Floor Statements

Mr. President, as ranking member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American entrepreneurial spirit. For Veterans Day and National Veterans Small Business Week, it is my privilege to recognize Sergeant Bluff EyeCare of Sergeant Bluff, IA, as the veteran-owned Small Business of the Week.

Dr. Ben Uhl has served our great country for more than 24 years. He joined Iowa State University's Army ROTC Program and went on to serve Active Duty in the U.S. Army as a Patriot Missile officer during Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Upon returning home, Ben pursued a degree in optometry at the University of Houston and graduated in 2008. Ben continued his service in the U.S. Army Reserves and deployed to Afghanistan from 2010 to 2011. Following his deployment, Ben returned home to Sioux City and joined the Iowa Air National Guard's 185th Air Refueling Wing in 2013. He received a promotion to full colonel in February 2024 and is currently serving at Joint Forces Headquarters at Camp Dodge.

Sergeant Bluff EyeCare first opened its doors in 2007, and Dr. Uhl joined the business in 2008 before eventually purchasing it in 2014. He immediately took action by expanding the business and increasing its community involvement. He acquired a stand-alone building and invested in high-tech optometry equipment. The company offers primary care, glasses and contacts, as well as medical optometry for all ages. Sergeant Bluff EyeCare has expanded to five locations across Iowa and Nebraska, with 35 staff members, including 6 doctors, dedicated to providing high-quality optometric care.

Dr. Uhl and his wife Sarah have made it a priority to support their community. Together, they started the Ben Uhl and Sarah Murray Family Scholarship Fund to support educational advancement in the community. In addition, they have worked to support the Siouxland Freedom Park's annual fundraiser, as well as the Siouxland Humane Society, the Gospel Mission food pantry, and autism awareness initiatives. In 2012, the Iowa Optometric Association named Ben the Young Optometrist of the Year. The following year, the Northwest AEA presented Ben and the Sergeant Bluff EyeCare team with the ``Friends of Preschool'' award for their dedication to providing vision screenings to schools across Iowa. In 2019, the 185th Medical Group selected Ben as Officer of the Year. Almost every year since 2016, the University of Houston's Cougar 100 Award list has recognized Ben and Sergeant Bluff EyeCare among one of the top 100 grossing alumni-owned businesses. Next year, Sergeant Bluff EyeCare will celebrate its 18th anniversary.

Sergeant Bluff EyeCare has become an integral part of the Woodbury County community through its quality care and dedication to supporting Iowa's communities. I want to thank Dr. Ben Uhl, his wife Sarah, and their family for all their work and sacrifices in service to our country. Dr. Uhl's dedication to both his country and community is inspirational. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success in Iowa.

Mr. President, Detective Ian Mallory stands out as an exceptional law enforcement professional with a steadfast commitment to justice and keeping Iowans safe. Throughout 8 years of service as a detective with the University of Iowa Police Department, Detective Mallory has consistently pursued investigations long after others might abandon them, demonstrating an unwavering drive to restore faith in the justice system for victims who had lost hope.

Detective Mallory was recently honored with the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Iowa's 2024 Law Enforcement Victim Services Award. Ian's determination to resolve a three-decade-long identity theft scheme that stumped law enforcement, courts, banks, and government officials alike earned this accolade. Through an exhaustive investigation, Ian's breakthroughs brought a sophisticated web of deception to light and conclusively identified the fraudster.

Detective Mallory's persistence was instrumental in resolving a case involving a suspect who fled to Jordan after being arrested for brutally strangling a woman until she was unconscious on the University of Iowa campus in April 2022. The suspect, facing charges of attempted murder and first-degree robbery and theft, escaped 10 days before trial by removing the court-ordered GPS ankle monitor. He then fled the country using a Jordanian passport.

Undeterred, Detective Mallory successfully established a rapport with the suspect, overcoming the 8-hour time difference between Iowa and Jordan by often waking up in the middle of the night to maintain communication. Through his diligence, Detective Mallory persuaded the suspect to voluntarily return to the United States to face justice. Detective Mallory subsequently worked closely with the U.S. Embassy Overseas Criminal Investigations Unit in Jordan to meticulously plan the suspect's return.

