The Montana Expresso in the Safeway parking lot was started in 1993 by Keri Jo "KJ" Knutson.

KJ was a beloved high school girls soccer coach for two seasons, 1994-1996. She is described by one former player as having a benevolent disposition and vivacity that were contagious.

When KJ was around, the world looked brighter, and life was that much better. Everything KJ did — from the Rotary Club to the coffee stand to soccer practice to going to church — was done with devotion and compassion.

KJ passed away suddenly in 1996. After mourning her loss, the fear of many of her friends was that KJ's memory would slip into history, and her spirit would be forgotten.

However, her coffee stand was purchased by several local individuals and became a business that donates all proceeds back to the youth of Whitefish through the Whitefish Youth Opportunity Corp., a 501-C3 organization.

Since Montana Expresso has been under new ownership this past 10 years, close to $240,000 has been donated to the youth of Whitefish.

The old stand has been recently replaced. However, the memory of KJ is as strong as ever. Please be assured that the stand has not changed ownership — it is still non-profit, and 100 percent of the proceeds will continue to benefit Whitefish area youth.

If the line is a little longer, it is because the people waiting for their coffee know that not only are they getting their buzz for the morning but also donating their hard-earned money to Whitefish youth.

The motto is good coffee, good company, good cause.

Montana Expresso employees

Whitefish