ORANGE PARK – For the Salvation Army’s Empty Bowls fundraiser to be successful, the many pots that once were filled with homemade soup would be empty, the table with baked goods would be bare and all of the silent auction items would be taken.

With that in mind, consider last Tuesday’s annual event at United Methodist Church Family Life Center a rousing success.

Along with the Red Kettle Campaign and golf tournament, the Empty Bowls luncheon is one of the biggest fundraisers for the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary. More than 100 were served a hot bowl of soup, slices of bread and a glass of water. The meal signifies one that someone in need eats.

“We are very happy with this year’s turnout,” said Clay County Post Cmdr. Capt. Julie Chamberlain. “We sold out of our baked goods very quickly. I believe we had just enough soup. Everybody was served; everyone was happy. The auction was very popular, too.”

Leaders from the community – including Property Appraiser Tracy Drake, Camp Blanding Post Cmdr. Col. Todd Hopkins, Sheriff Michelle Cook, County Manager Howard Wanamaker, attorney David King and Supervisor of Elections Chris Chambless – worked as servers, while superintendent of schools David Broskie was the featured speaker.

At the conclusion of the luncheon, guests were invited to take home a bowl crafted by art classes from Oakleaf and Ridgeview high schools, Lake Asbury and Orange Park Junior highs and St. Johns Country Day School, while members of Challenge Enterprises volunteered to set up and clean.