By Carol Quaintance For MediaNews Group
The Twin Valley Rotary Club hosted its 4th annual Empty Bowls dinner at Conestoga Mennonite Church, Route 23, Morgantown, on Nov. 1.
“A large mixed crowd was in attendance for this yearly event held the first Friday of every November to feed the hungry,” said Rotary Club Secretary Mary Ellen Mahan.
She added, “The hungry does not only include those that attend. Most importantly 100 percent of the money raised is donated to the Twin Valley Food Pantry that operates out of Conestoga Mennonite Church with volunteers and donations such as these.”
The mission of Rotary is service to humanity. This event shines a spotlight on the hunger and need of some within our community.
The 2019 event will go down as a record year, raising approximately $2,200. The popularity is growing as some attendees are becoming collectors of the hand-crafted ceramic bowls made by local potters.
Each person lines up to choose an empty bowl to begin the meal of their choice from steaming pots of a veritable buffet of soups, with tantalizing smells, and colorful displays ladled into their bowls. They can try any variety they desire.
Friends and strangers gathered around tables with other members of the community to share a filling but simple meal.
The bowl they take home is a memory of the evening and a reminder that for many a bowl of food may be all they have for the day. Many in attendance are grateful to be a part of helping those less fortunate.
“The TVFP relies on their generosity to fulfill their mission and are grateful for the excitement of those who make the empty bowls and for those who supply such a diverse and tasty variety of soups. The room sure smells good,” said Mahan.
This year a People’s Choice Award for the soups was presented. In the restaurant category
– The Heritage Restaurant had attendees lined up for their Loaded Potato Soup.
– Followed by The Windmill Family Restaurant who donated a Cream of Seafood Soup.
– Third place went to Susie Q’s Breakfast and Lunch Cafe for their Italian Wedding Soup.
In the churches group, All Souls ECC, St. Thomas Episcopal, and Zion Mennonite were definite crowd favorites.