Coffee Spot provides coffee, music and relaxation for students
Posted by The Skyliner on February 10th, 2010James Chip Moore
Staff Writer
Daniel Lewis and John Hannon perform at the Coffee Spot. (Photo by Kari Weaver)
Away from cold weather and the grind of schoolwork, the Coffee Spot offers a relaxing getaway. Located next to Tigerville Baptist Church, it makes a convenient lounge.
With the overhead lights turned off, the light of three lamps creates a comfortable mood. The lonely overhead light, hidden away from sight, helps shadow the performers. Surrounding walls contain the notes from the instruments.
Lingering in the air is the sweet smell of newly-baked dessert and freshly-brewed coffee. Empty tables stand, reflecting the dim light and waiting for their chance to offer their gift of rest and escape.
Empty burlap coffee sacks that are stamped “Zimbabwe Coffee Mill” hang from the ceiling and decorate the tables underneath the lamps. On the other side of the tables stand another set of tables that hold up the free refreshments the facility has to offer. On top of these tables are coffee, sodas, water, finger sandwiches, Chex Mix, individual snack cakes and cinnamon cake.
Each table in front of the stage area is equipped with either UNO, a deck of cards or tic-tac-toe. On top of two crates covered with rugs is where you can find the designated entertainment for the night.
Poetry and live music are performed on some nights. The Coffee Spot is a great place to network with other musicians and the perfect spot to hear live music.
“The music doesn’t necessarily have to be Christian,” Leland Browder, founder of the Coffee Spot, says, “But it does have to be clean.”
Daniel Lewis, undeclared freshman, and John Hannon, freshman Christian studies, are the acoustic act for this night.
Browder started the coffee spot about 14 weeks ago with only a break for the holidays. The shop is an outreach to involve students and the community. Browder’s past experience working and playing in coffee shops developed his enjoyment for the laid back atmosphere that coffee shops provide.
At one time there was a donation basket set out, but it was taken away by Browder’s directive. He wanted people to feel that they could come in, relax and enjoy themselves without feeling that they had to pay for something.
The Coffee Spot is open from 7 to 9 p.m. on Monday nights.
Tags: Spring 2010, Vol. 110 - Issue 3