I had a meeting with my illustrator The Other Day…, and I was asked to meet her at “The Joe” in Fairmont, West Virginia. “The Joe” is located in the downtown area of Fairmont, near the post office. You park your car, walk maybe 200 feet from the parking lot, and you will find the door to this business tucked in between other storefronts. If you have never been there before, don’t be shy; walk right in. My first thought upon entering was, how quaint.
It would be easy for me to say that it was just a college spot since students from Fairmont State University visit there frequently. However, when I was in there at 10:00 a.m., the patrons were diverse. There were the three older gentlemen who appeared to be having some sort of meeting. The young woman who sat at a table near me looked extremely nervous. It was her first time there, just like me. Within a few seconds, I fell in love with the place. I introduced myself and asked if I could look around and take some pictures. It was at this point my illustrator and her boyfriend walked in, so I put the picture taking on hold for a little while.
After about 45 minutes, it was time to leave. I took my camera out and started taking pictures. On the wall hung various pieces of artwork, which beautified the room. Yes, they were for sale. Maybe not all of them but a large majority. It was mostly the work of their local patrons, many who happened to be college students. The majority of the paintings were for sale. I thought that this was an excellent way to support the local artists, as well as bring in business. When I asked my illustrator why she didn’t have anything hanging on the establishment’s walls, she merely blushed. I’m working on remedying that situation. Anyone who is as talented in art as she deserves to have her work viewed by as many people as possible.
I forgot to mention that “The Joe” makes brewed beverages. In fact, they make an excellent Chai Tea Latte, if you are interested. They also have sandwiches and other goodies to delight the pallet. I believe the one thing that sets this place apart from other coffee shops is that there was a positive energy in this place. My artist friend says she loves coming to “The Joe” because “It feels like home when you can’t get home.” She’s right. There is something about the place that makes you feel comfortable. I can’t explain what that is. Perhaps it’s the cozy, comforting ambiance, or maybe it’s how the people behind the counter make you feel so welcome, like you are a member of the family, even if it is the first time you have visited. I like that. I’ll be returning there as often as I can.
So, dear readers, if you are near Fairmont, WV, and want a warm, friendly place to stop have a brewed beverage, please check out “The Joe.” You won’t regret it. MUH!!
