What: 15th annual Stewpot Alliance Soup’s On Luncheon and Art Show
Where: Thompson Dallas
The 411: A chilly last Monday of January was the perfect day for piping hot soup - and the perfect day for Dallas' beloved Soup's On Luncheon and Art Show. The annual Stewpot Alliance fundraiser marked its 15th anniversary this year, and was chaired by artists Christy Coltrin and Brad Oldham.
More than 700 guests filled the hotel ballroom for the sold-out luncheon, a highlight of which was a talk by Cynt Marshall, Dallas Mavericks’ CEO and author of You’ve Been Chosen. She shared how she overcame personal and professional odds to help others see how they are uniquely positioned to thrive.
Brenda Ewing Snitzer, executive director of The Stewpot, underscored the organization's mission to offer a safe haven for homeless and at-risk people, with resources for basic survival and opportunities to start a new life.
Dallas Mavericks’ DJ Poizon Ivy emceed the event and kept the beat lively with special playlist of music inspired by food, meals, and community.
And, of course, there was the main event - the food. Chef Brian C. Luscher, who has served as celebrity chef chair for the past 15 years, recognized each chef who prepared signature soups for the luncheon. They included: Jeff Bekavac of Cane Rosso, Thunderbird, and Zoli’s; J. Chastain of Sister, The Charles, and Carlos Elegante; Kevin Curry, Fit Men Cook; Omar Flores, Muchacho Tex Mex; Danyele McPherson, Purple Collar Kitchen; Janice Provost, Parigi; Anastasia Quiñones Pittman, José; Javier Reyes, The Stewpot; Jeramie Robison, Thompson Dallas; and Abraham Salum, Salum.
In a beautiful crowning touch, Brad Oldham Sculpture created the centerpieces, a limited-edition bronze sculpture that portrays two otters taking care of each other, "demonstrating a manifestation of their compassionate bond and a reminder to care for our neighbors," organizers said.
Proceeds from the "Otter Guides" sculptures, as well as the entire luncheon, benefited The Stewpot which, for 48 years, has served Dallas neighbors experiencing and at risk of homelessness by providing meals, counseling and case management, rapid rehousing, medical and dental services, youth and family stabilization programs, vocational activities, and more.
Who: Rhonda Sargent Chambers, Lynn McBee, Kit Chambers, Cal Findeiss, Meagan Findeiss, Darshell Slaughter, Vater Williams, Gregory Williams, Fernando Gallegos, Amanda Reyes, Allyson Gordon, Janet Evans, Courtney Luscher, Bonnie Mastin, Liz Brantley, Brett Brantley, Tara Glasgow, Shae Barbieux, Randy Herbert, Margie Francis, Ray Francis, and many more.
Photo by Rob Wythe
Margie Francis, Brian Luscher, Ray Francis
Margo Johnson, Lauren Swope, Cathrine Rowsey, Nina Byrd, Chelsea Hargrave, Lauren Ott, Ashley Newton, Emily Fuquay Photo by ASHGPHOTO
The Taste of the Masters group.Photo by ASHGPHOTO
Emcee — and self-proclaimed Georgia peach —Laura Harris.Photo by ASHGPHOTO