When Annie and I stopped at the Java River Cafe in Montevideo, Minnesota, I had no idea what the place was really about.  It seemed like a nice place.  The people seemed very nice. 

But when I visited  their website, I started to see the whole picture.  These guys are fascinating!  They have a mission.  Through a cooperative effort, they not only brew a great cup of coffee, they support the arts, environmental stewardship,  and promote local produce.  It makes me feel great about spending money there.  I can't wait to visit again and learn even more about them.

Minnesota is built on the back of cooperatives - they helped us survive.

Painting by Arnold Kramer 1882-1976

In a recent article I was picking on poor Andrew Volstead from Granite Falls about his role in the ill-fated prohibition era, but on the other hand, Andrew Volstead was a great supporter of cooperatives.  It just goes to show, we all make mistakes and sometimes we do things right.

FYI - this is a great time of year to travel the Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway from one end of the state to the other.  There are historical sites, dining, casinos, and awesome views along the way.