Taste of the Ozarks raises $158K

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ozarks announced this week that the 10th annual Taste of the Ozarks event benefiting the nonprofit raised roughly $158,000, up from about $157,000 in 2011.

The July 19 event - which represents the organization's largest annual fundraiser - was attended by more than 700 people at the University Plaza Convention Center, according to a news release.

During the event, patrons were able to sample food from 18 Springfield's restaurants, including Ocean Zen, which won the Best Appetizer award and the People's Choice Award for best décor, and Terrace Grille, which was awarded Best Entrée and Best Dessert honors.

A $20,000 cash raffle was awarded, as well as a trip for two to Orlando and an iPad 3. The event's Palate Wine Pull raised more than $3,000, the release said.

All proceeds benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters, which supported more than 1,000 matches between children and mentors in 2011. The organization aims to help children facing adversity by pairing them with adult role models in the community.

[[In-content Ad]]