STEVENS POINT – The Salvation Army of Portage County Red Kettle campaign will hold its 11th annual Packers/Bears Challenge this week.
The challenge runs from 9 a.m. to p.m. Dec. 15 at the following locations; Copp’s Market – Park Ridge, Copp’s 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 game to 0, though Bears fans are taking solace in being on top the division.
Instead of the typical 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.
“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, in a Salvation Army news release. “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.”
If the Bears fans give 40 percent of what Packers fans give at all locations, it is a Bears fan victory. Anything less than 40 percent, then the Packers fans claim the win in the challenge. Bears fans are the defending 2017 Red Kettle challenge champions.
You, too, can ring for The Salvation Army.
The Red Kettle Campaign in Portage County runs through 8 p.m. Dec. 24. To sign up for shifts at any number of locations Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., log on to RegisterToRing.com, or call The Salvation Army at 715-341-2437. The goal of this year’s campaign is $200,000.
