Member of Congress

James Risch

Role
Current Senator
State
ID
Party
Republican

Speeches

Unanimous Consent Request--S. Res. 51 (Executive Calendar)2025-02-03

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, reserving the right to object, I want to rise today to talk about what Senator Coons is attempting to do here. I have to say, a lot of us have said for years that the greatest national security threat that Americans face is our skyrocketing national debt. President Trump agrees with us and is committed to doing something about this. We must confront this, and to do so, hard choices are going to have to be made, and all--all--parts of government will have to be looked at very closely. The idea of merging USAID and the State Department is not new and has been floated by nearly every administration since the latter part of the last century. I am supportive of the Trump administration's efforts to reform and restructure the Agency in a way that better serves U.S. national security interests. I am fortunate enough to talk with Secretary Rubio virtually daily, sometimes multiple times a day, and I was aware this was coming. As I said, I have encouraged that this be looked at. Today, along with a number of my colleagues on relevant committees on both sides of the aisle and the Hill, I received notification that Secretary Rubio is beginning the process of merging USAID into State. I had received this informal notice earlier than this. There is a lot of work to do in this effort, and there is a process set up for doing this. Secretary Rubio is following that process and looks forward to working with all of us as he goes through that process. It is my hope that all of my colleagues in both parties will help to do this important work. I have to say that this is just one Agency. There are many, many, many Agencies out there, and this is going to be coming down the pike on every amount of government spending. Elections have consequences, and this is one of the consequences, that we are going to do our best to reduce spending--do it by efficiencies, by combining where it is necessary. I will continue to be in close coordination with Secretary Rubio on this as it moves forward. As a result of that, I object to the proposed S. Res. 51.

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ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION2025-02-03

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

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International Criminal Court (Executive Session)2025-01-28

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I suggest the absence of a quorum.

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I come to the floor today to talk about the ICC bill and the vote we are going to have immediately following the lunch hour. When the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu and his former Defense Minister for defending their country against an unprovoked brutal attack on their homeland, the ICC was exceeding its mandate. There is no question about that in my mind. Further, there is no question in my mind that it is a clear demonstration of the Court's inability to focus on justice and determine what is justice and determine what is right and what is wrong. The ICC does not have jurisdiction over Israel. This clearly political move erased the last illusions of legitimacy for the organization and is just another example of partisanship and anti- Semitism infecting our international organizations like the United Nations, the ICJ, and, of course, the ICC. This needs to end. The United States needs to stand in solidarity with our ally Israel, not only by providing them with the assistance they need for their self-defense but by sanctioning the ICC to compel the organization to change its corrupt behavior in countering this blatant anti-Semitism wherever it appears. I look forward to working with the Trump administration and Secretary of State Rubio, whom I believe will be excellent partners in rooting out the corruption in our international organizations. And I urge my colleagues to vote yes on this bill to support our greatest ally in the Middle East, Israel. This is a unique opportunity to vote, and a vote on this will very clearly state whether you stand on the side of Israel or you stand on the side of the United States, and that we will not cede jurisdiction over our citizens to such a corrupt and blatantly inequitable institution as the ICC. I yield the floor.

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Border Security (Executive Session)2025-01-28

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded

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Nomination of Marco Rubio (Executive Session)2025-01-20

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, it is an honor to be here today to ask the Senate to confirm President Trump's first appointment, that being our colleague Marco Rubio to be the 72nd Secretary of State of this great country. His nomination was voted positively and unanimously out of the Foreign Relations Committee just moments ago, actually. Sixteen years ago, I came here and sat down on the Foreign Relations Committee. I took a seat at the very end. That afternoon, I got on the Intelligence Committee, took a seat at the very end. Two years later, Marco came in and sat next to me. During that period of time, he and I have worked together a tremendous number of hours on many issues. We are in a time when America faces threats from nearly every corner of the world. It is no secret that hostile powers, from China, to Russia, to North Korea, to Iran, have formed an authoritarian axis bent on weakening the United States. We need a principled, action-oriented chief diplomat like Marco Rubio to take them on. Our challenges in the foreign relations lane and the national security lane are enormous and complicated. I can't think of another person better equipped to tackle these issues than our colleague Marco Rubio. I would encourage anyone who wants a clear understanding of U.S. foreign policy to look at and watch the recording of Marco's performance before the Foreign Relations Committee last week. I would say to you, his performance was flawless. Marco's qualifications and ability to stand in the shoes of Thomas Jefferson, our first Secretary of State, and the 70 who followed him-- Marco's qualifications are unchallengeable. I urge you all to join me in voting for Marco Rubio. (Applause.)

