http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/ Current news, events and coffee specials from Alterra Coffee, Milwaukee, WI. en alterra@alterracoffee.com Copyright 2010 2010-07-29T15:56:53-06:00 http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/alterra_coffee_and_clacs_present_musica_del_lago_2010/ http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/alterra_coffee_and_clacs_present_musica_del_lago_2010/#When:19:13:37Z The weather is heating up and that means that it’s time once again for Música del Lago, Alterra’s annual free summer concert series! Join us Thursday evenings at 7pm at Alterra at the Lake, located at 1701 N. Lincoln Memorial Drive across from McKinley Marina (map) for free, live, outdoor performances featuring a fantastic lineup of local Latin music groups. We hope to see you down by the lake this summer! 2010 Música Del Lago Schedule June 3rd: Bahía June 17th: De La Buena July 15th: Orquesta Veneno July 29th: Caché Aug 12th: Carmen Lamarque Aug 26th: Naborí Rain date: September 2nd Concert cancellations due to inclement weather will be announced on the Alterra blog no later than 5pm the same day of the show. Special thanks to our co-sponsor, the Center for Latin American & Caribbean Studies (CLACS) at UW-Milwaukee! Alterra Events 2010-06-02T19:13:37-06:00 http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/riverwest_wednesdays_free_outdoor_concerts_featuring_near_eastern_west_afri/ http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/riverwest_wednesdays_free_outdoor_concerts_featuring_near_eastern_west_afri/#When:15:56:53Z RIVERWEST WEDNESDAYS 7pm, outdoor performances on the patio @ Alterra Humboldt 2999 N. Humboldt Blvd. (near the corner of Locust & Humboldt) FREE! FREE! FREE! FREE! With a mix of music that’s as eclectic as the Riverwest neighborhood that Alterra calls home, we proudly present Riverwest Wednesdays! August 4th: ALI JAMES & THE DESERT SHADOWS:Integrating the beauty of Near Eastern musical modes, instruments, and rhythms into Western folk and jazz music structures featuring performances on the oud, qanun, tabla, digeridoo and guitar. Bringing “the otherworldly tonalities and chords of Near Eastern and Indian music into the realm of acoustic psychedelia” - The Shepherd Express “One of the coolest bands I’ve seen in a while” - Radio Milwaukee’s Scott Mullins.  (Watch a video of Ali James Lubbad performing with Ali Amr at Alterra in 2009.) August 18th: JALI KUNDA Keba Diabate, Yaya Kambaye and friends share West African strings, percussion, and storytelling, featuring performances on djembe and kora.  (Watch a video of Jali Kunda.) August 25th: FLORENTINE OPERA Enjoy live opera and musical theater favorites, get a preview of the upcoming season, and the chance to win free tickets to upcoming operas. Alterra Events 2010-07-29T15:56:53-06:00 http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/nelson_melo_coffee_tastings_limited_availability_for_two_days_only_at_alter/ http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/nelson_melo_coffee_tastings_limited_availability_for_two_days_only_at_alter/#When:22:21:28Z This limited lot of exceptional coffee comes to us from the farm of Nelson Melo, Finca Las Acacias near Popayán, Colombia.  Only 100 12oz packages ($14.95 each) will be available during each of these two very special tasting events! Some of you may have met Nelson when he and his family came to visit Alterra and Milwaukee back in February of 2009. Unfortunately, Nelson won’t be able to join us this time, but his coffee will be on hand as evidence of his commitment and dedication to quality and sustainable farming techniques. Visit Alterra Humboldt on August 3rd or Alterra Tosa on August 17th to purchase Nelson Melo by the cup or by the bag. Some of our most experienced baristas will be on hand to talk about the coffee, demonstrate alternative brewing methods and share their enthusiasm!  Nelson’s coffee is very full and layered, intense yet balanced.  Dry ground aromatics are awesome, very fruity.  During the brewing process you might wonder if someone is cutting ripe peaches.  The body is thick and sweet, the acidity is pronounced and lush, and the flavors that come through suggest sweet grapefruit, cola and cherry. Brewed Nelson Melo coffee will be available for $2.75/cup. Pick from your choice of brew methods: 12oz Siphon, 12oz Pour Over (V60), 6oz AeroPress, 2oz Double Espresso Tuesday, August 3rd @Alterra Humboldt 8am - noon, 2pm - 6pm Tuesday, August 17th @Alterra Tosa (times TBA) When asked about his farm and his coffee, Nelson shared the following: “The work that we do in the farm and our success in producing quality coffee is the result of the efforts of many people who have all joined forces so that we can offer a special product to those who wish to enjoy an excellent cup of coffee. With my family we strive to use the best practices available so that we can produce an excellent coffee.  Just as we want to give our children only the best that we can, we think that those who drink our coffee also deserve the best.  