Mike Scmitt, owner of the former Black River Coffee Bar, gave a talk about coffee. Coffee is one of the most popular beverages in the world, with a rich history that dates back over a thousand years. Originating in the ancient coffee forests of Ethiopia, legend tells of a goat herder named Kaldi who discovered the energizing effects of coffee beans. By the 15th century, coffee had spread to the Arabian Peninsula, where it became a vital part of social life and trade. Coffee houses, known as qahveh khaneh, flourished in cities like Mecca and Constantinople, becoming hubs for conversation, music, and intellectual exchange. The drink eventually made its way to Europe in the 17th century, where it quickly gained popularity despite initial suspicion. Over time, coffee became a global commodity, fueling economies and shaping cultures—from the rise of coffee plantations in Latin America to the modern café culture found in cities around the world. The differences between light, medium, and dark roast coffee lie in the roasting time and temperature, which significantly affect flavor, aroma, color, and caffeine content:

Each roast offers a unique taste experience, and personal preference often determines which is best for a given coffee drinker. Mike suggested that coffee from Costa Rica is the best and he recommended that you wet your coffee for about 40 seconds before brewing to get the best experience for your coffee drinking.