Empty Bowls

Thanks to my friend Anne Sinclair for sending this --

One way we here in Santa Barbara raise money for the Food Bank at this crucial time of the year is have  an "Empty Bowls" Event held on the first Sunday in November.  Local artists make bowls that the donors choose upon arriving.  Gourmet soups are provided by local restaurants and some of our SB notables such as the mayor, a popular columnist in the local Independent newspaper and actors (John Cleese) serve the soup.
Water and bread are also provided.  Every donation ($25) goes to the Food Bank.  It is a poplar event and last year the third sitting (200 servings per sitting) was added. There is also a silent auction of donated items and services.
Oh, and yes, the donors get to take their bowls home.