Chocolate Fest a sweet success

For many people, chocolate is the ultimate indulgence. And Saturday night provided the perfect excuse for many to forego their diets and treat themselves to all different kinds of treats. The 6th annual Chocolate Fest was held in the Bloomington Convention Center and was a huge hit, drawing large crowds.\nThe annual event is held to raise money for Options for Better Living, a nonprofit organization that provides support so that people with disabilities can remain at home in their communities. Options partners with individuals with disabilities and the communities they live in to bring about self-directed and fulfilled lives. Currently, the organization supports approximately 200 adults and children in south central Indiana.\nThe Chocolate Fest event included a homemade dessert contest and tasting, a silent auction, a bluegrass band and a raffle. For $12, people could have all the chocolate desserts they wanted while listening to music and visiting with friends. However, for most people, the big draw was the chocolate tasting.\nSophomore Laura Utes first heard about the event from a friend and decided to see what it was all about, she said.\n"My favorite dessert by far was the candy apples," Utes said. "I'm glad I came."\n Judy Sharp, a first time judge, was assigned to the "Cooking by Kids" contest and said she was impressed with the kids' talent.\n"There were some really beautiful desserts," Sharp said. "I was especially impressed with the chocolate castle with the moat and the rainbow M&M cake with the money at the end."\nAlong with Sharp, Marty Hawk also acted as a first time reviewer and was "tickled to death to have been asked to judge."\nSharp and Hawk said they were both excited to volunteer their time, not only because they got to taste chocolate for an hour, but also because they believe the event helps raise money for a great cause. \n"Of course, I care very much about Options for Better Living," Sharp said. "I have a friend whose daughter was helped by Options and it's just a great organization"