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LEGISLATIVE SESSION2025-01-20

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that following disposition of Calendar No. 1, S. 5, the Senate proceed to executive session to consider Executive Calendar No. 2, Marco Rubio of Florida to be Secretary of State; further, that the Senate vote on confirmation of the Rubio nomination with no intervening action or debate; finally, that, if confirmed, the motion to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table and the President be immediately notified of the Senate's action. I would also ask unanimous consent that immediately prior to that vote, I be given 3 minutes to debate and my distinguished colleague from New Hampshire also be given 3 minutes to debate prior to calling the vote.

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Vote on Rubio Nomination (Executive Session)2025-01-20

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. I ask for the yeas and nays.

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RECOGNIZING IDAHO AIR GUN2025-01-17

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, as a member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each month I recognize and celebrate the American entrepreneurial spirit by highlighting the success of small businesses in my home State of Idaho. Today, I am pleased to honor Idaho Air Gun as the Idaho Small Business of the Month for January 2025. Founded in 2013, Idaho Air Gun began as a firearms and reloading pro shop in Boise, offering top-quality reloading equipment and a full selection of components. Over time, the business expanded to include custom rifle builds, earning a stellar reputation for craftsmanship. In 2019, they became the first retailer in Idaho to carry precharged pneumatic air guns, shortly before Idaho became the first State to legalize the use of air guns for hunting all game species. This trailblazing development created new opportunities for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the State. In 2021, Idaho Air Gun was invited by the State to relocate and manage the Nampa Indoor Range as an air-gun-only facility--as the only public air range in the Pacific Northwest and a vital community resource, offering a youth shooting program that has helped graduates earn college scholarships and even qualify for the Junior Olympics. In 2024, they expanded their partnership with the city of Nampa as a city recreational offering. Congratulations to the team at Idaho Air Gun on their selection as the January 2025 Small Business of the Month. Thank you for serving Idaho as small business owners and entrepreneurs. You make our great state proud, and I look forward to your continued growth and success.

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ARMS SALES NOTIFICATIONS2025-01-15

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

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MORNING BUSINESS2025-01-14

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

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ARMS SALES NOTIFICATIONS2025-01-08

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

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MORNING BUSINESS2025-01-08

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

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ARMS SALES NOTIFICATIONS2025-01-08

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

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ARMS SALES NOTIFICATIONS2025-01-08

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

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ARMS SALES NOTIFICATIONS2025-01-08

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

View in Record
ARMS SALES NOTIFICATIONS2025-01-08

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Madam President, section 36(b) of the Arms Export Control Act requires that Congress receive prior notification of certain proposed arms sales as defined by that statute. Upon such notification, the Congress has 30 calendar days during which the sale may be reviewed. The provision stipulates that, in the Senate, the notification of proposed sales shall be sent to the chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. In keeping with the committee's intention to see that relevant information is still available to the full Senate, I ask unanimous consent to have printed in the Record the notifications that have been received. If the cover letter references a classified annex, then such an annex is available to all Senators in the office of the Foreign Relations Committee, room SD-423.

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TRIBUTE TO MICHAEL COURTNEY2024-12-17

