Whether you take yours black, with sugar or cream, or blended into something special to start your day, there’s nothing like a great cup of coffee. Especially when you’re not over-paying for that lovely cup of caffeine to begin the day. Appreciating the history behind coffee is easy, thanks to a new exhibit at The Tampa Bay History Center, running through January 6^th.  I had a chance to stop in at Melitta the other day, and Chris Hillman showed me how to make that perfect cup of coffee. I have to tell you, just walking in the door of their offices in Clearwater was a wake-up call with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee greeting me. Hard to say no to that. Did you know that there was actually a "Melitta?" Take a look at our video, and if you can tell me the name of the German housewife who created the company, you’ll win the prize pack from Kelly’s Kitchen. We'll treat you and a friend to a trip to the Center to see the exhibit, and make sure you have your favorite Pour Over Travel Mug from Melitta. The first three entries to land in my mailbox at ann.kelly@coxmg.com have the to mug and tickets to the History Center exhibit - "Coffee: The World in Your Cup." No matter how or when you enjoy a cup, it’s an important part of Tampa, according to the Center; "Coffee culture is big in Tampa, thanks in large part to the influence of Cuban, Spanish and Italian cigar workers in the early 20^th century," said Saunders Foundation Curator of History at the Tampa Bay History Center, Rodney Kite-Powell. "It’s a legacy that continues today in coffee shops around the city."  I think the Walking Tour they're offering this Saturday from 10 am to 3 pm would be a great way learn more. And how about the "Kids, Cocoa and Coffee" event Dec. 27th and 28th at the center? Give them a call for more in or just click on the link.

   There’s also an exciting new product from Melitta so for you oh-so-loyal fans of this company that’s been brewing things up for over 100 years. If you love those single serve cups but not the expense, check out the JavaJig, a reusable system that is not only friendly to the wallet, it’s good for the environment. We like that in Kelly’s Kitchen. How new? Just showed up on the store shelves the first of the month. Check it out right here, and start enjoying the savings and the taste. Oh, and how do I take mine? Well, a little differently, but it works for me. First thing in the morning it’s half my own blend of sugar free hot chocolate mix, and half coffee. Call it what you want, but iced or cold, I love it. And in a pinch, yes, those freebie sugar free hot chocolate packets in the office work just fine. I also love a little Melitta in a morning smoothie blended with my almond milk and ice. Ahh.......

 WORDS OF WISDOM FROM KELLY’S KITCHEN 

Only one thing is certain about coffee.... Wherever it is grown, sold, brewed, and consumed, there will be lively controversy, strong opinions, and good conversation. - Mark Pendergrast