FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 9, 2026
Contact:
Madison Hardy
Janessa Tolman
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch, senior member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, announced today the selection of seven businesses from across the state as Idaho Small Businesses of the Month for June 2026. The recognition is part of Senator Risch’s seventh annual Support Local Gems initiative.
“Idaho is full of small businesses that drive our economy and quality of life,” said Risch. “I am proud to recognize Blue Fox Theatre, The Candy Jar, Junkyard Jeans, Meat and Potato Company, New York Pizza Department, Ram’s Head Café and Lodge, and Weiser Classic Candy for their dedication to their communities. These local gems are outstanding examples of Idaho’s entrepreneurial spirit and deserve to be celebrated.”
This week, Senator Risch launched his seventh annual Support Local Gems initiative to encourage Idahoans to support locally owned businesses on Friday, June 12, 2026.
As part of the effort, Senator Risch selected seven small businesses that reflect Idaho values of hard work, entrepreneurship, and community service. Each business will be recognized for its contributions to the Gem State in the Congressional Record of the U.S. Senate.
- Blue Fox Theatre: Originally built and opened in 1930, the Blue Fox Theatre has been a beloved landmark in Grangeville for nearly a century. Today, owners Cory and Haley Koole carry on the business’ historic legacy to not only entertain the community but to also serve the region.
- The Candy Jar: Located in downtown Blackfoot, Judy and Paul Loomis created a haven of sweets by renovating a historic Main Street building into The Candy Jar. The successful candy shop is a favorite treat of locals and visitors, offering an array Idaho-made products.
- Junkyard Jeans: Founded by Eric Schrader in 1991, Junkyard Jeans is known in Boise for its unique selection of American denim. Schrader’s commitment to the art of old-school chainstitching and embroidery techniques have earned Junkyard Jeans national recognition.
- Meat and Potato Company: Travis Dixon founded Meat and Potato Company in 2018 to provide Idaho families greater access to purchase high-quality local meats. Applying his experience in grocery retail and food service, Travis has grown the business from a successful direct-to-home model to a nationwide company.
- New York Pizza Department: Michael Kuipers and New York Pizza Department have supplied Post Falls residents with authentic New York-style pizza for years. In addition to serving up tasty slices, New York Pizza Department gives back to North Idaho first responders, local schools, and educators.
- Ram’s Head Café and Lodge: In 2017, Chris and Brianna Reece took on the task of renovating the Ram’s Head Café and Lodge after the building sat vacant for 15 years. The new-and-improved Ram’s Head is a beloved spot for visitors exploring the Salmon-Challis National Forest.
Weiser Classic Candy: Patrick Nauman’s dream of owning a candy store came true in 2007 when he purchased what is now Weiser Classic Candy. Since then, Patrick has taken the business nationwide while supporting local students interested in entrepreneurship.
About Jim Risch
Jim Risch proudly represents the people of Idaho in the United States Senate. He currently chairs the Foreign Relations Committee and sits on the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources. Risch previously served as Governor, Lieutenant Governor, and State Senator. For the latest press releases and constituent services visit risch.senate.gov.
