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Cruise For Cancer Presented Checks To Six Local Groups Thursday

Thu, 15 May 2008 12:06:46 CST

Fifth Annual Ride Set For June 14; Pledge Form New For 2008

The Jerry Parins Cruise for Cancer, a motorcycle ride to benefit cancer patients and families throughout Northeastern Wisconsin, presented checks totaling $84,250 to six local cancer support organizations Thursday at the Lambeau Field Atrium.

The funds distributed were raised in last year's Cruise for Cancer, an event that drew nearly 1,000 participants on more than 700 motorcycles.

Jerry Parins, the Packers' senior security advisor and organizer of the event, distributed money to the following organizations: Compassionate Care Fund (to benefit St. Vincent Hospital, Bay Area Cancer Center in Marinette and Door County Memorial Hospital), Families of Children with Cancer, Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Ribbon of Hope, St. Vincent Hospital Pediatric Center and Unity Hospice.

Diagnosed with cancer in 2003, Parins was strengthened during his journey by the support he received from his fami..

Packers, Others Host "Best Of The Class" In Lambeau Field Atrium

Wed, 14 May 2008 17:07:46 CST

The Green Bay Packers, WLUK-TV Fox 11, Silver Lake College, United Healthcare, Broadway Automotive and Marian University May 14 hosted the "Best of the Class" in the Lambeau Field Atrium.

More than 200 of the top students from 92 Northeastern Wisconsin and Fox Valley schools attended and were congratulated for their efforts inside and outside the classroom. The students also were challenged to continue their success in the future.

Among the speakers addressing the group were Mark Murphy, Green Bay Packers President/CEO and Jay Zollar, Fox 11's vice president and general manager. Fox 11's Tom Milbourn and Michelle Melby emceed the event.

The students and their families enjoyed lunch, and the students participated in videotaped vignettes to be used during on-air salutes by Fox 11 to be aired during all station programming through June. The congratulatory program and the vignettes also will be available on ..

Edgar Bennett Celebrity Bowl-A-Thon Returns June 11

Mon, 05 May 2008 15:11:49 CST

EVENT TO BENEFIT THE ANGEL FUND FOR CHILDREN WITH CANCER

Packers running backs coach Edgar Bennett, along with many Packers players, coaches and scouts, will return to the lanes at Ashwaubenon Bowling Alley, Wednesday, June 11, for the fifth Edgar Bennett Celebrity Bowl-A-Thon.

The event will raise money for The Angel Fund for Children with Cancer, Inc., an organization dedicated to giving financial and social support to families residing in Brown County whose children are receiving treatment for cancer or for bone marrow failure.

Registration for the evening begins at 6 p.m., with the bowling event and silent auction to start at 6:30. Silent auction items include a full size helmet signed by all 2006 Fan Fest attendees, a bowling ball signed by Packers President/CEO Mark Murphy and a mini helmet signed by Aaron Kampman.

The Green Bay Packers are proud to have Kraft Foods return as food sponsor for the event.

Area businesses and ind..

'Shindig At 1265' Returns May 10

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 11:15:33 CST

LAMBEAU FIELD ATRIUM IS SITE OF FUN-FILLED FAMILY ACTIVITIES AND ENTERTAINMENT

The second annual 'Shindig at 1265,' a day filled with Green Bay Packers family fun, is scheduled for Saturday, May 10, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

This year's event will take place inside the Lambeau Field Atrium, ensuring a comfortable environment for all attendees.

A main stage with entertainment for the family is featured. Among the offerings are a comedy show, a singer and a juggler. Other activities slated for the day include a bungie trampoline, cookie decorating, a craft station, pie eating contests, a petting zoo, a flower potting station, strolling entertainment and airbrush tattoos.

'Shindig at 1265' is one of four free community events offered each year by the Packers. For more information, please contact the Packers' community outreach department at 920/569-7500.

Main Stage Entertainment Schedule:
10 a.m. - Geoff Marsh, Juggler
..

Packers, Red Cross Team With Area Schools For 'Little Heroes'

Fri, 14 Mar 2008 16:53:18 CST

SCHOOLS CAN RECEIVE APPEARANCE FROM PACKERS PLAYERS

March is Red Cross Month and the Green Bay Packers and the American Red Cross Lakeland Chapter are teaming up through the "Little Heroes" program to offer area schools the chance to earn an appearance from a Packers player.

Students at elementary schools in the Lakeland Chapter area, which includes Brown, Door, Kewaunee, Marinette, Menominee, Oconto, and Shawano counties in Wisconsin, along with Menominee County in Michigan, have been invited to participate by collecting coins during the month. The top three money raising schools will receive a visit from a Packers player.

Participating schools are currently collecting coins and will report their totals by Tuesday, April 1, 2008. The numbers then will be tallied and the top three fund raising schools will be announced. All proceeds raised will support the American Red Cross Lakeland Chapter.

The American Red Cross Lakeland Chapter responds ..

Packers And USA Football To Host Youth Coaching School April 12

Fri, 14 Mar 2008 12:51:01 CST

OPPORTUNITY FOR YOUTH COACHES TO HONE SKILLS

The Green Bay Packers and USA Football will host a coaching school at the team's facility April 12. The curriculum is designed exclusively for coaches of youth football teams (middle school and Pop Warner levels) and offers the opportunity for sharpening skills and learning new approaches to teaching football.

The day-long coaching school will feature classroom sessions in the Legends Club of the Lambeau Field Atrium and football drills in the Don Hutson Center. The event is priced at $35 and is open to 250 coaches, with registration currently underway. Slots are available on a first-come, first-served basis, with online registration available at www.usafootball.com.

On April 12, registration opens at 7:30 a.m., and the program runs from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The day wi..

