Sponsors

[jesawdy]

Dan-

I'd like to suggest that you add a Sticky in the Marketplace that includes all site sponsors (and links) and/or updating the Resources page to include sponsors in the Commerce section, or a sponsor specific subsection of the Resources page.

I assume that you have different levels of sponsorship, and perhaps that it why some are on the Resources page and some are not?

It could be a nice "go to" page to support your site sponsors first.

-Jeff

[cannonfodder]

If you refresh your browser, the top banner ad will reload. It may take a few F5 key strokes but the ad will eventually pop up. That is what I do most of the time. The sponsors web stats will show that the connection originated from HB. That way the sponsors know we support their support of HB.

A short link list in a FAQ and favorites sticky post would be handy in the marketplace forum.

[HB]

I'd like to suggest that you add a Sticky in the Marketplace that includes all site sponsors (and links) and/or updating the Resources page to include sponsors in the Commerce section, or a sponsor specific subsection of the Resources page.

Good idea!

I've updated the Commerce category on the Resources page as you suggest. Some of the names are long-time supporters, some are very new to the site. The support from vendors like these have made possible HB projects like SwagFest, EspressoFest, Tamper Roadshow, Holiday Marketplace, Anniversary Celebration, Summer of Coffee, Best of Three, ... whew! that's a lot of events and contests in just over a year! So next time you're shopping around for coffee, equipment, or supplies, please consider these HB supporters:

• 1st-line equipment
• Chris' Coffee Service
• Counter Culture Coffee
• Ecco Caffe
• Espresso Parts Northwest
• Espresso Care
• Intelligentsia Coffee Roasters
• Coffee Klatch Roasting
• Paradise Roasters
• PT's Coffee Roasters
• Vaneli's Espresso Machines
• WholeLatteLove

Note: Be on the lookout for HB-only discounts too, either in their banner ad or Marketplace. Some of the most ardent sponsors have been known to offer a discount / extras to those who simply say "I'm an HB member."

[HB]

Please welcome PT's Coffee Roasters to the roster of HB sponsors. To celebrate, PT's is offering a 20% discount if you enter promo code HB ROCKS at checkout. Offer good until July 1st!

[HB]

This year has been an exciting one for HB's newest sponsor, Coffee Klatch Roasting. Klatch's trainer and competitor Heather Perry won the USBC and went on to place 2nd at the World Barista Championship in Tokyo. Klatch's espresso was named Best Espresso during the same competition (if you want to try it, get a move on, it's on sale for a limited time!).

Needless to say, I was pleased when Mike Perry (ckroaster) expressed his interest in becoming an active part of the HB community. So without further ado, welcome Coffee Klatch Roasting to HB! Mike promises you'll be hearing more from him and the rest of the crew at CK Roasting in the coming weeks.

[HB]

As a first point of contact for espresso equipment problems, my general recommendation is to work through the original vendor (e.g., 1st-line, Chris' Coffee, Espresso Parts, WholeLatteLove) because they know their stock and are motivated to assist their loyal customers. Many members join HB to ask for repair and maintenance advice, especially if they've bought second hand equipment or the equipment warranty has elapsed. In this case, it's good to know someone you can trust.

Stefano Cremonesi, owner of Espresso Care, has been around the CG forums for years and I've only read good things about his work. Recently he's become more active on HB and has joined the roster of HB sponsors. Although he's located on the west coast, Stefano handles repairs for anywhere UPS services. Please welcome Stefano to HB and keep Espresso Care in mind the next time you need help with repairs and parts.

[HB]

Many HB regulars recognize Larry Jones, owner of Rocket Coffee. It took a lot of sugar in our espressos to wash down the bitterness of his departure from the coffee roasting business due to family responsibilities. Fortunately, he plans to return to roasting (yea!), but in the meantime he's been consulting for Vaneli's Espresso Machines. Accepting Larry's wise council , owner Gene Lemos adds his company to the list of HB sponsors. And he's really doing it in style, sponsoring a Macap M4 stepless grinder to the HB Wish List Gifts contest, plus a steep discount of 20% as his Holiday Delights. Welcome Gene!

I've approached Andrew Barnett a few times about taking a more active role in the site. For those who may not know him, he's the owner of Ecco Caffe, WBC certified judge, and all around great instructor on coffee. I've had the pleasure of participating in USBC sensory judge training with him. Well, finally Andrew has given into my persistent cajoling and joined the HB sponsors. Like Gene, Andrew arrives in style with Ecco Caffe sponsoring an intriguing six-month "Experimental Espresso Club" membership for the contest. Welcome Andrew (finally)!

It's not yet announced, but he shared this little blurb. More details will be announced after Thanksgiving.

Ecco Caffe invites you to join our innovative Experimental Espresso Club. We will be selecting from the the world's most exemplary coffees and experimenting with new blends and single origin espressos chosen for their phenomenal flavor qualities. As an Ecco Experimental Espresso Club member, you'll have the exclusive opportunity to experience these espressos through our web subscription program. Throughout the year, Ecco Caffe's Andrew Barnett will be collaborating with the world's top artisan baristas, growers and coffee minds to bring you new and unforgettably delicious espressos. We will be offering amazing single origin espressos and experimental blends (both collaborative efforts and solo) that represent new directions in espresso's flavor potential. Included with your espresso will be the story behind the coffee grower, how it was selected for the club, blending components (when blended) and suggested optimal brewing parameters. Between the Experimental Espresso we will be sending you our award winning blend, Ecco Reserve to tide your espresso craving over until the next offering has been crafted. Truly an espresso geek's dream come true...