Date: 2007-02-23 22:29 Subject: Goose to continue making gelato for a long, long time Security: Public Tags: coffee, honkerbean's, local business

Two things everyone should know about me:

1.) I am addicted to coffee.
2.) I support small businesses.

In my hometown, I meet my needs with Honkerbean's, a local coffee and gelato shop. I end up there most Friday and Saturday nights spent at home, and it's so nice to go in and have people know your name and your favorite drinks and the fact that you don't like whipped cream. Now, I'm not necessarily anti-Starbucks (some of my dearest friends are big fans of the chain), but I don't feel comfortable patronizing corporations when I can get more out of the Mom and Pop shop across the street.

Recently, I've been concerned because Starbucks is opening its fourth branch in Lee's Summit - right next to Honkerbean's. I've been fretting about this since plans to build were announced, especially when I heard there would be a drive-thru, which Honkerbean's does not have. Tonight, I found out that Honkerbean's is actually going to combine forces with Jersey Boyz, a local deli two doors down, in Honkerbean's existing location. Not only does Jersey Boyz have the best meats and cheeses in town, it will put my coffeehouse out of direct competition with the Starbucks. I wish that it didn't have to be this way to ensure they'd stay in business, but since I'm not ready to give up my iced caramel mochas and hazelnut gelato, I'm willing to accept this as the next best option.

So thus is the end of my public service announcement. Support your local small businesses. They're well worth it.