Arkansas lawmakers took serving to a new level June 25. They donned black aprons to transform themselves into waiters and waitresses for the evening at the eighth annual Serving Up Solutions, presented by the Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance and the Arkansas Legislative Hunger Caucus.
Susan and Gov. Asa Hutchinson, who hosted the event at the Governor's Mansion, welcomed guests. Distinguished attendees included former Arkansas first lady Ginger Beebe.
After placing their bids at the silent auction and enjoying reception fare of libations and passed hors d'oeuvres, attendees were "served up" a four-course dinner prepared by chefs Altus Buttry, Patrick Herron and Daniel R.R. Darrah. The cuisine was highlighted by pork tenderloin with mustard tarragon cream. Guests were encouraged to donate to the cause even further by "tipping" their servers.
Co-chairmen Kyle and Ben Noble gave remarks, along with Asa Hutchinson and Butch Rice, alliance board president. A live auction, conducted by Sen. Bruce Maloch, D-Magnolia, included a garden sculpture by Lynn Sudderth and Nancy Conley; a beer tasting for 12 guests; a vacation in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico; a lady's gold and diamond bracelet; a VIP game package for the Nov. 27 football date between the Arkansas Razorbacks and Missouri Tigers; and a painting by Barry Thomas, who created the piece live at the event.
"We exceeded our goal of $115,000," said Conley, communications director for the alliance. Proceeds from sponsorships, ticket sales and the silent and live auctions go to support the programs at the alliance. A portion of the money will go to the evening's participating legislators in the form of grants to be awarded to food banks, pantries, soup kitchens or other hunger organizations in their districts.
High Profile on 07/05/2015