Plake is the national spokesperson for the initiative.  Details about Learn a Snow Sport Month are located at LearnaSnowSport.org.

Participating venues in 32 states throughout the U.S. are making it easy for children and adults to learn alpine skiing, snowboarding, cross country skiing and snowshoeing by highlighting programs that are free or are modestly priced.  Offers vary but most alpine ski and snowboard lessons include a lift ticket, rentals and a lesson taught by a professional instructor. The Winter Trails program, held January 9, 2010 and is a part of LASSM, offers free snowshoeing and/or cross country skiing at approximately 80 locations.

In his Today Show appearance, Plake gives anchor Hoda Kotb lessons. Live footage was shot at Camelback in Pennsylvania. The segment focuses on the fun, enjoyment and health benefits of snow sports with the message that taking lessons from a professional can make the learning experience much more productive. Plake is well known as an extreme skier who has appeared in a number of action films such as the classic Blizzard of Aahhhs and License to Thrill.  He was a member of the U.S. National Mogul Team, a three time Hot Dog Ski Champion and recently was nominated for the U.S. Ski and Snowboard Hall of Fame.  According to initiative organizers, he was selected as spokesperson because he is an industry icon with a great passion for winter sports and he believes in the power of learning. 

"This is a great opportunity for children and adults to learn snow sports by taking lessons from a pro," said Plake. "I have traveled all over the world to ski in some amazing places and I've met lots of fascinating people connected through snow sports. I can tell you first hand that it is really important to learn from a professional and that you don't have to be an expert to have fun on the snow."

Photo courtesy of Elan