Coffeeshops: A Credo

The time granted to me for spring break has taught plenty. However, the one niche that seems to have presented itself at least once every day is the opportunity to investigate a cup of coffee, and the venue from which it is served. Now, though I dwell in the DFW area completely year-round, a situation regarding plane tickets and this odd thing called 'vacation' has actually landed me in eastern Wisconsin this week. However, I remain resolute that what may be observed in the mid-West is just as pertinent in Texas, or anywhere else in the nation for that matter. Without further ado, we have the Coffeehouse Credo. I know, it is in a very 'ten-commandments' format...forgive me, I'm on vacation!

1) Thou shalt not serve MERELY COFFEE! Thou shalt serve bagels, crumb cakes, sodas, sandwiches, and even beer if the local authorities permit.
2) Thou shalt serve all varieites of coffee- mocha, americano, all manners of expresso this-and-that, without exception.
3) Thou shalt HAVE THY OWN WI-FI SIGNAL! The only exception is if thy town has free public internet. Without wi-fi, your business will surely die.
4) Thou shalt not overcharge! If thy clientele wanted a $5 cup, they would go to Starbucks.
5) Thou shalt purchase plenty of furniture, and keep it clean for people to sit!
6) Thou shalt play good music. And by good, I mean Sirius-XM satellite radio or Pandora One.
7) Thou shalt not employ mean people! Locals with a taste for their city and a warm attitude shalt be hired.
8) Thou shalt at least consider organic and fair-trade products, provided they are affordable.
9) Thou shalt accept credit and debit cards!
10) Thou shalt stay open early and late, day and night, so thy clientele can stimulate their caffeine palletes at any hour!
11) THOU SHALT NOT DRESS LIKE A HIPPIE. Thy store may be painted like one, but YOU SIR, are a professional. :P

PS, Wisconsin does coffee well...very well. Texas...support local coffee, protest your local Starbucks! (Unless you have no other option...cough...oh well.)