Detective Mallory's tireless service, integrity, and genuine concern for victims embodies the highest standards of law enforcement. We should all commend him for his exemplary service to the people of Iowa.

Mr. President, as ranking member 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 recognize Dusted Charm of Council Bluffs, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

In 2017, Becca Wiggins' world was turned upside down when her daughter Maisy was diagnosed with spinal muscular atrophy type 1. She left her job to care for Maisy and began to sell various graphic t- shirt styles out of her basement. Before she knew it, Becca was seeing a profit that she knew meant there was a demand for her products. Becca expanded her business, and in 2018, she and her family opened Dusted Charm. The business is located on the historic 100-block of West Broadway, where the team transformed an old clothing shop into Dusted Charm's warehouse and showroom. They now offer a wide range of women's clothing and home decor, including signs, candles, and pillows. In 2020, Becca and her team launched a Dusted Charm app that allowed them to expand nationally. With their newfound success, this summer Becca opened a second store, Shop The Outskirts, on Main Street in Underwood,

Mr. President, as ranking member 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 recognize SCE of Cherokee, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

Upon graduation from Iowa State University in 2003, Cory Bouchard began working as an operations supervisor for Schoon Construction, Inc. He worked at the company for 11 years until the owner was looking to sell part of the business. Cory knew he was interested, and his wife Maria recognized the need for reliable excavation and construction services in Cherokee and throughout western Iowa. They purchased part of Schoon Construction, Inc., and created SCE.

Since its founding in 2015, SCE specializes in providing commercial and residential site utility services, cementing their reputation as the go-to company in fixing the city's water, sewage, or utilities. Today SCE employs seven local community members who are all committed to upholding SCE's service standards.

During the severe floods in Iowa this summer, SCE played an instrumental role in saving the city from potentially irreversible damage. The team worked around the clock alongside the Cherokee Volunteer Fire Department to pump out water and sewage, fix main water lines, and operate the city's vital water pumps. During the floods, the Cherokee sewage lift station that moves wastewater, nearly collapsed, prompting SCE to jump in and get it back on track. Once the flooding receded, SCE and local volunteers continued their work by focusing on cleanup and recovery.

Beyond their operational contributions, SCE has a deep-rooted presence in the Cherokee community. The company is committed to helping local schools and community groups receive needed resources through their sponsorships. For example, SCE sponsors the Cherokee County Fair and the Cherokee County Rodeo. SCE is also a member of both the Cherokee Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau. In 2016, the Cherokee Chamber recognized SCE as the Small Business of the Year. Early next year, SCE will celebrate its tenth business anniversary.

SCE's commitment to reliable construction and excavation servicing is clear. I would like to thank the Bouchard family and the team at SCE for their dedication and incredible commitment to Cherokee County and the western Iowa area. I look forward to seeing their continued development and achievements in Iowa.

Madam President, as ranking member 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 recognize Van Denover Jewelry of Oelwein, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

In 1962, Jim Van Denover bought the watch and jewelry business known as Davis Jewelry. In order to purchase the store, Jim was required by the local bank to attend specific certifications to qualify for a loan. He took the opportunity to move his family to Quincy, IL, where he completed watch, clock, and jewelry repair courses at Gem City College.

Upon completing his courses in 1962, Jim secured and founded what is now known as Van Denover Jewelry. For over 25 years, Jim established Van Denover Jewelry as a household name in Oelwein and throughout Iowa, known for reasonable prices. He collaborated with 14 local jewelry store owners to create the Regional Jewelry Organization, a central hub for fair-priced jewelry. The organization went on to become the largest retail jewelry organization in Iowa, which serves more than 1,000 members under its new name, Retail Jewelers Organization.

As a family-owned and operated business, Jim's daughter Linda purchased the company from her dad in 1988. She grew the business further until her son, Chad Benter, assumed full ownership of the company in 2019. As a certified master bench jeweler, Chad brought his expertise in diamond and gemstone grading to the business which ensured the highest standard towards craftsmanship. He improved the store's packaging and oversaw a significant renovation, the first transformation since 1968 when a tornado hit the city. This resulted in Chad being recognized by the Oelwein Chamber of Commerce in 2021 with the Expansion/Most Improved Business of the Year award. Today, Chad serves on the board of directors for Oelwein Chamber & Area Development, Inc., and is an active member of the city's chamber of commerce.

