Christmas Soup 2001 Raises Over $1,300

Christmas Soup 2001, the seventh annual benefit for the Community Kitchen of Torrington held on December 1 at Center for the Dance Arts, was a huge success with $1,325.28 raised to help feed area needy. In addition to the raising of funds, the event was a celebration of Christ Jesus with time of prayer and special music honoring Him. The total marks the largest amount raised yet by the event, which includes performances by area musicians, raffles and a silent auction with prizes donated by area merchants.

Since its birth in 1995, Christmas Soup has raised about $5,500 for the Community Kitchen. Organized by area residents Wilbert Boles, Larry Wright and Mike Killiany, Christmas Soup 2001 was successful largely due to the generosity of many volunteers.

The organizers wish to thank each of the following individuals and merchants for their participation: Velma Whiting, Erin, Dr. Todd Anderson, AM 610 WSNG, WKZE FM, Country 92.5 FM, the Waterbury Republican-American (Joyce Peck), 89.9 WAPJ, 97.3 WZBG, WTXX TV 20, Connie, Heidi and Hillary Wright, Sports Palace, Red Lobster, Napa Auto Parts, Paintings by Ron Hill, Kirk Fredriksson and the Torrington Twisters, Royal Precision Golf, Patricia Dupret, Morzella Sound, Litchfield Woods and Friends, the Register-Citizen, LaMonica's, Beyer Music, MacDonald Auto Parts, Torrington Beauty Academy, Alfredo's Deli & Pizza, Tax Prep, Wibo Productions, Integrity & Hosannah Music, Dunkin Donuts (top of East Main St.), Boy Scouts Troop 4, Pizza Palace, Ann Marie Singletary, First CT Open Bible Church, John Mitchell, Mike and Elaine Tedesco, Jeff Humphrey, Blimpies (McDermott St.), WalMart, Torrington Savings Bank, Lombard Ford, Nutmeg Ballet, UConn Athletic Dept., Dave Sweet, The Voice, Foothills Trader, Global Village, Gary's Hilltop Getty, Ponte's Torringford Package Store, Colonial Spirit Shoppe, Main St. Eatery, Heart & Soul Christian Bookstore, the China Shoppe, Dakota's, Jimmy's Store, Center for the Dance Arts, Travel Daly, Sharon Kunay, Chatterley's, Scott and Yvonne.

Thanks to all who attended and purchased raffle tickets, gave donations, and spent time with us enjoying great music and fellowship. And much thanks to anyone whose name was forgotten. Your efforts are greatly appreciated.

All due thanks and praise to the most high God Almighty Father and Creator who gives strength, creativity and purpose. Blessings to the Wonderful Counselor, Redeemer, Savior and Guiding Light for all nations who call on Him, Our Lord Jesus Christ. Without HIM there would be no Christmas Soup, or CHRISTmas at all, for that matter.