Great Friends

Josh and I hold our culinary tools (a chef’s knife and hand frother)

It was tempting to make Josh the first recognized leader of Calamity’s. There’s no question that he is a natural leader. He’s the kind of guy that makes everyone feel welcomed, and he has been my biggest supporter from day one. After much thought, I realized Josh deserved far more than a leadership shout out.

As an epileptic, I cannot drive. Oak Ridge isn’t exactly accessible for folks who don’t have access to cars, and trying to get a business started when you can’t physically get places is impossible. Josh introduced me to Vienna Coffeehouse, took me to get my business license, and walked around numerous stores to find various things I’d need for opening day. Having lived in larger cities my entire life, asking for help is never easy. I have learned to navigate much of the world without daily support, and my ego gets bruised when I have to admit I need rides. Josh’s excitement about visiting a coffee roaster and finding the right bar shaker for my iced coffee (a concoction that never came to fruition, it didn’t meet my high standards) allowed my pride to remain intact.

More importantly, Josh has been my cheerleader from day one. Starting a business, investing every penny you own and choosing to go into debt, is extremely scary. During moments of panic, Josh stood by me and told me this is a business worth investing in. Let it be on record that he was the first investor in Calamity’s; he donated a dollar for my license (hey, I don’t carry cash around). With him, I always feel like I can accomplish anything—that’s the true testament of a great cheerleader and friend!

Josh’s culinary background has been a blessing. He came up with the name “frothy coffee” and provides much needed feedback on perfecting recipes (he’s to thank for the chocolate hazelnut curls).

It is my hope that everyone finds/has a friend like Josh in their life.

Thank you my friend, I will never forget how much you have done for me!