The Bells Are Still Ringing in Bridgeport

First Annual Breakfast a Success!

BRIDGEPORT – It was a perfect November morning in the City for everyone to gather at the beautiful Testo's Ristorante for the Bridgeport Corps "Keep the Bells Ringing!" Kettle Kick-Off Breakfast. Advisory Board Chairperson, Dr. Gladys Gress, welcomed the guests and got the program "ringing" as she introduced Major Dave Champlin, Salvation Army Southern New England Divisional Commander, who served as the Master of Ceremonies for the event.

The National Anthem was performed by the Brass Ensemble from Divisional Headquarters and the Invocation was delivered by Bridgeport Corps Officer and Pastor Major Lydia Pearson. When Major Pearson finished with the blessing, she explained how the audience was to then work their way through the buffet line. We doubt anyone left the breakfast hungry that morning!

Next up was the guest speaker, Matthew Bevin. Major Champlin introduced Matt as the sixth-generation owner of Bevin Bell Manufacturing in East Hampton, Connecticut, the supplier of most of the Army’s kettle bells. The Bevin Bell Factory was hit by a lightning strike and burned to the ground on Memorial Day weekend 2012. The story of how the factory and the business rose from the ashes is a powerful tale to hear and Matt Bevin is a wonderful speaker and person to tell it! He is a resident of Kentucky and "commutes" to Connecticut whenever business requires it. He and his wife, Glenna, live in Louisville with their 9 children, and yet Matt still finds time to help the Salvation Army. Thank you again Matt!

Immediately following the speaker, Major Lydia presented a very informative presentation on area services provided in the past year, backed by the ensemble. Next were the special recognition awards. The "Friends of the Army" award was presented to the Trefz Corporation. They were recognized as a group that has extended its "hand of friendship" to The Salvation Army, by providing resources and contacts.

(Tony Gadsden receiving his “Servant of God” award from Major Lydia Pearson and Dr. Gladys Gress.)

The "Christmas Angel" award was then presented to the GE - Elfun Society, which is given in recognition of a group, organization, or individual that has contributed significantly to The Salvation Army’s holiday’s activities.

The final award, the "Servant of God" award, was given to Anthony Gadsden. He was recognized for his unselfish contributions of his time and talent to The Salvation Army.

After many rounds of applause for the award recipients, the closing benediction was given by Major Katherine Longcoy, Associate Corps Officer and Pastor for Bridgeport. With another kettle season underway, everyone then left with a better understanding of how The Salvation Army meets needs year-round and why any and all support is so important.