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Lanna Coffee Co. launches “Valley Children’s Blend” to raise funds for hospital

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Sarah Soghomonian
TV Producer and fan of all things fabulous.Bulldog Born, Bulldog Bred!
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Fresno-based Lanna Coffee Co. has launched a new product designed to raise funds for Valley Children’s Hospital.

“Valley Children’s Blend” is a medium roast with vanilla undertones and a lingering nutty finish. Five dollars from every bag sold will be donated to the hospital’s Children’s Fund, which goes to improving care and services for patients, recruiting pediatric surgeons, and providing the most advanced technology.

“Lanna Coffee Co. wanted to provide an opportunity to use their product as a means to fundraise and give back to our community,” says Kelly Mitchinson, Administrative Director of Lanna Coffee Co. “With the daily ritual of drinking coffee, this new blend gives consumers another great reason to choose Lanna Coffee and make a difference in their community.”

Valley Children's Blend

Hospital serves over a million children in the area

For more than 65 years, Valley Children’s has provided care for our community. With more than 575 physicians and 3,400 staff members, the hospital serves 1.3 million children in their 12-county service area.

“We are so grateful to have the support of local businesses like Lanna Coffee,” says Zara Arboleda, Valley Children’s spokesperson. “We are humbled by their generosity and will use funds raised to continue providing the best pediatric care to Valley families.”

Valley Children’s Blend is sold in 12 oz. bags and will be available through Dec. 31. It sells for $15 and can be purchased online or at the Lanna warehouse at 617 Broadway St. in downtown Fresno. It’s also available at the cafeteria of Valley Children’s Hospital.

Valley Children's Blend

The team at Lanna Coffee Co. says they’re excited to support Valley Children’s mission to provide high-quality, comprehensive care. This isn’t the only way the company gives back. They use beans from Northern Thailand, and a portion of every sale is sent back to that region. The funds are helping build gravity feed water tanks in remote villages.

To learn more about Lanna Coffee’s mission, check out this FresYes article.

10 reasons to check out the Tower District’s all-new Revue coffee house

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Natali Carrera
Natali Carrera is a devoted coffee addict who also loves her twelve-year-old son, husband of 17 years and bargain hunting at Target. She works in the field of education and is also a freelance writer and YouTube vlogger (as a hobby). She's been told "bubbly" is the best descriptor of her personality, though she wonders if what people really mean is that she talks too much. Natali is a lifelong Fresno resident and Fresno State grad.
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Fresno coffee lovers, the time has come to rejoice. Not only is one of your favorite coffee houses open again, it has a whole new business model that adds something extra no one else offers locally—Ampersand Ice Cream paired with Lanna Coffee.

That’s right: at The Revue, located at 620 E. Olive in the Tower District, you can now order a delicious vanilla bean affogato (that’s ice cream drowned in coffee) along with other awesome coffee-and-ice-cream offerings and, of course great coffee sans ice cream.

In honor of The Revue’s opening this week, I paid a visit to capture some photos, taste the coffee, and gather intel just for you, FresYes readers. (Okay, let’s be honest: I would have gone anyway. But, hey, I did take photos and ask questions on your behalf.)

Here are 10 reasons to visit the new Revue.

Revue coffee house

Updated store front view of The Revue

1. Location

The Revue is located in the same building as its prior iteration, but is now under new ownership. Lanna Coffee Co. and Ampersand owners came together to offer a unique and (I fear, addictive) combination of both of their great products: coffee and ice cream.

2. Interior

The interior of The Revue got an awesome facelift with lots of natural light streaming in, unique and eye-catching light fixtures, and a beautiful custom coffee bar that allows you to watch all the magic being made at the espresso bar.

Revue coffee house

I love this light fixture!

Revue coffee house

Order a drink at the beautifully remodeled counter

Revue coffee house

Watch coffee magic being made

3. Signature drink

Their signature espresso drink is a Whiskey Caramel Latte (which I ordered, hot) and it was fantastic. Like, really, really fantastic. The whiskey caramel added a smokiness and richness of flavor compared to the typical caramel latte, and the foam was just thick enough without being too much. I typically order coffee drinks with nonfat milk, which they didn’t have, but they did have reduced fat milk, which they used. Maybe that added to why it seemed so delicious to me!

