Stam Holiday Gift Guide 2013

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The holidays can be overwhelming with all the events, preparation, and shopping. We wanted to make it easy for you at Stam by giving you a straight forward, easy to use guide for holiday shopping at Stam. Whether you have $5.00 to spend or $50.00, we have just the gift to make your holidays bright. Read on to discover the sweet deals here at Stam!

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Stam Monthly – November 2013

Greetings

Tis the season for warm cocoa, sweet gifts, and time together with family and friends. With Thanksgiving right around the corner we can’t help but reflect on the gratitude we have for all of our friends and customers at Stam. Don’t be strangers this holiday season as we offer so many gifts and offerings to help you prepare and execute all of your holiday shopping. We will also be featuring live music all month long!

Calendar

Calendar Stam Nov

Live Music Events All Month long!  

Baby Grand

This month Stam is proud to be hosting multiple live music performances. Print our calendar out and join us for talents such as Ken Jolls on piano, Lois Miller on piano, Ryan Sheeler on piano and guitar, Cecil’s Harp, and Sam Packard Pianist.

11/8 Friday

  • 6:00 pm – 8:00pm: Lois Miller on piano

11/9 Saturday

  • 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Ken Jolls on the Stam baby grand piano

11/10 Sunday

  • 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Cecil’s Harp

11/15 Friday

  • 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm: Lois Miller on piano

11/16 Saturday

  • 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm:  Ken Jolls on the Stam baby grand piano 

11/17 Sunday

  • 4:00 – 6:00 pm: Good Company Women’s Group for Caroling.

11/23 Saturday

  • 10:30 am – 12:00 pm: Sam Packard on the Stam baby grand piano
  • 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm:  Ken Jolls on the Stam baby grand piano 
  • 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm: Ryan Sheeler on piano and guitar

11/27 Thursday

  • 4:00 pm – 7:00 pm: Cecil’s Harp

11/30 Saturday

  • 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Ken Jolls on the Stam baby grand

Musician Bios

Ken Jolls Jazz Pianist – Our local jazz pianist will be performing on Saturdays in October from 1pm – 5pm. Ken Jolls has played with jazz musicians around the country and the world. He once performed in a Bob Hope Show! Ken is a member of the Des. Moines Jazz Hall of fame. Spending your Saturdays with Stam will ensure you get a good fill of fantastic treats, coffee, and local talent.

Sam Packard Pianist –This young musician will amaze you with his natural sense of musicality and inventive tunes. Sam has composed many of his songs at Stam and we are proud to support this budding young artist. You can see him perform live in the shop, but until then check out this video teaser.

Cecil’s Harp –  A local Ames English Country Dance Band frequently plays at Chocolaterie Stam in downtown Ames, IA.  Cecil’s Harp plays music from the 1500’s to Jane Austen to present day. They are led by Linda and Gary Lieberman of Ames. Gary shows his talents on the guitar, clarinet, flute, oboe, mandolin and many more instruments. Linda plays whistles, fiddle, clarinet, and percussion.

Ryan Sheeler – Ryan is a professional working guitarist, pianist, and singer-songwriter from Ames IA. With 30 years experience and two degrees in Music (BA and MA) he works as a solo singer-songwriter. Ryan has recorded five solo CDs, published one book with plans for a second, and additional has film scores and one musical in his portfolio.  His main style is country-pop with a twist of blues/soul, and inspirational.

 

11/8/13 Friday 5-8pm: Santa Maria Winery, Caroll, IA Wine Tasting 

Local Winery Santa Maria Winery will be hosting a wine tasting this upcoming Friday evening. In 2008, John and Rose, the winery’s owners were driving through Carroll past the old Wittrock auto dealership, which they had passed hundreds of times before, when both of them thought, “That’d make a great winery!” They were each surprised the other had the same idea. After looking into it, they bought it, let their imaginations run wild, and a year and a half later, the building was completed. Thanks to the help of local builders and artisans, the building itself turned out to be beautiful. John and Rose are proud to serve the people of Carroll and the surrounding area. Come try their local product!

