February may be the shortest month of the year, but it is packed with days for celebrating. For folks in the River Valley and Ozark area, the Chocoholics Dream Night Out may rank No. 1.
Sponsored as a fundraiser for the last 18 years by the Humane Society of Faulkner County, the Chocoholics Dream Night Out will be held from 5-8 p.m. Friday at First United Methodist Church in Conway. Tickets are $12 in advance or $15 at the door for individuals, and $20 in advance or $25 at the door for couples. Children’s tickets are $5 in advance or $6 at the door for ages 6-12, and free for children 5 and under. Takeout will be available at $15 per pound.
Advance tickets may be purchased at Bark About It Boutique and Spa, 1310 Prince St. in Conway; Companions Spay and Neuter Clinic on U.S. 65 North in Springhill; or Companions Thrift and Gift Gallery, 2219 Washington Ave. in Conway.
Jennifer Bickers of Conway, chairman of this event, said it will feature a wide array of chocolate items, from the simple to the extravagant.
“Many of the favorite items from years past will be featured again this year,” Bickers said. “Those include Chocolate Mess (Chocolate Butterscotch-Pecan Mousse) by Suzann Waggoner of Mount Vernon and Chocolate-Covered Cherries by Brandy Howard of Vilonia. Many other individuals and local businesses will donate items as well.”
The event will also feature a silent auction.
Anthony Billingsley of Maumelle is among the new artists donating his time and talent for the cause. He makes “Iron Paws,” which are iron stands for food and water bowls for pets. He has donated two of the stands for the silent auction.
Bark About It, a pet-grooming business, is also new to the Chocoholics Dream Night Out. Owned by Katina Johnson, Andi Brooks and Mari Lane, Bark About It will donate homemade doggie treats for the auction.
Another new contributor to the silent auction is Sarah Brooks-Echlin of Fordyce, formerly of Greenbrier. A personal friend of Bickers, the artist has donated three paintings.
“She is a big animal lover, and as an artist, she is always looking for opportunities to donate to worthwhile causes.” Bickers said.
Melissa Dunbar Gates of Conway will serve as emcee, and Brittany Conine, a singer from the central Arkansas area, will provide live music.