astradele

After six years without a TV (a projector and DVD player sufficed), cable TV has snaked its way back into my home. Thankfully, the installation process was hassle free, although I had to make some temporary hacks with cabling and power bars.

First impressions:

• 28 channels doesn’t really offer that much palatable variety at any given time.
• Not being able to skip intros or credits is an irritation.
• I’m bored during commercials.

Having lived the life of on-demand media (barring a little bit of forethought to procure the DVDs ahead of time), the lack of constant, interesting content is a bit annoying. I may have to upgrade… and so it begins!

I used to drink Starbucks exclusively, and still do from time to time, but on a regular basis I drink Seattle’s Best Coffee, a brewed coffee brand (ironically bought by Starbucks a few years ago, but whatever…).

Perhaps it’s time to visit Starbucks regularly again?

I’m a reporter, dammit, so after reading about today’s all-hands training sessions at all Starbucks stores I walked over to the store at 333 Market in San Francisco’s Financial District and asked my barista to explain, step by step, exactly what’s new.

1. Richer espresso mix. Starbucks espresso machines have been recalibrated to mix a stronger dose. It’s not as powerful as Peet’s, but it’s more in that direction. My daily triple-shot tastes a lot thicker.
2. Shot glasses. Instead of pouring directly into your cup, all shots are now dispensed into clear glass shot glasses. The barista must visually approve the shot before pouring it into a cup. This not only checks the mix, it prevents stale, crema-free shots from being served after lying around too long.
3. Smaller steamer pitchers. No more giant tub-o-foam, but rather smaller batches of steamed milk and foam more tailored and fresh to each order.

Could I taste the difference? Instantly.

http://valleywag.com/361607/whats-new-at-starbucks-3-changes