Today, Van Denover Jewelry is a full-service jewelry store that offers a diverse range of products, from diamond rings to custom timepieces--all high-quality crafted jewelry with the option to customize each piece.

Van Denover Jewelry remains active in the Oelwein community through their support of donation events such as Hazelton's Haze Day, Oelwein Plentiful Pantry, and the Fine Arts Guild. Van Denover Jewelry will celebrate its 62nd business anniversary this year.

I want to congratulate the Van Denover family for their persistence in providing the Oelwein community with high-quality jewelry and exceptional services. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success in Iowa.

Mr. President, as ranking member 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 recognize Brown's Shoe Fit Co. of Mt. Pleasant, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

In 1952, Brown's Shoe Fit Co. opened its doors right off the Mt. Pleasant town square before Kurt Moon, a loyal employee since 1986, became a managing partner in 2000 and purchased a storefront in the heart of Main Street. Kurt renovated the building and expanded the shop to offer an extensive selection of shoe sizes and styles for everyone from farmers to runners. Brown's Shoe Store Co. offers complete sit- and-fit shoe services, specifically training its staff to cater to every client's lifestyle and has become a staple in the Mt. Pleasant community.

After managing Brown's Shoe Fit for over 30 years, Kurt looked to his daughter Tara Mullin to take over the Mt. Pleasant store. Tara trained under her father and other members of the company, and in 2020, she became a managing partner. In addition to running the shop's daily operations, Tara is a member of both the Mt. Pleasant Area Chamber and the chamber board. She has also volunteered on the Mt. Pleasant July 4 planning committee.

Throughout the company's history, Mt. Pleasant has consistently voted Brown's Shoe Fit Co. as their favorite shoe store. In 2018 and 2023, Brown's Shoe Fit Co. was named a Mt. Pleasant Small Business of the Year finalist. Similar to the previous storefront owner, Adventure Land Video, Brown's Shoe Fit Co. sells community event tickets to commemorate the storefront's history and foster community engagement. Tara and the team have dubbed the shop the ``Ticket Master of Mt. Pleasant.'' This has helped unite the community and honor the history of the place they have called home for nearly 25 years. This year, Brown's Shoe Fit is celebrating its 72nd business anniversary.

Brown's Shoe Fit Co.'s commitment to providing the Mt. Pleasant community with high-quality shoes is apparent. I want to thank Kurt, Tara, and the entire team at Brown's Shoe Fit Co. for their continued dedication to Henry County, and I look forward to witnessing their continued development and success in Iowa.

Mr. President, as ranking member 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 recognize Great Day Cafe of Keosauqua, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

In 2015, Jennie Lee opened Great Day Cafe on Main Street which provides the Keosauqua community with specialty coffee, homemade breakfast, lunch, and Iowa comfort foods such as scratch fudge, biscuits and gravy, and even Dr. Gary Lee's homemade popcorn.

Their stellar service and high-quality food have made Great Day Cafe a staple in Van Buren County and beyond. Great Day Cafe is a community hub and has become the spot for veterans to congregate and discuss opportunities. Each month, the Van Buren County Veterans Affairs office hosts a meeting at the cafe where speakers come

with information to share. Those who attend get to enjoy a warm home- cooked meal and breakfast discounts from Jennie and her team.

Jennie is a member of the Villages of Van Buren County, an economic development group that works to improve the quality of life for all county residents. Through Great Day Cafe, Jennie frequently donates food to local schools and church initiatives to help those in need. From preparing and delivering homemade meals to folks in the community, Jennie plays an active role in Van Buren County. In 2023, Great Day Cafe earned a Northern Dammy award from Radio Keokuk for serving the best breakfast in Henry, Jefferson, and Van Buren Counties. This year, Great Day Cafe is celebrating its ninth business anniversary.

Great Day Cafe's commitment to the Keosauqua community is touching. I want to congratulate Jennie and the entire team at Great Day Cafe for their continued dedication, and I look forward to watching this cafe continue to foster community ties and expand their impact in Iowa and beyond.

