CAHNRS News > Chocolate Decadence builds resumes and local economy

Chocolate Decadence builds resumes and local economy

By CAHNRS Communications
Left to right, Milena Go, Lauren Hudson, Jade Fillmore
More than 80 students, including Milena Go, Jade Fillmore, Lauren Hudson (left to right) in partner with local merchants will present visual displays at the Chocolate Decadence event on April 11.

PULLMAN, Wash.— Chocolate Decadence is an invitation to support the local economy, help Washington State University undergraduates build a sweet resume, and indulge in chocolate treats April 11.

Just in time for WSU Mom’s Weekend, 81 visual design and merchandising students have collaborated creatively with Pullman businesses to install spring-themed window and store displays. The public is encouraged to take advantage of free chocolate giveaways, vote for their favorite displays, and participate in store promotions at each of the 21 locations.

“Many people like to get their map and try to hit all the chocolate stops,” said Amberly Boone, event coordinator for Pullman Chamber of Commerce. “It is a very fun way for people to explore Pullman.”

The event takes place from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. An event map is available on the Pullman Chamber of Commerce web site: http://bit.ly/XbgcLi.

Jade Fillmore snaps a photo.
In the early planning stages of the visual display project, AMDT student Jade Fillmore snaps a photo of the storefront of Ric-O-Shay.

“We are really trying to promote the economic prosperity of Pullman and connect WSU to the community,” said professor Carol Salusso, who teaches Apparel, Merchandising, Design and Textiles courses. “Merchants act as mentors to students who get real-life experience in visual merchandising.”

Yvonne Skinner, co-owner of Ric-O-Shay, is planning to crack open some raspberry chocolate jam from Whidbey Island, Wash. she sells in the shop. Mitch Chandler, owner of Neill’s Flowers and Gifts, is sticking with a previous hit, tried and true chocolate fondue.

Yvonne Skinner, co-owner of Ric-O-Shay, is planning to crack open some raspberry chocolate jam from Whidbey Island, Wash. she sells in the shop.
Yvonne Skinner, co-owner of Ric-O-Shay, is planning to crack open some raspberry chocolate jam from Whidbey Island, Wash. sold in the shop.

“We’ve done this three times. Each group (of students) brings something different to the project and we give them guidance in a practical experience,” Chandler said. “It’s a great program and gets lots of people downtown.”

Students have partnered with The Bookie, Design Effects, Lily Bee’s Consignment Shop, Neill’s Flowers and Gifts, GLASSPhemy, Flirt, Ric-O-Shay, Sam Dial Jewelers, Crimson and Gray, At Home Designs: Framing it up, Atom Heart Music, Prune Orchard, B&L Bicycle Shop, Wild Ivy, R-top Theatre, 2nd Chance Thrift, Daily Grind/Licks, Barnacle Bills, Pets R People 2, Betty’s Alterations, and Dissemore’s.