AvTel to Support Multiple Sclerosis Foundation Internet Access Marketing Program; AvTel's Affinity ISP Program Provides Additional Fundraising Tool for MSF.

SANTA BARBARA, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--April 30, 1999--

AvTel Communications Inc. (Nasdaq:AVCO), a single-source provider of integrated telecommunications, voice, data and Internet services, Friday announced it has signed an "Affinity ISP" agreement with the marketing agent for the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation Inc. (MSF), a national organization dedicated to raising money to fight the lifelong neurological disorder, with a network of 56 independent regional groups supporting members affected by the illness.

As part of this exciting program, AvTel will provide Internet access services under the MSF brand and support a nationwide marketing effort provided by Logicool Inc., a Boca Raton, Fla.-based telecommunications marketing company. A portion of each month's Internet access fees will go directly to MSF. All customer support, technical services and customer billing will be handled by AvTel's award-winning service organization.

"AvTel is pleased to provide the Internet access services to support the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation and Logicool in their marketing efforts. Our Affinity ISP program provides high-quality service and vital organizational communication to its network of members, but also functions as an added fundraising tool for the organization, allowing for additional donation and e-commerce opportunities," said Scott Hall, senior vice president, AvTel Communications.

"Multiple Sclerosis is a crippling disease which usually affects people in the prime of their lives, between the ages of 20-40. Although much research is being done on new treatments, the lack of funding is slowing down progress. With the explosion of Internet use, the MSF relationship with AvTel is a natural fit to generate much-needed funds, create awareness, and open the lines of communication. The opportunity to generate additional funds through the sale of Internet services is significant," said Richard Middlebrook, president and CEO of Logicool.

AvTel's Affinity ISP program is a turnkey solution for affinity organizations in the private and nonprofit sectors offering members a comprehensive Internet services package that includes customized e-mail and Web sites, immediate access to organization news and information, as well as other unique benefits.

AvTel serves as a partner with the organization. AvTel's Affinity ISP provides new opportunities for online revenue streams; ongoing back office and technical support; marketing, design and administrative services; and a competitive telecommunications package to help attract and retain members while retaining the organization's private brand name on all products and services.

Other program benefits include:

-- Access to AvTel's award-winning Web designers

-- 24-hour, 7-day customer service

-- Hardware and connection support

-- 15-minute turnaround time for content updates

-- An easy-to-use, self-installing CD-ROM for instant online

registration and access

More information can be obtained, toll-free, by calling 877/856-4426.

Founded in 1986, the MSF is a national MS support organization and offers personal support and unique services to every community in the United States. A nonprofit group, the MSF strives to provide a "Brighter Tomorrow" for those with Multiple Sclerosis and others affected by the illness. In addition, the MSF provides gifts for research into the cause, treatment, prevention and eventual cure of this illness.

AvTel Communications is a provider of broadband network services integrating voice, data and Internet services for individuals and business customers. The company markets and sells a broad range of telecommunications and advanced network services through independent value-added agents, resellers and affinity groups, as well as through internal direct sales professionals. The company targets mid-size corporations, small-office/home-office professionals and select niche-focused distributors. The company is fully certified by the FCC and registered in all 48 contiguous states and Hawaii.

In addition, the company provides Internet access through more than 700 points-of-presence (POPs) nationally, 150 countries worldwide and holds billing agreements with all the regional Bell Operating Companies, GTE and other independent telephone companies. For further information, visit the company's Web site at www.avtel.com.

All statements in this news release other than statements of historical fact are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. Reference is made to the company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended Dec. 31, 1998, and to the company's other reports filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission for a discussion of such risks and uncertainties and other factors that may have material effect on the company's business.