Now that you are drinking our coffee, we want to thank you for your support.  We promise that we will continue caring for this coffee and providing you a great cup of coffee because now it’s not only ours, it’s also yours.” - Nelson Camilo Melo Alterra Events 2010-07-28T22:21:28-06:00 http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/the_alterra_coffee_bean_classic_mountain_bike_race_happens_july_25th_2010/ http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/the_alterra_coffee_bean_classic_mountain_bike_race_happens_july_25th_2010/#When:16:42:11Z HEY, EVERYONE! DUE TO TRACK CONDITIONS, THE COFFEE BEAN CLASSIC HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED FOR SUNDAY, AUGUST 29TH. HOPE YOU CAN MAKE IT! The Alterra Mountain Bike Team proudly presents a true mountain bike race with a track that includes a burning switchback climb, dizzying single track, and fast fire roads all in the urban setting of Milwaukee County. Welcome to the Alterra Coffee Bean Classic! This challenging five- to six-mile lap snakes its way up, down and around the Crystal Ridge Ski Area with a venue that puts friends and family in perfect position to cheer on their favorite racers all day long. The Alterra Coffee Bean Classic welcomes everyone from 1st timers to advanced riders.  Come to watch or come to race! FREE ADMISSION FOR SPECTATORS (Want to ride? Click here for information on how to register.) Saturday, August 28th Pre-ride 12-7pm Learn to Race Clinic 3-5pm Sunday August 29th: Mountain Bike Race Citizen Youth:  9:30 AM Citizen:  10:00 AM Sport:  11:30 AM Comp & Elite: 1:30 PM Youth Series (12 yrs & under): 1:00 PM The Alterra Coffee Bean Classic is held at Crystal Ridge Ski Hill near Witnall Park in Franklin. (map) Alterra Coffee Roasters will once again have a coffee bar open to pour free, locally roasted strong coffee, whether your preference is hot or cold. Also, the race’s other sponsor, Lakefront Brewery, will have ice-cold beers on tap. As always the Alterra Team continues its strong tradition of community service. Portions of the entry fee support great causes such as: Free helmets for kids at a local bike rodeo, the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin, and WORBA. The Team will also continue to donate to the development of the Hank Aaron State Trail. Further details are available at www.AlterraMTB.org Alterra Events 2010-07-27T16:42:11-06:00 http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/the_week_of_april_26th/ http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/the_week_of_april_26th/#When:15:03:42Z Hello! This week’s locally sourced produce includes: -Green Onions: Kung Pow Tofu Wrap, Wisconsin Quiche -Chives: Strata, Chive Cream Cheese -Oregano: Pesto Mozz sandwich, Roasted Tomato Brushcetta -Basil: Brushcetta, Pesto, Local Yokel and Florentine, Roasted Tomato Brushcetta -Thyme: Gazpacho -Parsley: Hummus, Falafel, Roasted Tomato Brushcetta -Mushrooms: Veggie Breakfast Burrito, Mushroom bisque, Strata, Kung Pow Tofu Wrap -Cherries: Turn-overs, Cherry Parfaits LOCAL NEWS All of our Mushrooms, from Shitakes to Portabellas to Button to Oyster...are local! River Valley Ranch: Following the tenets of organic farming, this Burlington Wisconsin family farm proudly grows mushrooms that are available year round. No chemicals, pesticides or growth enhancers are used in the production of these wonderful mushrooms, ensuring the cleanest possible product. Established in 1976, this is the oldest mushroom farm in the Midwest. The White Cheddar Cheese in the sandwich special this week is from Red Barn Family Farms in Black Creek and Pulaski, Wisconsin. These farms are certified by the American Humane Association. Each Red Barn Farm honors this quote: “The rule to be observed in this stable at all time, toward the cattle, young and old, is that of patience and kindness. Men must be patient. Cattle are not reasoning beings. Remember this is the Home of Mothers. Treat each cow as a Mother should be treated.” - WD Hoard SPECIALS Grilled Asparagus Sandwich w/ White Cheddar Cheese and Roasted Tomato Brushcetta on a rustica bun: Local oregano and parsley add depth to our tomato brushcetta. Lightly grilled asparagus is a wonderful foil to this rich yet faintly tart white cheddar cheese. Wisconsin Farmers Quiche: Award winning, local cranberry chipotle cheddar cheese, Yuppie Hill sage breakfast sausage, local green onions, and grilled poblano peppers. Southwestern Quiche: Black beans, red peppers, cilantro, tomato, onion, pepper jack, cheddar Ragin’ Cajun Breakfast Burrito: Wilson Farms Andouille Sausage, Roasted Potatoes, Peppers, Yuppie Hill Eggs, Pepper Jack SOUPS Mushroom Bisque: Bisque is a smooth, creamy, highly-seasoned soup of French origin, classically based on a strained broth of crustaceans. Also, creamy soups made from roasted and puréed vegetables are sometimes called bisques. A puree of roasted shitake, portabella, and button mushrooms seasoned with roasted