Find out more here!  www.santamariawinery.com. 

11/16/13 Saturday 10:00 am – 12:00 pm Steven W Horn Book Signing

The Pumpkin Eater  Steven W Horn

Join us in store for a very special guest on Saturday November 16th. Steven W. Horn will be available for a book signing of his new publication, The Pumpkin Eater, A Sam Dawson Mystery.  Sam is the former dean of the University of Wyoming’s College of Agriculture. This is  Horn’s latest novel and the first in his series.

Read a synopsis of the book here.

11/22/13 Friday 5-8pm: Snow Magic Tree Lighting in downtown Ames

Ames Snow Magic

Snow Magic is the official start of the Holiday season for the Ames Main Street Cultural District.  Join the Ames community and stop in for a hot cocoa as you watch the tree light up and kick off the holiday season on Main Street.

11/30/13 Small Business Saturday by American Express

Watch this American Express video about small business Saturday. Share with your friends!!!

Store Specials

From 9am-11am DAILY 

Mention this newsletter and receive a free piece of our new fudge with the purchase of a specialty coffee drink.

Shopping Local

When you begin your holiday planning and shopping think about the benefits of shopping local. It helps the local communities in so many ways! If you need more reason, besides our amazing tasting chocolates, pre-made hostess gifts, and local wines read this article on 5 reasons to shop local!

Do you want rewards?  Tired of the stack of punch cards that take up precious real-estate in your wallet? If so download Perka today! It is free for smartphone users to sign up.

Click above to uncover our current Stam offering through perka!

We also accept Dwolla as payment.  Are you familiar with this money payment system created by Iowa’s own Ben Milne and bought in to by Ashton Kuchter?  The best benefit is that there are no fees for transactions under $10.00. This helps small businesses avoid the fees associated with payments made with credit/debit cards.  Even without using Dwolla, paying with cash helps the store owners avoid fees.  Check out their site for more information!

New Products

Fudge

You asked for it and we made it happen! Don’t be afraid to come in for a sample and we are sure you will not be disappointed.

Choose from four delicious flavors. Can’t decide?  – Try them all!

  • Chocolate
  • Kikker
  • Maple Walnut
  • Salted Nut Roll

Caramel Apples – Get them while you can!

caramel apples 2 10042013-1

Fall wouldn’t be complete with our delicious hand dipped caramel apples. We take it one step further by offering these freshly harvested apples dipped in Stam chocolate.  You can special order caramel apples now which we highly recommend as they are only produced every two weeks making them in high demand. First come first serve! Try any and all of our mouth watering flavors!

  • Caramel
  • Caramel and Chocolate
  • Caramel, Chocolate and Pecans
Pick up one of these beautifully decorated candy dishes filled with goodies for a hostess gift , or use as a centerpiece for a Thanksgiving table!

Pick up one of these beautifully decorated candy dishes filled with goodies for a hostess gift , or use as a centerpiece for a Thanksgiving table!

Hostess Gift

If you need a gift for the hostess with the “mostess”, be the guest that brings the best! Our fully loaded Hostess gift for the low price of $19.95 will show your hostess you are grateful for their hospitality.

Chocolate Feature

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Great news. Your most loved beverages are now available wrapped in chocolate and in bite size pieces. This cream infused espresso and irish cream filling will give you a quick lift in spirt and energy. This could serve as the perfect gift for the coffee lover in your life. Come in soon and we’ll box it up and send you happily on your way!

With music, the sweet aroma of fine chocolates, and coffee filling the air this season, we welcome you and your families into our store. We promise to be ready with quality chocolates, a comfortable setting, and unique gifts for all of those on your Christmas list. Oh and did we mention our great staff and service?

