BASF sponsors Science Screen Reports videos for Channahon Junior High
Donation of award-winning video program highlights National Chemistry Week activities

JOLIET, Ill., October 19, 2004 -- Students at Channahon Junior High School will benefit from an expanded science resource library with the addition of the “Science Screen Reports” videotape series, thanks to a donation made today from BASF.

The company presented the video series to school representatives as part of its community outreach activities during National Chemistry Week, an annual program of the American Chemical Society that aims to enhance the public’s awareness of the contributions of chemistry to our everyday lives.

“Science Screen Reports” is a program that brings information on the latest developments in science, technology, the environment, and medicine into classrooms. The 2004-2005 series includes topics such as “The Nature of Fire,” “Protecting Earth’s Atmosphere,” and “A Scientific Look at the Sun.” In addition to the videotapes, the program contains a teacher’s guide that provides lesson strategies, background information and suggestions for critical thought, career possibilities and references for further study.

“The video series complements our current science curriculum needs. We are very appreciative of BASF's support in making this program available to us," said Laurie Marusak, a science teacher at Channahon Junior High School.

“BASF is known as the company that helps make products better. We also have a commitment to helping make the schools and communities in which we do business better,” said Gerry Sabo, Manager of BASF’s Joliet’s site, located in the township of Channahon. “A strong educational background in science is essential in today’s high-tech society. This creative video series helps to engage students in the study of science and, perhaps, may help spark their interest in pursuing scientific careers later in life. We’re proud to make this donation as part of National Chemistry Week and our ongoing commitment to science literacy and education.”

Science Screen Report has won top honors at the National Educational Film Festival as well as other recognitions from around the world. The series is in its 34th year and is produced annually by Allegro Productions in Boca Raton, Fla.

Approximately 115 employees work at BASF's Joliet site, which makes polystyrene used in insulation and packaging materials, appliance parts, housewares, cosmetic containers, and electronic equipment casings.

BASF - The Chemical Company. We don't make a lot of the products you buy. We make a lot of the products you buy better.®
BASF Corporation, headquartered in New Jersey, is the North American affiliate of BASF AG, Ludwigshafen, Germany. We employ about 11,000 people in North America and had sales of approximately $9 billion in 2003. For more information about BASF's North American operations, or to sign up to receive news releases by e-mail, visit www.basf.com/usa.

BASF is the world's leading chemical company. Our goal is to grow profitably and further increase the value of our company. We help our customers to be more successful through intelligent system solutions and high-quality products. BASF's portfolio ranges from chemicals, plastics, performance products, agricultural products and fine chemicals to crude oil and natural gas. Through new technologies we can tap into additional market opportunities. We conduct our business in accordance with the principles of sustainable development. In 2003, BASF had sales of approximately $42 billion and over 87,000 employees worldwide. Further information on BASF is available on the Internet at www.basf.com.

For more information, contact:
Gerry Sabo
BASF
Channahon, Ill.
Tel: (815) 423-1261
E-mail: sabog@basf-corp.com

Glenn Majeski
BASF
Florham Park, N.J.
Tel: (973) 245-6070
E-mail: majeskg@basf.com