To: unclewest who wrote (96432 ) 1/23/2005 5:15:07 PM From: Sully- Respond to of 793838 Last week, the Steelers gave tickets to 50 soldiers from the 336th Military Police Battalion of the U.S. Army Reserve to the Jets/Steelers game in Pittsburgh. Patriotic Tribute for Local Soldiers, Lee Greenwood to Highlight Steelers’ AFC Championship Game Activities at Heinz Field PITTSBURGH—The Steelers’ AFC Championship Game at Heinz Field this Sunday will have a strong local patriotic theme with special appearance by national-artist Lee Greenwood when the Steelers face the AFC East Champion New England Patriots. Kickoff for the game is 6:30 p.m. Fans can arrive early for the game. The Coca-Cola Great Hall and South Plaza (Gates A and B), Clubs and Suites will open at 3:30 p.m.—three hours prior to kickoff instead of usual two. Gate C will open at 4:30 p.m. for access to the seating bowl and remainder of the stadium. Due to the cold weather, fans are encouraged to arrive early to Heinz Field because there will be security measures implemented at the gates. The Steelers have invited family members of the recently deployed 911th Airlift Wing of the Air Force Reserves, based in Pittsburgh, to attend Sunday’s game. Additionally, during a pre-game ceremony, the Steelers teamed up with the Freedom Call Foundation, a non-profit military organization, to connect Pittsburgh families with their deployed loved ones in Iraq. Local artist Sputzy (Jim Sparacino) will sing “America the Beautiful,” which will be dedicated to all soldiers and their families for safe deployment and return home. Performing at the national anthem will be Star Search winner, 13-year-old Tiffany Evans, who has a debut album being released in March. The national anthem is being provided by the NFL. Zambelli International will complement the national anthem and pre-game ceremonies with fireworks. Prior to the game, early arriving fans can take part in a Steelers Playoff Rally beginning at 3:30 p.m. in the Coca-Cola Great Hall. Steelers Radio Network personalities Tunch Ilkin and Craig Wolfley will host the event. Fans can get an inside look at the key match ups on the day’s game and be part of an informal question and answer session with Tunch & Wolf. Johnny Angel and The Halos will perform at 4 p.m. At halftime, Greenwood will perform his hit song, “God Bless the USA."secure2.steelers.com