Mr. President, as ranking member 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 recognize Juniper & Olive Co. of Jewell, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

Juniper & Olive Co. is a full-service bistro and bar that stands out for its interior design and commitment to local sustainability. After graduating from my alma mater, Iowa State University, Cyndi honed her marketing and mixology skills in New York City and Texas, where she gained diverse experiences that would later shape her vision for her own bistro. In 2020, Cyndi returned to her home State of Iowa and later opened Juniper & Olive Co. named after the classic cocktail and two dogs she rescued from the local shelter.

Juniper & Olive Co. is located on Jewell's historic lot No.1, which was established in 1881. The building, once a 1920s speakeasy, adds to the historical charm that Cyndi embraced in her restaurant's design, which is known for its vintage, eclectic sophistication. Juniper & Olive Co. serves small plates featuring locally sourced and produced items, including everything from cheese boards to desserts and chicken salad. The team has a passion for specialty cocktails, including martinis and especially Cyndi's secret Bloody Mary blend, which is a customer favorite. In 2023, Cyndi expanded the business by opening a bridal boutique, where brides can try on dresses and select the one for their special day.

From the start, Juniper & Olive Co. has been a community-driven endeavor. Cyndi collaborated with a childhood neighbor and classmate to build the restaurant's bar. A group of her former teachers and coaches helped paint the restaurant's interior. Friends from all over the community contributed to the design and renovations, and they even helped clean the dishes during Juniper & Olive Co.'s soft opening. Today, the company has nine full-time employees who dedicate themselves to supporting the Jewell community, making Juniper & Olive Co. not only a dining destination but a place for community, family, and fun.

I want to congratulate Cyndi and the entire team at Juniper and Olive Co. for their hard work and passion that adds to Hamilton County's community charm. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success in Iowa.

Mr. President, as ranking member 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 recognize Podium Ink of Mount Ayr, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

After attending Mount Ayr High School, hometown friends Brad Elliott and Burton Murphy graduated from Iowa State University and Northwest Missouri State respectively. They both returned to Mount Ayr doing freelance graphic design. What began as a fun hobby for both soon turned into a serious endeavor when a former Mount Ayr High School alum asked them to create marketing and signage materials for NASCAR star Kevin Harvick. In 2006, after completing the project, Brad and Burton transformed their shared dream into Podium Ink, a business that centers around creativity and imagination.

Today, Podium Ink specializes in designing a wide variety of products and services, including vehicle wraps, signs, banners, and marketing materials. The company has work featured across the globe from local college bus fleets to projects in Australia. In 2012, their work was featured on the hit television show ``Duck Dynasty.'' Brad and Burton bought a limousine in Kansas City, gave it a camo wrap, added horns, and before they knew it, NASCAR driver Clint Bowyer was driving the car on national TV. The project generated significant attention for both Podium Ink and the Mount Ayr community. In addition, Podium Ink worked on a zebra print cargo van for Blake Shelton's rescue ranch, which he once drove while wearing a chicken suit. Podium Ink employs seven full- time and four part-time community residents.

Podium Ink is deeply involved in Mount Ayr and Ringgold County. Brad and Burton actively support sports teams at schools in Mount Ayr and Diagonal. Beyond being a dad and small business owner, Brad is in his 17th year as Mount Ayr's track coach; he served on city council for two 4-year terms and currently serves on the Iowa Workforce Development Board. In 2014, Northwest Missouri State recognized Brad with the Young Alumni Award for his contributions beyond the college. The team at Podium Ink has completed projects for small businesses, community groups, and many local initiatives. Podium Ink received the Iowa Farm Bureau's Renew Rural Iowa Entrepreneur Award in 2020, honoring their global business presence and unwavering commitment to positively impact the Mount Ayr community.

Podium Ink's resolve to delivering high-quality graphic design products and services in Iowa is evident. I want to congratulate Brad, Burton, their families, and the entire team at Podium Ink for their continued devotion to the Mount Ayr community. I am eager to watch their continued progress and achievements in Iowa.

Mr. President, as ranking member 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 recognize Tootsie's Ice Cream & More of Vinton, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

After more than 50 years of serving the Vinton community, Leon's Malt Shop was seeking a new owner. In 2012, Iowa native Corey Seibert and his family took a leap of faith and bought the ice cream shop and changed the name to Tootsie's Ice Cream & More in honor of Corey's mother.