Sincerely,

Terry & Anne Stark

 

Cooking with Cocoa Helps you Host Holiday Guests

Thanksgiving and the Christmas holiday are around the corner, and with them comes opportunity for entertaining and hosting. We here at Stam want you to consider us a resource for hospitality, unique gifts, and of course our Fine European Chocolates.  Continue reading to discover how three delicious recipes, and other Stam amenities can help you host your next big event with class.  We even have videos, printable recipe cards, and original music from Sam Packard so you’ll definitely want to read on!

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Stam Monthly – October 2013

Greetings

If you haven’t been to Stam lately, or if you have friends and family who have never been, now is the time to get acquainted. October events will be full of live music, new drinks, fudge, and wine. Don’t let the busyness of every day life keep you from stopping and smelling (tasting) the chocolate! Drop by soon… we’ll be waiting for you with smiles, treats, and community activities all month long!

Calendar

Calendar Stam Oct

Live Music Events All Month long!  

Baby Grand

This month Stam is proud to be hosting multiple live music performances. Print our calendar out and join us for talents such as Ken Jolls on piano, Jonathan Herman & Cassie Huang pianist, Sun Wong cello recital, Cecil’s Harp, and Sam Packard Pianist.

10/5 Saturday

  • 1:00pm – 4:30pm: Ken Jolls on the Stam baby grand piano
  • 4:30pm – 6:00pm: Jonathan Herman and Cassie Huang on the Stam baby grand piano

10/12 Saturday

  • 10:30am – 12:00pm: Sam Packard on the Stam baby grand piano
  • 12:00pm – 5:00pm:  Ken Jolls on the Stam baby grand piano

10/13 Sunday

  • 1:30pm – 2:00pm: Sun Wong cello recital

10/17 Thursday

  • 5:00pm – 7:00pm: Cecil’s Harp Irish country dance music  

10/19 Saturday

  • 10:30am – 12:00pm: Sam Packard on the Stam baby grand piano
  • 12:00pm – 5:00pm:  Ken Jolls on the Stam baby grand piano 

10/26 Saturday

  • 10:30am – 12:00pm: Sam Packard on the Stam baby grand piano
  • 12:00pm – 5:00pm:  Ken Jolls on the Stam grand Baby piano 

Musician Bios

Ken Jolls Jazz Pianist – Our local jazz pianist will be performing on Saturdays in October from 1pm – 5pm. Ken Jolls has played with jazz musicians around the country and the world. He once performed in a Bob Hope Show! Ken is a member of the Des. Moines Jazz Hall of fame. Spending your Saturdays with Stam will ensure you get a good fill of fantastic treats, coffee, and local talent.

Sam Packard Pianist –This young musician will amaze you with his natural sense of musicality and inventive tunes. Sam has composed many of his songs at Stam and we are proud to support this budding young artist. You can see him perform live in the shop, but until then check out this video teaser.

Jonathan Herman – Jonathan is an accomplished pianist at the ripe age of 15. He has received multiple awards and high placements in numerous competitions including his win of the Music Teacher’s National Association Nebraska Junior Piano Competition. As a midwestern artist, he desires to connect with his audience through the music!

Cassie Huang – Cassie’s passion for music spreads across both the piano and violin. She is an active 16 year old high school student who has been playing for 11 years. Cassie is a very accomplished pianist placing first in piano competitions across the Midwest. Cassie works on duets with Jonathan Herman and collaboration are near to her heart.

Cecil’s Harp –  A local Ames English Country Dance Band frequently plays at Chocolaterie Stam in downtown Ames, IA.  Cecil’s Harp plays music from the 1500’s to Jane Austen to present day. They are led by Linda and Gary Lieberman of Ames. Gary shows his talents on the guitar, clarinet, flute, oboe, mandolin and many more instruments. Linda plays whistles, fiddle, clarinet, and percussion.

