Time Line Of Queens History
From The Ice Age To The Space Age To The New Age
Big Doctor Saves Little Girl Aboard Plane
Queens Rings in the Dawn of the Millennium
As the countdown for the millennium began, Queens residents of all different races, cultures and religions came together in celebration. At midnight, Times Square may have been the capital of the world, but for a more comfortable atmosphere with rhythmic jazz, stunning artwork, and science experiments that brought back memories of the World’s Fair, the First Night celebration at the Unisphere in Flushing Meadows Corona Park was a once a millennium event.
"It went wonderfully well," said Assistant Parks Commissioner Estelle Cooper. "There were musical groups, dancing, a light show, and spectacular fireworks. Everyone who was there will remember the celebration for the rest of their lives."
First Night is an organization committed to providing exciting family oriented and alcohol free New Year’s Eve celebrations throughout the country. Joined with Mayor Giuliani’s Millennium Committee NYC, it was the first time each of the five boroughs hosted First Night celebrations.
Borough President Claire Shulman was in attendance, and was extremely satisfied with the outcome. "She was very pleased with how the event played out and has many hopes for the city in the new millennium," said Shulman’s Public Information Officer, Dan Andrews. "Her major hope is for every child in the school system to have a seat, and is also interested in the quality of health care in Queens."
The non-alcoholic party began at about 5p.m. and continued until the early hours of New Year’s Day. Hosted by Parks Commissioner Henry J. Stern and NYC 2000 Chairman Ron Silver, The First Night extravaganza was intended to be a family event that combined a myriad of art forms and a peaceful collaboration in a celebration that Queens may not see the likes of for another thousand years.
Long before the fireworks and confetti, First Nighters were treated with exhibitions and shows from the Theatre in the Park, Queens Museum of Art and the New York Hall of Science. Partygoers had the choice between listening to the jazzy sounds of Charles Eubanks trio or poet Steve DePass at the Queens theatre, admiring the artwork or creating holiday balloon sculptures at the art museum, or exploring the futuristic exhibit at the science hall.
The Parade of Nation’s 2000 countdown featured Brazilian, African, Korean and Gospel musicians as well as the New York City Police Band. There were also solo drummers and dancers, a jump rope ensemble called the Double-Dutch Divas and a room in the Hall of Science where children could make windsocks and kaleidoscopes.
"It was spectacular, simply spectacular," said Marilyn Hoyt, director of external affairs for the Hall of Science. "It wasn’t just a beautiful and exciting New Years show, but an all-night event. It was a wonderful event for the entire family to enjoy."
As midnight rolled near, guests cheered as countries from around the world celebrated their entrance into the 21st century. A laser show lit the sky and families, friends, and strangers alike embraced in anticipation of the special moment.
Soon the hours became minutes and eventually seconds, and everyone counted down together, not worrying about what Y2K or other disasters the new millennium might bring. This was time of celebration – not fear.
