Joni Ernst
Senator for Iowa · Republican · United States
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S4184] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING TAYLOR'S MAID-RITE Ms. ERNST. Mr.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S4184] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING TAYLOR'S MAID-RITE Ms. ERNST. Mr.”
“In 1958, they opened a new building across the street from the original location, outfitted with modern stainless- steel equipment and two cash registers. After Don's passing in 1973, Polly continued operating the restaurant until her grandson Don Short became the owner in 1985.”
“In 1958, they opened a new building across the street from the original location, outfitted with modern stainless- steel equipment and two cash registers. After Don's passing in 1973, Polly continued operating the restaurant until her grandson Don Short became the owner in 1985.”
“Sandy Taylor Short and Taylor's Maid-Rite are active members of the Marshalltown Area Chamber of Commerce. In recognition of her commitment to the community, Sandy received the Chamber's Women in Business Award in 2023.”
“Sandy Taylor Short and Taylor's Maid-Rite are active members of the Marshalltown Area Chamber of Commerce. In recognition of her commitment to the community, Sandy received the Chamber's Women in Business Award in 2023.”
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“The restaurant famously celebrates Marshalltown High School football victories by providing free malts after every home win. If the team captures a State championship, players are rewarded with free Maid-Rite sandwiches and malts. Taylor's Maid-Rite's continued investment in Marshalltown reflects the same entrepreneurial spirit that inspired Cliff and Emma Taylor nearly 100 years ago. I am pleased to recognize the Taylor family and the employees of Taylor's Maid-Rite for their dedication to Marshalltown and Marshall County. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead. ____________________”
“Sandy Taylor Short and Taylor's Maid-Rite are active members of the Marshalltown Area Chamber of Commerce. In recognition of her commitment to the community, Sandy received the Chamber's Women in Business Award in 2023. Taylor's Maid-Rite has also earned numerous accolades, including MSN.com's 2017 ``Best Sandwich in Iowa,'' Midwest Living magazine's 1997 recognition as the ``King of Loose Meat Burgers,'' Business Insider's 2026 designation as Iowa's ``Most Iconic Sandwich Shop,'' and the 2023 Marshalltown Small Business of the Year Award. The restaurant was also featured in Travel + Leisure magazine in 2006, and its signature sandwiches were served at George Motz's Hamburger America during April and May 2025. Beyond these honors, Taylor's Maid-Rite remains deeply committed to its community.”
“In 1958, they opened a new building across the street from the original location, outfitted with modern stainless- steel equipment and two cash registers. After Don's passing in 1973, Polly continued operating the restaurant until her grandson Don Short became the owner in 1985. When Don Short later pursued a different career, his mother Sandy Taylor Short assumed leadership of the family business, where she continues to serve today alongside her children-- Don, David, and Sarah--who are all part owners. Today, Taylor's Maid-Rite continues to grind 100 percent choice beef daily to ensure freshness and quality and serves homemade ice cream made from its original recipe. Nearly a century later, the restaurant remains a family-owned Iowa tradition supported by dedicated employees and loyal customers throughout Marshall County.”
“Following its immediate success, Angell began franchising the concept, expanding first to Newton in 1927 and then to Marshalltown in 1928. Soon after, Cliff and Emma Taylor purchased the Marshalltown franchise, establishing what would become Taylor's Maid- Rite. Alongside the signature sandwiches, the couple introduced homemade pies and cinnamon rolls while sourcing ingredients such as pickles and buns from other local businesses. Nearly a century later, Taylor's Maid-Rite remains in the Taylor family, now entering its fourth generation. In 1944, Cliff and Emma's son Don Taylor and his wife Polly assumed ownership and continued expanding the business. They built a cooler beneath their home to keep ingredients fresh.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S4184] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING TAYLOR'S MAID-RITE Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Taylor's Maid-Rite of Marshalltown, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1926, Fred Angell created the Maid-Rite sandwich in Muscatine, IA, out of the need for a convenient, affordable meal that could be assembled quickly, customized with a variety of toppings, and still deliver great taste.”
