Discovery Playhouse

If you've ever stopped by Discovery Playhouse in Cape Girardeau, you know what the facility offers to children: a fun atmosphere that encourages learning.

On Friday night, the second floor of the facility will be transformed into a garden party for the organization's third annual FUNdraiser. The event, which raised nearly $10,000 last year, serves as an opportunity to raise needed funds for the organization's educational programs and exhibits -- ones like the new Healthy Beginnings exhibit sponsored by SoutheastHEALTH, which will be unveiled at the event.

A number of items and trips will be included in the silent auction portion of the FUNdraiser, including handcrafted birdhouses and birdhouse-themed cakes by Tamera Johnson of Elegant Cakes. There will also be a raffle drawing for a private dinner party with Bravo TV's "Top Chef Texas" contestant chef Heather Terhune.

The Discovery Playhouse plays an important role in the area. While those from the community enjoy its many amenities on a regular basis, it's also an attraction for families outside the county. In fact, Jennifer Mullix, executive director of Discovery Playhouse, said about 40 percent of facility attendees are from areas beyond Cape Girardeau and Jackson.

We hope you consider attending this event and supporting this worthy organization. Tickets start at $45 for singles. Couples may attend for $80, and a table of eight can be reserved for $300. For more information, call 335-7529 or visit www.discoveryplayhouse.org.