World of Chocolate December 1, 2005

COMMEMORATE WORLD AIDS DAY WITH ?WORLD OF CHOCOLATE?

Dec. 1st Chocolate-Fest Benefits the AIDS Foundation of Chicago

Join chocolate enthusiasts from across the country to commemorate World AIDS Day on Thursday, Dec. 1 at the AIDS Foundation of Chicago?s (AFC) holiday extravaganza, World of Chocolate. This one-of-a-kind event allows guests to dine on delectable chocolate morsels from more than 20 of Chicago?s finest restaurants, chocolatiers and caterers, while raising much-needed funds for the fight against AIDS.

Guests can also look forward to a Holiday Bazaar featuring fine gifts and ornaments donated by renowned designer Christopher Radko, including the 2005 commemorative AIDS ornament ?A Shy Rabbit?s Heart.? Music, a light buffet, an open bar and a raffle with luxurious prizes round out this festive kick-off to the holiday season.

Chicago celebrities on hand to judge the best chocolate creations include:
 Kathy Brock ? WLS-TV 10 p.m. news anchor and reporter
 Dean Richards ? WGN-TV and radio entertainment critic and reporter
 Kevin Roy ? WLS-TV weekend morning news anchor and reporter
 Leda Santodomingo ? WSNS-TV reporter
 Gale Gand ? Tru Restaurant pastry chef

Restaurants participating in World of Chocolate include aria, Blommer Chocolate Store, Cr?pes ? Latte Catering, Leonidas Belgian Chocolates, Thyme Restaurant and many others.

5:30 p.m. - 9 p.m. ? Thursday, Dec. 1, 2005

The Fairmont Chicago ? Imperial Ballroom
200 North Columbus Drive, Chicago

For more information and to reserve tickets, call (312) 922-2322 or visit www.aidschicago.org.

General Admission:$60 (in advance, $75 at the door)

Red Ribbon Ticket:$100 (includes one event ticket, a red ribbon lapel pin and
recognition in the event program book if purchased by Nov. 14)

This year marks the AFC?s 20th year of service in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Since 1988, AFC has provided more than $15 million in private grants to HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and advocacy groups throughout the Chicago area. To learn more about the organization visit www.aidschicago.org.

Funds raised through World of Chocolate will support the AFC?s policy, public education and grantmaking programs. A portion of the proceeds will fund AFC's new Global AIDS Initiative. This grantmaking program will benefit local community-based organizations that collaborate or partner with an international organization to conduct global HIV prevention, advocacy or treatment programs.