Linda Waters – Book Signing 

missing chick

10/12/13  1:00pm-3:00pm – Linda Waters will be singing her new children’s book in our store on October 12th. “The Case of  the Missing Chick” features a character by the the name of Lucy. Lucy has never spent time away from home or her mama. So when the opportunity arises to attend a summer camp for girls, Lucy is very reluctant to go. Prompted by her mama’s assurances of fun and new friends, Lucy boards the bus that will take her to the summer camp.

But when Lucy experiences homesickness during her first day at camp, she feels that her only alternative for returning home is by running away from the camp. Lucy not only encounters unforeseen problems on her venture, but a few unlikely friends! Will Lucy be able to find her way home? Or will she decide to stay at the summer camp?

Chocolaterie Stam 100th Anniversary Celebration & Ribbon Cutting

10/12/13 –  Stam’s history dates back to 1913, when a family in Holland opened a store serving the finest chocolate found throughout the Netherlands. That family, the Stams, operated their business in Holland for decades, with different generations of Stams leading the family-run company. In 1997, founder Jacobus Stam’s grandson, Ton Stam, brought those original European chocolate recipes developed by his family  to the United States and opened the first Chocolaterie Stam store In West Des Moines, IA. Today, that same family is operating the company on “both sides of the pond” with family-owned stores in Des Moines, IA and Middleton, WI along with supporting their “family shops” in four other states, totaling nine stores throughout the Midwest – including one of them in Ames.

Decades later, on November 17, 2006, Terry and Anne Stark opened the first non-family owned Chocolaterie Stam at 230 Main Street in Ames, IA. Orders come in from all over the world, as well right down the street. “We have made this our primary business and we can’t think of doing anything else or anywhere else.  We have great clients from all over Iowa, the US and other countries” said Terry Stark.

uPrinitng invite proof 100th 10312013_Page_1

This year, the entire Stam family, as well as their extended family (including the Starks), are celebrating 100 years in business with a series of events both in the communities they serve as well as in each of their stores.  You are invited to Chocolaterie Stam Ames for an Ames Chamber of Commerce ribbon cutting on October 31, 2013 at 5 p.m., celebrating the stores continued successes.  Guests can sample chocolate and gelato.  There will be wine tasting and musical entertainment during the evening.  Customers can follow Chocolaterie Stam Ames on Facebook and Twitter.

Stam Chocolate Charity Run 2013 flyer

The company and Stam family are also planning the first annual Stam Chocolate Charity Run in Des Moines on Saturday, November 16, 2013 with all net proceeds going to the John Stoddard Cancer Center, an organization close to the Stam family. For more information about this community event and fundraiser, visit www.stamchocolate.com.

Store Specials

Espresso

From 9am-11am DAILY 

Mention this newsletter and receive a free bonbon with coffee/specialty coffee purchase!

Shopping Local

We now proudly offer bottles of wine from Santa Maria Winery in Carroll, IA.  We carry a great selection of  their finest wines.  It is now autumn, which is a great time for enjoying reds! Have you visited SMW and eaten at their full service restaurant? If not consider doing so soon.  Check them out at www.santamariawinery.com. 

Do you want rewards?  Tired of the stack of punch cards that take up precious real-estate in your wallet? If so download Perka today! It is free for smartphone users to sign up. Click above to uncover our current Stam offering through perka!

We also accept Dwolla as payment.  Are you familiar with this money payment system created by Iowa’s own Ben Milne and bought in to by Ashton Kuchter?  The best benefit is that there are no fees for transactions under $10.00. This helps small businesses avoid the fees associated with payments made with credit/debit cards.  Even without using Dwolla, paying with cash helps the store owners avoid fees.  Check out their site for more information!

New Products

Fudge

You asked for it and we made it happen! Don’t be afraid to come in for a sample and we are sure you will not be disappointed.

Choose from four delicious flavors. Can’t decide?  – Try them all!

  • Chocolate
  • Kikker
  • Maple Walnut
  • Salted Nut Roll

Seasonal Drink Specials

Tis the season for warm comforting beverages on those brisk fall days. We have some flavor combinations that will not disappoint. Stop in as soon as you are able to get a taste of three seasonal flavorings!

