This year has brought profound change for both me and Maquina. After being diagnosed with kidney failure, I received the gift of life from my incredible wife, Letha, who turned out to be a perfect match. Recovery has reshaped everything, from my health to Maquina’s direction. As I focus on healing, Maquina will be closing its roasting operations on December 5th. This decision comes not only from personal necessity but also from the shifting economics of coffee: green coffee costs have tripled, and tariffs have made small roasting nearly impossible to sustain. Still, I’m endlessly grateful for the years of community, shared cups, and connection. Maquina was always a labor of love, and it will always live in my heart as one of the most meaningful chapters of my life.

Transitions are part of life for every kind of person. Some happen unexpectedly, and others happen just as we suspect—at the times we estimate—but this rarely happens. Maquina is going through a somewhat unexpected transition at this point, but not a total surprise.

I have been wanting to write a post for a bit, but it has been difficult with all of the bullshit that the current administration is bringing on. This is bad for everyone except the extremely wealthy. I have some strong feelings against blatant authoritarian regimes and fascism in general. This country is so much brighter and better than that.

We have decided to use this blog to inform you about coffees, stories, and news of what is happening in the coffee world. It will also be a place of hope, compassion, and action.