By Jennifer Eisenbart
EDITOR
For Karen Tolle of Music Matters, it tickles her funny bone to see the competition between various businesses for the upcoming Chocolate Walk.
In its fifth year now, the annual fundraiser for the non-profit organization features several different downtown stops for chocolate treats – some more unusual than others.
Last year, RAW Salon and Artistic Fibers went head to head for the most creative award, with daughter (salon) edging out mother (yarn store) for the trophy.
While Tolle didn’t name names, she did admit the competition is ramping up for this year’s event – Saturday, Aug. 23, starting at noon at the Coffee House at Chestnut and Pine.
“There’s some trash talk going on on Facebook already,” said Tolle with a smile. “I’m glad to see it. I want them to.”
The walk will run from noon until 2 p.m., with numerous stops in the downtown area. Tickets are $12, and are limited. It is recommended that tickets be purchased in advance, as only 120 total tickets are available.
Tickets can be purchased at the Coffee House, or by calling Mike Kruk at (262) 757-5288.
Over the years, the four trophies that are given out have become highly coveted. Last year, RAW Salon won “Most Creative” with a Tootsie Roll and marshmallow “nail polish” container, while Chocolate Expressions won “Richest Chocolate” with handcrafted German chocolate truffles.
Burlington Flowers and Interiors garnered the “People’s Choice” award for a brownie, bacon and berry kabob.
The host, the Coffee House, won the “Spirit of Music Matters” with walnut cookies, gourmet ice tea and dark chocolate-covered raspberries.
But the fun doesn’t end there. There are normally 10 to 20 stops on the walk, which produce goodies that walkers can eat there or take home. This year, participants will receive an insulated bag and water bottle with the new Music Matters logo as well.
There will be youth music performances along the walk as well.
Music Matters has donated more than $47,000 to local youth music education programs since it was founded in 2010.
The added bonus this year is that the Chocolate Walk will correspond with the Coffee House’s “Tall Tales” music festival.
“This is a huge opportunity for Music Matters,” said Tolle, who added that many tickets have been purchased from people coming from out of town for the festival.
“It really broadens the audience for our members, that youth music education is essential,” Tolle said.
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