As a building engineer for more than 20 years, Corey understood the value of location. He continued to purchase shops in prime locations such as Center Point and La Porte City, expanding his business.

Today, Tootsie's Ice Cream & More offers a wide variety of food options in addition to their signature ice cream flavors. The shop also serves fish, tenderloin sandwiches, and broasted chicken. At its core, Tootsie's Ice Cream is a family business. Corey oversees business operations, while his wife Teresa and daughter Michelle manage and operate the shop. Their son Michael is also a manager. The family strives to provide a memorable experience for every guest, giving out a Tootsie Roll with every purchase. Whether you are in the mood for something sweet or savory, Tootsie's Ice Cream & More has you covered. They have over 20 employees and operate year-round in Vinton and La Porte City.

The shop collaborates with the Vinton Library to reward any child participating in the Summer Reading Program with a free ice cream cone or small fry. In addition, Tootsie's ran a

Support Our Local Heroes promotion, which raised donations to purchase needed equipment for first responders across Vinton and La Porte City. After losing a friend to cancer, Corey organized the ``Volkswagen Beetle Cruise'' to honor his friend, an avid car enthusiast, while also raising money for the American Cancer Society. Tootsie's also sponsors Eastern Iowa Pink Heals, which raises money for cancer research. The shop is also a member of the Vinton Unlimited Chamber of Commerce, which supports economic development. The team will celebrate their 13th business anniversary early next year.

Tootsie's Ice Cream & More has curated a menu with high-quality food, ice cream, and more and become an important community gathering place. I want to congratulate Corey, his family, and the entire team at Tootsie's Ice Cream & More for their dedication to providing unforgettable experiences to families and patrons in the Vinton and La Porte City communities. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success in Iowa.

Mr. President, as ranking member 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 recognize L.R. Falk Construction Co. of St. Ansgar, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

In 1922, LaVerne Falk founded L.R. Falk Construction Company. With just a Ford Model T and a shovel, LaVerne established a hauling business, moving items between Chicago and Iowa. LaVerne recognized the untapped potential of the transportation industry and, over time, expanded the company to encompass more services. By the late 1930s, the company acquired its first rock quarry in St. Ansgar, IA. Now, L.R. Falk Construction hauls everything from large vehicles to agricultural materials.

In 1970, LaVerne's son David Falk became president of L.R. Falk Construction. Under his 40 years of leadership, the company grew to 35 employees, expanded operations to seven quarries, and achieved sustainable growth across the State of Iowa. For over 50 years, the company's main office stayed on St. Ansgar's Main Street. In 2009, L.R. Falk Construction moved its office but remained in the community. In 2010, David stepped down from leadership, and his son Lindsey Falk assumed the role of president of the company.

Over its 102-year history, L.R. Falk Construction has consistently developed and diversified its products and services. Today, Lindsey Falk, the third-generation owner-operator, leads a team of over 60 full-time employees across nine quarries and three sand pits. The company has expanded its offerings to include custom crushing and products such as concrete stone, landscaping materials, and agricultural lime. In 2018, Lindsey founded Saint Stone, a subsidiary of L.R. Falk Construction that repurposes excess stone into marketable products that ships products nationwide.

L.R. Falk Construction Company plays an active role in the St. Ansgar community, organizing events such as the Quarry 5K Run to benefit the Clausen Park Renovation Project. The company also established the ROCK Foundation, a nonprofit charitable organization which supports local projects ranging from organizing starting a local food bank to financing mental health professionals in local schools. Lindsey also acquired the Enterprise Journal, the local Mitchell County newspaper. He hopes that it would stay local and continue to serve as a community resource for Mitchell County residents, as it has done since 1861.

In September of 2022, the North Iowa Area Community College Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center and the Iowa Small Business Development Center honored L.R. Falk Construction Co. with the Entrepreneur of the Month Award. Additionally, the Limestone Producers Association presented the company with the Good Neighbor Award several times. The Falk family has embedded their life into the great State of Iowa, and all three generations have served as president of the Iowa Limestone Association, marking a first in the organization's history.

L.R. Falk Constructions' commitment to providing quality services and products in St. Ansgar, IA, is evident. I want to congratulate the entire Falk family for building such an incredible family-owned and operated business that continues to serve Iowans and beyond. I am eager to see how the company continues to expand and reach new heights of success.