Packers Youth Football Camps Set For Seventh Summer

Thu, 21 Feb 2008 13:40:24 CST

NINE LOCATIONS IN WISCONSIN TO HOST SKILLS INSTRUCTION

The Green Bay Packers Thursday announced details for the team's Youth Football Camps that will take place this summer at nine locations in Wisconsin.

The program, designed for boys and girls ages 6 to 14, features non-contact skill instruction over the course of five days during full-day camps, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The camps, now in their seventh consecutive year, are led by professional educators, college and high school coaches, and Green Bay Packers alumni players such as John Anderson, Johnnie Gray, Dexter McNabb, Bill Schroeder and Paul Rudzinski. The camps have a 10:1 student-to-instructor ratio.

Instructors will teach kids how to throw, catch, defend, form block, form tackle, compete, run and explode out of a stance with proper technique and improved skills. With a station-based training format, every football position is taught in detail.

In addition to developing foot..

Packers Foundation Awards $156,303 In Grants To 64 Organizations

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 13:19:04 CST

COMPONENT OF TOTAL PACKERS CHARITY IMPACT OF $5 MILLION IN PAST YEAR

The Green Bay Packers Foundation has awarded $156,303 to 64 civic and charitable groups throughout the state of Wisconsin in its annual distribution of funds, Casey Cuene, chairman of the Foundation committee, announced Tuesday.

The groups were guests at a luncheon today at the Lambeau Field Atrium. The luncheon is an event that brought all the recipients together and recognized the outstanding efforts and services performed by each of the organizations.

With these disbursements, the Foundation has distributed $1,774,679 for charitable purposes since it was established in 1986 by Judge Robert J. Parins, then president of the Packers Corporation, "as a vehicle to assure continued contributions to charity."

The financial breakdown of the Foundation's contributions discloses that 30 grants - aggregating $88,628 - were awarded to Bro..

Wisconsin Food Banks Receive Soup-er Donation

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 15:01:24 CST

The Packers have won this contest for six years running, and food pantries in Wisconsin certainly appreciate it.

More than 13,000 cans of Campbell's Chunky soup were distributed to 15 Wisconsin area food banks in the parking lot of Lambeau Field on Thursday, the result of Packers' fans registering more than 2.5 million votes in the annual "Click For Cans" online food drive.

Food pantries came from as far as a couple hundred miles away to collect approximately 880 cans apiece. Their trucks and transport vehicles were loaded by Packers players Brady Poppinga, Cullen Jenkins and Noah Herron, along with strength and conditioning coaches Rock Gullickson, Mark Lovat and Brandon Johnson.

The full donation represented the weight of the official Green Bay Packers' roster in soup cans, which will benefit those in need in Wisconsin. An additional 1,000 cans were split between two Brown County pantries.

"This means we'll be able to give a greater variety of fo..

Packers, American Heart Association Team Up For 'What Moves U'

Thu, 14 Feb 2008 14:30:03 CST

TRAINING SESSION SET FOR 145 WISCONSIN SCHOOLS SATURDAY AT LAMBEAU

The Green Bay Packers and the American Heart Association have joined together to create "What Moves U," a new program offered to middle schools throughout Wisconsin designed to combat childhood obesity with the help of the state's teachers.

The program to promote healthy living will be introduced Saturday, Feb. 16, to 200 attendees from 145 Wisconsin schools during a kickoff event that will provide a distribution of the "What Moves U" activation binder, educational speakers and activity demonstrations. The binder includes curriculum created by teachers for teachers with lesson plans to incorporate activities into every class, not just physical education classes.

"The Packers are very excited to join with the American Heart Association to offer this program to Wisconsin middle schools to fight this epidemic," said Cathy Dworak, Packers manager of community outreach. "Our teachers alrea..

Packers, Levy Restaurants At Lambeau Field Present Awards To Outstanding Concession Stand Groups

Tue, 12 Feb 2008 16:57:37 CST

At each game, these hard working folks run many of the concession stands at Lambeau Field, pouring beer, grilling brats and burgers, running the cash registers and so much more. The big surprise is that they aren't doing all of this hustling for extra cash for themselves, but for the good of 65 area non-profit organizations.

Levy Restaurants and the Green Bay Packers honored these organizations for their time and dedication during the 2007 season with its annual Non-Profit Group Appreciation Banquet at the Lambeau Field Legends Club Tuesday, Feb. 12, 2008. More than 400 people attended the ceremony.

These non-profit groups, which include service organizations and school groups, commit to working at each and every game of the season, some of them even bringing more than 30 people on a regular basis to help serve up the mouth-watering food from Levy's concession stands, such as Going Deep Pizza, The Munch Zone and Draft Picks.

In exchange for their service, g..

Fifth Annual 'Project LEAP!' Set For Feb. 16

Thu, 24 Jan 2008 13:33:59 CST

The fifth annual 'Project LEAP!' is set for Saturday, Feb. 16, 2008, at the Lambeau Field Atrium. The free community event is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

'Project LEAP!' (Lambeau's Exercise and Activity Playground) is focused on getting kids out of the house to enjoy non-strenuous physical activity.

In addition to the popular inflatables, obstacles courses, the climbing wall and face painting, the day will feature entertainment by Dragon Masters Showcase, a New Orleans dance group that combines breakdancing, acrobatics, music and comedy. The group entertains thousands of French Quarter audiences each year at its regular performances in the French Market.

The group is scheduled to perform three times: 10 a.m., noon and 2 p.m. It also will offer three workshops: 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

Information sheets with event details were delivered to area schools recently for students to take home to their parents.

'Project LEAP!' is one of four..

Brothers Philip, Nathan And Jeremy Zemple And Family Recognized Sunday For 'Operation Fan Mail'

Sun, 20 Jan 2008 13:26:15 CST
Three brothers, Airman Philip Zemple, Spc. Nathan Zemple and Cpl. Jeremy Zemple, and members of their family will be recognized by the Packers and Festival Foods at Sunday's NFC Championship for 'Operation Fan Mail.'