“The restaurant famously celebrates Marshalltown High School football victories by providing free malts after every home win. If the team captures a State championship, players are rewarded with free Maid-Rite sandwiches and malts. Taylor's Maid-Rite's continued investment in Marshalltown reflects the same entrepreneurial spirit that inspired Cliff and Emma Taylor nearly 100 years ago. I am pleased to recognize the Taylor family and the employees of Taylor's Maid-Rite for their dedication to Marshalltown and Marshall County. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead. ____________________”
“Sandy Taylor Short and Taylor's Maid-Rite are active members of the Marshalltown Area Chamber of Commerce. In recognition of her commitment to the community, Sandy received the Chamber's Women in Business Award in 2023. Taylor's Maid-Rite has also earned numerous accolades, including MSN.com's 2017 ``Best Sandwich in Iowa,'' Midwest Living magazine's 1997 recognition as the ``King of Loose Meat Burgers,'' Business Insider's 2026 designation as Iowa's ``Most Iconic Sandwich Shop,'' and the 2023 Marshalltown Small Business of the Year Award. The restaurant was also featured in Travel + Leisure magazine in 2006, and its signature sandwiches were served at George Motz's Hamburger America during April and May 2025. Beyond these honors, Taylor's Maid-Rite remains deeply committed to its community.”
“In 1958, they opened a new building across the street from the original location, outfitted with modern stainless- steel equipment and two cash registers. After Don's passing in 1973, Polly continued operating the restaurant until her grandson Don Short became the owner in 1985. When Don Short later pursued a different career, his mother Sandy Taylor Short assumed leadership of the family business, where she continues to serve today alongside her children-- Don, David, and Sarah--who are all part owners. Today, Taylor's Maid-Rite continues to grind 100 percent choice beef daily to ensure freshness and quality and serves homemade ice cream made from its original recipe. Nearly a century later, the restaurant remains a family-owned Iowa tradition supported by dedicated employees and loyal customers throughout Marshall County.”
“Following its immediate success, Angell began franchising the concept, expanding first to Newton in 1927 and then to Marshalltown in 1928. Soon after, Cliff and Emma Taylor purchased the Marshalltown franchise, establishing what would become Taylor's Maid- Rite. Alongside the signature sandwiches, the couple introduced homemade pies and cinnamon rolls while sourcing ingredients such as pickles and buns from other local businesses. Nearly a century later, Taylor's Maid-Rite remains in the Taylor family, now entering its fourth generation. In 1944, Cliff and Emma's son Don Taylor and his wife Polly assumed ownership and continued expanding the business. They built a cooler beneath their home to keep ingredients fresh.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 119 (Tuesday, July 21, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S4184] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING TAYLOR'S MAID-RITE Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Taylor's Maid-Rite of Marshalltown, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1926, Fred Angell created the Maid-Rite sandwich in Muscatine, IA, out of the need for a convenient, affordable meal that could be assembled quickly, customized with a variety of toppings, and still deliver great taste.”
“I am pleased to recognize Nate and Todd McCubbin along with the entire team at ShinyTop Brewing for their dedication to the Fort Dodge community. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead. ____________________”
“Through individual and group efforts, these entrepreneurs are looking to positively impact their community. By partnering with local organizations, the brewery has fostered meaningful engagement while supporting local initiatives, strengthening neighborhood connections, and contributing to the overall growth and well-being of Fort Dodge. In the spirit of supporting the area, ShinyTop has partnered with the Fort Dodge Fine Arts Association, Serving our Servants, Fort Dodge Firefighter's Association, and has collaborated with other local organizations. More recently, the brewery has introduced its Giving Tuesday initiative in which 10 percent of its sales are donated to a partnering charity or organization. ShinyTop and the McCubbins continue to prove their generosity and enthusiasm to give back to the area.”
