Traditions refer to the customs, beliefs, practices, and values that are passed down through generations within a community, culture, or society. They can encompass a wide range of behaviors and norms, including rituals, ceremonies, storytelling, art, and social practices. Traditions often serve to reinforce a sense of identity and belonging among members of a group, providing continuity and a connection to the past. They can evolve over time but usually maintain core elements that reflect the group’s historical and cultural context. Traditions can be both formal, such as religious ceremonies, and informal, like family gatherings or community celebrations. They play a crucial role in shaping social structures and influencing the behaviors and worldviews of individuals within a community.
Rising cocoa prices have made Valentine's chocolate gifts more expensive than ever, impacting chocolatiers and consumers alike. Chocolatier Dominique Persoone notes the challenge many face, some closing shop during Valentine's,…