Jeremy Zemple will not be present at the game today due to duty. The three brothers are natives of Sullivan, Wis.

Airman Philip Zemple is serving with the Air Force as a crew chief with the 4th Fighter Squadron out of Hill AFB, Utah. He returned from his first tour in Iraq Jan. 8, and was stationed at the AFB in Bilad, Iraq.

Spc. Nathan Zemple served with the Army in Iraq in 2003 on combat patrols with the 2-37 of the 1st Armored Division out of Germany. He was an M1A tank crew member assigned to foot patrols in Baghdad. Nathan has completed his service to the Army.

Cpl. Jeremy Zemple is serving with the 2-24 Marines 4th Division infantry. He served his first tour in 2004-05 with the Marines in Yusufiyah, Iraq, on combat patrols. Jerem..

Command Sergeant Major Bill Bissonette And Family Recognized Sunday For 'Operation Fan Mail'

Sat, 12 Jan 2008 10:25:49 CST
Command Sergeant Major Bill Bissonette and his family will be guests of the Packers and Festival Foods at Saturday's game vs. the Seattle Seahawks for 'Operation Fan Mail.'

Bissonette, a resident of Mishicot, is a 26-year infantry soldier veteran of the Army and currently is on leave from deployment as the Command Sergeant Major of Task Force Cyclone, the 378th Military Intelligence Battalion, which is serving in Baghdad, Iraq.

During his career, Bissonette has served in every leadership position, from team leader to command sergeant major, and also has served tours as a drill sergeant and an Army recruiter. He survived the attack on the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001, and has served on both the Army Staff and the Joint Staff. He has received numerous awards and decorations throughout his career.

Bissonette will be joined by his wife, Katherine (an Army Sergeant Major), daughter, Samantha, and brother, Floyd.

**

Operation Fan Mail' is a program in which the Green Bay Packers and Festival Foods recognize a military family at each home game.

To choose families, the Packers and Festival Foods are asking interested fam..

Green Bay Area Schools Contribute 24,532 Pounds Of Food To Annual Food Drive

Tue, 18 Dec 2007 12:58:21 CST
RECEIVE VISITS FROM PACKERS PLAYERS TUESDAY

Eighteen Green Bay area schools collected a total of 24,532 pounds of food for this year's Packers Women's Association Food Drive. Nearly 12,000 total students participated.

To recognize the students and congratulate them for their efforts, three schools received visits Tuesday from Packers players.

Notre Dame Elementary & Middle School, De Pere, took first place honors among the schools involved, collecting 14.6 pounds of food per student. Notre Dame also captured top honors in 2003, 2004 and 2006. Wide receiver Koren Robinson and tight end Ryan Krause addressed students at an all-school assembly.

Westwood Elementary School, De Pere, took second place honors, collecting 5.9 pounds per student. Wide receiver Shaun Bodiford, offensive lineman Junius Coston and wide Chris Francies visited the school. In addition, Baird Elementary School, Green Bay, was randomly drawn to receive a..

Richard 'Ike' Eisenhauer Named 10th Member Of Packers FAN Hall Of Fame

Fri, 14 Dec 2007 12:06:33 CST
Richard 'Ike' Eisenhauer of Wauwatosa, Wis., was named the 10th member of the Green Bay Packers FAN Hall of Fame at a press conference Friday at Lambeau Field.

Eisenhauer, 74, was nominated by his daughter, Ginger, and was selected by fans from 10 finalists during a voting period that closed Dec. 7. Thousands of votes were cast from throughout the United States and countries around the world.

In nominating her father, Ginger wrote of Eisenhauer's 50-plus years supporting the team and how he met his to-be wife, Alice, at a Packers game. The family, which includes nine children, refers to the family season tickets as "Sacred Packer Tickets."

Eisenhauer's devotion to the Packers evoked many family memories. One son, Dennis, heard Lombardi's name so often, he thought it was his last name. Another son, Paul, cut his hand in a fall and was told to wrap it in a towel and they'd go to the hospital at h..

Packers Players Raise Spirits At Holiday Party

Duke Bobber, Packers.com — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 15:05:46 CST
When Green Bay Packers players aren't preparing for their next game or wreaking havoc on the gridiron, many of them take time to give back to the community that gives them so much support, year after year.

The atmosphere was that of a large family at last night's sixth annual "Families of Children with Cancer Holiday Party" at St. Mark's Lutheran Church in De Pere. Players mingled with the children and their families, played games, and enjoyed the spread of pizza and ice cream.

For the children, it was a welcome respite from the health issues that they cope with every day, and the players realized that.

"I've been fortunate to be able to do this for a number of years," defensive end Aaron Kampman said. "It's just a great night to come together to celebrate hope.

"You see some of these kids and you think about the treatments they're going through. You know that there's some real tough kids here that have a lot of spirit and a lot of toughness."

Brady Poppinga Selected As Packers' Walter Payton NFL Man Of The Year

Tue, 11 Dec 2007 16:38:52 CST
Packers linebacker Brady Poppinga was selected as the Packers' 2007 Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year.

As the Packers' winner of the award, Poppinga will direct a $1,000 donation to the Invisible Children, an organization that supports school children in war-torn areas of Uganda. He also is nominated for the league-wide award to be selected from 32 NFL players. The overall NFL winner will be chosen by a blue ribbon panel in December and recognized at a press conference during Super Bowl week in Arizona. The winner will receive a $25,000 donation to the 501(c)3 organization of his choice.

Ultra-intense and enthusiastic, the third-year strong-side linebacker has developed into a reliable all-around player, capable of laying the big hit on a ballcarrier, receiver or quarterback. Despite a very serious injury that sidelined him for nine months, Poppinga has played in 41 of a possible 45 games in his career, starting all nine so far this season. He has amassed 138 total ..

