Spring Has Arrived, Embracing Us All!

Don Senneville and Jim White report on a lively aftermath of Rodeo Days and Bike Week in their vibrant community. As the dust settles, the local atmosphere has transformed, highlighting the challenges and joys that recent events brought. Coffee Row temporarily adopted a new persona, with overall consumption on the rise.

The influx of motorcycle enthusiasts turned navigating the 4-way stop into a puzzling task. Questions arose: do eight bikes travel together or one by one? The presence of many Hell’s Angels created an uneasy acquiescence. Attending the Rodeo proved equally adventurous. After maneuvering through the crowd, the duo sought refuge at the Stockman’s Club—a prime spot for viewing bucking broncos while enjoying meals with friends. Their attempt to enter using Press Passes was thwarted, and references to well-known locals did little to change security protocols. Lacking the stylish attire typically associated with Bike Week or the Rodeo, they retreated to Carefree, grateful for their hometown.

Later, a discussion blossomed on the Grotto patio about the origins of their favorite brew. Insights from Statistica shed light on coffee sourcing. Brazil and Colombia dominate the market, with Brazil slightly leading. Surprisingly, Switzerland ranks third, raising eyebrows among the coffee connoisseurs. The image of Swiss jungles filled with coffee fields was quickly dispelled. It turns out Swiss coffee culture relies on intricate supply chains involving producers from countries like Vietnam and Honduras. The finished product eventually reaches consumers as Nespresso pods in stylish machines. Interestingly, both the EU and South Korea heavily import coffee from Switzerland, hinting at a larger coffee economy at play. The creeping rise in coffee prices persists, attributed to unpredictable climate factors affecting crop yields. Shockingly, Roc2’s coffee prices soared by 50% recently. Nostalgia struck as one remembered when a cup of coffee was merely a dime. Don has even entertained the idea of cultivating coffee beans in the desert!

Shifting away from the weight of economic discussions, the beauty of spring captured their attention. March transitioned into April with the miraculous blooming of yellow desert flowers. This seasonal change signaled prosperity for local coffee shops and provided cherished opportunities to reconnect with loved ones. The Creperie stands out, delighting grandchildren with creatively topped crepes that spark joy and laughter. The simple pleasure of sipping a cappuccino while watching grandkids savor their edible masterpieces creates lasting memories. A heartfelt thank you goes to Marina—truly the ‘Queen of Crepes.’

As they reflect on the vibrancy of spring, their friend Ron leaves behind an image encapsulating the essence of the season. Thoughts and shared experiences are welcomed at The CUP via email.