WHAT: In celebration of the 20th anniversary of the first Snow Express for MS in Alyeska, Alaska, The Heuga Center is excited to be teaming up with Highline Sports & Entertainment to create the Vertical Express for MS in 2005. Just as the Alyeska event in 1985 set a world record for vertical feet skied in a day, the goal of the Vertical Express is to establish a new world record of 20 million vertical feet skied in a day, while raising money for a compelling cause - helping people with multiple sclerosis.

WHY: Proceeds from the Vertical Express for MS benefit The Heuga Center, a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of people with multiple sclerosis (MS) through educational and wellness programs and ongoing research. The money raised from the Vertical Express for MS provides scholarships for people to attend one of The Heuga Center's internationally renowned CAN DO Programs - a five-day wellness clinic for people with MS and their families.

WHO: Everyone who skis or rides is invited to take part in this world record attempt.  The event will be fun and safe for the whole family - it's not a race; everyone will just add up the runs that they skied. Teams and individuals are encouraged to participate, including the walk-up day skier.  Incentive prizes will be awarded for fundraising and participation.

WHERE: 20+ ski resorts throughout North America. All existing Snow Express resorts are invited to join.

WHEN: February 12, 2005.

CONTACT: For more information on the Vertical Express for MS or The Heuga Center's programs for people with MS, please check out the websites www.heuga.org and www.verticalexpress.org.