  • Pecan Pie Latte
  • Pumpkin Spice Latte
  • Toffee Nut Mocha

Caramel Apples – Get them while you can!

caramel apples 2 10042013-1

Fall wouldn’t be complete with our delicious hand dipped caramel apples. We take it one step further by offering these freshly harvested apples dipped in Stam chocolate.  You can special order caramel apples now which we highly recommend as they are only produced every two weeks making them in high demand. First come first serve! Try any and all of our mouth watering flavors!

  • Caramel
  • Caramel and Chocolate
  • Caramel, Chocolate and Pecans

Hostess Gift

hostessphoto

If you need a gift for the hostess with the “mostess”, be the guest that brings the best! Our fully loaded Hostess gift for the low price of $19.95 will show your hostess you are grateful for their hospitality.

Chocolate Feature

Fall Bonbons are in!

Our beautiful realistic looking fall bonbons have arrived.  These nuts, leaves, acorns, and our realistic owls make for a beautiful display at your table.  Order them in a chocolate log box so you can eat the “serving bowl!

 If you find yourself the host of this year’s thanksgiving or other fall event, imagine the excitement of your guests when they can eat your beautiful decor!

With music, sweet aromas of fine chocolates, and coffee filling the air this season, we welcome you and your families into our store. We promise to be ready with quality chocolates, a comfortable setting, and warm greetings.

Sincerely,

Terry & Anne Stark

 

The Healthy Side of Chocolate

Sweet, smooth, delicious. These three adjectives are commonly associated with chocolate. There is one more word that should be added to this list that will shock and enlighten you. The word is, healthy. That’s right, chocolate has major health benefits when part of a healthy balanced diet and as always in moderation. Read on to learn how this enjoyable dessert just got a little sweeter. Continue reading

Stam Monthly – September 2013

Stam Newsletter

Greetings

Welcome back ISU students! It is going to be a festive fall here at Stam.  With no shortage of activities, music, and chocolates, we want you to visit us as much as you are able.  We promise to greet you with smiling faces, a fresh cup of coffee, and supply an abundance of rich chocolate flavors.  Grab your most loved family members and friends and come take advantage of the Stam experience.

Calendar

Calendar Stam Sept

Main Street Cultural District Music Walk – Downtown Ames Thursday September 12th 5:00pm – 8:00pm 

As summer heat fades into fall breezes, you only have a few nights left to enjoy the warm weather. Plan on assembling your friends and family for an evening of local music, great food, and shopping. The Main Street Cultural District invites you to join the community in the Music Walk Thursday September 12th.

We will extend our hours 8:30am to 9:00pm and invite you to start your Music Walk with a hot or iced coffee beverage, sweet gelato, and of course chocolate! Our very own Lois Miller will be playing on the baby grand from 5:00-7:00 pm.  Cecil’s Harp will be taking over at 7:00-9:00pm with English Country Dance music.

As you enjoy the live music, Praire Moon Winery and Tassel Ridge Winery will be offering a wine tasting.

Last but not least we’ll be featuring our Honey Moon flavored gelato. You don’t want to miss these exciting events!

Live Music Saturdays in September

Sam Packard Pianist – Featured in our shop on September 7th, 14th, 21st, and 28th from 10:30am – 12:00pm will be the skills of Sam Packard. This young musician will amaze you with his natural sense of musicality and inventive tunes. Sam has composed many of his songs at Stam and we are proud to support this budding young artist. You can see him perform live in the shop, but until then check out this video teaser.

Ken Jolls Jazz Pianist – Our local jazz pianist will be performing on Saturdays in September from 1pm – 5pm. Ken Jolls has played with jazz musicians around the country and the world. He once performed in a Bob Hope Show! Ken is a member of the Des Jazz Hall of fame. Spending your Saturdays with Stam will ensure you get a good fill of fantastic treats, coffee, and local talent.

