Velocity Bike and Bean

If you live in the Florence/Northern Kentucky area, you will recognize that I am late to the table (albeit a high top one!) on discovering this place. I'm uncertain as to when Velocity Bike and Bean of Florence opened, but I know more than a few people who have enjoyed their coffee for some time.

So while I'm a latecomer, I am now a fan. I visited there yesterday with my friend Kari, enjoyed a very yummy Nutella latte', sat comfortably in the cozy atmosphere, perused their excellent book selections (including a few by my favorite Donald Miller) and had a great conversation with a great lady. But don't let the wonderful coffee and cute atmosphere deceive you...Velocity is a fully operational bike shop too. Apparently, this combination is a little more common in other parts of the country, but here, not so much. It seems to be working though.

Velocity had a steady stream of customers, for both bike and bean, in the two hours that I was there. I can see why. And although their hours are only Monday through Friday 9 to 4 and Saturdays 9 to 3, they are open the second Saturday evening of each month for local musicians to perform. I know my husband, Dale, would love this and we hope to make it out to this week's session.

But the most amazing part of this place (for me, the non-biking enthusiast) is the coffee...and not just because it's tasty. Well, it is...but that's not the only good point. No, it's also Fair Trade. Oh...you know they are speaking my language now...right? I've shared on this blog how God has been calling me to this idea of being a good steward in every area of my life. That is being brought out by Him over and over again in the choices I make in regards to spending the resources He's given us. Nowhere has this become more obvious lately than in the area of coffee.

So next time you want to meet up with a friend over an excellent cup of java, please support the locally-owned Velocity Bike and Bean at 7560 Burlington Pike in Florence. By choosing to buy the Carabello Coffee brand, your dollars are also helping to support Fair Trade for the farmers who grow the beans and this local coffee company that helps fund non-profits and charity work with their proceeds. I don't think you'll find a better deal anywhere...no matter how attractive the "Siren" is.