Anyone who loves coffee knows about the Sam James Coffee shoppe on Harbord Street. The little Japanese cubicle that Joe Pantalone dismissed when it first opened is thriving. The line up out its door some mornings is a testament to a bustling business.

But, as anyone who rides a bike along the busy Harbord strip knows, there are usually a couple of cars waiting while the drivers quickly dart into to get take out. This creates a dangerous situation for cyclists.

Emma, super star barista who works most mornings decided to take it on herself to educate drivers who insisted on parking in front of the store. One morning while I was enjoying a cup of joe, a car pulled up and as usual the driver stopped while the passenger went in for coffee.

Emma informed the woman that parking in the bike lane was dangerous for cyclists and that they could even receive a $450.00 fine if the police rolled by. The customer was concerned and thanked her for the information.

A week later the driver of the same car went into the coffee shop and complained directly to Sam how horrible Emma was during that situation. She informed Sam that Emma had been rude and probably, though I am not sure, thought it best that she be dismissed for her behaviour.

Needless to say Sam knew what had to be done and the complaint was ignored. But poor Emma was beside herself and worried all night what it would be like when the customer came in for their regular coffee. This morning the driver and passenger drove up, saw that Emma was working they sped off.

Guess they are going to get their coffee at the McDonald's drive thru at Dundas and Bathurst and hopefully won’t be blocking the bike lane on Harbord any time soon. If you happen to be in the area, or riding by, or stopping in at Sam James for an excellent cup of coffee, maybe you can take the time out to thank Emma, if she is working, or thank Sam for hiring such an excellent barista who cares about the safety of her customers.