| | | |

NEWS RELEASE

ANCHORAGE, ALASKA – August 12, 2003

2003 Visitor Industry Charity Walk Helps 57 Charities

A total of $127,000 has been distributed to the United Way of Anchorage and 57 other local charities as a result of the 2003 Visitor Industry Charity Walk. Monies were distributed recently at the Anchorage Convention and Visitors Bureau’s (ACVB) June Monthly Membership Luncheon at the William A. Egan Civic and Convention Center.

More than 2,900 walkers enjoyed a variety of food and beverages from four themed food villas located along the downtown Anchorage course on May 9, 2003. Mark Eliason, general manager of USTravel said, “Since the inception of the Visitor Industry Charity Walk in 2000, more than half a million dollars has been raised for local charities. It is a phenomenal program and a great way to show community support collectively from one of the state’s largest industries.” Tony Hancuff, regional manager of Gray Line of Alaska, will serve as the 2004 chair for the VICW.

The VICW was established in Anchorage in 2000 to celebrate the tourism industry’s commitment to the community. Anchorage’s VICW has grown to include VICW events in three other Alaskan cities. Fairbanks held their third annual VICW with 940 participants raising $39,562. Juneau celebrated its second year with 125 walkers and raised $6,081. Ketchikan also celebrated their second year, which had 120 participants and raised more than $3,000. All money went to the March of Dimes.

For more information on the VICW, visit www.alaskacharitywalk.org or call the VICW hotline at (907) 264-2178. Stay Wild About Anchorage!

Erika Biringer, Public Relations Manager
(907) 257-2331
ebiringer@anchorage.net
Explore www.anchorage.net

Nance Larsen, Director of Communications
(907) 257-2310
nlarsen@anchorage.net
Explore www.anchorage.net