I am writing to you to speak of this supposed coffee house that should be opening across from the courthouse. This coffee house will give the locals of Albert Lea a place to gather after their busy day is done. If enough funding is received, this little “getaway” will be called The Green Bean. The Green Bean received this catchy title, because its theme will be an environmentally friendly one. This works well with Albert Lea’s efforts in the Blue Zone Project.

We have enough fast food joints in this town so why not add an establishment that will try to be as healthy as possible? I believe this will be an important aspect of our community if the funding is given to support it. I believe the community will welcome a place to hang out and unwind after a hard day at work or school. “The Green Bean” will offer this solution to anyone of all ages.

Many other towns and cities have coffee houses. From the ever-dominant Starbucks to Caribou Coffee, and Nelson & Bros., there are chains and franchises everywhere you go. We once had a Starbucks as well, but that was short-lived. Why not support a local effort to get the sweet scent of mocha beans back into this community? I believe the banks and local investors of Albert Lea should not hesitate to support in funding for this project. It will be greatly appreciated venture.

Shelby Illg

Albert Lea High School

English class

Albert Lea