Tom Crabtree

The Salvation Army of Spartanburg today announced their 23rd annual ‘Toast of the Town” benefit event saluting Tom Crabtree, longtime co-anchor of the weeknight newscasts of 7News on WSPA-TV. The event will be held on Tuesday, April 19 at 7 p.m. in the ballroom of the downtown Spartanburg Marriott, a new location for the event.

All proceeds from Toast of the Town support youth programs at The Salvation Army Corps Community Center of Spartanburg County. These after-school, athletic, and summer camp programs focus on at-risk youth, education, character building, fitness and health, and spiritualism.

With more than 40 years in broadcasting, native Carolinian Tom Crabtree is one of the best-known and most experienced television news anchors in the Carolinas. An award-winning journalist, Tom has moderated numerous political debates, interviewed top politicians, and covered six hurricanes.

He actively supports Spartanburg charities, including Christmas in Action, Mobile Meals, and the March for Babies. Tom’s special report in 2007 on his personal experience with sleep apnea was described as a “lifesaver” by many of his viewers.

“Spartanburg has been my family’s home since 1981, and I’ve enjoyed a long association with the Spartanburg Salvation Army far beyond my role as a journalist,” Crabtree said. “This organization has shown me the great need that exists in our community to help the less fortunate. My family has been blessed to support the Salvation Army’s programs and I’m extremely honored to be part of this year’s Toast of the Town.”

Crabtree continued: “Do you want a good laugh? Want to give me a good ribbing? Want to enjoy great music? Want to make Spartanburg an even better community at the same time? I hope everyone will come out and help the Salvation Army raise the funding it needs to keep making Spartanburg a stronger city.”

Dinner will be served at the event. “Roasters” for the evening include Jimmy Lizer, Andre’ Kerr, Doug Williams, and Lamar Richardson. Past Toast of the Town honorees include Julian C. Josey, M.D. and James D. Bearden, M.D., Former Mayor Bill Barnet, Jimmy and Marsha Gibbs, Kathy Dunleavy, Carolina Panthers Owner Jerry Richardson, and Wofford Head Football Coach Mike Ayers.

For more information and ticket sales, please contact The Salvation Army at 864- 576-6670, ext. 104 or visit www.salvationarmycarolinas.org/spartanburg.

– Submitted by Sims Bouwmeester