WALNUT CREEK — Choosing from spoonfuls of ground coffee, peanuts, pecans, pretzels, M&M's, Reese's Pieces and toasted coconut the amateur candy makers assembled the ingredients to enhance their customized candy bar.
To benefit OneEighty, Coblentz Chocolates partnered with Holmes County Friends and Neighbors of OneEighty to play host 85 participants in the biennial Coblentz Candy Night on Feb. 7. There, they not only made their own chocolate bar and candy kabob, but were able to tour the factor, sample candies and purchase items from the store.
They came to support OneEighty and make chocolate, said Rachel Lee, of Berlin, who brought her daughters, Makenna, 6, and Olivia, 12.
“As a fundraiser, I think it's awesome, and it's something we can …show more content…
Makenna combined peanuts, pretzels, Reese's Pieces and M&M's into a milk chocolate bar. Her sister, more a minimalist, chose just roasted coconut and M&M's.
“I love making chocolate,” said Makenna.
“I love coconut and chocolate within chocolate,” said Olivia, adding, “I think it's fun and a good way to get people out here. Coblentz makes good chocolate, and I think people want to be part of it.”
Lisa Miller said she came to support OneEighty and Zickefoose, a longtime friend.
“This was fun and it's for a good cause,” said Miller, Lakeville, noting that while Holmes County residents are aware of and use the services of OneEighty, those with whom she comes in contact often “don't realize it until they're in throes of a disaster or crisis.”
However, of those who have used OneEighty services, she said, “It sounds like … (they) have got what they …show more content…
“I used to serve on the board (of Every Woman's House), so I have deep roots with the agency that will always stay with me.”
Even before they were out the door, Dusty Uhl said, “I have regret already.”
“It was fun. I think it's a good idea. All women love chocolate,” she said, but added she wishes she would have gone with the M&M's in addition to the Reese's Pieces, peanut butter and pretzels in her candy bar.
“I think this fundraiser is suited for Holmes County, added Missi Shaner. “You can make it whatever you want it to be, whether it's something you do with family or coworkers.
Zickefoose said Friends and Neighbors and OneEighty “appreciate Coblentz Chocolate opening the business and all of the employees staying after hours for us. Additionally, Coblentz donated all the materials for the candy made by participants.
Proceeds from the sale of tickets, along with 10 percent of the evening's sales, go directly to support programs for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, said outreach specialist/advocate Tina Zickefoose, noting funds raised exceeded