“Yet for Nate and Todd, the true measure of success is not the brewery's growth, but the positive impact it has had on the area and the relationships it has helped foster along the way. The brothers successfully turned a dilapidated building into what ShinyTop is today. Although the business physically resembles a brewery, the brothers say that it is representative of much more than that, ShinyTop is an instrument to cultivating community growth, while sharing family values. As a member of the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance and the chamber of commerce, ShinyTop prioritizes economic and social development in the city. In addition to ShinyTop's engagement, the McCubbin brothers are also heavily involved in the community; Nate is on the board of the Fort Dodge Fine Arts Association, and Todd is a member of the city council.”
“The brothers' venture was born from a desire to create something their hometown could take pride in. What started with sharing their craft beer among friends and family soon revealed a deeper purpose: building community through brewing. A simple hobby quickly grew into a meaningful opportunity to bring people together, foster connections, and create a gathering place centered around great craft beer. Over the years, ShinyTop experienced significant growth, expanding both its physical space and its menu offerings. More than a decade later, the brewery has become a fixture in Fort Dodge. The brewery has remained a beacon of opportunity for the city. Fostering a welcoming environment, the McCubbins have sought to build relationships and connect their visitors to the city's vast art, music, and philanthropic spheres.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S3932-S3933] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING SHINYTOP BREWING Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor ShinyTop Brewing of Webster County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. [[Page S3933]] With a vision of building a local craft brewing scene in north central Iowa, brothers Nate and Todd McCubbin founded ShinyTop Brewing in 2016 after Nate, a military veteran, discovered a passion for homebrewing.”
“The business is proud to be members of the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, the American Institute of Steel Construction, the Nevada Economic Development Council, the Grain Elevator and Processing Society, and the Associated General Contractors of America. Through their local engagement and contributions, Mid-States is a remarkable example for small businesses across the country. It is with great enthusiasm that I recognize Kevin, Shelley, Randy, Austin, Riley, and the team at Mid-States Companies for their continuous dedication to Story County. I am excited to see everything they will accomplish and wish them success in the years ahead. ____________________”
“Mid-States has continued to embrace innovation. By investing in robotic welding systems, the company is equipping its workforce--not replacing employees--so they can focus on the skilled craftsmanship and complex problem-solving that machines cannot replicate. Kevin and Shelley have built a business rooted in excellence, earning the trust of their customers while demonstrating an unwavering commitment to strengthening their community. The business has made large donations to the Nevada area, supporting charitable organizations such as The Salt Company college ministry, Nevada Iowa Foundation, and the Boys and Girls Club of Story County. The company also provides resources for local vocational training programs.”
“The Viers seized the opportunity to serve the agricultural market in the heart of the Grain Belt and have embodied their firm motto: ``Delivering Results. Together.'' The Vier family has been involved in the grain-handling industry in Nevada, IA, for three generations and has over 48 notable years in the agri-business industry. What started in a 7,000-square-foot millwright fabrication ``mom-and-pop'' shop, with only five employees, now operates in several States, with a more than 100,000-square-foot facility, and over 100 employees. Kevin believes this success would not have been possible without the help of his brother Randy and two sons Austin and Riley. Now, Mid- States' Material Handling and Fabrication Company has become the first ranked brock grain bin dealer in Iowa and third ranked worldwide.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S3932] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING MID-STATES COMPANIES Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Mid- States Companies of Story County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Founded in 2001 by Kevin and Shelley Vier, Mid-States Companies is a group of businesses that provides premier grain handling, engineering, fabrication, crane, and trucking services.”
“His contributions to conflict resolution went well beyond the United States. Just days ago, Lindsey was in Ukraine meeting with President Zelenskyy and standing with a nation fighting for its survival because he believed at his core that American leadership was the difference between peace and oppression. Lindsey Graham was tough, he was funny, and he loved this country. To the people of South Carolina and to Lindsey's family and, most especially, to his sister Darline and all who loved him, we are all mourning together. As a Christian like Lindsey, I know God will bring comfort where there is fear, strength where there is shock, and hope where there is loss. Lindsey, we miss you, and this Chamber will never be the same without you. Godspeed, my dear friend, and thank you for your service. I yield the floor.”
