By Brianna Balogh & John Fryman
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
Downtown Bryan got a little sweeter on Thursday, May 14, with the Sixth Annual Bryan Development Chocolate Walk. The fundraiser, hosted by the Bryan Development Foundation to support behind-the-scenes community work, drew crowds to every side of the square as patrons trekked through more than 20 local businesses sampling an array of treats.
Ticket holders first checked in outside the Bryan Chamber of Commerce, where they received a map, bag, water, and an entry into a $150 drawing. Any purchases made at participating businesses earned an additional entry.
Once equipped, cocoa collectors could visit two dozen locations across the square. Participating stops included Kora Brew House, Endless Creations, Fearfully Made Boutique, Testament Tattoo, Zazarac’s Bar and Eatery, Perfect Imperfections, Edward Jones Investments, Partner in Crime, the Williams County Library, Real Estate Advantage, WesBanco, Coldwell Banker, Ajav’s Salon, Spangler Candy World, Parlor 1861, Eclipse, Grand Plaza, Jackie Blue’s, Smash Shack, Gallery 317, Bryan Theater, the Bryan Chamber of Commerce, and Silver and Vine. Signature sweets ranged from Dubai chocolate to chocolate-covered strawberries, with Sheryl Combs, co-owner of Gallery 317, among the local merchants handing out treats to a steady stream of guests.
The event ran from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m., giving shoppers time to browse everything from homemade candles to locally painted artwork. Several restaurants featured special menu items, including Kora’s Chocolate Riverslide.
Tickets were $22, with all proceeds benefiting the Bryan Development Foundation. Warm afternoon sun drew steady foot traffic around the square as ticket holders moved shop to shop, bags filling with samples along the way.