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, with my colleagues Senator Mike Crapo and Congressman Mike Simpson, we congratulate and honor the retirement of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Twin Falls District Manager Michael ``Mike'' Courtney after 33 years of faithful service. Mike grew up in Twin Falls and attended the University of Idaho, where he received a bachelor's degree in rangeland resource management. His Federal career started in 1991 as a rangeland management specialist and wild horse and burro specialist in the BLM Salmon District Office. He then served in the Jarbidge Field Office in Twin Falls as the rangeland management specialist, Burley field office manager, and the Twin Falls acting district manager. For the last decade, Mike has proudly served as the BLM Twin Falls District Manager. During his career, Mike has held many roles, including temporary details as the Shoshone field manager, Twin Falls associate district manager, deputy State director for resources in the Idaho State BLM Office, and as the Nevada BLM State director. Mike has managed many issues and policies in the Magic Valley and Idaho, including the Murphy Complex Fire, the Sage Grouse Initiative, innovative grazing management, gun range development, fire rehabilitation and reseeding, and more. Throughout his career, Mike has been a calm, levelheaded leader who works to find solutions. After the Murphy Complex Fire, one of Idaho's largest rangeland fires, Mike was instrumental in establishing and developing Rangeland Fire Protection Associations (RFPA) in Idaho. Through the program, the BLM trains farmers, ranchers, and local communities how to fight fires to better equip them to be the first line of defense on rangeland fires. RFPAs have had a positive and substantial impact in helping to minimize and control rangeland fires, which threaten people and property in Idaho and throughout the West. Mike has received numerous awards for his work in the BLM, including Outstanding Rangeland Management Specialist, Outstanding Service and Leadership as Deputy State Director, Exemplary Contributions to the Sage Grouse Initiative, Director's Excellence through Team Accomplishment, and the Director's Excellence in Leadership. He has also been recognized as the Idaho Cattle Association Friend of the Industry. Mike is a dedicated public servant, helping with the Kimberly School District's athletic programs and becoming an integral part of Kimberly, Twin Falls, and the Magic Valley communities. Congratulations, Mike Courtney, on your well-earned retirement. Your deep roots, extensive knowledge, and experience in Idaho have been a great benefit to our State and the Nation. Thank you for your outstanding and distinguished service to the BLM and the people of Idaho. We wish you the best in your future endeavors.

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REMEMBERING JIM JOHNSTON2024-12-17

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, I rise today, along with my colleagues Senator Mike Crapo and Congressman Mike Simpson, to honor the life and legacy of Jim Johnston, who passed away on November 26, 2024. Jim was not just a resident of Pocatello; he was its biggest and most enthusiastic supporter, a presence felt at every grand opening, community event, and local initiative. Jim's impact on Pocatello cannot be overstated. He was a dedicated public servant who served multiple terms on the Pocatello City Council and was a friend to many. His unwavering support for Idaho State University and its initiatives--such as the Welcome Back Orange and Black and Celebrate Idaho State events--highlighted his passion for uplifting our community. Beyond his numerous accolades, including the Distinguished Citizen and Lifetime Achievement Award from the Pocatello-Chubbuck Chamber of Commerce, Jim was a man of action. As a founding member of Citizens Community Bank, a board trustee for the Idaho State Historical Society, and a significant contributor to Habitat for Humanity and the Chief Pocatello statue project, Jim's life was a testament to public service. His selflessness is illustrated in a story shared by his son Greg about how Jim won a dream vacation for himself and his wife Karen but chose instead to donate the $10,000 prize to Habitat for Humanity. This act of generosity encapsulated Jim's character and desire to improve the lives of others. A devoted member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Jim held several leadership positions. Jim and Karen, his wife of nearly 60 years, took pride in instilling their values of faith and service to their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. We thank them for their commitment, which has undoubtedly bettered the lives of countless Idahoans and members of the Pocatello community. As we reflect on Jim Johnston's remarkable life, we remember a man who embodied the spirit of Pocatello--a successful businessman, realtor, volunteer, and above all, a loving father and grandfather. His contributions to the city, our State, and the people of Idaho will resonate for generations to come. Today, we honor Jim Johnston's memory by continuing his legacy of service, kindness, and community spirit. He will be dearly missed, but his impact will endure in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.

