The Shadow
CLIFTON FORGE, Va. (VR) – The Historic Masonic Theatre is delighted to share the tremendous success of the 2025 John Hillert Souper Sunday, held on Sunday, November 9. This cherished community tradition once again brought together local chefs, volunteers, and supporters—resulting in the eleventh year of generosity for the event.
This year, area chefs prepared and donated a remarkable variety of soups, contributing to a total of 310 quarts sold, with all proceeds benefiting the Clifton Forge Area Food Pantry. A check for $3741.00 will be presented to Clifton Forge Area Food Pantry to help stock their shelves for the upcoming holiday season. Thanks to their dedication and the enthusiastic support of the community, Souper Sunday continues to make a meaningful impact for local families.
Chefs for 2025 include: Betsy Carter, Buddy Carter, Alleghany Highlands Arts & Crafts Center, Jane Newkirk, Kathy Bryant, the Hillert Family, Judy Clark, Jerry Clark representing Alleghany Journal; Jerry Meyer representing Big Fat Jerry’s Seasoning; Susan Meyer, Mountain Field Market, Jack Mason’s Tavern, Michael’s New York Style Pizza, Joan Vannorsdall, Mary Ellen Haines, Carol and Chuck Almarez, 42 Deli, Annette Hodges, Libby Burger, Mary Fant Donnan, The Friendly Fork and Tracy Klein.
As in previous years, guests picked up their soups at the Masonic Amphitheatre alley entrance on Church Street, where Theatre volunteers and Board members delivered each order directly to cars.
Extra quarts were also made available for purchase while supplies lasted, and several attendees contributed additional monetary donations to support the Food Pantry’s mission.
Wendy Hudler, Director of Operations for the Historic Masonic Theatre, shared her gratitude: “Our chefs, volunteers, our staff and community supporters make Souper Sunday such a special tradition. Their generosity—both in time and spirit—reflects exactly what John Hillert envisioned when this event began. We are humbled by the outpouring of support this year, and we know John would be overjoyed to see how his legacy continues to nourish our community.”
The Theatre extends heartfelt thanks to everyone who cooked, purchased, donated, or volunteered.
John Hillert Souper Sunday remains a shining example of community spirit and collective kindness.
Anyone who would like to donate to make soup for Souper Sunday 2026, please call the Theatre at 540-862-5655 or visit www.historicmasonictheatre.com.
