K9 Officer Bravo was partnered with Officer Donna Anthieny on June 15, 2020 and began official duties on Aug. 12, 2020.
In December, Bravo died unexpectedly while at home.
The coffee shop in Newman known as But First, Coffee is soon reopening with new owners and a new name.
Once the city approvals are complete, the staff is hired and last minute preparations are finalized, Bravo’s Break will be open for customers.
Owners Donna and Brianna Anthieny anticipate their door officially opening by March at the latest.
The plan is to start the business with most of the same menu previous owner Michelle Gomez offered with the possibility of expanding the menu down the line.
Donna said when they heard the coffee shop was closing and people were sharing how they enjoyed going there and how much they’d miss the business, they decided to buy it and keep it open as it is.
Both Donna and Brianna were raised in Newman and appreciate the importance of being involved in their community, to see familiar faces in town, and contribute to keeping the community strong. “We are investing in the community and investing in our future,” Donna explained.
The decision to purchase the business was a simple one for them. Making that decision a reality has been more challenging as far as the timing.
They purchased the business mid-December. The coffee shop closed Christmas weekend. A new year reopening was not realistic.
Turned out the Anthienys would need a little more time to get all the necessary permits, licenses, and inspections than they first expected. In addition, during this transition time, Donna’s service dog and Turlock Police K9 Bravo suddenly passed away; in turn, she and Brianna decided to change the name of their business to Bravo’s Break.
The name honors the K9 Officer’s service with the Turlock Police Department while also reflecting the vibe of his handler’s new business.
“Essentially, we want you to come in, relax, enjoy a hot or cold drink, and take a break,” Donna described.
The name has changed, the decor has changed a bit but the location and menu remain.
Returning customers will discover the selection of hot and cold drinks they became accustomed to will still be available. “We plan to have waffles, muffins, and packaged snacks, too,” Donna assured. Flights of coffee may also be offered.
The place is still being set up to create a welcoming vibe for all of the community, no matter the age or the preference of orders.
“Come in and have a cup of coffee and sit down for some conversation, or get comfortable and read a book. Join with friends, stop by on your way to work or on your way home from school,” Donna invited.
The plan is to have the coffee shop open 7 days a week. Ultimately, the goal is to be open weekdays 5:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and weekends 8 a.m. to noon.
“We’d like to be open early enough for commuters to stop by and for weekend customers to enjoy the menu, too,” Donna noted.
All of that will be determined by securing staff to cover those hours. Both Donna and Brianna work full time, so they will be looking to hire committed staff.
Donna is a Turlock Police Officer, and Brianna is a Newman Animal Services Officer. They will be managing the operations of Bravo’s Break and will be working behind the counter as schedules allow.
Information will be posted at the business site and online.
