The following article is from the Charlotte Observer. 

"HOLY GROUNDS"--GET IT?

The opening of Holy Grounds last September brought a Christian coffee house to downtown Clover, providing what owners Dwayne and Joanne Duke say is a good, positive atmosphere for anyone. The menu offers gourmet coffee, plus teas, smoothies, cold drinks, pastries, soups, salads and sandwiches. The name is a tongue-in-cheek reference to both coffee grounds and scripture references to "holy ground," describing what can be found inside.

Both committed Christians, the Dukes offer hospitality with a Christian flavor.

"We want a place where people can enjoy challenging spiritual conversation and a comfortable, clean environment for people of any age," Dwayne said.

THE ROAD TO CLOVER

Living in Clover was an unexpected turn in life. Dwayne, a south Louisiana Cajun and self-employed welder, lived in Fort Lauderdale, Fla. Joanne, a Philadelphia native, was employed there by United Airlines. The two met through mutual friends, and had known each other more than 12 years when their relationship became serious. To eliminate the long-distance courtship, both moved to West Palm Beach.

"We decided we needed to be halfway between our families, so we drew lines on a map and started looking," Joanne said.

Since she planned to continue working for United, the geographical choices were Charlotte or Knoxville. Charlotte won. The couple moved here in 2000 and married May 12, 2001. They bought a
6-acre farm in Clover, complete with 5 horses.

COFFEE LOVERS

Joanne had the idea for Holy Grounds several years ago. Running a restaurant was nothing new for her. Prior to working at United, she had 20 years' experience in the food service industry. Last summer, she mentioned her idea to a friend at church, who challenged her to do it. Dwayne liked the idea.

"I like trying new things, and really like the Cuban espresso in South Florida," he said.

Things happened quickly. The couple heard about a restaurant going out of business and went to check it out. When they arrived, restaurant and building owners "just happened" to be there, and a purchase agreement was worked out on the spot.

Renovations moved just as quickly. Joanne's mother, Rose Daliessio, came to help paint and decorate. "Used" coolers, display cases and coffee equipment, some still in original shipping crates, were found at bargain prices. A Winthrop University graphics design class handled logo, business card and menu design.

Three weeks after the building purchase, the doors to Holy Grounds opened.

POSSIBLE EXPANSION

The Friday night "Music Jam" brings live entertainment from all over the area, attracting many local youth, as well as adults. Regular customer Eddie Stegall stops in frequently, and says the coffee house is an asset to the town.

"This place is good for the young folks, and old-timers like me," he said. "These people are hard-working, and treat everyone with respect and kindness."

Since business is growing, Joanne resigned from United on May 8. She said she is blessed with three employees who help keep things going smoothly. Dwayne helps on weekends. Expansion plans are already being considered. The couple hopes to add an outdoor patio area, and perhaps a health food juice bar in the near future. - NITA BOTZENMAYER