[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 145 (Tuesday, August 10, 2021)]
[Senate]
[Page S6272]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING BAXTER'S COFFEE

 Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, as ranking member of the Senate 
Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize 
an outstanding Kentucky small business that exemplifies the American 
entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize a 
family-owned small business and beloved staple, Baxter's Coffee of 
Somerset, KY, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.
  In 2001, Terri Tuttle opened Baxter's Coffee in Somerset, KY. After 
running a successful ice cream store, Terri decided to pursue a 
different business venture. She noticed an opportunity to fill a gap in 
the Somerset market since there were no coffee shops in town. As Terri 
brainstormed business names, she was inspired by her family's dog, 
Baxter. When Baxter's Coffee first opened in 2001, it was an instant 
hit. Along with delicious coffee, Terri and her team provided family-
friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere. To meet growing demand, 
the original Baxter's Coffee shop soon moved to a new location on Ogden 
Street and opened a second location in 2005.
  In 2021, Baxter's Coffee continues serving some of the best coffee in 
Pulaski County. As the business grew, so did the Tuttle family's 
involvement. Today, Terri's children, Jay, Lauren, and Ann, are 
actively involved in every facet of the business, from coffee roasting, 
to marketing, and bookkeeping. They continue welcoming customers from 
all over Kentucky and have expanded to four locations in Somerset, 
including a kiosk at Lake Cumberland Regional Hospital. Notably, since 
2009, Baxter's Coffee has roasted its own coffee. Their newest 
location, which opened in 2016, includes a drive-thru, as well as a 
roasting and warehouse facility. Baxter's Coffee proudly offers its 
signature blends at all four locations and also sells its coffee 
wholesale and online. Baxter's Coffee also features baked goods and 
treats from local small businesses.
  Like many small business owners, Terri is actively involved in her 
community. Baxter's Coffee is a member of the Somerset Pulaski Chamber 
of Commerce and regularly partners with them to hire local community 
members. For years, Baxter's Coffee has contributed to a wide range of 
local philanthropic organizations, including God's Food Pantry, and 
supported events such as charity golf tournaments, walks, and runs. 
They regularly support local school district events and organizations, 
including PTA fundraisers. To demonstrate appreciation for first 
responders, Baxter's Coffee provides free coffee to all on-duty police 
officers.
  Baxter's Coffee is a remarkable example of the critical role small 
businesses play in uplifting and building community. Family-owned small 
businesses like Baxter's Coffee form the heart of towns across 
Kentucky, regularly stepping up to support their communities. 
Congratulations to Terri and the entire team at Baxter's Coffee. I wish 
them the best of luck and look forward to watching their continued 
growth and success in Kentucky.

                          ____________________