Daddies Daughters & Desserts Event from August

Jon & Lucy

If you missed our Daddies Daughters and Desserts event in August, fear not. We are always ready to take on the responsibility of providing an environment that will help you and your loved ones create memories and communicate freely. Come in anytime and treat your family members to a beverage or dessert, but more importantly time. Read our most recent blog here to learn why relationships are critical, and fun ideas for spending time together.

 

Deals

Bon Bon Coffee

From 9am-11am DAILY 

Mention this newsletter and receive a free bonbon with coffee/specialty coffee purchase!

shopping local

Iowa Wine

In 2000 Steven Nissen planted the first vine of what has now blossomed into thirteen vine ripe acres of vineyard.  In our own backyard this Ames, Iowa Winery is a local treasure. We are proud to offer Prairie Moon’s vast wine selection in our store which when paired with our fine chocolates makes us a one stop shop for the perfect hostess gift.

chocolate

Harvest Log (1)

Fall Harvest Bonbons are in!

Every kid can struggle to finish their greens, but when up against this cornucopia of chocolate vegetables, your child will delight in Stam’s sweet substitute.  If you find yourself the host of this year’s thanksgiving or other fall event, imagine the excitement of your guests when they can eat your beautiful decor!

Fall wouldn’t be complete with our delicious hand dipped caramel apples. We take it one step further by offering these freshly harvested apples dipped in Stam chocolate. Enjoy one on the patio as you watch the autumn leaves fall!

With music, sweet aromas of fine chocolates, and coffee filling the air this season, we welcome you and your families into our store. We promise to be ready with quality chocolates, a comfortable setting, and warm greetings.  Don’t forget to take advantage of our early bird special each morning this month from 9-11am.

Sincerely,

Terry & Anne Stark

 

Stam Supports Strong Family Bonds – Daddies & Daughters

Daddy Date BannerFrom the first time your baby girl gazes into your eyes and stumbles over two syllables, “Da-da” every father is hooked.  As the child grows, so does the complexity and importance of this strong bond. Stam is committed to providing families in the local community an environment conducive to conversation and creating fond memories.   Read on to learn why making the time to focus on this relationship is critical to your daughter’s well being now and in the future, and discover creative ways to get connected.

Continue reading

Stam Monthly – August 2013

 

Stam Interior

Greetings

August marks a time when children return to school, families squeeze in a few more barbecues, and we welcome our customers to come enjoy chocolates, Iowa wine, and gelato to help them relax before the chaos of fall ensues. This month we have a Thursday night special you won’t want to miss, live entertainment,  and a very useful new product to share.  Read on to catch up on these topics and more in this month’s newsletter!

Calendar

August Calendar Stam

“Reminisce & Refresh” Live Music Friday August 2nd 6pm  – 8pm 

Baby Grand

Chocolaterie Stam in Downtown Ames is hosting an event in their downtown store from 6:00pm to 8:00pm on Friday August 2nd featuring pianists Lois Miller.

To honor her husband, Glen Miller, who recently passed away, Lois has compiled a set of his favorite music. The event, “Reminisce and Refresh”,  welcomes friends, family, and the community to join Lois at Stam to listen to music that pays tribute to Glen. Join us this Friday to celebrate his life and listen to the beautiful music played on Stam’s very own baby grand piano.

Live Music Saturdays in August

Sam Packard Pianist – Featured in our shop on August 3rd, 10th, 17th, and 24th and 31st from 10:30am – 12:00pm will be the skills of Sam Packard. This young musician will amaze you with his natural sense of musicality and inventive tunes. Sam has composed many of his songs at Stam and we are proud to support this budding young artist. You can see him perform live in the shop, but until then check out this video teaser.

