Three and a half years after a child development center was destroyed in the bombing of the Murrah Federal Building in Oklahoma City, the dream of a new center has come to fruition -- thanks in large part to the NFL. The Downtown YMCA Child Development Center held its formal opening on September 10. "This new facility could not have been completed without the tremendous generosity of the National Football League and other community-minded organizations," said Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor MARY FALLIN. "All of us in Oklahoma are extremely appreciative of the support and financial contribution that the NFL owners made to this new facility." The NFL contributed $250,000 through NFL Charities to the construction of the new center. "It was a small token of appreciation for the tremendous interest and support that the citizens of Oklahoma have provided the sport of football over the years," said NFL Commissioner PAUL TAGLIABUE.

WHO NEEDS BUBBLE GUM CARDS? FAVRE’S GOT HIS OWN WHEATIES BOX

He grew up eating Wheaties and became a three-time NFL MVP. Now he can still eat his Wheaties – and stare at himself on the box. Green Bay Packers quarterback BRETT FAVRE is the latest NFL star to have his likeness pictured on the cereal box that this year celebrates its 65th year of association with sports. A photo of Favre throwing a pass, along with a logo symbolizing his selection the past three years by The Associated Press as NFL MVP (along with BARRY SANDERS in ’97), has debuted on a regional Wheaties box that will be sold throughout Wisconsin and in parts of Minnesota. "As I grew up, I can remember seeing many of my sports heroes in Wheaties commercials and on the package," said Favre. "Now I have my own package. That’s great." Wheaties plans a national box later this season featuring Favre and fellow NFL quarterbacks JOHN ELWAY of the Denver Broncos and STEVE YOUNG of the San Francisco 49ers.

SEASON KICKS OFF…AND SO DO SPONSORS’ PLANS