Isle coffee fills cups at White House

Hawaii-grown coffee has officially made the party menu at the White House, according to isle coffee growers and state officials.

Earlier this year during a trip to Washington, D.C., Gov. Linda Lingle made a push for Hawaii coffee to be served at the White House since it is made from the only coffee beans grown in the United States.

Lenny Klompus, Lingle's spokesman, said the White House is now serving Hawaii coffee on special occasions.

"Everyone was pleased by it," Klompus said.

Hawaiian java was served for the first time on May 30, during Philippine President Gloria Arroyo's visit to Washington, D.C.

Hawaii Coffee Association President David Gridley said he "was very excited" when he heard the news.

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