Energize Café offers Laughlin members healthy options Published July 27, 2011 By Jessica Brown 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Energize Café located inside Laughlin's Losano Fitness Center offers a piece of the big city with healthy snacks and a perfect environment for meetings, relaxation and a special treat after a tough workout. The café reopened under new management in early June and has since become very popular among Laughlin members. The café's quick rise to popularity can be contributed to the many services it provides to its customers. "We have a lot of healthy choices," said Breanna Raisner, café manager. "We have protein shakes, whey protein, soy, almond milk and we use non-fat frozen yogurt in all of our smoothies." In addition to nutritious shakes and smoothies, the café offers other healthy items including juices, fruit, and sugar-free drinks. Sandwiches, bagels, muffins, cookies, tea and soda are also available and the café features free Wi-Fi, cable television, magazines and couches for a relaxing atmosphere. For example, Kia Binder, spouse of Lt. Col. John Binder, 47th Operation Support Squadron commander, recently held a meeting at the café. Binder often hosts welcoming events, which allow spouses who have just moved to Laughlin the opportunity to meet people on base. "The café is great for large outings, they even encourage it," said Binder. "It allows members to have a little piece of the big city life." Not only is the café great for meetings, but the commodities make the café a great place for members to relax and enjoy refreshments after a strenuous workout or a long day at work. "This place is great to hang out with friends, but it also offers rewards for deeds well done," said Raisner. "Sometimes, Airmen come in after taking a physical fitness test or after having a tough day. The café offers them a place to relax and enjoy a nice blended mocha or protein shake." In addition to being able to accommodate large groups of people, the café is great for family outings as well. Parents are able to bring their children after a day of yard work or swim lessons to reward them for a day well spent. Binder also acknowledged that the café offers child friendly drinks. "They even know how to make great hot cocoa for my kids," she said. The staff at the café takes pride in knowing regular customers by name and drink. "We have several regulars who come in on a daily basis," said Raisner. "It's not just about making your drink and sending you out the door. It's all about the people. Our customer service is the best. We want to ensure that our customers have a positive experience here." The baristas at Energize café include Breanna Raisner, Michaela Nelson-Kelley, Courtney Schaefer and Jessica Brown. They are also spouses and agree working at the café has allowed them to meet new people and learn more about the Air Force. "So many of us look for jobs because we want to get out and meet new people," said Raisner. "A job like this allows you to connect with other wives and learn stuff about pilot training and the Air Force. I have learned so much from the other employees and customers." The café also offers loyalty cards, which are a buy-nine-get-the-tenth-free promotion. These cards can be used for coffee, smoothies, hot chocolate and more. "Come for a refreshing treat which will recharge your mind, body and soul!" said Raisner. The cafés hours are Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.