DOOZENS WAKES UP RAINTREE

by Adam Conder

The first thing to be noticed when walking through the doors of Doozens is the strong aroma of coffee beans. Doozens was founded in 2007 by Susan Van Duesen, mother of five. She prides herself on the welcoming, family-like atmosphere that her coffee shop produces.

“We’re a family. Our house is like Doozens,” she said. Doozens is in the Raintree Shopping Center between Ward Rd and Raintree Rd.

Van Duesen started Doozens because she’s always loved coffee. “Do what you love, what you’re passionate about,” she said. Her passion is for coffee.

Doozens regularly draw in crowds as a result of their jam sessions. During these anyone who wants to play can.  Longview student Jesse Hamer said, “It’s like a training ground for new musicians.” The jam sessions allow people to get over their nerves.

“It’s a good opportunity for people to get experience for playing in front of crowds,” said musician David Tourtellot.

Not only do they have regular jam sessions, but also an art gallery in the store. The art is supplied by local artists and they are accepting art work. “We’re trying to push it more. Anybody who’d like to get their art work up can call (816) 537-0800,” she said.

Of course a coffee shop would be nothing without a good cup of coffee. Just last year a Starbucks near Doozens closed down. Van Duesen said enthusiastically, “We outlasted Starbucks.” Tourtellot said that people enjoy supporting local businesses. It doesn’t hurt to have a good cup of coffee, either. Hamer described the coffee as a “classy brew.”

Doozens has become a sort of hangout for those in Raintree, supplying good coffee, shots of culture, and entertainment.