STUDENT LIFE - 34 pours out dose of relaxation en other coffee shops weren't satisfying that intense longing for the rich, dark taste of coffee, a "Ditzy Blonde" might have just hit the spot. This designer laUe was just one on a rather long list offered at Thanks A Latte, the coffeehouse on Main Street that greeted students in the fall. Opened in June and located a mile from campus, Thanks A Latte provided the common coffee drinker a whole new experience with espresso. Other drinks on the menu were "Millie Vanillie/' made with espresso, cinnamon and vanilla; "Red Head/' a raspberry-infused concoction; and "Dirty Blonde/' with chocolate and Irish cream flavoring. Customers enjoyed service that began at 6 a.m. and lasted until midnight, seven days a week. Rusty Nokes, owner, said he was proud to be open late. "I wanted to create an entertaining place for people to come and have a night life/' Nokes said. Eight couches surrounded large coffee tables, letting customers relax while they sipped from one of the shop's eclectic mugs. In addition to coffee, visitors could enjoy music playing from a jukebox, a small bocm box in the middle of the room or sometimes even a live entertainer. Live music was often provided for customers on weekends. A drive-up window was available for those who couldn't find time to sit and drink, and the coffee shop offered delivery for large orders. This new coffeehouse offered not only convenience, but also wireless Internet access, a play room for children and an upstairs music venue. Homemade desserts decorated the deli-style case. Dishes such as soups, salads and sandwiches were also served and were popular among afternoon guests. Freshman Katie Owens ordered a peanut butter and chocolate milkshake after viewing the menu of Italian cream sodas, iced coffees, blenders, flavored coffee brews and espresso creations. "The atmosphere was comiortable, and I thought they had a great array of drink choices/, Owens said. One of the most popular drinks was the "Melting Pot/' Nokes' sweetest, most popular drink. made up of espresso, steamed milk, chocolate, Irish cream, caramel and whipped cream. Through a wide range of drink options and comfortable environment, Nokes said he wanted to serve a diverse group of customers. "J hope young people as well as adults can find it a place to enjoy themselves," Nokes said. "I've been happy with the success so far." ~ JAClYN ROBERTS ,-
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