01-25-12-chocolateaffair2.jpgIt takes more than good intentions to put on an affair as grand in scale and generosity as A Chocolate Affair ... to Remember.

Now in its ninth year, the event is slated for Jan. 28, and draws about 200 guests each year. The indulgence of choice for the evening is, of course, chocolate. Jazz music by Reggie Codrington, a posh venue at Hotel Bordeaux and Conference Center and both live and silent auctions, in addition to the confections, make for a luxurious evening.

A relatively new item in the live auction is the Dessert of the Month, provided by contributing chef Terry Ciszek.

“Last year was the fi rst year we did the Dessert of the Month and it was so much fun for me getting to know the winner through out the year and cooking up a new dessert for him every month,” said Ciszek.

The event is set to begin at 7 p.m. — just the right hour for dessert and entertainment after a dinner out.

B&B Catering is a major benefactor for the Chocolate Affair. Located in Spring Lake, B&B Catering specializes in total event planning and creating a unique yet elegant atmosphere for every occasion.

Personal service and attention to detail are what owners Bill Pannhoff and Rob Masone focus on when putting together unforgettable events like this one. Chefs Pannhoff and Masone use only the freshest, highest quality ingredients available, which is what makes them a perfect fi t for this event.

“Bill Pannhoff is a huge contributor of ours and he is always so generous,” said Ciszek. Pannhoff contributes savory hors d’oeuvres for the event to bring balance to the richness of the many desserts being served.

“With so much chocolate, you really need some salt to bring out the flavors. Chef Pannhoff usually does bacon crisps and two or three other items. He also donates platters, linens, risers and utensils. He gives us everything we need to make the event successful, and we are really thankful for his contributions,” Ciszek added.

A freelance photographer with a passion for cooking, Ciszek looks forward to the Chocolate Affair each year. It’s been four or fi ve years since she was fi rst invited to cook for the event and she still remembers how excited she was.

“I had already attended the event a few times and I had really enjoyed the food. I had even thought to myself, ‘I wish they would ask me to make something,’” she recalled.

Now, Ciszek looks forward to making delicious chocolate desserts each year and considers this a chance to expand her repertoire.

“Every year I can get more adventurous and that is something I love. I like to cook and to give it away. I believe that if God gave me a talent I am to use it to serve others,” she explained.

Ciszek is still tweaking her menu items, but some of her favorites have made her short list and may be served at A Chocolate Affair: mini cheesecakes dipped in chocolate; chocolate cookies filled with white chocolate cream; chocolate biscotti; truffles; chocolate-dipped, toasted coconut clusters and an item or two involving peanut butter.

“I am a freak for caramel, so there will be a caramel-chocolate combination item, too. I am just not sure which recipe it will be,” Ciszek added.

Wendy Riddle is slated to be the emcee this year, which Ciszek says is sure to be a fun time. “She is just so good at it and makes it a fun evening for everyone.”

The proceeds benefit Catholic Charities, a member of the United Way of Cumberland County. The event, in the Marseille Room of the Hotel Bordeaux, runs from 7-10 p.m. Tickets are $35 if purchased in advance and $40 at the door. For advance tickets, call 424-2020.

Photo: A Chocolate Affair …To Remember brings great chocolate desserts, music and fun together to benefit the Catholic Charities.

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