Stepping back a few decades, patrons filled the Masonic Lodge at 625 South Ave., to celebrate with a roaring 20s theme and raise funds for the Salvation Army in Bradford; in fact, every cent raised at Monday evening’s event stayed local, according to Elegance in Chocolate co-chair of the event, Stephanie Johnson.

The room was filled with a plethora of chocolate — from chocolate fountains, to towers of chocolate sweets, chocolate-flavored coffee and to-go goodie bags.

The smell of chocolate couldn’t distract visitors from the wealth of decorations to emulate the roaring 20s theme, and the silent and live auction items with live music, performed by Jim Copeland and Jim Ronan.

Louise Poole said, “this is my third year coming to this fundraiser. I love it and keep coming back because the food, particularly the chocolate, is so good. My daughter brings me as a Mother’s Day gift each year, and it’s the best gift.”

There was also a costume contest in which patrons could participate if they wished, with a winner announced at the end of the evening.

“This is our third annual Elegance in Chocolate fundraiser and it is our second largest fundraising event, second only to our Red Kettle campaign at Christmas,” said David Means Jr., captain of the Salvation Army.

All of the edible goods were provided by Elegance in Chocolate, they also recruited the help of approximately 12 volunteers to help keep the event running smoothly.

The Rev. Ray Gramata said that he is “basically a chocoholic.” He said he enjoys coming to the fundraiser to taste all the variations and the see what new creations they have made with the chocolate. “The best part, though, is being able to support the community,” he added.

The big door prize of the evening was a brand new recliner courtesy of Between Four Walls.

According to Means, this year’s 2018 fundraiser raised $3,600, which was an increase from last year’s’ event totals.