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REMEMBERING JAMES A. McCLURE2024-12-17

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, today I rise with my colleagues Senator Mike Crapo, Congressman Mike Simpson, and Congressman Russ Fulcher to acknowledge former Idaho U.S. Senator James A. McClure who, on December 27, would have celebrated his 100th birthday. Senator McClure was a remarkable man whose dedication to the State of Idaho and the United States left an indelible mark on our Nation's history. We are proud to recognize him not only as a distinguished public servant but also as an esteemed alumnus of the University of Idaho, where his legacy continues to inspire future generations. Senator McClure's political career was nothing short of exceptional. A proud graduate of the University of Idaho's College of Law, he served as the Payette County prosecuting attorney, an Idaho State Senator, and a three-term Member of Congress before his election to the U.S. Senate, where he served from 1973 to 1991. His committee assignments included the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, which he chaired from 1981 to 1987, underscoring his leadership and expertise in Federal land management and American energy production. Among Senator McClure's accomplishments were the creation of the Federal Department of Energy and the Hells Canyon National Recreation area. Beyond his political achievements, Senator McClure's commitment to public service was evident in his contributions to the University of Idaho. Together with his wife Louise, he was a steadfast supporter of the university, established the James and Louise McClure Endowment for the Sciences and Public Policy, and served on various boards, including the U of I Foundation and the College of Law Advisory Board. The James A. and Louise McClure Center for Public Policy, established in 2007, embodies their passion for evidence-based research and its application in public policy. The McClure Center's focus on research, civic engagement, science policy, and student programs reflect the values that Senator McClure championed throughout his life. By inspiring students and stakeholders alike, the center continues to uphold the highest standards of excellence and impact, reinforcing the importance of informed public policy in Idaho and beyond. On this occasion, we are proud to honor Senator McClure's legacy of public service, commitment to education, and support for the State of Idaho, which will resonate for generations to come.

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RECOGNIZING iSOURCE2024-12-12

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, as a member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each year I recognize and celebrate the American entrepreneurial spirit by highlighting the success of small businesses in my home State of Idaho as part of the Support Local Gems All Season Long initiative. Today, I am pleased to honor iSource as one of Idaho's Local Gems. Devin Dial opened iSource, Rexburg's first-ever Apple repair store, in 2013. It was one of the only Apple-authorized service providers in eastern Idaho. Consequentially, Idahoans were forced to drive elsewhere for their repair needs. After hearing requests from customers to bring iSource to Idaho Falls, Dial and co-owner Remington Sharp expanded the business in August of 2024. They plan to grow their business to additional locations in the future. As still one of the few Apple-certified repair stores in the region, iSource specializes in fixing broken phones. From the front screen to cameras and microphones, iSource can fix it all. Along with repair, iSource also sells, trades, and trains on all Apple products. Whether an Idahoan is interested in the latest model or needs assistance learning a new feature, iSource can help them with all of it in a local setting. Congratulations to the Dials, Sharps, and all the employees at iSource. You are a great example of growth and building a local business, and I am proud to honor you as a Local Gem. You make our great State proud, and I look forward to your continued growth and success.

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RECOGNIZING MIDSTAR FIREARMS2024-12-12

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, as a member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each year I recognize and celebrate the American entrepreneurial spirit by highlighting the success of small businesses in my home State of Idaho as part of the Support Local Gems All Season Long initiative. Today, I am pleased to honor MidStar Firearms as one of Idaho's Local Gems. Justin Davis founded MidStar Firearms in 2011 with a vision of providing top-notch firearm retail and maintenance services to the Middleton community. After hiring Bill Garrett to build a permanent retail space for the business, the two became friends. In 2020, Justin sold MidStar to Bill and his wife Tracey. Today, the Garrett family proudly runs the business, with Bill and Tracey at the helm and their two sons Tyler and Neil managing the storefront and operations. Together with their team of four full-time employees, MidStar delivers exceptional service to their customers 5 days a week. MidStar Firearms has a reputation for excellence and has been recognized as the best gunsmith store in the Treasure Valley. They offer a wide range of firearms and ammunition, including hunting rifles, shotguns, and concealed carry weapons. The business provides firearm maintenance and upkeep services, ensuring customers receive high-quality care. At the heart of MidStar Firearms is a commitment to treating every customer like family. To them, it is not about the gun but the experience and the quality after the purchase. Congratulations to the Garretts and all the MidStar Firearms employees on their selection as a Local Gem. Thank you for serving Idaho as small business owners and entrepreneurs. You make our great State proud, and I look forward to your continued growth and success.