My insanely tasty Whiskey Caramel Latte

4. Diverse menu

The Revue also offers more than the typical espresso bar offerings, such as Nitro Cold Brew Floats (coffee brewed with nitrogen for a smooth taste and slightly greater caffeine kick, topped with vanilla bean ice cream), Cold Brew Milkshakes, Affogatos (espresso shots topped with ice cream), and they even have kombucha on tap.

5. More than coffee

Other drinks you can enjoy include teas (including chai and matcha tea lattes), coffee pour overs, and house-made sodas.

Pour over anyone?

Revue coffee house

Specialty drink options

6. Cold brew in bulk

Love cold brewed coffee? You can buy it by the growler for $12 or $20, and just $8 or $16 for a refill.

7. Plenty of indoor seating

The Revue has two indoor seating spaces. The front room surrounds the espresso bar, which is bright and light, filled with plants and modern-looking, smaller wooden tables. The back room has three larger custom-built booth tables and a pair of upholstered chairs for lounging and sipping in. Soon, I was told, there will be a large, wooden community table added to this room as well.

Revue coffee house

Comfy chairs welcome you in the back room

8. Patio seating

In addition to the indoor seating areas, there are two outside patio seating areas in front and directly east of the entrance.

in addition to the indoor seating areas

One of the two outdoor seating areas

9. Take-home coffee for purchase

Lanna Coffee, loose leaf teas, and pastries are also available for purchase.

in addition to the indoor seating areas

Coffee and tea, available for home brewing

Revue coffee house

A few of the pastries for sale during my visit.

10. Great atmosphere

Service was very friendly, and hot drinks come with Instagram-able latte art. Did I mention how fantastic the Whiskey Caramel Latte was? Please order one soon.

The Revue is officially open for business from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily.

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Here’s What You Should Do This Weekend

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FresYes Writing Team
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Looking for something to do this weekend? Here are some fun suggestions for events happening in Fresno and beyond. Make sure to check our calendar for even more stuff to do.

Don’t forget! Father’s Day is Sunday. Read our post on things to do with Dad here.

Friday

do this weekend 11

Rockville

Head to Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Co. from 7-10 p.m. this evening for some live classic rock, R&B and pop, and food from The Smokin’ Burrito. This free show is all ages. [Details]

Evenings on the Savannah

Friday evenings from 5-8 p.m. during the summer, head to the Fresno Chaffee Zoo to enjoy food and music in the zoo’s newest addition, African Adventure. Tonight’s featured musician is Eva Scow and the dinner special is Country Fried Chicken and Waffle topped with Chef Rob’s Bacon Jam and Maple Butter for $11.99. Check out the FresYes article on this event here. [Details]

Nights in the Plaza Presents Moonlight Trio

Enjoy music under the stars tonight at Arte Américas from 7-10 p.m. Moonlight Trio captures the sound and essence of Southern California by playing a mix of old school rock & roll, rockabilly, cumbia, Tex-Mex and traditional Mexican music performed with a rockabilly twist. Cost is $12 for adults, $10 for members, $5 for kids under 10, and $40 VIP seating. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs; food from Tacos Mazatlan and beverages will be available for purchase. [Details]

Blackstone Cruise

Join Fresno Bike Party for the Blackstone Cruise ride. All types of bikes and all types of riders are welcome. Meet at Fresno High with an 8:00 p.m. roll out to Maroa to Princeton to Blackstone heading north. This is not a dinner ride. [Details]

R.A. The Rugged Man, AFRO & Inna Vision

Definitive Productions presents R.A. The Rugged Man featuring All Flows Reach Out with very special guest Inna Vision. Performances by Mc Wicks, Simple Sinsation & The Points. Tacos by Fred’s Puros Tacos. Pre-sale tickets available from Tower District Records, LiveMusicCity.com, Simple Sinsation and The Points. Doors at 8 p.m. All ages. $20 advance. [Details]

[See more Friday events here]

Saturday

do this weekend 11

Blues & Brews: Fathers Day Edition

Saturday at Full Circle Brewing Co., enjoy the Blues & Brews: Fathers Day Edition. Tacos from Fred’s Puros Tacos. Doors at 7 p.m. Live music starts at 8 p.m. $10 at the door, Kids 12 and under free. [Details]

