Chocolate is very much a part of our everyday lives. It is consumed at home, at work, at celebrations, and during certain holidays. It comes in many varieties from dark to milk chocolate. Sandy Perry presented the program on “The Story of Chocolate” to members of the Organ Cave CEOS at their recent June meeting. Perry explained the origin of the word “chocolate” could be traced to Latin America where the Mayans and Aztecs believed the cacao bean had not only magical properties, but was so valuable that it was used for money. The Cacao trees have grown in Central and South America for thousands of years. Chocolate made its way to Europe and then back to the American colonies via the Spanish. The Dutch are credited with the first step in creating solid chocolate. Nestle created milk chocolate, which remains a popular chocolate among Americans. West Virginia boasts around 30 producers of chocolates, candy, and confections, and is home to three notable chocolate festivals. The Chocolate Festival held in Lewisburg, the Martinsburg Chocolate Festival, and the Annual WV Chocolate Festival in Ripley. The average U.S. citizen consumes approximately 12 pounds of chocolate per year.
Cathy Queen was welcomed as Organ Cave CEOS’ newest member. An inspirational reading was given by Hilda White. Carolyn Rodgers reported on 4-H members and their upcoming camp. This meeting was held at Elizabeth Chapel United Methodist Church.
Sandy Perry prepared and served a delicious Chocolate Torte, along with other refreshments to the following: Carolyn Rodgers, Cathy Queen, Hilda White, Sandy Perry, Layola Sarver and Janet Johnson.
Anyone interested in becoming a member of the CEOS (Community Education Outreach Service) club should contact Kay Davis, WVU extension agent, at 304-647-7408.
