[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 111 (Friday, July 5, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E694-E695]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        HONORING UPTOWN COFFEEHOUSE AND ITS OWNER, LORNA BRENNAN

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ELISSA SLOTKIN

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                          Friday, July 5, 2024

  Ms. SLOTKIN. Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to Uptown Coffeehouse 
and its remarkable owner, Lorna Brennan. After more than 20 years of 
serving the best cup of coffee in town, Uptown Coffeehouse closed its 
doors on June 30, 2024. Since it first opened in Howell, Michigan, in 
2002, Lorna and her team of baristas created a cherished meeting spot, 
warmly welcoming all who entered.
  Located at the bustling corner of Grand River and Michigan Avenues in 
a beautiful late 19th-century historic building, Uptown Coffeehouse was 
truly at the heart of downtown Howell. Through grit and determination, 
Lorna restored the building to its former splendor, including a 
historic renovation of the facade in 2019. Lorna's vision transformed 
this building into a vibrant coffee house, meeting place, and art 
gallery.
  For more than two decades, Uptown Coffeehouse was a second home for 
Lorna and a treasured fixture in the community. Lorna's son, who was a 
preschooler when the business opened, grew up within its walls, 
celebrating milestones and accomplishments along the way.
  In addition to coffee and baked goods, Uptown Coffeehouse offered a 
sense of belonging and outstanding service to customers. Its expansive 
front windows provided a picturesque view of the city and changing 
seasons. With local art displayed for patrons to enjoy, the venue 
became a vibrant cultural hub as it hosted open mic nights, spoken word 
events, and other entertainment through the years.
  The community's love for Uptown Coffeehouse was evident through 
numerous local awards, including the People's Choice Award for the Best 
Howell Coffee Shop in 2019. It was a special place, providing customers 
with memories to last a lifetime. It was often the first place new 
residents visited downtown and were welcomed to Howell. Uptown is where 
friendships were formed and regulars found a haven for their morning 
routines and work sessions. It was a place where first dates happened 
and marriage proposals were made.
  Despite challenges, including during the COVID-19 pandemic, Lorna and 
the staff at Uptown Coffeehouse always remained optimistic and focused 
on helping others. Their kindness and generosity knew no bounds as they 
supported school groups, local charities, and donated coffee gift cards 
to hospital staff during the pandemic.

[[Page E695]]

  As we bid farewell to Uptown Coffeehouse, let us recognize Lorna 
Brennan and her beloved establishment that was a second home not only 
for her, but for the entire Howell community. It is with profound 
gratitude that I honor the legacy of Uptown Coffeehouse and Lorna 
Brennan.