Ken Jolls Jazz Pianist – Our local jazz pianist will be performing on Saturdays in August from 1pm – 5pm. Ken Jolls has played with jazz musicians around the country and the world. He once performed in a Bob Hope Show! Ken is a member of the Des Jazz Hall of fame. Spending your Saturdays with Stam will ensure you get a good fill of fantastic treats, coffee, and live music.

Jackie Haley Book Signing Saturday August 3rd 1pm  – 3pm 

Crystal Beach

Local author Jackie Haley will be visiting Stam for a book signing.  Read more about her new book here. Check our community page as well for more information on her recent book release. Prairie Moon Winery will be on hand hosting a wine tasting event, along with Ken Jolls, Des Moines Jazz Hall of Fame and Stam house pianist.

Stop in for fine wine, sweet treats, live music, and great company!

Daddies Daughters & Desserts Sunday August 25th 1pm – 4pm

Daddy

Healthy relationships are the key to a happy well lived life! One of the most important relationships is between daddies and daughters and we here at Stam want to help you foster special memories and time set aside to enjoy desserts and the company of each other.  If you are one of the lucky dads dropping your daughter off at ISU for their first day on the 26th this would be the perfect way to spend your afternoon before parting ways. Anyone is welcome to Join us August 25th, but any father who brings in their daughter receives one free chocolate with the purchase of two drinks or a gelato and drink combo.

Be on the look out for an upcoming blog on relationships and how certain atmospheres, and elements help to build fond memories and strong relationships.

 

 

Deals

Gelato

 “Thursday Night Special”.  After 4 pm every Thursday throughout the month of August

Two small gelatos

2 small 12 oz drinks

Only $10 or $.25 cents off one small gelato!

See Calendar Events for other specials!

shopping local

Finum tea hat

Shopping local at Stam this month will offer the opportunity to pick up the newest way to drink tea. We are now selling Finum tea cups .  This state of the art design features double walled glass to allow for instant consumption without the risk of burning your hand.  Your stringed tea bag will slip in easily as the top contains a slot for the tea string to slide in to.  Simply turn it over and set the tea bag in when drinking the tea.  When purchased locally through our store you’ll receive a free tea bag with each purchase.

chocolate

Not your average sweetcorn!

Corn Bonbon

First you won’t believe your eyes – corn-shaped chocolate, then you won’t believe your taste buds! This tasty milk chocolate and hazelnut praline filling combo will amaze you at first bite.  Hosting an Iowa State Fair kick off event? Be the envy of your friends when you show up with a box of these finely crafted chocolates. This makes living in the “Corn State” even sweeter.

As we transition into the last month of summer there will be a few more hot days ahead of us.  Our cold brewed coffee and blended coffees offer a quick pick you up and cool down. While you’re in cooling off try our European licorice, featuring double salt! We promise to be prepared with beautiful chocolates, fine coffees, and a friendly face. Hope to see you a lot this month!

Sincerely,

Terry & Anne Stark

 

Stam Monthly – July 13′

 

July Newsletter Cover

Greetings

July is looking to be a scorcher. We can’t think of a better way to escape the summer’s heat, than by stopping in for some gelato. We are offering an incredible deal featured in our latest blog. Read it soon to find out what it is! We have some exciting store events, great deals, small business highlights, as well as our chocolate flavor of the month to share with you, so read on!

Calendar

July__2013_Calendar+Templates

July 4th Magician & Face painting

Doc AndersonChocolaterie Stam in Downtown Ames is hosting a free family event in their downtown store from 9:00am to 2:00pm on Thursday July 4th featuring professional magician Doc Anderson.

Doc Anderson is one of Iowa’s premier magicians specializing in close up magic, a specialized form of sleight of hand made popular by magicians like David Blaine and Criss Angel.

“Close up magic is much more difficult than stage magic because it happens right under the audience’s nose and often right in their own hands” says Anderson, “A stage magician is far away from the audience, but when it’s up close, there is literally nowhere to hide. And because the audience can see everything, close up magic some of the most powerful performance magic possible for young and old alike. You really have to see it to believe it.”

