Starbucks To Donate D.C. Store Profit

WASHINGTON - The Georgetown Starbucks Coffee bar where three workers were found slain on July 7 will reopen as a memorial to them and other victims of violent crime, the chairman of the Seattle-based company said.

Howard Schultz made the announcement yesterday following a memorial service at Georgetown University for Mary Mahoney, 24; Aaron Goodrich, 18; and Emory Evans, 25.

"When the store reopens, all future net profits will be dedicated to the prevention of or the victims of violent crime," Schultz said. "We are greatly saddened by the deaths of three people, who were just starting their lives."

He said no date had been established for reopening the coffee bar, "But by dedicating the remodeled store in their honor . . . we hope to keep their spirits alive," Schultz said.

The chain has placed security officers in some of its District of Columbia stores following the shootings. City police suspect robbery was the motive.

City Councilman Jack Evans, who represents the Georgetown area, had urged the reopening of the Starbucks store to show that the community cannot be cowed by violence.

Georgetown merchants also urged reopening of the coffee bar. They said closing the store would foster a climate of unease in the area of upscale homes and trendy boutiques.