Let’s be frank, the last year has been a crazy time for just about everyone. Whether you have had to fight to maintain your livelihood or have been dealing with the mental strain of the surreal state that our day to day has taken on; we have all seen or shouldered the weight of a changing world. It’s in these times of difficulty that I find myself being the proudest of my hometown. Seeing our community come together during and after the winter storm truly warmed my heart.
That sense of community reminded me of one of my favorite places in Mineral Wells. For the best coffee, I found myself thinking on (and altogether missing) the Sit n Sip. Worried as to how they were holding up, and hoping they were still the budding business they were before the pandemic swept over us; I reached out to them for an interview and discussion about their struggles and goals moving forward. Co-owner Mr. John Witte was kind enough to oblige.
I’m happy to be able to say that the drive, compassion, and community are springing back for this family run company
Walking in I was greeted by the open and familiar space. A cheerful “welcome” coming from behind the far counter. I was curious on the founding of the store and what they wanted to provide, with him sharing that it was as simple as wanting to create a space for kids, friends, and families. Having his history of being a civil servant and his wife as a teacher, they share a passion for the area. Finding an even split between their sales in coffee and books and feeling like, aside from the obvious issues of the year, they have the space and market they wanted.
He went on to say how thankful they were for their community, from their everyday patrons to their landlord and then the city. Mr. Witte smiling at the prospect of the city reaching out more to outlying businesses. When asked about the harder days they had faced he was willing to share.
“There have been times where I thought ‘well why even do it anymore’ but then I get that one or two people that come in that are so thankful you’re here. ‘I need these books’ or ‘I love your coffee’ and it makes my day. And we continue on and it seems like almost every time I get to that point, I get that one person, that is genuinely happy to be here.”
We spoke at length about their plans for increased visibility for the store, the prospect of bringing in a variety of lifestyle classes, and an optimism for all the potential in front of our city moving forward. Sharing in a few laughs with Mr. John was truly a delight, and dare I say, felt just a touch like normal again. I wish Mr. Witte, his family, and their company the best of luck. May fortune find ya’ll!
Past Writer | I consider myself to be pretty simple. I love a good conversation and talking about how we can all come together. Mineral Wells is my home and I love watching it grow.
