Mia Shields, Jake Hawkins

Stepping into the aroma of freshly baked goods oozing from the window, creating an irresistible symphony that beckons, the Paw Lounge/Cafe opens its doors to students on Jan.15. The cafe sells Odus Buckmire cookies and hot cocoa. Everything costs one dollar, and opens every first lunch on Tuesdays and Thursdays;Coach Anthony Fadelle, the head of this new initiative, and his team are ready to sell warm baked goods. 

“The Paw Lounge is a program that was started with our students in the Exceptional Students program. Students are able to work on daily living skills and social skills. Right now, we just have a few snacks, but we plan to add more as we go on,” Fadelle said.

Fadelle and his team plan to add popcorn, along with other popular snacks to increase versatility and business prosperity.

“What they are offering right now is good, but to further their business I believe they should add other drinks like lemonade, sprite, even soda. Then, they could sell things that people can’t find in typical vending machines, like warm plates and such,” senior Kayla Dominguez said.

The Panther Cafe also serves as a way of fostering community. 

“I love working with my fellow classmates because we get to chat behind the scenes but also provide great food for panthers,” lounge staffer and junior Zipporah Foreman said.

Even though it just opened, many students share their excitement about what is to come and what has already been established.

“I think it’s a great opportunity as the lounge has chairs right outside and kids can talk and eat like it’s a mini cafeteria. I personally think it’s great because sometimes the vending machines don’t have freshly made options, so it’s cool, especially the hot cocoa in the mornings,” junior Arianna Sanz said.

Not only are the options such a rave but so are the prices. All products cost one dollar, and the cafe plans to stay affordable.

“I love the prices because what you’re getting is worth your money 100%, and it gives people a chance to be fed at school. And, if you want a little sweet treat, it’s good to consume at such a low price,” Dominguez said

Each cookie is sold in a paper bag, along with the hot cocoa in a simple cup. You get only one cookie, but they are well-sized for the price.

“The food is actually really good and even has great proportions. I was shocked when they only charged me a dollar and have instantly been going back every day they sell for more,” Sanz said.

The organizers of the new cafe expect it to attract many students.

“It is new here at Palmetto, but it’s something I’ve done before at my previous school. It was very successful there, so I thought I’d bring it to Palmetto too once I got the go-ahead,” Fadelle said.

As students anticipate the cafe’s promising future at MPSH, the symphony of taste, community and promise continues to resonate, inviting students to indulge and connect on the extraordinary experience that awaits.