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RECOGNIZING ANDERSON RESERVE2024-12-12

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, as a member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each year I recognize and celebrate the American entrepreneurial spirit by highlighting the success of small businesses in my home State of Idaho as part of the Support Local Gems All Season Long initiative. Today, I am pleased to honor Anderson Reserve as one of Idaho's Local Gems. Anderson Reserve, a fine dining restaurant, butcher shop, and cigar lounge, is nestled in the shadow of Squaw Butte and is one of Idaho's only restaurants featuring a helicopter pad. Inspired by his grandfather's career in meatpacking, owner Paul Anderson and his family have created an unique destination for locals and visitors to enjoy high-quality food and entertainment. Today, Anderson Reserve's USDA-certified butcher shop ships thousands of pounds of prime-grade beef nationwide. However, it is not just a butcher shop. The store includes an elegant dining room, a weekend restaurant, and a gift shop. The restaurant menu features beef, seafood, and game, along with carefully selected wines and beers. The cigar lounge, known as the Cigar Silo, can be found within five granary silos and features a number of unique whiskies and liqueurs and an elaborate selection of cigars. Congratulations to the Andersons and all of the Anderson Reserve employees on their selection as a Local Gem. Thank you for serving Idaho as small business owners and entrepreneurs. You make our great State proud, and I look forward to your continued growth and success.

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RECOGNIZING DENNY'S WRECKER SERVICE2024-12-12

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, as a member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each year I recognize and celebrate the American entrepreneurial spirit by highlighting the success of small businesses in my home State of Idaho as part of the Support Local Gems All Season Long initiative. Today, I am pleased to honor Denny's Wrecker Service as a Local Gem. Denny's Wrecker Service was founded by Denny and Shirley Jones in 1962 in Pocatello. Denny owned and operated one truck and a fuel station for years, where attendants greeted customers at their cars, put fuel in their tanks, and even washed their windshields. His entrepreneurial drive led him to expand into the towing space. Denny's now has a fleet of trucks and specialty trailers for hauling equipment, buses, motor homes, and more and was inducted into the International Towing and Recovery Hall of Fame in 2000. Denny was motivated by an understanding that it is never a good day if someone needs a tow truck, but that he could help make a bad situation better. A family-owned and operated business, Denny's daughters Stephanie and DeAnn played a crucial role in building the thriving business and took over after Denny passed away in 2002. Since the late 1980s, Denny's has offered the Towing Operators Working to Eliminate Drunk Driving (TOWED) program to the community. After firsthand experience with the devastating effects of drunk driving, they began providing free tows home for anyone who had too much to drink during the holiday season. Over the years, they have provided thousands of free tows and saved countless lives. Congratulations to the Jones family and all the Denny's Wrecker Service employees on their selection as a Local Gem. Thank you for serving Idaho as small business owners and entrepreneurs. You make our great State proud, and I look forward to your continued growth and success.

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RECOGNIZING CLARK'S DIAMOND JEWELRY2024-12-12

Mr. RISCH

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, as a member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each year I recognize and celebrate the American entrepreneurial spirit by highlighting the success of small businesses in my home State of Idaho as part of the Support Local Gems All Season Long initiative. Today, I am pleased to honor Clark's Diamond Jewelry as one of Idaho's Local Gems. Clark's Diamond Jewelry, located on Sherman Avenue in the heart of Coeur d'Alene, is a family-owned business with roots dating back to 1907. Under Dan Clark, who took over the store from his parents in 1986, Clark's Diamond Jewelry has become north Idaho's premier destination for fine jewelry. Dan's journey as a jeweler began by learning the trade from his father Ralph. With hands-on training at the bench and a formal education from the Gemological Institute of America, Dan combined tradition and expertise to build his business. The family legacy continues under Dan's daughter Jane, who now owns and operates the business. Clark's Diamond Jewelry, which remains in its original 1907 building, is a living piece of Coeur d'Alene's history. For more than a century, it has watched Coeur d'Alene transform from a timber town to an international tourist destination. Dan and Jane's passion for their hometown and family legacy shines through in every facet of the business. Their commitment to community and tradition has made Clark's Diamond Jewelry an irreplaceable part of Coeur d'Alene. Congratulations to the Clarks and all of the Clark's Diamond Jewelry employees on their selection as a Local Gem. Thank you for serving Idaho as small business owners and entrepreneurs. You make our great State proud, and I look forward to your continued growth and success.

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