Packers To Ring Salvation Army Bells This Holiday Season

Tue, 11 Dec 2007 15:35:36 CST
Members of the NFC North Division Champion Green Bay Packers, including Head Coach Mike McCarthy, are set to assist the Salvation Army this holiday season by ringing bells for the annual red kettle campaign.

Fans are encouraged to make a visit to the ringing sessions. Each Packers person will sign an autograph in exchange for a donation to the red kettle.

The current schedule follows (subject to change without notice):

-Dec. 13: Bubba Franks, Bay Park Square Mall at the Big Red Kettle near the Younkers Furniture Store wing, 5 to 7 p.m.

-Dec. 14: Mike McCarthy, Packers Pro Shop, 4:30 to 5:30 p.m.

-Dec. 17: Jason Spitz and Daryn Colledge, Bay Park Square Mall at the Big Red Kettle near the Younkers Furniture Store wing, 6 to 7 p.m.

-Dec. 18: Mason Crosby and Jon Ryan, Bay Park Square Mall at the Big Red Kettle near the Younkers Furniture Store wing, 7 to 8 p.m.

Keep up with the Packers' community appearances in the

Marine Capt. Jeremy Hoffman, Army LT Adam Hoffman And Family To Be Recognized Sunday For 'Operation Fan Mail'

Sun, 09 Dec 2007 10:42:35 CST
Marine Capt. Jeremy Hoffman, his brother, Army Lt. Adam Hoffman, and their family will be guests of the Packers and Festival Foods at Sunday's game vs. the Oakland Raiders for 'Operation Fan Mail.'

Capt. Jeremy Hoffmann, a Milwaukee native, currently serves as Executive Officer for Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment. He recently served in Camp Fallujah, Iraq, from September 2006 through April 2007, and was responsible for all combat missions run out of Forward Operating Base Gold. He earlier graduated from the United States Naval Academy where he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps in May 1999 and selected to attend Graduate School at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He later served with Golf Company, 2nd Battalion, 24th Marine Regiment based in Madison, Wis., as a platoon commander and served in Lutafiyah, Iraq, from September 2004 until April 2005, where he helped provide security for the first democratic elections in the hi..

Brett Favre Honored With Make-A-Wish Foundation Award

Thu, 06 Dec 2007 15:39:30 CST
The Make-A-Wish Foundation of America recently announced eight winners of this year's Chris Greicius Celebrity Awards, honoring top celebrities and organizations who embrace the Foundation's mission and granted remarkable wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions.

The recipients are:
Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre
Sports media company ESPN, a subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company
The cast and crew of the NBC TV series "Law & Order: SVU"
Recording artists My Chemical Romance
Mystifier Criss Angel
Celebrity Stylist, Creative Director and VH1 Fashion Authority Mary Alice Stephenson
Film producer Ian Bryce
NASCAR Foundation Executive Director Sandy Marshall

"Each of these winners was a true standout, even among the many generous celebrities who help create magical experiences for the kids who wish to meet them," said David Williams, Make-A-Wish Foundation of America president and chief execut..

Packers Coach Of The Year: Wayne Sackett, West Salem High School

Thu, 06 Dec 2007 12:36:18 CST
Wayne Sackett, of West Salem High School, has been named Wisconsin Football Coaches Association/Green Bay Packers Coach of the Year, the organization announced Thursday.

The WFCA also announced the release of its All-state team and honorable mentions for the 2007 season.

Sackett received the honor following West Salem's title run. The Panthers (13-1) defeated previously unbeaten Kettle Moraine Lutheran, 52-14, at Camp Randall in Madison to win their first WIAA Division 4 State Championship.

"I am grateful to be recognized by my peers," said Sackett of the honor.

In the game West Salem senior quarterback Dan Schneider set championship game records with 292 passing yards and four touchdowns, both of which he had set before halftime while racking up a 38-0 lead. The Panthers set a record scoring 24 points in the second quarter and tied another with 52 total points in the game.

After a Week 2 loss, the Panthers ran the table with 12 victorie..

More Than 1,500 Turn Out For Training Camp For Seniors

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Wed, 21 Nov 2007 11:47:33 CST
More than 1,500 participants turned out on Nov. 13 for Training Camp for Seniors, an event put on by the Green Bay Packers and Secure Horizons by UnitedHealthcare.

The free, inaugural event was designed to provide seniors with health checks and activities, as well as educational materials on Medicare. Participants were welcomed by Bart and Cherry Starr, who discussed ways for seniors to lead a healthy lifestyle and to stay informed about Medicare and other health insurance options.

"We formed a partnership with Secure Horizons with the intent to provide both a fun and educational day for seniors," said David Westphal, corporate sales account executive for the Packers. "We believe the seniors had a great day, and we'll be looking into continuing the event in the future."

Training camp attendees were able to stop at several health-related stations for flu shots, fitness demonstrations, and checks for blood pressure, cholesterol and glucose levels. Bellin Heal..

Army Spc. Manning To Be Recognized Sunday For 'Operation Fan Mail'

Sun, 18 Nov 2007 11:03:45 CST
Army Spc. Gregory Manning and his family will be guests of the Packers and Festival Foods at Sunday's game vs. the Carolina Panthers for 'Operation Fan Mail.'

Manning, a resident of Green Bay., is a medic for Echo Troop 105th Cavalry, a National Guard unit deployed from Antigo, Wis. His unit conducts convoy security missions in Iraq and has been there since August. The Preble High School grad originally joined the Army in March 2002.

Manning will be accompanied Sunday by his girlfriend, Sally Swan; brother, Gerald Manning Jr., also a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom; and father, Gerald Manning.

