I founded and built Yo el Rey Roasting out of a tiny 500 sq ft shop in Calistoga, CA, becoming one of the first 'Specialty Coffee' roasters in the world. With the help of friends, artists like the Baker Sisters and Ehlers, and customers from all over the globe, Yo el Rey Roasting blossomed into what many called, 'one of the creative mainlines of the universe.' Helen Turley, one of Napa's greatest winemakers and my neighbor, bought the first piece of art. Queen Noor of Jordan purchased the first pieces from our very first gallery show. I truly miss putting on those shows, especially the Calistoga High School art students' year-end show. I am hoping to create another artistic community here in Idaho.


Northern California's relentless wildfires struck every fourth quarter, devastating the Napa Valley and taking everything from me. I lost my dream life, my livelihood, my family, and my sense of self. The trauma and PTSD from the fires made it impossible to connect with others for years; every conversation was haunted by the memory of hillsides ablaze, like a horror movie backdrop. Despite these losses, I am determined to rebuild.


I am asking for your support to help me rebuild Yo el Rey Roasting into a vibrant wholesale and delivery coffee roastery. The main ingredients needed are a larger capacity coffee roaster, a practical warehouse roasting facility, and green coffee capital. As an entrepreneur, I see the future again. Idaho is one of the fastest-growing states in the US, and Boise's coffee scene is thriving. With your help, I hope to create a new hub for art and community, just as I did before. Thank you all for your support over the years, and for your continued philanthropic support today as I work to rebuild my business and community.