The Canadian Mental Health Association is hosting its third annual tasty fundraiser, a Chocolate Affair on October 19 at the Heritage Inn.
The evening will feature a dessert and silent auction, with tasty treats galore for guests to sample and bid on. Things will get a little competitive as dessert chefs from new to pro face off in a challenge to create the best dessert. The winner in each of the three skill categories will receive a getaway package and the crowd will vote in a People's Choice.
There will be local celebrity judges on hand to savour the winning entries. The judges are Denise Pallesen of Nutter's, Michelle Shypitka of Sweet Gestures, Jennifer Kent of The Drive Radio and Youth Ambassadors Brianna Kennedy and Taylor Miller. The event will get a whole lot more oompa-loompa when Mr. Villy Vonka shows up.
The judges will be more interactive this year, and competitors will be able to ham it up for as many as five points to get an edge over the field.
"It's really just to encourage a fun competitive environment," said Amber Cuthill, business services co-ordinator for the WorkBC Employment Centre that runs under the umbrella of CMHA.
The silent auction will feature many great items and in between tasting the delectable desserts and sipping on wine, guests can hit one of the Black Jack tables put on by the Kinette Club. Cuthill said the auction is going to be something guests won't want to miss.
"Each year it gets better and better," she said.
All the proceeds from the evening will support CMHA programs that receive little to no funding every year.
The CMHA also enjoys the chance to talk about their programs and activities for those who may not know what the association is doing in the community.
"A lot of it has to do with just bringing awareness to who we are and what we do," Cuthill said.
Advance tickets are $20 and include tastings and two glasses of wine. They're available at the CMHA office at 39 13th Ave. S. Tickets are also available at the door for $25. for more information contact CMHA at (250) 426-5222.