“He was always working the phones--phone call after phone call--whether it was President Trump or my mom back in Iowa. He was always certain that presence was power. I had the privilege of traveling many times over with Lindsey. The very first codel, which is a congressional delegation trip, that I took in the U.S. Senate was with Lindsey. It was to the Munich Security Conference in Germany. The other Senators on that trip were former Senator Joe Lieberman, a dear friend of his; Senator John McCain, who was his deepest and truest friend; and Senator Kelly Ayotte. We had a wonderful trip together. And it was such a great experience for me to see him on the world stage, easily moving from conversation to conversation with some of the world's most important and powerful leaders, and to see how much they deeply respected Senator Graham.”
“I know times are hard, but send money anyway. Lindseygraham.com. He did that all the time, and he was always so funny. And I can't tell you how many times I have watched that video, over and over again, and just laughed. He was certainly a very funny man, even when times were difficult, but behind the jokes was one of the most serious and effective legislators this body has ever known. He didn't care whose name was on a bill if the policy was right. He brokered friendships and alliances that many in this town said were no longer possible. He fought hard, and then he would sit down and crack a joke with the people that he had just been arguing with. All of us here on this floor know that Lindsey was always moving. The man never stood still.”
“Earlier this year, we were talking about Lindsey, doing dinner with Lindsey, as many of us did, and we were talking about this year's race because he was running for another term in the Senate. And my mother, again, being very close to Lindsey and his No. 1 fan in Iowa--in fact, she had a screen saver on her computer. It was her and Lindsey Graham. If you asked my mother who her favorite Senator was, it wouldn't be Senator Chuck Grassley or even her own daughter; it would be Senator Lindsey Graham. She was agonizing: Should I send Lindsey a donation for his campaign? And I was laughing about this with Lindsey. So he was like: Give me your phone. He said: Let's shoot a video for your mom. And so he took my phone, and he made this cute little 10-second video. And it went something like this: Marilyn, we love you. We love Joni.”
“Lindsey was really dear to my family. My mother's birthday was just a few days before Lindsey's, and through the years, he would call her on her birthday and wish her the happiest of birthdays. As my daughter entered the U.S. Army, he would call her and just give her words of encouragement--in the hilarious way that only Lindsey Graham could. He was such a good and decent man. One thing we all knew about Lindsey was his great sense of humor. I will never forget the gift he gave me after I won Iowa's Senate seat. In fact, I may be the only Senator in history to be handed a mounted castration clamp with a plaque engraved ``Make `Em Squeal, Joni!'' just off the floor of this Chamber, courtesy of Lindsey Graham. And I think he is probably still laughing about that one.”
“Mr. President, I rise today with a heavy heart to honor my dear friend and colleague Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina. Before he ever set foot on this floor, he wore the uniform of the U.S. Air Force, serving 33 years between the Air Force, the South Carolina Air National Guard, and the Air Force Reserve. That service and his upbringing in the back of his parents' South Carolina bar shaped everything about how he approached his work here in the Senate. He understood, in a way too few in Washington, DC, do, what it costs to defend freedom. He was one of the loudest, most persistent voices this institution has seen on the importance of American leadership in this world. And before I joined the Senate, Lindsey was one of my earliest supporters. I am so grateful for his mentorship and his friendship throughout the years.”
“I am pleased to recognize Nate and Todd McCubbin along with the entire team at ShinyTop Brewing for their dedication to the Fort Dodge community. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead. ____________________”
“Through individual and group efforts, these entrepreneurs are looking to positively impact their community. By partnering with local organizations, the brewery has fostered meaningful engagement while supporting local initiatives, strengthening neighborhood connections, and contributing to the overall growth and well-being of Fort Dodge. In the spirit of supporting the area, ShinyTop has partnered with the Fort Dodge Fine Arts Association, Serving our Servants, Fort Dodge Firefighter's Association, and has collaborated with other local organizations. More recently, the brewery has introduced its Giving Tuesday initiative in which 10 percent of its sales are donated to a partnering charity or organization. ShinyTop and the McCubbins continue to prove their generosity and enthusiasm to give back to the area.”
