the Mountain ( coconut cluster topped with almond bark ) and Mud Worms ( gummi worms dipped in chocolate ). Several varieties have been named to honor the persons who created them such as Carol ’ s Susie K ’ s ( coconut and caramel ) and David ’ s Dave ’ s North Dakota Cow Pies ( caramel , pecans and marshmallow crème ).
In addition to specialty items the three Widman stores also offer familiar candy treats including caramels , toffee , turtles , crèmes , clusters , bark , and fudge . Crèmes are available in several flavors : lemon , orange , raspberry , peppermint , maple , maple nut , vanilla and , of course , chocolate . Clusters are made with various nut varieties along with coconut and cranberry . Dan had mentioned varieties that sell well in one shop aren ’ t always successful in the other stores . Carol makes a cherry nut fudge that folks in Fargo love , but the product didn ’ t go over as well in Dan ’ s Grand Forks store .
Not all varieties are made daily and a few , including divinity and caramel apples , are seasonal , with the latter appearing on the shelves shortly after Labor Day . In addition to a plain caramel apple , various nuts are utilized as coatings . A new variety created the day prior to our visit to the Grand Forks store had been named S ’ more . This apple was covered with chocolate , marshmallow crème and graham cracker crumbs .
Not surprisingly , the holiday season is the busiest period at each location . Dan said customers line up out the door when the calendar winds down toward Christmas . During this busy period both Carol and Dave attempt to hire
up to 30 additional employees to help in dipping chips , caramels , nuts and more in chocolate .
Strolling into a Widman store must be much like arriving in heaven , but with the addition of the sweet smell of chocolate . Viewing the bright , colorful displays of gift trays and baskets along with glass cases overflowing with dozens of varieties of hand-dipped chocolates will bring a smile to anyone ’ s face . It has been said that “ money can ’ t buy happiness , but it can buy chocolate .” At a Widman store it buys both .
Kay and David Scott are authors of “ Exploring the Oregon Trail : America ’ s Historic Road Trip ” ( Globe Pequot ). They live in Valdosta , Georgia . Visit them at blog . valdosta . edu / dlscott .
ART
We Love
( Tifton Collects )
May
13-21
Enjoy eclectic art from homes of board members
Exhibit Hours Thr & Fri 4P – 7P • Sat & Sun : 11A – 4P
• June 12 - 15
• Ages 5-11
• Fee : $ 75
• Register Now > >
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38 TiftonScene | MAY 2023