CAMARILLO : 250 Indulge Sweet Tooth to Aid Youth Club

Abby Johnson’s mission in life Sunday was clear.

For three hours in the afternoon, the 8-year-old Camarillo girl made it her goal to sample each of the dozens of chocolate cakes, ice creams, confections and other sugar-coma-inducing treats offered during the Camarillo Boys & Girls Club Chocolate Sunday event.

“I’ve tried nearly everything, but so far I’d have to say that I like the chocolate-covered bananas the best,” Abby said. “But the white chocolate isn’t bad either.”

Abby, her pal Melissa Sopoliga, 9, and about 250 other chocolate lovers of all ages attended the event in the gymnasium of the Boys & Girls Club on Temple Avenue in what organizers described as combination community outreach and fund-raising event.

As participants munched in the balloon-bedecked gym, they were entertained by a Dixieland band and magicians. But only a face-painting artist could distract the kids from their gooey targets.

Organizers of the second annual event were pleased with how many people participated.

“Considering the earthquakes and the playoff games, I’d say we have a pretty good turnout,” said Jay Grigsby, the club’s executive director. “This year, we have definitely had some obstacles thrown our way.”

Still, club officials said the event would net about $5,000 for the club. That money will provide programs and services for Camarillo-area youngsters.

Participating in the feast were an estimated 25 service clubs, bakeries, restaurants and businesses, said Laurie Carie, a member of the club’s parents auxiliary.

“This is a chance for folks to come out and see the facility and learn about the various programs the club offers,” Carie said. “When people find out that a year’s membership for their child is just $12, they can’t believe it.”

Joining in the fun were a few people who, despite great temptation, didn’t get swept away by the chocolate tide.

Camarillo pediatric dentist Mark Lisagor and his staff handed out about 300 toothbrushes during the event--along with chocolate-dipped bananas.

“There actually is some research indicating that chocolate . . . may not be as bad as we once thought in terms of promoting tooth decay,” said Lisagor, a principal of the Camarillo Childrens Dental Group. “But we’re here to support the club and have some fun. If I have any message, it would be to promote general dental hygiene. Hence the toothbrushes.”