New this season, 'Operation Fan Mail' is a program in which the Green Bay Packers and Festival Foods recognize a military family at each home game.

To choose families, the Packers and Festival Foods are asking interested families, or friends of eligible families, to submit an essay, 5..

Packers Coach Of The Week: Dave Wills, Southwestern High School

Wed, 14 Nov 2007 14:55:32 CST
Dave Wills, of Southwestern High School, has been named Green Bay Packers Coach of the Week, the organization announced Wednesday.

"This award means a lot to me and our program," Wills said. "The kids deserve a lot of the credit. They're the ones who have to go out there and play. As a coaching staff we just tell them what we want them to do. They have to go out and execute it. I can't say enough about how well we've been playing."

The Wildcats (9-4) defeated Hillsboro, 42-7, on Friday night at Lancaster to advance to the WIAA Division 7 state finals next Thursday at Camp Randall in Madison.

"The kids have been playing excellent," Wills said. "The defense has been outstanding. We've beaten four great teams, three of them were conference champions."

Wills has been a part of the Wildcats program for 29 years and has experienced every single playoff game in the school's history.

"I've been a part of all the playoff appearances as a player, as..

Army Sgt. Williams To Be Recognized Sunday For 'Operation Fan Mail'

Sun, 11 Nov 2007 12:10:37 CST
Army Sgt. Matt Williams and his family will be guests of the Packers and Festival Foods at Sunday's game vs. the Minnesota Vikings for 'Operation Fan Mail.'

Williams, a resident of Onalaska, Wis., recently finished a tour of duty in Iraq with the 2nd Brigade as the lead gunner for the brigade's Personal Security Detachment and Quick Reaction Force.

He originally began his military service at Fort Benning, Ga., in May 2002, and also has served in Kuwait for Operation Desert Spring.

Matt will be accompanied Sunday by his father, Jim, mother, Kim, and sister, Meredith.

New this season, 'Operation Fan Mail' is a program in which the Green Bay Packers and Festival Foods recognize a military family at each home game.

To choose families, the Packers and Festival Foods are asking interested families, or friends of eligible families, to submit an essay, 500 words or less, on w..

Packers Coach Of The Week: John Nowak, Notre Dame Academy

Wed, 24 Oct 2007 16:07:30 CST
John Nowak, of Notre Dame High School, has been named Green Bay Packers Coach of the Week, the organization announced Wednesday.

"It's a great honor for our program to be recognized by the Green Bay Packers and the NFL," said Nowak, who also won the award in 1998. "I look at this as a team award. The coaching staff and all the kids truly deserve it. I'd like to thank the Green Bay Packers for the recognition they've given my football program at Notre Dame Academy."

The Tritons advanced to the second round of the WIAA Division 3 playoffs yesterday with an upset victory over top-seeded West De Pere, 34-27, in which Notre Dame scored 20 unanswered points in the fourth quarter.

"The way we won the game last night, scoring 20 points in the fourth quarter, we've developed that never give up attitude," Nowak said.

That never give up attitude has been tested this season since Notre Dame has been fighting an uphill battle all year. The Tritons lost the firs..

Packers Coach Of The Week: Charles Raykovich, Chippewa Falls High School

Thu, 18 Oct 2007 12:43:47 CST
Charles Raykovich, head coach at Chippewa Falls High School, has been named Green Bay Packers Coach of the Week, the organization announced Thursday.

"This is a great honor that has been bestowed upon us," Raykovich said. "I have nothing but the highest praise for our assistant coaches here at Chippewa Falls High School, and it goes through to the middle school and the youth program. We work our kids hard, expect a lot out of them, and their parents back us. I'm extremely proud of the town of Chippewa Falls."

Tonight, Chippewa Falls hosts Eau Claire Memorial with a shot at its first outright Big Rivers Conference title since 1999. They clinched at least a share of the conference title with a hard-fought, 14-13 victory over Menomonie last week, snapping the Indians' 47-game conference winning streak.

Raykovich has headed up the Chippewa Falls program since 1987 and oversees a high school program of 132 players. He is assisted by Ed Watkins, Bart Olson, Mik..

Packers Women's Association Food Drive Collects More Than $13,500 And 14,400 Food Items

Sun, 14 Oct 2007 14:29:58 CST
Fans attending Sunday's Packers-Redskins game donated $13,523 and approximately 14,400 non-perishable food items for the Packers Women's Association's 21st Annual Food Drive for Paul's Pantry, a supplementary food distribution program for the needy in the greater Green Bay area.

Overall, in 21 years of conducting the food drive, the PWA has collected approximately 580,800 non-perishable food items and more than $203,500 for Paul's Pantry.

Festival Foods is teaming with the PWA, and through Tuesday, Oct. 16, Green Bay and De Pere Festival Foods locations will have bins in their stores to collect food for the cause. Festival Foods will be sending donations to Paul's Pantry.

Army Specialist Doug Frisque And Family To Be Recognized Sunday For 'Operation Fan Mail'

Sun, 14 Oct 2007 10:54:15 CST
Army Specialist Doug Frisque and his family are guests of the Packers and Festival Foods at today's game vs. the Washington Redskins for 'Operation Fan Mail.'

Frisque, a resident of Green Bay, most recently was stationed at Camp Striker in Iraq, where he transported supplies to various bases. He currently is home on 15 days of leave and is scheduled to return to Iraq Oct. 18. His tour is projected to end in February 2008.

He joined the Army reserves in July 2002 and later graduated with honors from A.I.T (Advanced Individual Training) at Fort Lee, Va. After completing A.I.T, Frisque joined the 753rd QM Company out of Green Bay and later was deployed to Iraq in January 2007 with the 192nd QM Company from Milan, Ohio.

Doug will be accompanied today by his girlfriend, Mandi, mother, Debra, and brother, David.

