Morkes Chocolates dips into truffle, fondue classes for adults and teens

You never outgrow your love for chocolate.

So the folks of Morkes Chocolates, just off of Randall Road in Algonquin, are starting a new round of classes for the teenage-and-up crowd that let you get up close and personal with the warm, irresistible perfection.

Over the years, hundreds of children have held their birthday parties or scout gatherings at the original Morkes in Palatine, and most recently at the Morkes in Algonquin.

And now, they want to come back -- but are ready for something a little more challenging.

The new classes at Morkes are geared toward people ages 14 and older.

These instruction sessions will focus on truffle dipping and fondue, which owner Rhonda Morkes says takes a little more dexterity to do, and isn't for the preteen and younger crowd.

Many people have come into the store asking for ideas for Sweet 16 parties or Ladies Night Out events, so Morkes decided to develop the new classes.

In addition, they'll also be offering an advanced fondue class -- which is an hour and a half of pure chocolate delight as you dip food after food into the chocolate.

"It's really like a meal," Morkes said.

The new classes are expected to start this summer.

Eyes for the Earth: To help celebrate Earth Day, Advanced Eyecare Clinic in Lake in the Hills is hosting a Triple Play event all this month.

If you bring in your old glasses in April to the business, located just off of Randall Road at 45 W. Acorn Lane, they will be recycled and donated to a local chapter of the Lions Club. For your donation you'll get 10 percent off of a new pair of frames, and the business will also make a donation to The Nature Conservancy.

"What a great feeling to know that what you normally throw away, others can use, and you can get rewarded in the process," said David Rocks, optometrist at Advanced Eyecare.

Another one gone: Many of you have been e-mailing me, lamenting the loss of the closest spot to pick up your French Silk pie. Yes, the Baker's Square along Randall Road in Lake in the Hills has closed.

But if you really can't get over your craving, you still can visit Baker's Square restaurants in Crystal Lake on Route 14, or South Elgin on Randall Road.

Amy Williams' column covers all the news of business along the Randall Road corridor from South Elgin to Crystal Lake. Contact her at randallbiz@comcast.net or at (847) 894-5036.