Sanders County Residents Weigh in on Coffee vs. Tea

Locals share their preferences for their morning beverage of choice

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The Sanders County Ledger asked residents across the region whether they consider themselves coffee or tea drinkers, and the responses show a clear preference for the caffeinated brew over the herbal infusion.

Why it matters

The debate over coffee versus tea has long been a topic of discussion, with both beverages having their own loyal followings. Understanding the local community's beverage preferences can provide insights into regional tastes and cultural norms.

The details

The Ledger interviewed several residents from Thompson Falls and the surrounding area, all of whom expressed a strong preference for coffee over tea. Responses ranged from enjoying classic black coffee to flavored lattes, with only a few mentioning tea as an alternative.

  • The interviews were conducted on February 19, 2026.

The players

Ken Berge

A resident of Thompson Falls who drinks Folgers coffee with creamer.

Mary Carlson Christensen

A resident of Libby who believes coffee is the only drink worth having.

Bob Butte

A resident of Thompson Falls who prefers his coffee black.

Luanne Schmidt

A resident of Thompson Falls who likes her coffee with vanilla flavoring.

Kathy Ikola

A resident of Trout Creek who drinks her coffee black.

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What they’re saying

“I drink Folgers coffee with creamer.”

— Ken Berge (Sanders County Ledger)

“Is there any other drink but coffee?”

— Mary Carlson Christensen (Sanders County Ledger)

“Coffee, black, is the only way to go.”

— Bob Butte (Sanders County Ledger)

“I like coffee with vanilla flavoring.”

— Luanne Schmidt (Sanders County Ledger)

“I drink coffee black.”

— Kathy Ikola (Sanders County Ledger)

The takeaway

The responses from Sanders County residents demonstrate a strong local preference for coffee over tea, with many enjoying classic black coffee or flavored variations. This insight into regional beverage preferences could inform local businesses and community events catering to the tastes of the community.