Community is a big part of life at Mount Tahoma. Whether we’re cheering at games, joining clubs, or showing up for each other in the halls, T Birds know how to stay connected. That’s why I wanted my newspaper story to highlight a local business that shares those same values. So I visited Coopers Food and Drink, a family run restaurant owned by Ms. Osborn’s husband, to learn more about their story and their connection to our school.

When I sat down with Justin from Coopers, he told me what it’s really like to run a family business. He explained that one of the biggest pros is trust. “When you work with family, you know everyone is all in,” he said. But he also shared that it can be tough because work and home life mix together. Even with challenges, the teamwork and support make it worth it.

Justin also talked about the vision for Coopers. Their goal is simple: create a place where people feel welcome. They want Coopers to be a spot where anyone can walk in, relax, and enjoy good food made with care. That idea connects to our school values like belonging, kindness, and community voice. Coopers isn’t trying to be fancy—they’re trying to be real, and that’s what makes people come back.

During my visit, I got a full look around the restaurant, including the kitchen. Seeing how everything works behind the scenes showed me how much effort goes into each meal. It also showed their integrity and accountability. They want to serve food they’re proud of, and it shows.

So what sets Coopers apart from other Tacoma restaurants? It’s the heart behind it. It’s the way they treat people. It’s the way they stay connected to the community—especially ours at Mount Tahoma.

In the end, Coopers Food and Drink isn’t just a restaurant. It’s a reminder of what happens when people work together, support each other, and stay true to their values. And that’s something every T Bird can appreciate.

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