June Local Vendor Fair

It’s time for another Local Vendor Fair at Lanna Coffee. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at 617 Broadway. Come down to enjoy local handmade goods, and local handmade coffee. Lanna Coffee will be serving up espresso drinks and cold brew. [Details]

OutWords Community Showcase

After 5 years of poetry work and performances, OutWords will be saying good bye to after school work. This send-off will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Mia Cuppa Caffé in the Tower District. [Details]

Nick Waterhouse, SadGirl

8 p.m. to midnight at Strummer’s. All ages. Tickets are $15. [Details]

80s Dance Party – Max Headroom and Shattered

This party goes from 5 to 11 p.m. Saturday at ApCal in Madera. $15 advance, $20 at the gate.
Pre-sale gate opens at 5 p.m., general admission at 6 p.m. There will be wine, beer, food, dancing and cigars. Catering by Flat Bottom Grill and Ruffoni’s Artisan Pizza. 21 years and older only. [Details]

[See more Saturday events here]

Sunday

do this weekend 11

Sunday Summer Music Series with DJ Mr. Leonard and Friends

At Tioga-Sequoia Brewing Co. Sunday, enjoy music from Cerro Negro (Flamenco/Latin/Acoustic). Beer Garden is open from noon – 6 p.m. Food available from Casa de Tamales. Free admission, all ages. [Details]

8th annual Tower District Father’s Day Blues Festival

This event takes place from 5 to 9 p.m. on the Saint Therese Church Lawn on Floradora & Maroa avenues in the Tower District. Admission is $15 (kids 9 and under free with paid adult admission). Gates open at 4 p.m. and the bands play from 5 to 9 p.m. [Details]

FAB T-Dance Brunch

From noon to 4 p.m. enjoy Continental brunch at FAB Fresno in the Tower District. DJs
Jacob Terry, Lorraine Contreras and Shant P. will be on hand. Event goes until 6 p.m. No cover. [Details]

Vibe Soul Lounge | Celebrating Father’s Day

A harmonious blend of soulful sounds brought to you all night by DJs PDK, HunnitKay, yelo. and an incredible band led by Ray Moore. Featuring monthly guest artists. 7 to 11 p.m. at Fulton 55. 21 and over only. $10 in advance, $15 day of. [Details]

Sawdust Sunday at Fresno Ideaworks

From 1:30 to 4:30 p.m., it’s wood shop day at Fresno Ideaworks in downtown Fresno. If you have an interest in woodworking, lathe work, carving, or any other means of sawdust production, this is a good way to get some pointers on an existing project or gather information on how to get started. This event is open to the public and requires no fees. Some experience is necessary for equipment use. No experience is necessary to explore the possibilities. [Details]

[See more Sunday events here]

Here’s What You Should Do This Weekend

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FresYes Writing Team
Latest posts by FresYes Writing Team (see all)

Looking for something to do this weekend? Here are some suggestions.

Friday

See “The Salesman,” presented by Fresno Filmworks

Fresno Filmworks is back with its monthly film selection. “The Salesman,” from Iranian director Asghar Farhadi, won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film. It’s showing at 5:30 and 8:30 p.m. at the Tower Theatre. Tickets cost $10 general admission or $8 students/seniors. [Details]

Like, go to 90s Night – Spring Break Edition

There will be two rooms of sights and sounds from your favorite decade, a free photo booth with prints, and giveaways. 90s-inspired dress encouraged. 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. Friday at Strummer’s in the Tower District. Cost is $5. 21+ only. [Details]

Hear Toxicity (A Tribute to System of a Down)

Toxicity (A Tribute to System of a Down), Way Off Starboard, and Valkyrie Missile at Fulton 55 in downtown Fresno. Doors open at 8:30 p.m., show is at 9. Cost is $10 in advance/$12 door. 21+ only. [Details]

**See more Friday events here

Saturday

Do This Weekend

Alliteration rules!

