Starbucks supports hospital in Grand Opening

Heather Armstrong, Special to TC Media
Starbucks supports hospital in Grand Opening
Jesse Atkinson enjoys the free cake and beverage at Starbucks Grand Opening (Heather Armstrong/ Seaway News).

CORNWALL, Ontario – Although the first Starbucks in Cornwall has been serving customers for a few weeks, they held their official grand opening on Saturday, Jan. 14. As a part of the day’s celebration and to show their appreciation to their customers the Seattle based coffeehouse chain at 1232 Brookdale Avenue offered free beverages with any complimentary cash donation to the Cornwall Community Hospital Foundation and the Community Addiction and Mental Health Centre between 9 a.m. and noon.

The Store Manager of the newest Starbucks, Dan White was pleased with the turnout. He said, “I’m amazed at the number of people who have come in and embraced our brand.”

Deryk Heroux the District Manager said Cornwall had expressed an interest in having a Starbucks for some time. He said Cornwall has been very welcoming. “We’re very excited to be here,” he said.

Along with give-aways for the first 100 customers after 9 am, free cake was offered to the patrons and live entertainment was provided by local musician Nathalie Desrosiers.

Tracy McLellan and her daughter Sarah were two of the many customers who came to Starbucks this morning. Tracy said, “We came to check out the new Starbucks in Town.” She explained she and Sarah often look for a place to stop for a drink and a snack Saturday mornings to recharge their batteries between soccer and swimming.

White explained the set up in the café included a “Community Table” which encouraged groups to gather, while using their laptops, and connect to the free Wi-Fi. He also pointed out the cozy “Conversation Area” in front fireplace. White said he is looking forward to the spring when they can create the patio outside with even more seating. He said, “Starbucks is the place to meet. That’s what we strive for.”

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