“Yet for Nate and Todd, the true measure of success is not the brewery's growth, but the positive impact it has had on the area and the relationships it has helped foster along the way. The brothers successfully turned a dilapidated building into what ShinyTop is today. Although the business physically resembles a brewery, the brothers say that it is representative of much more than that, ShinyTop is an instrument to cultivating community growth, while sharing family values. As a member of the Greater Fort Dodge Growth Alliance and the chamber of commerce, ShinyTop prioritizes economic and social development in the city. In addition to ShinyTop's engagement, the McCubbin brothers are also heavily involved in the community; Nate is on the board of the Fort Dodge Fine Arts Association, and Todd is a member of the city council.”
“The brothers' venture was born from a desire to create something their hometown could take pride in. What started with sharing their craft beer among friends and family soon revealed a deeper purpose: building community through brewing. A simple hobby quickly grew into a meaningful opportunity to bring people together, foster connections, and create a gathering place centered around great craft beer. Over the years, ShinyTop experienced significant growth, expanding both its physical space and its menu offerings. More than a decade later, the brewery has become a fixture in Fort Dodge. The brewery has remained a beacon of opportunity for the city. Fostering a welcoming environment, the McCubbins have sought to build relationships and connect their visitors to the city's vast art, music, and philanthropic spheres.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S3932-S3933] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING SHINYTOP BREWING Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor ShinyTop Brewing of Webster County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. [[Page S3933]] With a vision of building a local craft brewing scene in north central Iowa, brothers Nate and Todd McCubbin founded ShinyTop Brewing in 2016 after Nate, a military veteran, discovered a passion for homebrewing.”
“The business is proud to be members of the Ames Regional Economic Alliance, the American Institute of Steel Construction, the Nevada Economic Development Council, the Grain Elevator and Processing Society, and the Associated General Contractors of America. Through their local engagement and contributions, Mid-States is a remarkable example for small businesses across the country. It is with great enthusiasm that I recognize Kevin, Shelley, Randy, Austin, Riley, and the team at Mid-States Companies for their continuous dedication to Story County. I am excited to see everything they will accomplish and wish them success in the years ahead. ____________________”
“Mid-States has continued to embrace innovation. By investing in robotic welding systems, the company is equipping its workforce--not replacing employees--so they can focus on the skilled craftsmanship and complex problem-solving that machines cannot replicate. Kevin and Shelley have built a business rooted in excellence, earning the trust of their customers while demonstrating an unwavering commitment to strengthening their community. The business has made large donations to the Nevada area, supporting charitable organizations such as The Salt Company college ministry, Nevada Iowa Foundation, and the Boys and Girls Club of Story County. The company also provides resources for local vocational training programs.”
“The Viers seized the opportunity to serve the agricultural market in the heart of the Grain Belt and have embodied their firm motto: ``Delivering Results. Together.'' The Vier family has been involved in the grain-handling industry in Nevada, IA, for three generations and has over 48 notable years in the agri-business industry. What started in a 7,000-square-foot millwright fabrication ``mom-and-pop'' shop, with only five employees, now operates in several States, with a more than 100,000-square-foot facility, and over 100 employees. Kevin believes this success would not have been possible without the help of his brother Randy and two sons Austin and Riley. Now, Mid- States' Material Handling and Fabrication Company has become the first ranked brock grain bin dealer in Iowa and third ranked worldwide.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 114 (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S3932] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING MID-STATES COMPANIES Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Mid- States Companies of Story County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Founded in 2001 by Kevin and Shelley Vier, Mid-States Companies is a group of businesses that provides premier grain handling, engineering, fabrication, crane, and trucking services.”
