The Longwood Center for the Visual Arts presented their thirteenth annual Community Achievement in the Arts Awards, Saturday evening, April 19, 2008, in Farmville, Virginia.
Baine’s Books and Coffee, a landmark Appomattox business located on Main Street, was recipient of the Business Award. Bryan Baine and his wife Debbie were present to accept the honor.
The LCVA presents awards annually to individuals and businesses who, in the opinion of the Center have furthered appreciation of the arts in south-central Virginia.
Bryan and Debbie, through Baine’s Books and Coffee, have consistently provided a venue for local musicians and potters to present and display their art for the appreciation of the community. The weekly Open Mic night is regularly well-attended and allows talented central Virginia musicians to perform in front of an appreciative audience.
Area potters, including students at the Cub Creek Foundation, are encouraged to bring their work to the store for display and sale. Food and drink is frequently served on pots, mugs, and plates created by local clay artists.
Baine’s Books and Coffee is a sponsor of the Old Courthouse Theater, providing both financial and moral support to the actors and staff.
Bryan and Debbie take their responsibility of encouraging the arts in Appomattox seriously. As Baine has said, “This store is a local gathering place for creative people of all sorts and from every age group. I believe that we are running a salon for the arts right here in the book store!”
Baine’s Books and Coffee has become a magnet for artists, actors, musicians, writers, and history buffs. On any given day, it is not unusual to find groups gathered there, relaxing in the comfortable atmosphere, enjoying coffee or lunch, and discussing a myriad of serious topics.
Baine’s is also a clearing house for all kinds of literature, fiction and non-fiction alike. He is happy to handle special orders for volumes not in stock and encourages local authors by stocking their work.
For all of these reasons and more, the LCVA honored Bryan and Debbie Baine. They have become an integral part of the art scene in Appomattox and plan to continue with their mission for many years to come.