New this season, 'Operation Fan Mail' is a program in which the Green B..

Packers Coach Of The Week: Jim Meckstroth, Cuba City High School

Thu, 11 Oct 2007 12:39:21 CST
Jim Meckstroth, of Cuba City High School, has been named Green Bay Packers Coach of the Week, the organization announced Thursday.

"It's a great honor," Meckstroth said. "I've been coaching for 30 years and just keep plugging away. It's very exciting. I don't know what to say."

The Cubans improved to 6-1, a perfect 5-0 in South Wisconsin Activities play, following the team's 27-9 victory over second-ranked and previously unbeaten Fennimore (6-1, 4-1) last Friday.

"We're 6-1 and we just beat a team that's expected to go to state and has dominated our conference the last couple of years," Meckstroth said.

The victory over the Golden Eagles puts Cuba City in control of the division race. A Cuban win in either of their last two games or a Fennimore loss in either of its two remaining games would clinch the division title for Cuba City. The Cubans could lock up the title tomorrow night when they travel to Iowa-Grant (3-4, 2-3) for a showdown with the P..

Packers Participate In NFL/United Way Hometown Huddle

Duke Bobber, Packers.com — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 14:13:37 CST
Green Bay Packers players spent their day off joining the Brown County United Way and the Wisconsin National Guard Challenge Academy in attempting to make a difference in the community on Tuesday.

Al Harris, Nick Collins, Jon Ryan, Desmond Bishop, James Jones, Rob Davis, Chris Francies and Ryan Powdrell were at The Golden House in Green Bay, lending their hands to make improvements to the home for battered women and children.

Players seemed to be genuinely enjoying themselves while spreading woodchips, planting a garden, assembling outdoor toys and serving dinner to clients and their children who are staying at the Golden House.

"Whenever you can give back I think it's important that you give back," said Harris. "You get a chance to give back and help out. We've been blessed and, you know, one hand washes the other."

Players hoped to make a difference in the daily lives of those who stay at The Golden House, which offers a wide range of services in..

Packers Women's Association To Hold 21st Food Drive Sunday

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 16:59:07 CST
The Packers Women's Association is teaming up with Festival Foods for the 21st Annual Food Drive for Paul's Pantry prior to Sunday's game against the Washington Redskins at Lambeau Field. This year's effort is headed by co-chairwomen Dr. Kaye Cole and Laura Hawk.

PWA members, who will be wearing their husband's or significant other's jersey or PWA jerseys, will collect non-perishable food items and cash donations in the stadium parking lot and at the gates prior to kickoff. Food items can be placed in bins located throughout the Lambeau Field parking lot. Volunteers from Paul's Pantry will be assisting with the collection and Festival Food's 'Big Carts' will be on site to promote the cause, too.

As an added incentive to donate to the food drive, fans have an opportunity to win Packers autographed items. For every $5 donation or five non-perishable food items contributed, a fan will receive a ticket stub. The winning ticket numbers will be drawn and announced on the ..

Lambeau Field Atrium To Host Fifth Annual 'Spooktacular Fun' Oct. 27

Mon, 08 Oct 2007 15:41:45 CST
HAUNTED CONCOURSE RETURNS; FREE EVENT OPEN TO AREA YOUTH; HALL OF FAME TO FEATURE SPECIAL CHILDREN'S PRICING OCT. 20-NOV. 4

The Green Bay Packers will host the fifth annual Halloween-themed event, 'Spooktacular Fun,' Saturday, Oct. 27, in the Lambeau Field Atrium. The main Atrium event, accessed through the Miller Brewing Company Gate, is from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and the Haunted Concourse, accessed through the Oneida Nation Gate, has three sessions: 10 a.m. to noon, 1 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 10 p.m.

The popular Haunted Concourse returns this year after its successful debut last fall. Designed for teens - it has a PG-13 rating - the Haunted Concourse will be set in a darkened Lambeau Field concourse and features scenes of high-tech shocks and horrors. Children under the age of 13 must be accompanied by a guardian into the Haunted Concourse, and children under the age of 8 will not be permitted. A separate entrance and special hours have been established for t..

Marine Staff Sgt. Joshua Krueger And Family To Be Recognized Sunday For 'Operation Fan Mail'

Sun, 07 Oct 2007 17:09:58 CST
Marine Staff Sgt. Joshua Krueger and his family are guests of the Packers and Festival Foods at Sunday's game vs. the Chicago Bears for 'Operation Fan Mail.'

Krueger, a resident of Milwaukee, previously was deployed with the II Marine Expeditionary Force out of Camp Lejeune, N.C., to Fallujah, Iraq, where he successfully led a highly trained team in protecting the Commanding General of the Marine Corps in Iraq.

He is the recipient of the Combat Action Ribbon, Humanitarian Aid Medal, National Defense Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Iraqi Liberation Medal and the Purple Heart for extensive wounds received in combat action on Feb. 27, 2005, when his Humvee was hit by an IED in Iraq. He subsequently retired from the Marine Corps due to his injuries and returned home to Wisconsin to be with his family, which includes 2-year-old twin daughters.

Joshua will be accompanied Sunday by his wife, Jill; mother, Karen; and father, Michael, a retired Marine ..

Packers Coach Of The Week: Dave Wineburner, Crivitz High School

Thu, 04 Oct 2007 16:46:24 CST
Dave Wineburner, of Crivitz High School, has been named Green Bay Packers Coach of the Week, the organization announced Thursday.

"I would not be able to accomplish any of this without the support of my parents, my wife Carrie and my daughter Emma," Wineburner said. "They understand the long hours and commitment that must be made to be successful in this sport. I even get my daughter to break down tape with me. 'Just win' is her four-year-old answer to everything. Thank you for your love and understanding."