garlic, soy sauce, and brandy. Balance by a touch of brown sugar, this soup hits all the right notes. Garnished with herb croutons. Chicken and Sausage Gumbo: A classic blend of Cajun ingredients and flavors make for deliciously filling soup experience. Having originated in New Orleans, Louisiana, created by the French, but enhanced by additions from other cultures, gumbo is the result of the melting of cultures in Louisianan history. The Andouille sausage is from Wilson Farms, WI; the organic chicken is from Big Sky Ranch. Fresh okra is an important part of this soup, adding a traditional flavor and texture. Garnished with White Rice. ABC This Week 2010-07-26T15:03:42-06:00 http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/celebrate_milwaukees_independent_local_businesses_its_easy_as_1_2_3/ http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/celebrate_milwaukees_independent_local_businesses_its_easy_as_1_2_3/#When:16:50:40Z Alterra is proud to be a founding member of Our Milwaukee, a business alliance that advocates for locally owned, independent businesses.  July 28th - August 7th, join Our Milwaukee in celebrating our city’s outstanding independent locals by: 1. Learning what local really means 2. Discovering Milwaukee’s best local businesses 3. Supporting the businesses that make Milwaukee unique! AND ENJOY 2 FREE EVENTS! Movie Screening of
 Independent America: Rising From Ruins
 Sunday, August 1st, 1:30pm
 @ Times Cinema 5906 West Vliet Street Shop the Our Milwaukee Vendor Fair 
 at Fish Fry & a Flick on 
Friday, August 6th Join the Our Milwaukee email list, pledge to buy local, and you’ll be entered to win great prizes from Our Milwaukee members, including a 6-month coffee subscription from Alterra! Click here to enter or to view the full list of prizes. 
 10 GREAT REASONS TO SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL BUSINESSES: * Buy Local - Support Yourself Several studies have shown that when you buy from an independent, locally owned business, rather than a nationally owned business, significantly more of your money is used to make purchases from other local businesses, service providers and farms - continuing to strengthen the economic base of the community. * Support Community Groups Non-profit organizations receive an average of 250% more support from small business owners than they do from large businesses. * Keep our Community Unique Where we shop, where we eat and have fun - all of it makes our community home. Our one-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of the distinctive character of this place. Our tourism businesses also benefits. “When people go on vacation they generally seek out destinations that offer them the sense of being someplace, not just anyplace.” * Reduce Environmental Impact Locally owned businesses can make more local purchases requiring less transportation and generally set up shop in town or city centers as opposed to developing on the fringe. This generally means contributing less to sprawl, congestion, habitat loss and pollution. * Create More Good Jobs Small local businesses are the largest employer nationally and in our community; providing the most jobs to residents. * Get Better Service Local businesses often hire people with better understanding of the products they are selling and take more time to get to know customers. * Invest in the Community Local businesses are owned by people who live in the community, are less likely to leave, and are more invested in the community’s future. * Put Your Taxes to Good Use Local businesses in town centers require comparatively little infrastructure investment and make more efficient use of public services as compared to nationally owned stores entering the community. * Buy What You Want, Not What Someone Wants You to Buy A marketplace of tens of thousands of small businesses is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices over the long-term. A multitude of small businesses, each selecting products based not on a national sales plan but on their own interests and the needs of their local customers, guarantees a much broader range of product choices. * Encourage Local Prosperity A growing body of economic research shows that in an increasingly homogenized world, entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to invest and settle in communities that preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and distinctive character. Alterra News 2010-07-23T16:50:40-06:00 http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/delta_mud/ http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/delta_mud/#When:15:33:06Z As the name suggests, this blend of Papua New Guinea Kimel Plantation and a very dark-roasted Brazil Traditional yields an extremely rich, deep cup of coffee. It’s not for the timid or faint of heart, but the rewards for those brave souls who indulge in this brew are as great as the Mississippi River is wide. Delta Mud will be $1.00 off any size bag at AlterraCoffee.com through July 