith, a viewer from Louisiana, wrote to the producers about 'seeing the boats pass up and down the river and how she dreamed about going on one of them,'" explained Bruce Nierenberg, president of Delta Queen Steamboat Company. "We are honored to make her dream come true aboard the grand American Queen, the world's largest steamboat. Discovering the rivers of America on an authentic paddlewheeler is one of the most unique and time-honored travel experiences, hearkening back to the America of yesteryear. We are thrilled to provide this opportunity for Betty Jo."

Smith will recount her experience aboard the American Queen on "Today" in the 8 o'clock hour (EST) on Friday, May 20. Excerpts will also be posted online at http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/3032633/?ta=y. Check local listings for program information.