Hey Paul! This is my first year here as a student. I'll be looking for a job next semester. I come in to your cafe close to every day, though I haven't met you yet. But I'm sure I will. From what I can tell, you have the best shop around.

I know the feeling...somewhat. The shop I work at in Peoria changed ownership when I was there (the manager bought it from the guy who started it). I spent tons of time off the clock and often til 3 or 4 in the morning doing construction work on a new room we renovated. I ran countless errands to lowes, stained wood, laid carpet, painted, you name it. Not to mention a 9 hour shift followed by 12 hours making each one of our drinks (with latte art and serious set-up) for a professional photographer to shoot for a new picture-based menu board... There is always stuff to be done at a shop, and it is not all glamorous. But we are willing to put up with it because we believe in the coffee and the culture we are providing so much that we get anal about having it done right. The now-owner of the shop ran on espresso and cigarettes for months while his vision was being realized. That's just the nature of the beast. Keep it up! It's not easy for you, but from a customer's standpoint, I can tell you it is working.