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Congratulations to Sandy Hon of Java Jazz in Overland Park, Kansas, for her winning answer to our first Reply All feature. We asked readers to submit their opinions about what city was the best one for coffee in the world. Now, we weren’t looking to find the definitive answer, but rather the most compelling, enthusiastic reply. And that, friends, came from Sandy, lead barista at Java Jazz at the Johnson County Community College.

As our winner, Sandy won a totally tricked out Barista Toolkit from our generous friends at Beyond the Bean worth more than $125!

So what was so great about Sandy’s answer? See for yourself—Sandy said, “Of course, the answer is Kansas City!” and she provided a pretty winning argument for the Midwestern city that is home to some of the best coffee in the country.

“It all began with the Broadway Cafe, the best of the best, the crema of the crop,” she wrote. “Broadway, in my opinion, paved the way for excellent coffee in the Midwest. Then in 2003, the Roasterie hosted the very first regional barista competition. The first was ignited and the flame started to burn. Baristas all over began to learn what it takes to make quality coffee and espresso. Friendships blossomed and knowledge prevailed.

“PT’s, Java Jazz, Coffee Break, Latte Land, the Roasterie Cafe, are just a few of the award-winning, quality producing coffee shops in our city.

“We have an original Barista Guild of America task force member, the BGA president, WBC and USBC certified judges, and not one but two SCAA board members living in this area.

“We are committed to coffee excellence, and that’s what makes us the best!”

Great answer, Sandy, and awesome enthusiasm! We hope you enjoy that supercool barista kit and continue to share knowledge and community with your pals in Kansas City.