Wilmington has lasting reminders of the generosity of several national celebrities who visited this past week to help this community reeling from job losses at the air park and other effects of the recession. Our sincere thanks to Rachael Ray; the crew of the Emmy Award-winning “The Rachael Ray Show;” singer Nick Lachey, a native of Cincinnati; Carter Oosterhouse, celebrity carpenter and home improvement show host; and Kahi Lee, interior designer, for spreading some Thanksgiving holiday cheer and assisting Sugartree Ministries and Your Father’s Kitchen.

On Saturday, the ribbon was cut for the grand reopening of Sugartree Ministries and Your Father’s Kitchen. Thanks to Rachael Ray and others, the local soup kitchen could be renamed Your Father’s New Kitchen. It has been given an entire makeover which will enhance the ability of staff and volunteers to serve the many people who count on Sugartree for so much. Sugartree Ministries Director Allen Willoughby was in awe when he saw the finished project, as it will improve the flow for people to receive groceries and receive their meals. In addition, Ray has promised to supply food for Your Father’s Kitchen for a year.

On Sunday, Ray hosted a Thanksgiving feast for the Wilmington community. An estimated 2,000 Wilmington residents facing tough economic times arrived at the Roberts Centre north of the city to enjoy the dinner. There was 900 pounds of turkey, 700 pounds of mashed potatoes, 700 pounds of sweet potatoes, and 400 pounds of green beans. There was stuffing, brussels sprouts, gravy and even pumpkin pie for dessert. With approximately two weeks to prepare, the Roberts Centre was creatively and cheerfully decorated for the season. As Ray noted, designer Kahi Lee had created, “A feast for your eyes before the stomach.” Musical entertainment was provided by the Wilmington High School show choir, the Wilmingtones, and by Grammy nominees The Fray. It was a fitting event to celebrate the fortitude of local residents and the strong sense of community that persist despite the economic hardship of the past several months.

Wilmington-area residents undoubtedly will tune in to “The Rachael Ray Show” on Nov. 25 when, on national television, the makeover of Your Father’s Kitchen and the community dinner will be featured.

Long after the program is aired, however, the community will have lasting reminders of Rachael Ray’s visit. Sugartree Ministries will have a beautifully remodeled kitchen that will help facilitate those in need. Food donations for a year will help to provide for those in need. And the hundreds who attended the Thanksgiving community dinner at the Roberts Centre will have lasting memories they can share with their grandchildren and others.

Many thanks to Rachael Ray and her team for all their help and for being such gracious hosts.