AN OPPORTUNITY TO LEAVE MARK ON STATE APPELLATE COURT: THE COST OF COFFEE

Better hope the second cup is complimentary. As coffee drinkers turn up their cups each day, they are no doubt aware the price is taking a skyward turn. We lament the inflation in price of this morning staple and, try as we might, find little comfort in the knowledge that the market has functioned.

We are told that a cold snap in Brazil sent coffee futures into a tizzy, and that is the reason for the cost increase in North America. We live in a world marketplace, and such things happen. More than once, we have seen Middle Eastern despots act rashly and drive up the price of gasoline at local pumps.

People asked by this newspaper for comment on the coffee development seemed largely unaffected. They like their coffee and voiced a willingness to pay to satisfy their taste. Moreover, they embraced the tradition involved with sipping coffee among friends.

It was once said of a worthy but futile idea, "That and a nickel will get you a cup of coffee." As the years advanced, the phrase probably adjusted for inflation. We hope it warms up in Brazil before Americans have to start unloading stocks.