BARTLETT, New Hampshire ??” Attitash Resort in the Mount Washington Valley of New Hampshire is auctioning April 4, 2005 to the highest bidder. The auction winner will receive what amounts to a private ski area for the day for themselves and 1000 friends, co-workers or whomever they see fit.

The online auction is occurring at www.ebay.com and interested parties can enter keyword “Attitash” once on the website.

“I can’t think of a better family reunion or staff party,” said John Urdi, vice president of brand management. “I’m not sure if this has been tried before, but I can guarantee that whomever ends up with their own private ski area for the day will have something to boast about.”

The auction opens Monday, Feb. 21 at 11 a.m. and will continue for ten days concluding on March 3. There is a “buy it now” price listed at $50,000 for those who may want to forgo the auction process and guarantee their one-day ownership.

April 4, 2005 is the day following the closing of the area to the public. Just over 50 percent of the ski area will be available to the highest bidder weather and conditions permitting. The side that is being offered is the eastern half of Attitash and it features 37 trails and a vertical drop 1,750 feet.

“Ebay has sold some unique items. We’re not sure how much this is going to fetch but there’s more in it for the buyer than an old grilled cheese sandwich or some guy’s forehead,” said Urdi.

Attitash is currently 100 percent open after successful snowmaking operations and significant February snows. The resort is celebrating its 40th anniversary with the 40 Days and 40 Nights of Attitash. A complete schedule of events is available at www.attitash.com.