Katherine Singleton, Paoli, Ind.

Food has always played an important role in my family life primarily because of my mother’s interest and appreciation for the culinary arts. She is not a chef, nor did she go to culinary school, but as a mother of five children and a passion for cooking, she has passed on the appreciation and an understanding of the kitchen to me.

When I was 10, my mother became part owner of the Martinsville Candy Kitchen. The business was established in 1919 by James Zapapas and has been in operation ever since. It is famous for its homemade candies and most importantly for its handmade candy canes. Growing up I would spend afternoons helping my Mom at the shop after school. I learned how to make cinnamon logs, English toffee, fudge, cowboy cookies, divinity, buckeyes, turtle brownies, and many other sweets. My favorite time of year was fall because Fall Foliage Festival took place on the square in downtown Martinsville. My mom would make caramel apples, persimmon pudding, among other things, and we would set up outside the store and watch the parade and festivities unfold. Christmastime follows the fall festival, which means the candy cane making process begins.

Since childhood I’ve taken a great interest and acquired a great appreciation for the culinary arts. The Indiana Foodways Alliance Business Fellows project is of interest to me because it provides me with the opportunity to combine work with my hobby. Having grown up with the small town privately owned candy store, I am excited to help other small town communities see their unique culinary spots stay in business for many others to enjoy through the years.