LUVFEST 2015: How to Win the Lottery

Stick a purple fork in another LUVFEST -- it's done!

On Saturday night, November 14th 2015, we moved the party to a new day and new location in pursuit of the same goal of putting meals into Pittsburgh area homes one family at a time. LUVFEST returned with the theme of "Lotto" because life is like a lottery: the odds might be stacked against you, and you may not know when your number's going to be called, but if you've got the support of your family and friends then you're always holding a winning ticket. We made sure those tickets were given out at the door, and every attendee was guaranteed to leave with at least one free hug!

This was an especially emotional night for us to get through as we paid tribute to the memories of both Billie Marlowe, the inspiration for this event, and our recently departed friend Marko Scott. The spirits of them both were still with us as everyone gathered and rallied to continue our tradition of looking out for those in need.

Once again, Pittsburgh-area families who need a helping hand to keep food in their homes will receive some love from our extended family to theirs. Thank you yet again to the dozens of supporters who came out to boost our spirits and share in the fun and festivities:

...After the LUVFEST Has Gone! (Part 1)

Friday night, November 14th, 2014 marked the night we'd all been waiting for.

What made LUVFEST 2014 an extra special night was the fact that for the first time in almost ten years, all of Billie Marlowe's kids - Denise, Connie, Betsy, Jami and Wally - were gathered together in the same place. Few things compare to watching this family trade jokes, hugs, barbs, beers and laughs. Spend two minutes in their company and rest assured, you'll also feel like a member of the family.

Billie's Kids (l-r): Connie, Denise, Elizabeth, Jami and Wally

Proclamation for LUVFEST Day

As presented to Jami Marlowe on Tuesday, November 18th, 2014 by Pittsburgh City Councilwoman Deb Gross:

WHEREAS, Jami Marlowe, a longtime Pittsburgh resident, a community minded individual, and an advocate for those in need, has dedicated herself to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank by organizing and throwing a fundraiser since 2007; and

WHEREAS, this fundraiser, called LUVFEST, has, to date, raised over $6000 for the GPCFB, whose goal is feeding people in need and mobilizing communities to end hunger; and

WHEREAS, LUVFEST has grown in attendance, sponsorship, and community investment each year due to the enthusiastic efforts of Jami and her fellow organizers; and

WHEREAS, LUVFEST was established in loving memory of Jami's mother, Billie, a restaurant owner who would selflessly open the doors of her establishment to those in need, offering a hand of friendship and care at the moment when one was needed most; and

WHEREAS, Jami and her siblings have organized LUVFEST to continue Billie's legacy of strength, love, and unending community care; and

WHEREAS, this amazing effort is both applauded and supported by the members of this community and anyone who is pulled toward this wonderful cause.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby recognize the outstanding efforts of Jami Marlowe, her siblings Elizabeth, Wallace, Connie and Denise, and other involved volunteers towards making LUVFEST a beautiful event representing love and care for those in need; and

THEREFORE, BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Tuesday, November 18th 2014 "LUVFEST Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.

SPONSORED BY

COUNCIL MEMBER DEBORAH L. GROSS

Cast of Characters!

All the world's indeed a stage and we are merely players! So join the cast of Billie's brood at the eighth annual LUVFEST, as they meet, greet, and eat while supporting The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank!

LUVFEST will be held for the third year at Pittsburgh's ToonSeum in Downtown Pittsburgh's Cultural District (945 Liberty Avenue, 15222) on Friday, November 14th, from 7-10pm.

Get your T-Shirts!!! Support the gold with a new Luvfest shirt. Buy pre-event and the door donation is waved!

LUVFEST 2013: Thank You!!!

This goes out to everyone who made it possible yet again!