Joe Morris is a 2013 Florida A&M University graduate who partnered with two young men who met at FSU eight years ago through the Progressive Black Men organization and are now community activists and business owners.
Joshua DeGraff works in industrial engineering and process engineering. He says that alongside trying to find a way for him to be able to bring his community together he enjoys making smoothies.
Tryton Swigart’Johnson is an artist and community activist who has been working with DeGraff to figure out not only a business idea but a community involvement project as well.
This past Saturday, Morris, DeGraff and Swigart’Johnson held a grand opening for their business called Smoothie Tower at 1205 S. Adams St.
“We have a way of making smoothies fast. We’re your alternative fast food without the long lines,’’ DeGraff said.
Their goal is to not make the establishment solely vegan because they are aware that some people like to have the option. However, they try their best to stay away from animal products providing alternatives o mimic the same flavors.
“We want to be the main supplier for healthy eating on this side of town,” Morris said.
Swigart’Johnson is active on social media promoting the business, allowing all the people of Tallahassee to be aware that they have a new safe and tasty hangout spot.
“I would like to increase community involvement and local support and provide something uplifting for our community,” Swigart’Johnson said.
The owners are creating a plan to host fitness classes at nearby parks for students and locals to take advantage of in their off time.
Since one of this establishment’s main owners is a former Rattler, he is allowing FAMU students to receive a 10% discount on their order if they can show their Rattler card.
The owners are aware FAMU features a Tropical Smoothie on campus and that on other campuses they have other smoothie joints but nothing that could compare to what Smoothie Tower will be able to offer.
“Since I don’t stay on campus and i’m not that big a fan of Starbucks, I feel like this is a vibe. It tastes good, and it’s not that costly,” said Joshua Hill, a FAMU student.