Mr. President, over 290 days ago, Iran-backed Hamas brutally murdered more than 30 Americans and took a dozen more hostage. Today, eight of those kidnapped on October 7 remain in the Gaza Strip, held captive by an inhumane terrorist group that wants nothing more than the death and destruction of Israel and the United States: Edan Alexander, Itay Chen, Sagui Dekel-Chen, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Gadi Haggai, Judith Weinstein Haggai, Omer Neutra, Keith Siegel.

Eight of our fellow Americans, five of whom we believe to still be alive, are being held hostage right now--today--and yet too many people are seemingly unaware of this reality. It is shameful.

Today, I am working to help change that and refocus the attention on our hostages and their families.

As a mom, my heart aches for our hostage families. I simply cannot imagine the pain and the fear of waiting to hear if my daughter is alive and if I will ever be able to see her again and utter two simple but warm words: ``Welcome home.''

These families, whom I have repeatedly met with here in DC and in Israel, have waited far too long to be reunited with their loved ones. Every day that passes puts our fellow citizens at greater risk and diminishes our chances of bringing them home safely.

I am grateful for the opportunity to honor and rightly recognize our U.S. hostages. This is an issue that I have gained support for from my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, Republicans and Democrats alike. We all want to see each and every one of our countrymen released and have consistently urged the administration and those negotiating on behalf of the families to use every tool possible in our toolbox.

Hersh Goldberg-Polin is a dual U.S.-Israeli citizen born in Berkeley, CA. When he was 7, his family moved to Israel. His parents, Jon and Rachel, describe Hersh as funny with a dry sense of humor. He was a lover of soccer, music, reading, and travel.

Hersh even turned his passion for soccer into an opportunity to build bridges between Arab and Israeli students. Days after turning 23, Hersh and his close friend attended the Nova music festival along with thousands of other young people. Before Hersh left his house, his mother recalls his last words:

I love you. See you tomorrow.

Two hundred ninety-one days, and tomorrow has still not yet come for the Goldberg-Polin family.

On October 7, while at the peaceful music festival, Hersh and his friend were forced to flee for their lives as Hamas terrorists opened fire, killing more than 364 attendees.

Put yourselves in their shoes for just a second. One minute you are at a concert, enjoying live music, maybe dancing to the beat, and in an instant, your life changes. Rockets are flying overhead; guns blasting right and left; smoke, fire, chaos, and total confusion follow.

Hersh and his friend escaped the festival and ran into a nearby bomb shelter, a place to seek refuge from the attacks. After likely breathing a very temporary sigh of relief, Hamas threw a grenade inside that very shelter to maim and kill more innocent Israelis. Tragically, Hersh lost part of his arm due to the shrapnel from that grenade, and even more gut-wrenching: His dear friend lost his life.

Recent footage released by the Israeli Government showed Hersh being taken that day, with his arm wrapped in a tourniquet that he fashioned himself out of part of the shirt he was wearing, as Hamas fighters threw him into the back of a pickup truck and lifted his head up by his hair, as he sat there dazed and bleeding, in order to take selfies with him, and drove him and the other hostages into Gaza.

Sagui Dekel-Chen. Sagui is a 35-year-old dual Israeli-American citizen who grew up in Bloomfield, NJ, and is the grandson of Holocaust survivors. For the past 10 years, he worked on a project to convert old buses into mobile classrooms for underserved communities in southern Israel.

Sagui was working near his Kibbutz Nir Oz home on October 7 when he noticed the Hamas terrorists entering the kibbutz. After ensuring his wife, who was pregnant with their third daughter, and children were safe, he joined the kibbutz security team to defend his community. His wife heard Sagui fighting off the terrorists, but despite their efforts, Sagui was taken captive. We know from hostages who have returned that Sagui has been seen in Gaza, and we pray for his immediate and safe return.

Since being held by the Hamas regime, his wife gave birth to their new daughter and named her Shachar, which in Hebrew means ``dawn.'' We pray that the hope of this new life continues to bring light to Sagui's family as they wait in great anticipation for the day when they can all be reunited and a father can meet his precious daughter for the very first time.

Sagui and Hersh's stories are unthinkable for many Americans, but they are true. It is no myth; it is reality--one that no one should turn a blind eye to.