'Just win' is exactly what Crivitz has done. Wineburner has the Wolverines undefeated after six games, including a perfect 4-0 mark in the Marinette-Oconto conference, following a 42-6 victory at Peshtigo last Friday.

"This award is a testament of the hard work and dedication of the players and coaches involved with the Wolverine football team," Wineburner said. "I am truly honored to receive this recognition on behalf of them."

Wineburner was h..

10th Packers FAN Hall Of Fame Honoree Sought

Wed, 03 Oct 2007 15:18:04 CST
Click here to nominate someone!

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The annual search is on for a new Packers FAN Hall of Fame honoree.

The first professional football team to have its own hall of fame, the Green Bay Packers enhanced that distinction in 1998 by establishing a Packers FAN Hall of Fame. It was founded, in conjunction with the Packers Hall of Fame, for the purpose of annually honoring a devout and longtime Packers fan.

As has been the case each of the past nine years, nominees are being sought for recognition by a selection committee. The late Mel Knoke of Appleton was chosen as the inaugural enshrinee in the FAN Hall of Fame. The 91-year-old Knoke, who died between the time of his election and enshrinement, was honored posthumously at the 1999 Packers Hall of Fame Induction Banquet.

In addition to Knoke, past honorees include: (2000) Louis Gardipee, Black River Falls, Wis.; (2001) Ed Jablonski, Wa..

Packers Accepting Nominations For Community Quarterback And Jr. Community Quarterback Awards

Mon, 01 Oct 2007 13:43:11 CST
The Green Bay Packers currently are accepting nominations for the Community Quarterback Award and the Jr. Community Quarterback Award.

Funded by the Green Bay Packers and NFL Charities, the Community Quarterback Award and the Jr. Community Quarterback Award recognize outstanding volunteers within the state of Wisconsin. Non-profit (501(c)(3) or 509) organizations are invited to nominate outstanding volunteers who demonstrate leadership, dedication and a commitment to bettering their communities through volunteerism.

The Community Quarterback Award is for volunteers who are 21 or older and not compensated for their services. Ten nominees will be selected and each will receive a $2,000 grant in the name of the non-profit organization from the Green Bay Packers.

The Jr. Community Quarterback Award is for volunteers who are un..

Family Message Of 'Game Plan' Resonates With Players

Mike Spofford, Packers.com — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 12:07:33 CST
Upon seeing a sneak preview of the new Disney movie "Game Plan" on Thursday night, a few Packers players appreciated the film's family message.

"Game Plan" is a story about a star quarterback, Joe Kingman, living the glamorous single life of a professional football hero. Suddenly, an 8-year-old daughter he never knew he had shows up on his doorstep, and his life is turned a bit upside-down.

Kingman, played by Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson, struggles mightily at first with what his priorities should be.

"The point of the movie was for him to learn that it's not all about him, regardless of how much fame he has," receiver Donald Driver said. "There are other people out there more important than him. I think as the movie went on, he realized that.

"At first he didn't really care. He said, 'I don't have any kids.' But as things went on he realized he does love her, and it shows that family always is first in this game."

Driver and fellow receiver ..

Packers, Verizon Wireless Team Up To Provide Hopeline For Domestic Violence Victims

Fri, 28 Sep 2007 15:03:35 CST
Wireless Phone Drive to be Held Oct. 7, at Lambeau Field

Verizon Wireless, the Green Bay Packers and Chad Clifton are teaming up to help curb domestic violence in Wisconsin. Fans attending the Packers game versus the Chicago Bears on Sunday, Oct. 7 are invited to donate no-longer-used wireless handsets and accessories from any wireless provider to benefit victims of domestic violence through the Verizon Wireless HopeLine(r) program. Volunteers will be collecting donated phones and equipment at each of the five Lambeau Field entrances from 5 p.m. until game time.

Through its award-winning HopeLine program, Verizon Wireless turns unused wireless phones into support for victims of domestic violence, including those in Wisconsin. Wireless phones, batteries and other accessories are collected at Verizon Wireless Communications Stores nationwide and in special collections throughout the year. The phones are either refurbished for reuse or recycled in an enviro..

Packers Coach Of The Week: Ray Mlada and Scott Fritz, Chilton High School

Thu, 27 Sep 2007 09:03:48 CST
Chilton High School varsity co-head coaches Ray Mlada and Scott Fritz have been named Green Bay Packers Coach of the Week, the organization announced Thursday.

The Tigers improved to a perfect 5-0 (3-0 in conference play) on the 2007 campaign with their 19-6 victory at Olympian-Packerland Large foe Sturgeon Bay last week.

"I'd like to thank the Green Bay Packers and everybody that's involved in with this award," Fritz said. "It's definitely a great honor. It's more of a reflection of Ray, I, our assistants and our players. So it's definitely a great honor."

Fritz, who joined the Tigers coaching staff in 1994, returned this season after taking a year off from coaching in 2006.

"While I was gone it felt like five or 10 years," Fritz said. "Once I got back, it felt like I never left."

Mlada is glad to have him back.

"I'd like to thank coach Scott Fritz for coming back this season to work with me," he said. "It's always been a great..

Army Sgt. Brian Bird And Family To Be Recognized Sunday For 'Operation Fan Mail'

Sun, 23 Sep 2007 10:20:16 CST
Army Sgt. Brian Bird and his family are guests of the Packers and Festival Foods at Sunday's game vs. the San Diego Chargers for 'Operation Fan Mail.'

Bird, a resident of Greenfield, Wis., has been serving in the Army for two-and-a-half years and his most recent deployment has been in Baghdad, Iraq, with the 1st Infantry Division, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, HHC. Bird serves as a Signal Support Systems Specialist, as well as a lead convoy driver.

