Attorney General's News Release

December 3, 2002

Nixon cautions central Missouri businesses about buying ads on high school sports calendars

Jefferson City, Mo. — Attorney General Jay Nixon today said central Missouri businesses should use caution when approached to purchase ads for posters featuring local high school sports calendars. Nixon said his office was contacted today about Jefferson City-area businesses being solicited to purchase such ads and was looking into the matter.

"Unfortunately, many times the businesses that purchase ads do so under the mistaken belief that a portion of the revenue goes to support the athletic programs at their local high school," Nixon said. "In reality, the schools receive no real benefit from the poster, and the money is pocketed by the company selling the ads."

Nixon encouraged people who want to support local sports programs to give donations locally.

"If you want to support your local high school, contact the athletic director or the booster club at the school to find out the best way to do this directly," Nixon said.

If business owners have received solicitations or invoices of this nature, they are asked to contact the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-392-8222 or fill out a complaint form.

Inquiries from consumers should be directed to consumer@ago.mo.gov or 1-800-392-8222 (from within Missouri) or 573-751-3321 (outside Missouri).

All media inquiries should be directed to Press Secretary John Fougere.

E-mail      Phone: 573-751-8844         Fax: 573-751-5818