The controversy that caused Starbucks to close all of its stores Tuesday afternoon is also creating a push for people to patronize black-owned coffee shops, while creating an opportunity for racial dialogue.
After all, if someone asks you to have a cup of coffee, they may as well be asking you to have a conversation. If that someone is Trez van Pugh you just may find some common grounds, even if you talking about one of the most touchy topics: race relations.
Van Pugh is a Marine veteran who opened the coffee shop Sip & Savor on the South Side, built on the idea of gourmet coffee and positive vibes. The shop itself encourages direct dialogue, along with its motto: "Where coffee and community meet."