Nov 17

Nov 17 Local kettles turning purple and green ahead of Sunday's big game

Vikings or Packers?

It's a question that's sparked debate across the Upper Midwest for decades.

For the first time since the Brett Favre era ended in Minnesota, the Vikings (7-2) are performing at a higher level than the arch-rival Packers (6-3).

The two teams will meet for the first time this season on Sunday in Minnesota. A win will give the Vikings a two-game lead over the Packers for first place in the NFC North. A loss will put the two teams in a tie atop the division.

In other words, it's a big game.

To get fans excited, the Rochester Salvation Army is hosting a "Kettle Border Challenge" on Thursday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in downtown Rochester. Fans are encouraged to support their team (and the Salvation Army) by dropping some money into the kettles, which will be either decked out in purple or green.

You can stop by the second floor of Shops at University Square or the Associated Bank location in the subway to participate.

The Rochester Salvation Army relies on Red Kettle donations as part of its Christmas campaign, which generates almost one-third of its annual funding. Funds raised are used for food, housing, healthcare, adult day care and social programs of the Salvation Army.

The organization has set a goal of raising $1.075 million through Dec. 31.