Angry Bean Celebrates Grand Opening
March 3, 2010 at 4:04 AM by Carolyn Merling · 3 Comments
Representatives from Clearfield Borough, Clearfield County and members of the CRC were on hand for the ribbon cutting at The Angry Bean. (Carolyn Merling)
CLEARFIELD – Downtown Clearfield received a jolt on March 2 as The Angry Bean Coffee House held its grand opening with a ribbon cutting ceremony. The Angry Bean is locally owned and operated by Kim and Thad Durant, who also own and operate Ethan’s Cafe.
The Angry Bean is the newest downtown business since Clearfield’s Main Street Program has been implemented.
Main Street Manager Kellie Truman shared her thoughts, “This is very exciting for Clearfield! Not only is Angry Bean a locally owned business, but this serves as an opportunity for the community to see the light at the end of the tunnel, that there truly is potential for growth and prosperity in our hometown of Clearfield.”
“In today’s economy, the greatest way for a downtown to recruit new businesses is for established businesses to expand, versus bringing in a brand new business. A new business’ life span is anywhere from three-to-five years; however, an expanded business has a much longer life. The Angry Bean is a perfect example of this, since the owners have been in business with Ethan’s for almost 10 years.”
Owner Kim Durant shared her dream of always wanting to own a coffee shop.
“It’s been my dream to offer my hometown a place to sit, relax, and enjoy a cup of coffee. My vision is to have the Angry Bean as the “meeting” place for friends and family. You may be able to get a cup of coffee anywhere these days, but at Angry Bean we offer a home-like atmosphere with exceptional customer service. We’re more than just coffee, teas and hot chocolate. ”
Kim explained the name, Angry Bean, came as a joke when she and husband, Thad Durant, were trying to come up with a name. She said that they were each shooting down ideas from the other when Thad came up with “Angry Bean.” After all, Kim said, “All the things a coffee bean goes through, you roast it, grind it, and then pour boiling hot water on it, it has every right to be angry.” Kim said you wouldn’t find angry customer service though.
Kim bakes all of the muffins, cookies, and biscotti each morning. She also said that their espresso beans are bought from a company, La Prima, in Pittsburgh. Buying locally is important to Kim and she intends to purchase as many local goods as possible in order to keep business within the community, even within the state.
Numerous officials in Clearfield came out in support of Downtown Clearfield, including Clearfield Borough’s mayor, operations manager, the Clearfield County Commissioners, and members of the CRC. Truman stated, “It’s heartwarming to see so many different folks in town come out to support their local downtown business. The stronger the support is from the community, the easier it will be for Clearfield to revitalize itself. Hopefully this sets the trend for all downtown businesses and the community as we continue to buy and stay local and show support of our hometown. One business cannot pave the way for the town; it’s all businesses working together to support each other that revitalization possible. After seeing the turnout today, I am confident Clearfield is heading in the right direction.”
The Angry Bean is located 118 North Third Street, right beside Ethan’s Cafe. Hours are Mon-Fri 6 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday 7 a.m. – 2 p.m.
A look at the menu... (Carolyn Merling)
- Excited
- Fascinated
- Amused
- Bored
- Sad
- Angry
The new politically correct catch phrase seems to be buying local. “Buy local” and support your local economy. What about the local businesses you are buying from that are buying their raw material or components from other countries? You might think you are buying local but in fact are buying stuff from overseas. This story for example: How many coffee growers do you know of in the USA? “Buying Local”? I don’t thinks so.
If “buying local” meant to only buy products made in the USA, we would not have many options. Esp with coffee. You can’t buy the beans local, but you can purchase them from a local vendor. I think “buying local” in this form meant to support other local businesses in the area and keeping that money within the local economy. It spurs growth and helps everyone out in the end. More towns need to “buy” into this “buy local” campaign. In my opinion, it’s pleasant to see this town “buying local” and I wish them the best. Congrats on the grand opening.
Just wanted to say thank you to “Cheerio” for explaining the concept behind “buy local.” As the owner of The Angry Bean, I know a little bit about coffee beans. Of course I realize they aren’t being grown in Pennsylvania – not even close! However, they are being roasted all over the state. We are currently purchasing beans from La Prima Espresso, out of Pittsburgh. This company was recommended to me by a friend (in town) who went to college with a man working at La Prima Espresso. By “buying local,” I meant that the beans were being purchased from a place near us – thus supporting our state economy. Thanks again to “Cheerio” for the support and kind words. To “Dieselrider,” I hope that clears it up a bit.