Attorney General's News Release

October 5, 2004

Big Brothers Big Sisters organization receives Cardinals playoff tickets turned over in resolution of scalping case

St. Louis, Mo. — Attorney General Jay Nixon today presented Big Brothers Big Sisters of Eastern Missouri with 98 tickets for St. Louis Cardinals playoff games. The tickets were turned over to the Attorney General's Office as part of a court-approved agreement with Show-Me Tickets, an online ticket broker that Nixon sued last week for illegally selling the tickets above their face value.

"For decades, the volunteers who have served as Big Brothers or Big Sisters have stepped up the plate as positive role models and as friends for disadvantaged youth," Nixon says. "Often, they may be the only positive role model in that child's life. I am delighted to provide these tickets to this worthy organization that serves the youth of the St. Louis area so well."

Nixon says Big Brothers Big Sisters has always had a thriving relationship with law enforcement.

"It is often because of the interaction between the "Bigs" and the "Littles" that so many children are given opportunities they would not have and choose positive directions for their lives," Nixon says. "I hope that many more adults in the St. Louis area take up the opportunity to become a Big Brother or Big Sister. The Little Brothers and Sisters give inspiration and a sense of fulfillment to their mentors. It's a rewarding relationship both ways."

St. Louis City Circuit Judge David Dowd signed the assurance of voluntary compliance on Friday (Oct. 1) that prohibited Show-Me Tickets from re-selling Cardinals playoff tickets for above their face value, and also required the Columbia, Mo., business to provide refunds to its customers who requested refunds and returned tickets they purchased. The agreement also required Show-Me Tickets to pay $3,000 to the state for the costs of investigating and bringing the lawsuit.

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