Hamas is a brutal regime--one that rapes women and children and preys on innocent civilians and one that we cannot trust to provide our fellow citizens who remain in Gaza with proper medical care and attention.

While the hostage families remain ever hopeful, as I am, that they will one day be able to embrace their loved ones again, it is incumbent upon the administration--especially at this crucial time--to remain focused on freeing our American hostages. At a minimum, President Biden and Vice President Harris should say their names, share their stories, and be unafraid to tell the truth about Hamas and the need for Israel to fully destroy this Iran-backed terror regime.

Today, my colleagues and I are standing up for these hostages and standing with their families and our friends in Israel. We remain committed to bringing our American citizens home now. This goal should not be diminished. Every second counts.

Joining me today on the floor are many of my colleagues, and at this time, I would like to yield the floor. I will yield the floor, Mr. President, to my colleague from Iowa, Senator Grassley.

Thank you to the Senator from Iowa for joining our colloquy.

I will yield the time now to a very, very good friend and fellow colleague of the Abraham Accords Caucus, Senator Jacky Rosen of Nevada.

Thank you, Senator Rosen.

Joining our colloquy now is the senior Senator from Maryland, Ben Cardin.

Thank you, Senator Cardin. Thank you for your leadership.

Senator Ted Budd represents the great State of North Carolina. He is unable to join us, but he did want to make sure we read his constituent's bio.

Eight of these remaining hostages are Americans. Our final American hostage is a native of the State of North Carolina, and his name is Keith Siegel.

I have joined North Carolina Senator Ted Budd in meetings with the families of hostages, as well as former hostages, like Keith's wife, Aviva. Keith and Aviva have four children, alongside five grandchildren.

We have heard their stories, and I can attest that Senator Budd and I look at their photos every single day. We have heard the stories, and these families must absolutely live with horrible pain, and they have an uncertainty that is absolutely unacceptable. The fact that we stand here after 291 days and the fate of these eight innocent souls is not the primary topic of conversation on our national media and from the current administration is shameful.

Now is the time for all nations to rally together and use all available pressure to force Hamas terrorists to release all of our hostages.

I do want to thank my colleagues--Senator Rosen, Senator Cardin, and Senator Grassley--for coming to the floor and joining in this colloquy to ensure that the American people don't forget that we have eight Americans that are still being held. Let's bring them home now.

I yield the floor.

Madam President, as ranking member 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 recognize Agri-Industrial Plastics Company of Fairfield, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

In 1978, Dick Smith founded Agri-Industrial Plastics Company in Fairfield, IA. After graduating from the University of Iowa with degrees in industrial and mechanical engineering, Dick set his sights on becoming an entrepreneur, and, along with four employees and a single machine, he began to break into the agriculture industry. Because of his unique experience and engineering perspective, the company was able to specialize in items such as baby pig feeders and farm drains. In the early years, Dick worked closely with trade leaders to enhance the plastic blow molding process in response to the development of new machines and materials to stay ahead of industry trends.

Over the years, Agri-Industrial Plastics has built a reputation for its capabilities in plastic blow molding, serving industries from agriculture to medical equipment. Due to the business's rapid growth, Dick knew the next step was acquiring a larger facility to reach their potential. In 2015, he built a 104,000-square-foot-space addition. Today, the company is a proud employer of over 200 people still operating in the same building they started in over 45 years ago.

Agri-Industrial Plastics emphasizes sustainability and does their best to conserve resources by investing in future solutions. In 2004, Agri-Industrial Plastics became the first nonautomotive custom blow molder to invest in technology capable of producing EPA-compliant fuel tanks, demonstrating the company's commitment to sustainability. They also installed a full solar roof in 2019, along with a Tesla battery system, marking the first successful solar project in the Midwest. All these initiatives have cut carbon emissions by over 10,000 tons, which is equivalent to planting over 264,000 trees.

After years of running the company, Dick stepped down as president, giving way for his daughter Lori Shaefer-Weaton to take the reins. However, Dick continued his involvement by becoming chairman of the board. Lori leads by example and works hard to inspire the next generation. The Manufacturing Institute selected her for a 2021 STEP Ahead Award that recognizes women who have exhibited excellence and leadership throughout their careers. In 2023, Lori was named the Fairfield Chamber's Outstanding Citizen of the Year. Lori also chairs the Iowa Association of Business and Industry Foundation and recently joined the board of Iowa State's Center for Industrial Research and Service.

