A New Year...

Well, another year has gone by, and we are still standing. If I could say that this year was a smooth and simple year I would, but it wasn't. The idea of serving you made all of it worth it. After 12 years in this business (and 38 years of the business being open), this year was one of the more challenging years for R. Coffee Ltd. because the founder, Rick Coffee, wasn't able to be here.

As many of you know, Rick Coffee started this business in 1986 and has built a HUGE community around what has become the premier men's clothing destination in Central Virginia. Rick started working in Downtown Lynchburg for S.H. Franklin Men's Clothiers and fell completely in love with this business and never left it. For 54 years he never missed a Christmas, never missed a men's clothing market and never missed making your family members dapperly dressed. He poured his heart and soul into this business and everyday he did the best he could do.

Unfortunately, Rick has had a year of health issues and can no longer work in the store. I can honestly say, that seeing your mentor and father figure struggle like he has, is something that I wish no one else would have to go through. You all have stood by us this year and have stood by me, even though I could never fill the shoes of Rick. After 12 years of learning your tastes and watching your children grow up, I can honestly say that the love I have for this business is tantamount to obsession. You all have welcomed me to the community and you all have treated me as family. Rick always loves to tell the story of my begging, so I will share it with you:

In 2013 I walked into R. Coffee looking to buy some "dress clothes" to apply to work at the local Mercedes dealership. Rick was not here at the moment, so I was waited on by Janice (to know her is to love her). She helped me pick out some great pieces and I was on my way. I didn't end up getting the job at the dealership, but I came back in and asked to speak with Rick about a job. "We're not hiring at the moment, but come back from time to time to check," Rick said. I came back ever two weeks for 3 months. Finally, I get a call and he says, "Hey, this is Rick at the men's store. Wanna work over Christmas time?" I said, "Yes!!" and the rest was history. I can honestly say, that If Rick hadn't given me that chance, I do not know where my life would be. He saw me and I saw him and our bond was solidified. Gosh, I miss him here everyday.

With that being said, this blog is about respecting the fact that Rick created something beautiful. I will continue to carry the traditions of R. Coffee. I will continue to be the shop for all generations and I will continue in the humility of knowing that without Rick, and him believing in me, I would not be where I am today. This blog is also about me giving you all a heartfelt thank you. You all made me who I am today as well.

Happy New Year from all of us at R. Coffee Ltd.

-James "Jimmy" Bower Jr.

P.S. The picture on this Blog is of us at Yankee Stadium enjoying one of Rick's favorite things, baseball (mostly just the Yankees)!