Mr. YOUNG of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, small mom-and-pop businesses are an integral part of local economies, especially in the State of Indiana. Schimpff's Confectionary, located in Jeffersonville, Indiana, is a prime example of a small, family-owned business that has maintained a tradition of community involvement and devotion to a quality product. Schimpff's is not only a vital part of the community, but also an important Jeffersonville landmark.

Schimpff's Confectionary is a world-class candy maker, confectionary store, and museum located within the Old Jeffersonville Historic District. This candy store is one of the oldest in the country. It has kept the same atmosphere throughout the years and continuously draws large crowds. In addition to selling candy, Schimpff's Confectionary gives tours to visitors of the shop, providing an interactive experience and insight into how the finest candy was and is made.

Schimpff's Confectionary contributes mightily to the town of Jeffersonville. Not only do they reliably provide delicious treats to the families of Southern Indiana and beyond, but they maintain local jobs, and their outstanding presence is a source of deep pride for the entire community. Residents of Jeffersonville have grown up with Schimpff's Confectionary, and the store has faithfully maintained its high quality standards, and friendly atmosphere, since the day it opened. For these reasons and more, I am proud to recognize Schimpff's in this installment of the 9th District's Small Business Spotlight.

Although the Schimpff family had been making candy in Louisville, Kentucky, since 1850, the Jeffersonville store was established in 1891 by Gustave Schimpff, Sr. and Jr. The shop continues to be run by his family and is now run by the third generation of Schimpff's. Gustave's great-grandson, Warren Schimpff, continues the family legacy of exceptional candy making with his wife, Jill. Through their leadership and labor, Schimpff's has expanded their operations and developed a distinguished international reputation.

While Schimpff's has been based in Jeffersonville since 1891, the family has traveled to Sweden to participate in the Candy Championships, the international candy competition in Gränna. Jill and Warren Schimpff are the first Americans to have ever participated in this competition. While visiting Sweden, they met European candy makers, and learned some new and creative techniques to share with their many customers. Such initiatives have brought people from across the globe to Jeffersonville for the purpose of visiting their fine establishment.

The confectionary has gained its fair share of local and national attention as well, including recognition by “Louisville Business First” as one of the area's top twenty for-profit attractions. Additionally, the business has gained national media attention from the Food Network, the History Channel's “Modern Marvels,” and American celebrity chef Paula Deen.

The Schimpff's dedication to customers and quality has sustained the family legacy, and is responsible for the longstanding success of their business. This confectionary has been a Jeffersonville treasure since its opening over 120 years ago, and it will continue to be a recognized landmark for years to come.

(Click here for Congressional Record)