With the pandemic, a lot of small businesses have been having trouble keeping their heads above water, and some have even closed down. That's why many larger companies who sell Magic: the Gathering accessories, such as card sleeves and play mats, have been taking a portion of their profits and donating them to local game stores or LGS. Companies like Dragon Shield and Ultra Pro, have been taking a portion of their profits and donating them to some LGS. However, I believe the best way to support your LGS is to go and directly support them by purchasing products from the business directly.
I personally support my local game store named, "Cabbages and Kings", owned by Dan and his wife Stefanie, a former teacher at Dunlap. They both bring bright, smiley faces to my favorite card game, along with a surplus of board games to rent or buy. The shop is open Tuesday thru Friday from 1:00 pm-10:00 pm and 12:00 pm-9:00 pm on Saturday. The shop has plenty of product for your Magic: the Gathering needs and a helpful staff to boot.
The shop has a certain atmosphere that makes you feel supported and nurtured. Dan is not only welcoming to new players of Magic, but also many of the shop's regulars are kind and considerate people who will help you with any questions you may have about the game. When not in a COVID era, the shop regularly runs competitive events and intense limited play. In limited play, you must build a deck from a limited card selection. These event typically draw in both new and old customers to the shop.
The shop also has a dedicated website that allows you buy games online and pick them up at the store. Not every game is present on the website, so you may have to go into the store to find the specific game you are looking for. But there selection is so vast, it would be difficult to not find what you are looking for.
All in all, "Cabbages and Kings" is a great place to spend a day slinging spells or just chilling out with friends. Every person should find a place where they can just be with others. The people who work and play there make the store what it is. Remember this and all local game stores, require money to keep their heads above water, so go out and support your local game store today. Thanks very much and I hope you have a grand day.