FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
August 19, 2021
 Contact: Press@paul.senate.gov, 202-224-4343
 

 
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, recognized Baxter’s Coffee of Somerset, Kentucky, as the U.S. Senate Small Business of the Week. Dr. Paul visited Baxter’s Coffee in Somerset, Kentucky, last week to recognize the business.
 
Dr. Paul entered the following into the Congressional Record:
 
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, Kentucky, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. 
 
In 2001, Terri Tuttle opened Baxter’s Coffee in Somerset, Kentucky. 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.
 
As Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, Dr. Paul continues the tradition of honoring America’s small businesses and entrepreneurs. The Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship oversees proposed legislation on matters relating to the Small Business Administration and investigates all problems relating to America’s small businesses.
 
 

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