April 7 , 2006 - For Immediate Release

Langford, B.C. - 'Mr. Hockey' is stick handling his way to Victoria's West Shore.

The legendary Gordie Howe, closing in on his 80th birthday, will make a rare appearance on southern Vancouver Island on May 6 as the guest of honor at the grand opening of the Eagle Ridge Centre in Langford.

Gerry St. Cyr, a co-owner and director of operations at the new community facility located on Jacklin Road, has announced that the former NHL superstar and Hockey Hall of Fame member will be signing copies of his most recent book.

Joining Howe at the grand opening will be Vancouver rock band 'Fear Zero' and Team USA and Team Canada, the respective reigning gold and silver medalists from the 2005 World Inline Hockey Championships. Those two teams will also stage an exhibition game that should thrill all spectators.

"It's a real hat trick! To have a personality like Gordie, a rock band such as 'Fear Zero' and a world class exhibition inline game to kick off the Eagle Ridge facility is just great. We want all kids from the area to come out on May 6 and enjoy the day," said St. Cyr.

A wide variety of prizes will be given away and Sport Quest will be on hand to test inline players skating speed. Youngsters will be invited to enjoy ball hockey, inline hockey and indoor soccer games throughout the day.

The Eagle Ridge Centre is a state-of-the-art community sports facility; featuring a dedicated inline hockey/indoor soccer rink, fully equipped gym, pro shop, licensed sports bar, play zone, multiple ball fields and walking/jogging areas. St. Cyr also confirmed that a full-size ice rink will be ready for opening in the fall of 2007.

PLEASE NOTE that copies of Howe's book, signed by him, is LIMITED. To pre-order, contact Gerry St. Cyr at ph. 714.308.5666 or email: gerrys37@aol.com