In a rivalry that transcends politics, Edmonds Mayor Dave Earling and City Councilmember Diane Buckshnis will cheer for opposite sides in this Sunday’s NFC playoff when the Seattle Seahawks square off against the Green Bay Packers for a Super Bowl berth.
“I’ve been a Packer fan since I met my husband Steve 24 years ago,” said Buckshnis. “I grew up in Oregon and didn’t really follow football, but Steve is from Wisconsin and a die-hard Packer and Badger fan. I just got caught up in the excitement!”
And for Diane and Steve, it’s more than just cheering for the Pack. The couple are part owners of the Packers franchise, and five years ago, after many years on the waiting list, they finally scored their season tickets.
“Steve and I try to make at least four regular games each season, and then of course the playoffs,” said Buckshnis. “Packer fans are awesome and Lambeau Field is truly a wonderful historical venue that I wish everyone could experience.”
Earling, a 34-year Seahawks season ticket holder, is about as enthusiastic a 12th man as you’ll find anywhere.
“And you can’t beat our location,” he said. “Third tier, 50 yard line! That puts us in a great position to hear…and feel…everything. The sensation you get when those 68,000 fans get cheering and the whole stadium starts to shake is absolutely indescribable!”
Asked to call Sunday’s score, Earling jumped right in. “Seahawks 24, Packers 13!”
Buckshnis was more circumspect. “I just want an exciting game where no one gets hurt…and the Packers win!”
— Story and photo by Larry Vogel
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