By continuing its dedication to reaching fans on all economic levels in the effort to retain and cultivate new season-ticket holders, the New Orleans Saints are excited to announce that the team currently has deposits for 70 percent of last year's season-ticket total, a figure that far exceeds the amounts posted in past seasons at this juncture.

The team's grassroots campaign -- as well as maintaining a devotion to reaching out to fans and businesses across the region with a substantial sales staff -- has been well-received in the community. Sparked by over 20,000 seats being made available at or below $35, season-ticket deposits have reached approximately 25,000.

The passion of the team's loyal fans, low price points and the Saints fulfilling a pledge in the weeks following Hurricane Katrina to return to New Orleans and lead the economic renewal of the city has stimulated the groundswell in ticket sales.

"We wanted to reach out to our fans that have supported this team and have weathered so many hardships recently," said Owner Tom Benson. "Part of that was making so many tickets available at prices far below the league average. Part of that was letting people know we are going to be an important part of rebuilding this community from all standpoints. And part of that is putting together a strong team for people to support. The people in this area recognize that, and the season ticket sales we have experienced show the area is on the rebound."

The Saints' first home game is slated to be Sept. 24 in a restored Louisiana Superdome against NFC South rival Atlanta. The club recently held a luncheon at the training facility for numerous local and regional businesses in an effort to build on the recent momentum. In addition, the club has formed the Saints Business Council, which consists of 27 Louisiana business leaders who have joined together to support the team's return to the Crescent City. Tommy Coleman, the CEO of International-Matex Tank Terminals, and Stephen Perry, the President of the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau, were named co-chairmen of the group.

"We are dedicated to being an engine of growth for the entire region," said Owner/Executive Vice-President of Administration Rita Benson LeBlanc, who heads the team's business endeavors. "The positive results that we are seeing are coming from every level, from individual fans who have always wanted season tickets to businesses that are as committed as we are to bringing New Orleans back. With this momentum, we look forward to reaching new heights in season ticket sales."

In addition to kicking off the home schedule against Atlanta, the Saints' remaining home opponents this season include the Baltimore Ravens, the Washington Redskins, the Philadelphia Eagles, the San Francisco 49ers and the Cincinnati Bengals. The club will also host NFC South foes Tampa Bay and Carolina. Of the teams that will visit New Orleans, Washington, Tampa Bay, Carolina and Cincinnati made the playoffs in 2005.