Agri-Industrial Plastics Company plays an active role in the Fairfield community and throughout Iowa by partnering with colleges and universities across the State to provide students with training to obtain professional skills. In addition, the company contributed to the Cambridge Little Achievers Center, the Lord's Cupboard Women's Crisis Center, and the Jefferson County Kids Childcare Center.

Agri-Industrial Plastics Company's commitment to giving back and providing high-quality products and services is outstanding. I want to congratulate Dick, Lori, and the entire team at Agri-Industrial Plastics Company for their continued dedication to excellence in the agriculture industry and cultivating the next generation. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success in Iowa.

Madam President, as ranking member 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 recognize Tristate Curls of Sibley, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

Megan Gerken founded Tristate Curls in 2018 as a specialty salon to serve clients with curly and wavy hair. During her professional salon training, Megan worked in various hair salons in her home State of Minnesota, where she is a licensed cosmetologist. She graduated from the Stewart Cosmetology School in Sioux Falls and has gone to Los Angeles, New York City, and Dallas for short-term trainings to develop techniques to work on curly hair. After working in Minneapolis for 5 years, Megan and her husband moved to Sibley, IA, where she opened her own hair salon.

Tristate Curls started in a rented space in Sibley before Megan purchased

a shop on 9th Street in 2020. Currently, she is the salon's lone stylist, but that doesn't stop her from bringing her passion and dedication to work every day. She ensures every client that walks into Tristate Curls doesn't leave until they are happy with their new hair style. She also makes an effort to explain the products she uses so her customers can recreate the same style at home. Megan is committed to sharing her wealth of knowledge with the next generation of hair stylists and doesn't shy away from giving tips and advice.

In addition to running Tristate Curls, Megan works on the family farm with her husband and helps raise their cattle. Tristate Curls is an active member of the Sibley Chamber of Commerce and, in 2024, celebrated its sixth business anniversary.

Tristate Curls' commitment to providing quality, specialized care for curly and wavy hair in Sibley, IA, is commendable. I want to congratulate Megan Gerken, the Gerken family, and Tristate Curls for their continued dedication to providing beauty care to the Osceola County community. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success in Iowa.

Mr. President, as ranking member 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 recognize Barn Wired of Sigourney, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.

The owner of Barn Wired, Amanda Snakenberg embodies the essence of American entrepreneurship. Amanda sold personally designed barn boards and barbed-wired signs at craft fairs and farmers markets across Iowa as a side hustle that eventually led to the opening of Barn Wired in 2015. After 2 years of renting, Amanda's passion and dedication led her family to purchase a brick-and-mortar storefront on the historic downtown square in Sigourney that is located next to the town mural, offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all her customers. Barn Wired evolved from a specialty home decor business to a multifunctional community hub where not only can you buy one-of-a-kind crafts and home decorations, it also houses the only full-service coffee shop in the town. Barn Wired is no stranger to hosting community gatherings, wedding rehearsal dinners, class reunions, and special holidays.

Today, Barn Wired employs 12 people throughout the community and will soon celebrate its 10th anniversary. Barn Wired offers a great selection of home-cooked meals, smoked meats,

fresh salads, and more with Amanda and her team always ready to host live performers, providing entertainment and supporting local entrepreneurs.

Barn Wired prioritizes community involvement. Amanda introduced initiatives such as Ladies' Night Around the Square and a community farmers market to showcase Sigourney's amazing businesses. She also collaborated with welding students, an autobody shop, and a local family to design planters for the town. Amanda herself sits on the July 4th planning committee, is a former board member for the Keokuk County Expo Fair, and was selected to be a representative on the Empower Rural Iowa Taskforce.

Barn Wired is also a member of the Keokuk County Economic Development Coalition, which helps businesses across the county not only survive but thrive.

Amanda's journey with Barn Wired is a testament to the power of hard work, passion, and community engagement. I applaud her entrepreneurial spirit and unwavering dedication to the Keokuk County community. Congratulations to the Snakenberg family and the entire team at Barn Wired. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success in Iowa.