SAM Magazine-Lakewood, Colo., Sept. 13, 2006-The National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) and Snowsports Industries America (SIA) are working with the U.S. Congress to secure a White House Proclamation declaring January "National Ski and Snowboard Month." The designation is intended to call attention to the need for all people to exercise and get outside in winter. Congressman Mark Udall (D-CO) recently introduced H. Res. 979 asking for the proclamation, but the bill requires co-sponsors.

Both NSAA and SIA are asking members to help by contacting their representatives. The means: send a letter to your representative in the U.S. House of Representatives urging him/her to co-sign H. Res. 979. Areas can obtain copies of a sample letter at www.thesnowtrade.org/downloads/newsletters/proclamation_letter.pdf. The resolution itself is posted at www.thesnowtrade.org/downloads/newsletters/proclamation_hres_979_ih.pdf.

The push for the proclamation coincides with the effort of many state associations, spearheaded by those in the Northwest, to host a "learn to ski and ride" promotion this January as well.