10/26/2026
A picture is worth a thousand words. This one might HAVE a thousand words. Words of love, gratitude, well-wishes, and support. Words from countless people. Words you can’t even see (yes some of them wrote on the sides).
Yesterday was the last day of operations for our cafe. Yes, the gaming will continue. Yes, we’ll still be getting together. Some of the people I had heartfelt good-byes with I will see later this week. Because it wasn’t about when we would see each other again. It was about this space. As much as I’ve been saying, “these are just walls, it’s the community that matters.” The walls hold memories and magic.
I had a space like this growing up, once a week on Friday nights. And even though that organization ended after 10 years, almost 20 years ago… I still drive by the old building and curse it for being a Dominos. But anytime I still see people from that time in my life, or talk about them, they’re “the coffeehouse kids.” Some of us still talk. Some of us still hang out. Some of us don’t. But we are forever connected from that space.
The same can be said for Critical Grind. WE are Critical Grind. Every person who has walked through the doors, come to an event, or supported us online. We have created something together that surpasses this building. Friendships, relationships, families, friendly rivalries, and thousands of bonds were formed here.
I could keep going all day with everything I want to say. I’m going to end this particular post with this.
Thank you. Thank you to everyone who considers themselves a part of our community. For being here. For supporting us. For loving each other. And for being a part of what makes Critical Grind.
Life Is Short. Play More Games.
