VICTORIA, June 24, 2008... The Host Committee for the 2009 Scotties Tournament of Hearts today officially opened a new store front office at the Save on Foods Memorial Centre at 1925 Blanshard Street in Victoria. The new office, which will serve as the co-ordination and administration centre for the major national curling event is located in the southeast corner of the building adjacent to the Victoria Police Headquarters.

The 2009 Scotties Tournament of Hearts will be held at the Victoria Save on Foods Memorial Centre from February 21 to March 1, 2009 and will feature Canada's best women curlers competing for the 2009 national championship. 2008 Team Canada and World Women's Curling Champions, Jennifer Jones and her rink from Manitoba will also compete and attempt to defend their national title.

2009 Scotties Host Committee Chair Chris Atchison was joined today by a number of dignitaries in officially opening the new 2009 Scotties Tournament of Hearts office.

Chris Atchison said, "We are extremely pleased to now have a full time office open for business as we get ready to hold this major national event. I especially want to thank Mayor Lowe and the City of Victoria for donating this office space to the 2009 Scotties Host Committee. It will serve as our central base of operations, as we gear up to host another first class Canadian curling extravaganza."

Atchison also said, "Ticket sales are proceeding extremely well and meeting projections. Hundreds of curling fans from across British Columbia and Western Canada have booked their tickets early as they know that Victoria will be the place to be in late February, as our city hosts the 2009 Scotties Tournament of Hearts."

"I would encourage anyone planning to attend the Scotties to not wait too long, as they could be disappointed. Ticket sales continue to be brisk, however there are still good seats available," Atchison reported. Tickets are available by contacting www.selectyourtickets.com.

It was also announced today that Victoria's curling community has come out in full force to support this major national curling event. The 2009 Scotties Tournament of Hearts now has 515 volunteers signed up for the event. The outstanding demonstration of volunteer support is also well ahead of projections by the Host Committee.

The 2009 Scotties will mark the 28th year of sponsorship of the event by Kruger Products Limited.

For further information, please contact Mr. Chris Atchison, Chair, Host Committee, 2009 Scotties Tournament of Hearts at 250-384-2875.