LONGITUDE Expedition Receives Show of Support From Michael J. Fox

LOS GATOS, Calif., Jan. 6, 2005 -- Actor and Parkinson's disease research advocate, Michael J. Fox showed his support of the Drive Around the World LONGITUDE Expedition by signing one of the Expedition vehicles along the journey on Wednesday, Dec. 29th.

Individuals who support the journey by donating ten dollars or more to the Expedition are entered into a drawing to win the vehicle signed by Michael J. Fox. The vehicle, a 2003 Certified Pre-Owned Land Rover Discovery, has visited schools throughout the U.S. as part of the Expedition's education segment.

The nationally recognized LONGITUDE Expedition team began their quest in November 2003 with the aim of raising money for Parkinson's disease research, by driving four Certified Pre-Owned Land Rover Discoverys around the globe following lines of longitude. Visiting Parkinson's research centers along the way, the team has helped to encourage those battling the disease and inspire others to learn more about the difference they can make in the fight against Parkinson's.

"The Drive Around the World, LONGITUDE Expedition is a great example of how people with Parkinson's and their families can get involved and share their experiences in a positive way to benefit others," said Michael J. Fox. "You've touched so many people's lives through this trip and spread awareness about the disease. For this we are truly grateful."

Through the LONGITUDE Expedition interactive website, www.drivearoundtheworld.com/education, the team promotes geography and scientific research projects among school children.

By accessing the site, students are able to connect with the team and ask questions as they make their way around the world. Students have sent thousands of travel/geography questions and the team has answered each and every one.

After driving across four continents, more than thirty countries and over 32,000 miles, the Drive Around the World LONGITUDE Expedition team will be culminating in February 2005 to celebrate its global philanthropic adventure, whereupon the winner of the signed vehicle will be announced.

For information about Drive Around the World LONGITUDE Expedition, visit www.drivearoundtheworld.com.

Established in 2002, with headquarters in Los Gatos California, Drive Around the World is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that seeks to inspire a sense of adventure and the tradition of exploration, encouraging people to actively learn about our world and creatively act to understand the humanitarian and environmental problems we face. Drive Around the World press releases and electronic photos of the LONGITUDE Expedition are available on-line in the pressroom section of www.drivearoundtheworld.com.

Go to http://drivearoundtheworld.com/ for high resolution photos.

Photo: NewsCom: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20050106/LATH104
AP Archive: http://photoarchive.ap.org/
PRN Photo Desk, photodesk@prnewswire.com