He will return to Baghdad Oct. 6 to continue supporting "Operation Iraqi Freedom" until May 2008. Brian will be accompanied today by his wife, Bonita, mother, Melody Berlin, and other members of his family.

New this season, 'Operation Fan Mail' is a program in which the Green Bay Packers and Festival Foods recognize a military family at each home game.

To choose families, the Packers and Festival Foods are asking interested fami..

Packers Coach Of The Week: Andy Coldren, Beloit Turner High School

Thu, 20 Sep 2007 12:46:54 CST
Andy Coldren, of Beloit Turner High School, has been named Green Bay Packers Coach of the Week, the organization announced Thursday.

Coldren and the Trojans snapped a 32-game losing streak with a 7-0 victory over Orfordville Parkview last week. It was Beloit Turner's (1-3) first victory since Oct. 10, 2003, a drought of nearly four years.

"It's a real tribute to the program to be selected as high school coach of the week," Coldren said. "I'd like to thank the kids for working (hard) all summer."

The win also marked the first-ever victory for Coldren, who is entering his first season as a varsity head coach with his alma mater. Coldren, who graduated from Beloit Turner in 1986, was hired to coach the Trojans after a 10-year stint (1997-'06) as junior varsity head coach at Janesville Parker High School.

Coldren, who was born in Beloit, started rebuilding the Trojans program as soon as he was hired. The team had only 19 players before he arrived. Cold..

Packers' All Pro Dad Father & Kids Experience Registration Underway

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 14:06:51 CST
Registration is now underway for the Packers' All Pro Dad Father & Kids Experience, an event to be held at the Don Hutson Center Saturday, Oct. 13, 2007, from 1 to 4 p.m. The gathering is presented by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and is being hosted by Packers defensive end Aaron Kampman and defensive coordinator Bob Sanders.

Founded by Family First, the All Pro Dad fatherhood program helps to educate fathers on the best ways to become an "All Pro Dad." Fathers are encouraged to bring their children to the event, where they will learn fatherhood tips and participate in special activities with their kids, while rotating through football-themed learning stations located at the Hutson Center.

Registration is currently open and is $10 per father, which includes admission for dad and up to four kids. This event is recommended for children ages 5 and older. Registration is available online at www.AllProDad.com,..

Boys & Girls Club Dedicates Sam Miller Athletic Field

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 17:06:12 CST
The Boys & Girls Club of Green Bay dedicated the Sam Miller Athletic Field Friday at its Lutsey Unit on Green Bay's east side.

The outdoor multi-purpose sports field was made possible through gifts from AMS from PacifiCare in honor of Miller and the NFL Youth Football Fund Grassroots Program.

The NFL Youth Football Fund Grassroots Program is a partnership of the National Football League Youth Football Fund and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) to provide non-profit, neighborhood-based organizations, middle schools and high schools with financing and technical assistance to improve the quality, safety, and accessibility of local football fields.

Today's dedication brings to fruition the field upgrade grant that was announced by the Packers and the Boys & Girls Club in January 2006.

Sam and Carol Miller were in attendance at Friday's dedication ceremony. Sam Miller threw out the ceremonial first ball and together with Carol announced a..

Packers Coach Of The Week: Jeff Koenig, Stanley-Boyd

Fri, 14 Sep 2007 17:34:52 CST
Jeff Koenig, of Stanley-Boyd High School, has been named Green Bay Packers Coach of the Week, the organization announced Thursday.

"I think the award is a great statement for the kids and school and program in general," Koenig said. "I've been very blessed to have some quality assistant coaches as well as quality kids come through the program. It makes my job a whole lot easier."

The Orioles improved to 2-1 (1-0) after defeating Cloverbelt-Large conference foe Colby, 34-7, last Friday. The Orioles travel to Mosinee (3-0, 1-0) to face the Indians tomorrow night at 7 p.m.

"It really comes back to our kids," Koenig said. "We always say we're going to play with pride, purpose and passion. They've really accepted that. They want to do the best they can to represent their school and their community."

Koenig also thanked his family for the honor.

"My wife (Erika) is very supportive and understands the hours that it takes to put in as a footbal..

Packers' Third Annual 'All Pro Dad Father & Kids Experience' Set For Oct. 13

Wed, 12 Sep 2007 12:13:40 CST
AARON KAMPMAN AND BOB SANDERS TO BE ON HAND; REGISTRATION OPENS SEPT. 17

The third annual Packers All Pro Dad Father & Kids Experience will be held at the Don Hutson Center on Saturday, Oct. 13, 2007, from 1 to 4 p.m. The gathering is presented by Thrivent Financial for Lutherans and is being hosted by Packers defensive end Aaron Kampman and defensive coordinator Bob Sanders.

Founded by Family First, the All Pro Dad fatherhood program helps to educate fathers on the best ways to become an "All Pro Dad." Fathers are encouraged to bring their children to the event, where they will learn fatherhood tips and participate in special activities with their kids, while rotating through football-themed learning stations located at the Huston Center.

"I'm looking forward to another great event," said Kampman. "I can't wait to share some stories with fathers about the joy of raising a family and my own experiences as a dad. Not enough can be said about the val..

Colledge And Teammates Help Out At Green Bay West High School

Tue, 11 Sep 2007 16:47:13 CST
Watch Daryn and his teammates on NFL Network's Total Access: Real Windows

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Packers guard Daryn Colledge, along with teammates David Clowney, Will Blackmon, Ryan Grant, James Jones, Frank Walker and Jason Spitz, and volunteers from The Home Depot, organizers from the non-profit organization KaBOOM! and members of the local community joined forces Tuesday, Sept. 11, to completely refurbish the football practice field at Green Bay West High School.

The field refurbishment is part of The Home Depot-NFL Neighborhood MVP program that recognizes and celebrates NFL players for their commitment to giving back to their local communities. Colledge was one of ..