Hi! My name is Stephanie Zonis, and welcome to the September, 2001 edition of "For Chocolate Lovers Only". Each month, you'll find recipes, tips, and recommendations for great chocolate specialties.

Chocolate Recommendation of the Month: September is a funny month for weather; some places really begin to cool down while others often remain warm. But Oregon Chai can accommodate any climate with their Chocolate Chai, a blend of organic black tea, organic evaporated cane juice, some organic flavorings, and cocoa. This is sold in concentrate form; you simply mix equal parts of the concentrate with milk or a milk substitute, then enjoy it hot or over ice. It's a pleasant drink that's a great change from coffee or regular cocoa (or, for that matter, regular tea). Oregon Chai sells 6 other varieties of concentrates, including their chai charger and kashmir green tea, and they sell 2 types of ready-to-drink chai.

The company's website is informative and funky and humorous, all at the same time. How many sites include a personality test? On the more practical side, you can find out where to buy their products locally, and I really like the idea of their "Giving Tree", where you can suggest organizations you think are worthy of their donations. You can reach Oregon Chai at (888) 874-CHAI or take a peek at the website at: www.oregonchai.com. Check 'em out!

Upcoming Chocolate Event: New York area chocolate lovers, can you dig it? The Fourth Annual Chocolate Show is coming, so mark your calendars for the weekend before Thanksgiving (November 15 through 18). The Metropolitan Pavilion, at 125 West 18th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues in The Big Apple, will once again host this celebration of all things chocolate, including demonstrations by world-renowned chocolatiers and pastry chefs; a Barnes & Noble cookbook store with author signings; chocolate activities for kids and adults; and more. Over fifty brands of chocolate will be represented! For more information, watch this column in October and November. You can also call (212) 865-6100 to ask for a brochure, or check the website at www.chocolateshow.com.

Do you have a comment, question, or suggestion? I'd like your input into this column. You can reach me at: sdziadwm@nac.net. Thank you!