At any rate, we are both coffee geeks from different continents. Some of the best coffee I’ve had came to me in the Richmond District of Portland Oregon, from a little micro-roaster we all know and love as “Stumptown” … whereas his mind conjures up a far away memory of a coffee he had in a little town in South Italy.. Being that I’ve never been, I can’t compare, but neither has he on my end. But we both obviously come from two different schools of thought.

Up until a while ago, I thought that the proper pronunciation for espresso was … well… ‘espresso’ … And every time I heard it referred to as ‘Ex’presso I would freak out inside.. My ego would scream ITS PRONOUNCED ESPRESSO!!! Nails on a chalkboard.

Well, my Italian friend continually kept saying ‘expresso’ and I would keep myself from pointing out his folly at the risk of causing un-warrented embarrassment on his part…. but a man can only bare the torture for so long.

One night after a few beers, we’re discussing proper brewing methods on a traditional machine… Pressure of the tamp, heat of the water, length of extraction… And he says “the best EXPRESS-O I’ve had” …. to which I said “Its pronounced Espresso, not Express-o.. You don’t ‘express’ anything” … soon after, I was faithfully chastised for my ignorance.

The first espresso machine was invented by a guy named “Luigi Bezzera” in Milan, Italy, in 1901. The word “expresso” is rooted in literal translation… esprimere is ‘to press out’ , which is from the Latin word ‘exprimere’ : ex + premere is ‘to press’.

So, express-o is a correct Latin rooted pronouncement… And espresso is the end-child and example of how language evolves from dialect to dialect over time. Both are correct, and I can really be a jerk sometimes. Dastardly ego.

And while you’re there, be sure to pick up a cup of Grateful Roast Coffee! They’ve decided to feature our coffee, and we couldnt be more honored! Not only are they passionate about coffee, but also passionate about making positive waves in the ocean of humanity! And I couldnt be more passionate about providing them with our best coffees.

In light of our recent marriage, I’ve created Scranton Rhythm a unique house blend that will only be available at their cafe. It’s a melange blend for an anytime, sweet, deep, complex in body yet easy on the palate.

In addition, they will be carrying a Grateful Roast Espresso Blend and a rotating Single Origin.. and oh yes…. a decaf.

Be sure to visit The Scranton Rhythm and The Vintage Theater to keep updated on the opening, hours of operation and events.