Seeing the activity surrounding the pink building on the highway, I did a little investigation and discovered that The Treasure Chest, a gift shop formerly located on 14th and Van Buren, was in the process of moving. And so I called and spoke with Joanie Morgan, one of the owners, and set a date to come out and meet her. Unfortunately, the first date had to be rescheduled as I had a date with an orthopedist for my broken ankle.
Arriving at the shop, I found a manikin topped with a summer straw hat at the door, hoisting a sign that said “Open”. And meeting Joanie, who was seated in a summer chair at the entrance, I became the recipient of “Welcome” and “Come on in, Sue”. As I followed Joanie inside, my eyes were constantly revolving in movement attempting to see everything as we passed. The shop is a luxurious kaleidoscope of color with each wall, each display, and each room! The only expression possible is “WOW!” It’s almost too much to comprehend at one time, and as you attempt to settle into the displays, you spot items you have previously missed: unusual mosaic panels, several black hats on a shelf, original and colorful tote bags everywhere, and stunning necklace and earring sets. And then, you take notice of the small table in a corner of the shop with a coffee maker and reading material available. Nearby are a number of fishing rods and reels stacked on the counter. I’ve been told that this will be the “Men’s Corner”, where a man can retreat while his wife shops. And next to a wall is a tasty display of cinnamon rolls and kolaches; all available for sale and from a local bakery in La Grange. And do not forget that wi-fi is here too!
Hanging on the walls are original paintings: many in oil and some from Port O’Connor artists and others from a nearby area; many of the necklace and earring sets are from another local artist. Joanie’s wish is to be able to stock and market many products of local artists, perhaps to be the first to give them a start. And the “Dolphin Talk” and The End of the Road cookbooks are stocked in a not-to-be missed area.
Joanie Morgan is a slight woman with a smile that never quits; dark brown hair that is shoulder length and bounces when she moves, and an attitude that there is no such thing as a stranger. She is a former school teacher and has lived in several states. Kirk, her husband and the other half of this partnership, is a rancher from La Grange, who has spent many years in Port O’Connor fishing and just enjoying the area. Both are easy to speak with and each lends an individual but togetherness hand to this business. Kirk is the typical tall and lean cattleman, but not too quiet; interesting in speaking with him as you could see the strength and interest he extends to Joanie in their life together.
Joanie and Kirk moved to POC eight years ago and spent several years at Beacon 44 while searching for an appropriate property to live in. Finding the area on Van Buren they opened their first shop, a dream of Joanie’s for many years; but when the pink building on the highway became vacant, it gave them the room they so needed and desired.
Joanie and Kirk and their Treasure Chest definitely enhance the attitude of easy living but serious commitment to our Coast.
Their Grand Opening is planned for the week of March 12th. Don’t miss it!
This is another interview of a local business in our area; if you would like to be represented, please give me a call.
Sue Kubecka 361 798-0560 suekubecka@yahoo.com