In addition to close up magic, Doc will also demonstrate some of the classic Old-West cheats and swindles such as the shell game, the three card monte and deck stacking up close and personal.

“When you see how it’s done” says Anderson, “it’s easy to see how a fool and his money were lucky to get together in the first place.

Anderson’s performance, as well as face painting at Chocolaterie Stam, is part of the Downtown Ames July 4th festivities.

http://docflimflam.wordpress.com/

Not only will there be live entertainment from Doc, but JoyFul Colorz face painting will be available from 9:30am until 11:00am. These very talented artists are available to add color, fun, and excitement to your independence holiday. To learn more about these gifted painters, and to get inspired, visit their facebook page below!

https://www.facebook.com/JoyfulColorz/photos_stream

Sam Packard Pianist – Featured in our shop on July 6th, 13th, 20th, and 27th from 10:30am – 12:00pm will be the skills of Sam Packard. This young musician will amaze you with his natural sense of musicality and inventive tunes. Sam has composed many of his songs at Stam and we are proud to support this budding young artist. You can see him perform live in the shop, but until then check out this video teaser.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mLdhcNVZ4Rk

Cecil’s Harp – July 6th 1:00pm – 4:00pm & July 11th 4:30pm – 6:30pm.  Cecil’s Harp, a local Ames English Country Dance Band, frequently play at Chocolaterie Stam in downtown Ames, IA.  Cecil’s Harp plays music from the 1500’s to Jane Austen to present day. They are led by Linda and Gary Lieberman of Ames. Gary shows his talents on the guitar, clarinet, flute, oboe, mandolin and many more instruments. Linda plays whistles, fiddle, clarinet, and percussion.  July 6th’s event will features Scottish Dance music that is sure to get you moving.

Ken Jolls Jazz Pianist – Our local jazz pianist will be performing July 13th, 20th, and 27th from 1pm – 5pm. Ken Jolls has played with jazz musicians around the country and the world. He once performed in a Bob Hope Show! Ken is a member of the Des Jazz Hall of fame. Spending your Saturdays with Stam will ensure you get a good fill of fantastic treats, coffee, and live music.

Deals

Gelato Cups

Check out our latest blog for a very special deal on our Gelato!

https://chocolateriestamames.wordpress.com/2013/07/01/gelato-italian-style-ice-cream/

shopping local

One of the benefits of living in the breadbasket of the world is the accessibility of home grown veggies, fruits, and flowers right at your doorstep. We welcome the award winning Ames Main Street Farmers Market. This event runs every Saturday now through the end of September.  The hours are 8:00am – 12:00pm.   Located on the 400 block in front of Tom Evans Plaza, the Ames Main Street Farmers’ Market brings local food & fun to the heart of Ames.  This year they’ve added even more vendors! From jewelry to coffee, fine wine to spicy chorizo, there’s something for everyone. We encourage all to help support area producers and artists. Discover something new and hear great local entertainers every Saturday. The Ames Main Street Farmer’s Market has it all! So stop by next time for some good, healthy fun for the whole family!

chocolate

forest-berry-cream_large

Take a moment to imagine 5 wonderful berries pureed together, and layered with creme fraiche! Now rejoice because the chocolate as described is not only real, but available immediately for purchase at the Stam on Main Street in Ames. Serving the Forest Berry Cream chocolate to friends after a delicious meal will be the perfect balance of coco and nature’s candy. This fruit filled dessert is best eaten in one bite, or over a napkin!

 

Gelato – Italian Style Ice Cream

Gelato

Take a trip to Europe right here in the local town of Ames, Iowa. Gelato is the Italian’s thicker, and more intensely flavored version of ice cream. As we approach the heart of summer, this tasty treat is sure to cool you down while satisfying the need for a fulfilling experience.  Still not convinced? Read on to get the full story of how gelato came to be and why it should be included in your list of favorite desserts.
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