It is with great sadness that I inform you of our decision to close the
Grind.

Firstly, for those who are concerned that it was family health issues that
led to this decision, I want to assure you that Dad is out of the hospital
and doing pretty well with what he has.

There are other factors leading to this decision: partnership/management
issues and lack of working capital, among others. Unfortunately, the Town's
decision to not allow us to place signs at the corners of Church Street and
the serious, sustained downturn in the economy were the veritable "straws
that broke the camel's back."

We had a very large vision for the coffee shop space that included a place
for the Orange community to gather, perform, entertain, and learn. It was,
however, an unfunded and, seemingly, unsupported vision.

For the last year and a half we have offered a wonderful place and great
music every weekend. We have offered a place for students to gather as well
as opportunities for their enrichment - even with input from those very
students. Yet, no one came.

The people of Orange cry continuously for "something to do." The youth of
Orange blame their high pregnancy rates on the general "lack" in Orange. We
came, we gave, but Orange did not respond.

It would be very disappointing to discover that we may live in a society
largely made up of folks who would rather complain about their "lack" than
get involved in creating.

Perhaps an investor is lurking who shares our vision of community purpose.
Perhaps the community will wake up and take ownership of the little
treasures that are here before they all disappear.

For those who did support the Grind and our efforts, I offer my deepest
gratitude.

I, for one, will continue to be involved in the community and to add
whatever I can to the enrichment of our lives. I hope that you will join me!

Terry Connell