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 RICK NEUHEISEL, University of Washington football coach, spoke at the Celebrity Soup Line 2001. |
“The Salvation Army is a great team, with great desire and dedication,” said University of Washington Husky football coach Rick Neuheisel, keynote speaker for Celebrity Soup Line 2001, held June 19 at Seattle’s Westin Hotel.
This annual meeting attained its highest attendance level ever this year and brought in more than $170,000 in donations and sponsorship for Salvation Army services in King County.
More than 700 guests enjoyed an elegant luncheon peppered with local celebrities, including: Kevin Calabaro, voice of the Seattle Supersonics; John Carlson, KVI Radio host; Pat Cashman, KOMO Radio personality; Joel Connelly, legendary Seattle Post-Intelligencer political columnist; June Daugherty, University of Washington women’s head basketball coach; Margaret Larson, NBC “Dateline” correspondent; and Wally Walker, president of the Seattle Supersonics.
All were welcomed by KOMO-TV Meteorologist Steve Pool, who hosted the event. The Polynesian youth group from the Army’s ethnic ministry in Everett entertained the crowd with charismatic dancing.
Melani Hughes, a music student at Seattle Pacific University, told how alcoholism tainted her childhood and how her involvement with The Salvation Army’s Camp Arnold altered her outlook.
“I don’t have to be stuck in a bad place. I’ve rededicated my life and, through my journey, I’ve met people at The Salvation Army who’ve encouraged me to go to the next level.” Melani’s future goals include writing, producing and directing a stage musical.
Scott Overby, a graduate of The Salvation Army’s Adult Rehabilitation Center, spoke of his battle against drug addiction, his arrest and conviction, and his transition back into society.
“Change doesn’t happen overnight,” he emphasized. “I thank The Salvation Army for taking a personal interest in helping me change my life.”
Today, Scott works for Pioneer Human Services and has full custody of his daughter.
Neuheisel concluded the hour-long program with a speech about human triumphs. “To succeed, someone has to know that someone else cares. The Salvation Army gives people a chance at success and produces results.”