GREENVILLE – Bear’s Mill was transformed into a restaurant for an evening on March 12 when it held its popular dining event, “Soup ‘n Bowl.”
The atmosphere was warm and lively as volunteers served delicious soup, bread and desserts to friends and families whose donations secured their spot at the table, and choice of a pottery bowl. Volunteers and donors made the entire event possible and the Friends of Bear’s Mill are grateful to all donors and participants, said Executive Director Marti Goetz.
Ted Abney, owner of the Bistro off Broadway, generously donated the cheesy potato soup and chili, and and also lent tables and chairs, roasters, and provided bowls for dining. He was recognized with a Certificate of Appreciation from the Friends of Bear’s Mill for providing the soup every year the event has been held.
The soup was complimented by Rustic Italian bread donated by Margaret Begg who owns the Bakehouse in Troy. All agreed that the main dish was worth the trip to the mill, but some may say the pies and brownies “took the cake,” Goetz said. The desserts were donated by Kim Davis, owner of Sugar Pie Bakery in Piqua.
Pianist Marc Pequignot provided popular music from American standards and jazz to Broadway tunes. The happy din warmed the Clark Gallery, continuing through the first two sold-out seatings and the third full-house of diners. More than 150 people attended the event, Goetz said.
Professional potters provide the core of this cherished event, as their bowls become the keepsake of all who attend.
Eight artists donated 12-14 bowls each: Julie Clark, Loretta Wray, Rita Wiley, Dionne Mayhew, Ben Deeter, Scott Thayer, David Kirchner and Sally Watson. Months ahead, these potters create unique bowls in multiples, mix glazes, fire their creations twice in kilns and carefully wrap their donations for delivery.
Extra bowls are for sale at Bear’s Mill. Many devoted mill members have a bowl from each of the four times the Soup ‘n Bowl has been held.
