Mouth-watering fundraiser planned

"The Dream Team exists to assist in fulfilling lifelong dreams and final wishes of Hospice Compassus patients who have six months or less to live," said Janet Gard, executive director of the Monett/Branson and Joplin/Pittsburg offices. "Funding some of these dreams have financial consequences."

This event is offering a chocolate challenge to restaurants and businesses far and wide to concoct their most popular chocolate specialty and enter it into one or both events for judging.

"The only thing that we ask is that they offer bite-sized portions for about 300 people," Gard said. "People who will be attending the event can donate $10 for a plate and sample up to 25 choices."

Businesses wishing to take part in the chocolate challenge may reserve a booth at a cost of $50, non-profit organizations may reserve space at a cost of $25. Booth spaces are also available for vendors wishing not to participate in the chocolate challenge, and all spaces may be decorated to promote the business or group represented.

The Branson event, "Granting Wishes with Hugs and Kisses," and will feature Hershey's treats by the same name. That event will be held from 4 to 8 p.m. at Radisson Hotel, located at 120 South Wildwood in Branson. A silent auction will also take place during that event.

A chocolate cookbook is being compiled to be sold as well. Celebrity judges and local entertainers will be on hand throughout the fun-filled afternoon and evening.

The Joplin event, "Sweet Dreams," is slated to take place from noon to 9 p.m. at Memorial Hall, 212 W. Eighth Street.

Best of Show awards will be presented for the Best of the Four-States (Joplin) and Best of the Tri-Lakes (Branson).

"This is a great opportunity for vendors to promote their business or group and do something to benefit the Dream Team as well," Gard said. "I think it's going to be a great event."

Chocolate lovers everywhere will have the opportunity to sample creations that not only include the typical cakes, pastries and desserts, but also more unusual items such as chocolate chili and chocolate gravy.

Booth spaces are starting to go quickly as area businesses get on board for the first of what is hoped to become an annual event. Sponsors and co-sponsors are still needed as well as donations of goods or services for the silent auction.

For more information on the Chocolate Extravaganza, contact Gard or Ginger Harrison at the Branson office at 417-335-2004 or Teresa Severs in the Joplin office at 417-623-8272.