“The establishment is also a longstanding member of the Oelwein Chamber and Area Development, OCAD. Over the past three decades, the Manske family has continued to better Oelwein and Iowa through their innovative approach to their business. It is my pleasure to recognize Paul, Linda, Byron, and Travis Manske at Corner Market & Greenhouse for their enduring commitment to Fayette County. I look forward to their ongoing success and wish them the very best in the years ahead. ____________________”
“Paul and Linda have grown their business through a successful collaboration with other Iowa businesses, while continuing to think of ways to expand their own. Corner Market & Greenhouse is renowned for ``small town hospitality and big city variety,'' with many customers praising the establishment for its fair prices, agricultural expertise, and welcoming customer service. The business strives to curate unique items for customers and has emerged as a must-visit destination, drawing in travelers from across the Midwest. The Manskes have built a business that generously serves the community by hosting student groups for greenhouse tours. Moreover, the establishment donated flowers for storefronts in downtown Oelwein when the local municipality discontinued supplying decorative plants for the town.”
“Since its establishment, the whole Manske family has contributed to the business, including their sons Byron and Travis, and now their grandchildren. The couple hopes their business will be passed down through their family for generations to come. The family has demonstrated true grit and resilience during their time as small business owners, exemplified by their family motto ``work smarter, not harder.'' A devastating fire in April of 2004 destroyed Corner Market & Greenhouse, but the family persevered. They rebuilt the business from the ground up and continue modernizing greenhouses by staying ahead of agricultural technology, allowing 55,000 plants to be transplanted daily. Unlike most establishments, Corner Market & Greenhouse's modernized facility is fully open to the public.”
“Carrying seasonal flowers, plants, and decor, Paul and Linda aspire to bring life to every Iowan's backyard. The Manske family relocated to Oelwein in 1989 when Paul's job transferred him there. The family began the venture by waking up early in the morning and selling goods at farmers' markets. After countless early mornings bringing their products to people across the State, the Manske family decided to open their own storefront, drawing people to them. The family grew the business from a modest farm stand into the beloved local institution it is today. For over 32 years, Paul and Linda have shown up, demonstrating the entrepreneurial drive rooted in Iowa values. Corner Market & Greenhouse is one of Paul and Linda's greatest passions, prompting the family to joke, it [[Page S3737]] is like one of their children.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 113 (Monday, July 13, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 113 (Monday, July 13, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S3736-S3737] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS ______ RECOGNIZING CORNER MARKET & GREENHOUSE Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Corner Market & Greenhouse of Fayette County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Founded in 1994 by Paul and Linda Manske, Corner Market & Greenhouse was established to provide families in Oelwein with a community-focused store to meet every gardening need.”
“Gronen's commitment to excellence has earned national and industry recognition, including the Tony Goldman Award, the J. Timothy Anderson Award, and recognition from the International Federation for the Roofing Trade. These honors reflect the company's leadership in historic preservation, community revitalization, and innovative redevelopment. I am pleased to recognize John and Mary Gronen, along with the entire Gronen team, for their dedication to Dubuque and Iowa. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead. ____________________”
“The company has contributed to numerous redevelopment efforts across Dubuque, including work associated with the Field of Dreams project and the award-winning Steeple Square redevelopment. Through these and other projects, Gronen has helped create housing opportunities and spurred economic growth while preserving Iowa's rich architectural heritage. Beyond its business operations, Gronen remains deeply engaged in the Dubuque community. The company supports and partners with organizations, including the Dubuque Chamber of Commerce, Greater Dubuque Development, Dubuque Forward, Heritage Works, Smart Growth Development, and the HEART housing program. Through these efforts, Gronen continues to invest in the long-term success of the communities it serves.”
“As Dubuque natives, John and Mary shared a vision of restoring neglected properties, strengthening neighborhoods, and preserving the city's historic character. What started with a small construction crew and commitment to community-driven revitalization has grown into successful redevelopment and property development firms. Over the past 25 years, Gronen has expanded beyond historic rehabilitation into commercial and residential development, property management, development consulting, and real estate services. Today, the company operates through Gronen Restoration, Gronen Properties, Gronen Development, and DBQ Property Group, employing 70 individuals and serving clients throughout Iowa and the broader Midwest. For years, Gronen has continued transforming underutilized properties into productive community assets.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 103 (Thursday, June 18, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 103 (Thursday, June 18, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S2933-S2934] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS ______ RECOGNIZING GRONEN Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each [[Page S2934]] week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Gronen of Dubuque County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Founded in 1999 by John and Mary Gronen, Gronen began as a small, family-owned construction company focused on masonry work and historic rehabilitation projects in Dubuque's Washington Neighborhood.”
