It’s rare when North Texas weather allows Margie and Ray Francis to open up their charming cottage along Turtle Creek for an outdoor event. According to Ray, it’s either too warm, too wet or too cold. But tonight it was just right for the kick-off of the 2020 Soup’s On! Luncheon festivities, and the Francises’ backyard was this side of perfection with strings of lights overhead, the lush greenery in the background and the multi-leveled terrace allowing guests to make themselves at home.
But the longtime Stewpot Alliance -supporting Francises wanted the evening’s emphasis placed on the plans for the annual fundraiser being co-chaired by blonde sisters-in-law Amy Hegi and Libby Hegi. Celebrating the 45th anniversary of The Stewpot, the luncheon will return to the Omni Dallas Hotel on Thursday, February 20, with the entire Hallam family serving as honorary co-chairs.
The keynote speaker will be Judge Craig Mitchell, founder of the Skid Row Running Club. Featured in “Skid Row Marathon,” Craig created the organization “to provide a running program for the Skid Row Community of Los Angeles and to involve the larger community in supporting its members in overcoming alcohol/drug abuse and achieving positive life goals.”
When asked whether longtime Soup’s On! Luncheon chief chef Brian Luscher would still be involved despite his serving the last dish at his The Grape earlier this month, Brian didn’t hesitate. Of course, he would be corralling a great group of chefs to create soups to warm guests and to raise funds. It’s the very next thing on his “must-do list” as he puts the period on his Grape era.
BTW, just to bring guests up to date, The Stewpot Executive Director Brenda Snitzer reported that, since 2008, The Stewpot has served three meals a day seven days a week at Second Chance Café at The Bridge Homeless Recover Center. Why, just this past year, 8M meals were served clients. But in addition to feeding the homeless, The Stewpot’s services reach far beyond food. It also provides homeless individuals and families with services that most folks take for granted, like just trying to get an ID or even mail.
And as the chill starts creeping into these parts, that soup is gonna taste mighty fine come February. Tickets are available here.