The first phase of construction work in our Mesa café is coming to a close, and our hard-working team has accomplished so much! I can already see how wonderfully things are taking shape, and I look forward to watching the progress. I will be sure to keep you all updated.

The wall framing is all up, and the electrician has already placed the majority of outlets. The ceiling looks like some sort of erector set! Every time I take a look up there, something new, like a light fixture, has been added. There is still a lot of dirt where they cut through the concrete floor with a saw in order to place the plumbing and electrical conduit, but all of it has passed inspection, and they should be able to fill it in soon. The inspector was actually very impressed by the quality of the work and the speed at which everyone is working, and so am I!

While all the building is going on, I am continuing to work on sourcing product, like baked goods and produce, from local vendors. I’m also committed to finding as many recyclable, compostable, and sustainable items for use in our café as possible, and sourcing them from companies that have the same high standards that Bookmans embodies.

We have chosen Intelligensia Coffee and Tea as our coffee roaster, not only for their amazing quality, but also for their buying practices, and continued efforts to improve the lives of the farmers, families, and communities they source from. Just yesterday I received an amazing coffee sample from a farm in Panama. The farm is Hacienda La Esmerelda and it is hands down one of the best coffees that I have ever had the pleasure of drinking. I simply can’t wait to share this wonderful new coffee experience with our customers!

Here are some pictures of the first phase of construction:

Check out our flickr page for more pictures and information!