Buy stuff at the Lanna Local Vendor Fair

It’s time for the next local vendor fair at Lanna Coffee Co. taking place Saturday, April 15, from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. There will be lots of great local artisans and of course espresso. Lanna Coffee Co. is located at 617 Broadway St. in downtown Fresno. [Details]

Celebrate Transgender Day of Visibility

Celebrate the community and its diversity at this event, which takes place Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. at Alliant International University, 5130 E. Clinton Way, in Fresno. There will be transgender vendors, resources from allies, food, art galleries, speakers, entertainment, and a raffle. This is a family-friendly event. [Details]

Get crafting at Full Circle’s April DIY Workshop

Enjoy a Saturday afternoon crafting session at Full Circle Brewing Co. Saturday from 1-3:30 p.m. During this class, you’ll make projects with Mother’s Day, family and bottle opening in mind. Full Circle will have lots of hand-crafted beverages available for purchase. Cost is $20-$30, depending on the craft you choose. This is a family-friendly event. [Details]

Attend a Poetry Workshop with Fresno Women Read

Celebrate National Poetry Month at the Gillis Branch of the Fresno County Public Library Saturday from 2-3 p.m. This hour-long workshop focuses on generating new ways of looking at poetry, excitement about the genre, and new poems (or ideas for poems) of your own. Free and open to the community (ages 15+). [Details]

Get down with Blues, Brews & BBQ

Enjoy a celebration of blues, beer and barbecue with Javon Davis & Friends playing the blues all night and MEGA Texas Barbeque catering providing delicious food from 7-11 p.m. Saturday at Full Circle Brewing Co. in downtown Fresno.. Cost is $10. All ages. [Details]

**See more Saturday events here

Sunday – Easter Egg Hunts

Do This Weekend

Get those eggs, son

Sunday is Easter, so there are few events happening that aren’t Easter egg hunts. So grab your basket, a kid or two (your own, please), and check out the FresYes guide to hunts here.

**See more Sunday events here

Future Events

Here are a couple of events taking place in the near future. You’ll want to get your tickets early for these.

Safety First! Come Drink with a Nurse Benefit!

Enjoy food, live music, vendors, and of course wine while supporting the Fresno City College Registered Nursing Program from 7-10 p.m. Friday, April 21, at Toca Madera Winery. Sugar will be performing beginning at 7 p.m. Dinner is provided by Luna Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant. Cost is $20/person or $35/couple; each ticket includes dinner and a glass of wine. This event is expected to sell out, so be sure to purchase early. [Details]

Grizzly Fest 2017

Now in its 4th year, Grizzly Fest is a hip-hop/indie rock/reggae music festival featuring 21 artists and 6 DJs on three stages, plus food trucks, a pro skate demo courtesy of Grizzly Griptape, a tech demo by 59DaysOfCode, an art hop curated by Arthouse, and more. Tickets are available now for the Saturday, April 29 event. Read our primer to Grizzly Fest here. [Details]

New location, same purpose: Lanna Coffee moves downtown

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Kendra Gilbert
Writer at FresYes.com
Kendra Gilbert is a writer born and raised in Clovis. She has written for publications from Boston to Los Angeles and loves writing about fashion and people most of all. The abbreviated list of things she enjoys outside of writing includes: thrifting, photography, harmonica, beer, movies, hiking and skee ball.
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For the past four years, Fresno-based Lanna Coffee Co. has been serving up a caffeine fix with a purpose — to support economic stability in the villages on northern Thailand where its beans are grown. But with a move to a 1940s warehouse space at 617 Broadway, on a block known mostly for its automotive shops, Lanna is contributing to development a little closer to home — the revitalization of downtown Fresno.

Lanna Coffee

The location may have changed, but Lanna’s mission remains the same: to support farmers. By paying a fair price for their beans, Lanna allows farmers to raise themselves out of poverty. While 25 percent of Lanna’s profits go to ensuring people living in villages where the coffee is grown have access to clean water, healthcare and education.

The mission is also to make great coffee. In a year, Lanna turns roughly 40,000 pounds of green beans into 4 roasts — from light to dark, and even, gasp!, decaf — at the Fresno space and also a facility in San Diego. Lanna’s CEO Bryan Feil says the company hopes to double its annual production soon.

On March 5, Lanna will show off its new downtown space to the public during an open house and tasting event. If you can’t make the event, you can pick up bags of Lanna coffee at Fresno Ag Hardware, Enzo’s Table, Root on the Fulton Mall, and other locations around the Valley. Or try it by the cup at Mia Cuppa Cafe in the Tower District.

Here, Feil talks about Lanna’s history, witnessing first-hand the impact Lanna’s operations in Thailand, and if the company will ever open up its own coffee shop.