For the Gazette

STEVENS POINT – The Salvation Army of Portage County Red Kettle campaign is holding its 11th annual Packers/Bears Challenge, Saturday, Dec. 15.  Instead of the usual one kettle in front of stores, there will be two kettles; one designated for donations from Bears fans and one designated for donations from Packers fans.

The Packers/Bears Challenge runs from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 15 at the following locations; Copps Market – Park Ridge, Copps Market – Plover, Fleet Farm, and both entrances at Walmart.  The on the field clash between the two NFC North teams takes place on Sunday in Chicago, with the Packers up on the Bears 1-0, though Bears fans are taking solace in being on top the division.

“We encourage shoppers to support the Salvation Army in honor of their team,” said Doug Schneider, Red Kettle committee member, event organizer and Bears fan.  “Those ringing the bells will be decked out in their favorite Packers and Bears gear, cheering in honor of their team and cheering on customers to make donations to the Salvation Army,” he added.

The breakdown for scoring to see which fan base earns the “victory”: if the Bears fans give 40% of what Packer fans give at all locations, it is a Bears fan victory.  Anything less than 40%, and the Packers fans claim the win in the challenge.  Bears fans are the defending 2017 Red Kettle challenge champions.

“Come on out and put your competitive spirit to work for the good of our community, by supporting the work of the Salvation Army in honor of your team,” Schneider added.

The Red Kettle Campaign in Portage County runs through Saturday, December 24^th at 8:00 PM.  To sign up for shifts at any number of locations Monday through Saturday from 10 AM to 8 PM, please log on to RegisterToRing.com, or call the Salvation Army at 715-341-2437.  The goal of this year’s campaign is $200,000.  More than 1,790 shifts need to be filled for this year’s campaign.