“Gronen's commitment to excellence has earned national and industry recognition, including the Tony Goldman Award, the J. Timothy Anderson Award, and recognition from the International Federation for the Roofing Trade. These honors reflect the company's leadership in historic preservation, community revitalization, and innovative redevelopment. I am pleased to recognize John and Mary Gronen, along with the entire Gronen team, for their dedication to Dubuque and Iowa. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead. ____________________”
“The company has contributed to numerous redevelopment efforts across Dubuque, including work associated with the Field of Dreams project and the award-winning Steeple Square redevelopment. Through these and other projects, Gronen has helped create housing opportunities and spurred economic growth while preserving Iowa's rich architectural heritage. Beyond its business operations, Gronen remains deeply engaged in the Dubuque community. The company supports and partners with organizations, including the Dubuque Chamber of Commerce, Greater Dubuque Development, Dubuque Forward, Heritage Works, Smart Growth Development, and the HEART housing program. Through these efforts, Gronen continues to invest in the long-term success of the communities it serves.”
“As Dubuque natives, John and Mary shared a vision of restoring neglected properties, strengthening neighborhoods, and preserving the city's historic character. What started with a small construction crew and commitment to community-driven revitalization has grown into successful redevelopment and property development firms. Over the past 25 years, Gronen has expanded beyond historic rehabilitation into commercial and residential development, property management, development consulting, and real estate services. Today, the company operates through Gronen Restoration, Gronen Properties, Gronen Development, and DBQ Property Group, employing 70 individuals and serving clients throughout Iowa and the broader Midwest. For years, Gronen has continued transforming underutilized properties into productive community assets.”
“Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 103 (Thursday, June 18, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 103 (Thursday, June 18, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S2933-S2934] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS ______ RECOGNIZING GRONEN Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each [[Page S2934]] week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to honor Gronen of Dubuque County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Founded in 1999 by John and Mary Gronen, Gronen began as a small, family-owned construction company focused on masonry work and historic rehabilitation projects in Dubuque's Washington Neighborhood.”
“Sammy is a member of the Benton County Farm Bureau Board and is set to assume the role of president in July 2025. This fall, Bloomsbury Farm looks forward to celebrating its 30th anniversary. The entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to excellence demonstrated by Bloomsbury Farm are clear. I want to congratulate the Petersens and the entire team at Bloomsbury Farm for their hard work and dedication to enriching their community and providing exceptional products and experiences to families across Iowa and beyond. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success. ____________________”
“To meet the seasonal demands, Bloomsbury Farm employs around 140 part-time team members spanning all ages. In addition to community events, Bloomsbury Farm also offers private events, which can vary from intimate family gatherings to professional and corporate events of up to 2,500 people. Bloomsbury Farm is very involved in its community. The company hosts a major event each year, supporting a designated nonprofit. Bloomsbury Farm works with organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters, HACAP Food Reservoir, and Four Oaks Family and Children's Services. They also collaborate with local schools by hosting field trips throughout the academic year. Bloomsbury Farm is a member of the Cedar Rapids Metro Economic Alliance, NAFDMA, an international agritourism association, as well as the Iowa Maize Group.”
“Their calendar is packed with seasonal events, including Autumn Days, the Iowa Fall Festival, the Bunny Bash, the award-winning Scream Acres Haunted Attraction, and more. This year, Bloomsbury Farm added another event, the Iowa Tulip Festival, to celebrate the bloom of over 200,000 tulips that the family planted the previous fall. To ensure top-tier experiences, the family regularly attends conferences nationwide to stay ahead in event technology. Through its commitment to innovation and customer experience, the farm now welcomes more than 75,000 visitors annually. The family business is led by Dave and Karen alongside their daughters Sammy and Jessica, who became partners in January 2024 and manage everything from event coordination and bookkeeping to marketing and staffing.”