29th and will be our café special from July 26th - August 1st. Coffee Special 2010-07-23T15:33:06-06:00 http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/win_free_tickets_to_see_melissa_etheridge_august_11th_at_the_riverside_thea/ http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/win_free_tickets_to_see_melissa_etheridge_august_11th_at_the_riverside_thea/#When:18:22:20Z Our friends at The Pabst/Riverside Theaters here in Milwaukee have generously shared two pairs of Melissa Etheridge tickets for us to give away to some lucky Alterra customers! How can you enter to win? Play the Alterra online scavenger hunt! Here’s how it works: Look for the logo above hidden somewhere in our webstore (BIG HINT! It’s on one of our coffee pages.) * Note the individual product page where you found the logo * Email that page/product name to alterra@alterracoffee.com with the subject line “Melissa Etheridge” * Include your name and phone number in your email. * The deadline to enter is noon, Tuesday, August 3rd. * Our ticket winners will be contacted that same day and tickets will be held at will call under the name of the winner. * One entry per person please. Click here to visit our online store and start hunting! Singer-songwriter, activist, cancer survivor, mother + ROCKER…you can place all kinds of modifiers on the name Melissa Etheridge, but one constant remains: Whether in music or in life, she is nothing short of inspiring. Visit The Pabst Theater website for more info about the show! As always, thanks for reading the Alterra News and Events page and keep checking back here for the latest in ACR happenings! Want to stay informed about our coffee specials, events, giveaways and more? Subscribe to our RSS feed, follow us on Twitter and/or join our mailing list! 2010-07-19T18:22:20-06:00 http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/alterra_cafe_book_drive_aug_1st_15th_donate_your_used_books_to_literacy_ser/ http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/alterra_cafe_book_drive_aug_1st_15th_donate_your_used_books_to_literacy_ser/#When:20:12:46Z Donate your used books at Alterra cafes to help support Literacy Services of Wisconsin! During the first two weeks of August select Alterra cafes will have collection boxes for customers to drop off new or gently used books. These books will then be donated to the LSW Annual Book Sale which takes place September 16th - 19th. Reading is a gift but not a given and LSW utilizes a most precious resource (books) to raise money in order to help adults learn to read. Last year, the sale raised over $12,000. Click here to learn more about LSW. Did you know that 27% of Milwaukee adults (116,000 residents) are unable to read past a third grade level? Your book donations will help serve more than 600 students a year learn to read, spell, speak English or study for their G.E.D. Books will be collected at the following locations only, August 1st –15th: Alterra Foundry Alterra Bayshore Alterra Grafton Alterra Tosa Alterra Humboldt 2010-07-14T20:12:46-06:00 http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/alterra_now_serves_rishi_masala_chai/ http://alterracoffeepro.com/blog/alterra_now_serves_rishi_masala_chai/#When:15:28:27Z Alterra is proud to announce that we now sell and serve Rishi Tea’s Masala Chai Concentrate in all of our cafes! This delicious chai is blended and brewed just down the road in Bay View, Milwaukee, and we are thrilled to be teamed up with such a fantastic local company. Rishi Tea’s Masala Chai Concentrate is an all organic and Fair Trade Certified™ microbrewed blend of energizing spices and rich vanilla, infused with a full-bodied single origin forest grown black tea. Rishi uses ethically sourced, wild-grown black tea leaves from an ancient tea tree forest harvested in Yunnan, China – the birthplace of tea. The Fair Trade Certified black tea helps support more than 220 families living and working in the tea growing villages. Ancient wild-grown forest tea comes from a sustainable, biologically diverse ecosystem. Less than 2% of the world’s tea is harvested in such a low impact and truly organic manner. To make this delicious concentrate, traditional Indian spices are slow brewed in small batches for more than 20 hours and carefully infused with the tea leaves. Slow brewing results in a more authentic and complex array of richer and fuller flavors. Each box of Masala Chai Concentrate also supports the Jane Goodall Institute and Roots & Shoots – its environmental and humanitarian global youth program. Click here to view a video of the Rishi Tea Chai launch party with Dr. Jane Goodall! Click here to read more about Rishi Tea’s Masala Chai Concentrate or stop by one of our cafes and try some today! Also, some folks from Rishi will be at two upcoming events at Alterra at the Lake. Swing by Musica del Lago with Orquesta Veneno on Thursday, July 15th or Florentine at the Lake on July 22nd for some great music and Rishi Masala Chai samples! Alterra News 2010-07-12T15:28:27-06:00