Notepad:

November 14, 2008
Apparently "Invitation to Burundi" was a big success. This I know from all the folks who have called, emailed, or just stopped by to say, "That was awesome!".

Thanks to:

Abdoul Murekezi, PhD. candidate who spoke about his life growing up on a coffee farm in Burundi.
Jason Glerum, for his stunning photographs from Burundi, on display now at Richard App Gallery.
Josh Dunnigan, barista and drummer for bringing his
traditional drum troupe and drumming a beat that pulsated throughout the gallery creating a powerful backdrop of sound for the show.
George Mwiti Gichengi, who shared his stories of growing up
in coffee in Kenya.
Anne Ottaway, Michigan State University Coffee Marketing Specialist who explained efforts to improve coffee
production and connect growers in Burundi with Specialty
Coffee roasters in the United States.
Richard App Gallery for hosting the event.
WYCE radio for plugging the event on one of America's best
and last independent, community radio stations.
Carez Wine Bar (opening soon) who allowed us to demonstrate their new Rancilio Classe 6 LEVA espresso machine.
Rancilio's Ken Hall for getting the Classe 6 shipped for installation in one day.
Jack Davis from Great Northern Roasting Company in Traverse City for sharing his incredible "Headstrong Espresso" from Tarruno Nayarit Mexico.
Cafe Imports for bringing coffee from Burundi to the United States.

Thanks to everyone who attended and brought their curiosity, intense interest and support for the efforts here in West Michigan to support economic development and sustainability
in Burundi.

Rowster Coffee is located in the heart of the newly transformed East Hills neighborhood inside the Richard App Gallery (910 Cherry Street.)