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Small Business Spotlight
Americans have long celebrated small businesses as the fountainhead of American innovation and the foundation of our prosperity. In order to acknowledge the hard workers and successful small businesses of Indiana 9th Congressional District, our office started the Small Business Spotlight Program, through which you can nominate a small business in Indiana’s 9th Congressional District to be recognized in the House of Representatives for its contributions to the local community. Each selected business will be mentioned on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives and its contributions will be recorded for posterity in the Congressional Record.
Below are the recognition statements for the 9th District businesses that have received this honor so far.
If you’d like to nominate a local business for the honor, please visit to the following link: https://toddyoung.house.gov/small-business-spotlight
11/13/15
HONORING MANN PLUMBING OF BLOOMINGTON, INDIANA
Mr. YOUNG of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, my home state of Indiana is a place where hardwork and innovation are rewarded. The spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation is a long held tradition of Indiana, and the work of Mann Plumbing is evidence that such tradition is alive and well. Today I am honored to highlight their small business and recognize their good work.
Mann Plumbing/MPI Solar is a full service plumbing and solar energy equipment company located in Bloomington, Indiana. The business was started by David Mann and originally began as a full service plumbing company in 1992. During the 2008 economic downturn the company embraced the situation as an opportunity to expand their business and product offerings into a new market. To do so they began offering solar products to customers.
Mann Plumbing/MPI Solar is now a regional leader in this industry. Their big risk turned into a success story. Mann Plumbing/MPI Solar provides their services to countless Indiana businesses, including: apartment houses, businesses, schools, and the Monroe County Government Building. Mann Plumbing/MPI Solar’s transition from a traditional plumbing shop to a full service plumbing and solar company during difficult economic times serves as a model for other businesses. David Mann and his team revitalized their business with new services and products that helped shepherd Mann Plumbing through a difficult economic period, and allowed them to expand and thrive.
Today, Mann Plumbing/MPI Solar offers a wide variety of products and services to their customers. Mann Plumbing/MPI Solar’s success is possible in part, because of highlytrained and dedicated staff. Skilled, motivated workers form the backbone of the Hoosier workforce and remain the key to widespread, economic prosperity.
I am proud to represent Mann Plumbing/MPI Solar and hope their willingness to take risk and ability to adapt serves to inspire others. I am pleased to highlight their good work today in this installment of Indiana’s 9th Congressional District Small Business Spotlight.
7/17/15
HONORING BEAR WALLOW DISTILLERY OF BROWN COUNTY, INDIANA
Mr. YOUNG of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, small businesses across my district work every day to produce the goods and services needed to drive our economy, and today it is my honor to highlight one of them. My home state of Indiana has a long heritage of agriculture and manufacturing business, as well as a spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation. One small business in Indiana’s 9th District, Bear Wallow Distillery, sits at the center of these proud Hoosier traditions.
Bear Wallow Distillery, located in scenic and historic Brown County, Indiana, is a homegrown success story. Founded and still owned by Mike and Susan Spagnuolo, their craft distillery opened its doors in August 2014. In the year since, the company has expanded its initial offering of Hoosier-made moonshine to include bourbon and several different whiskeys; all crafted from locally grown and supplied ingredients. Operating a still and a serving room, Bear Wallow has served thousands of thirsty Hoosiers. Visitors can see the distillery operation on behind-the-scene tours and sample local foods as well as drinks.
Bear Wallow does its part to support our long tradition of quality craftsmanship. The company creates its signature spirits using a traditional copper still from another family owned small business, Vendome Brass and Copper of Louisville, KY. The small-batch, handcrafted spirits that Bear Wallow produces are then aged in charred American White Oak barrels and served-up straight or as part of a cocktail. The business is known for its ‘‘Moonshine shake-ups,’’ made with fruit elixirs and served in a tasting area featuring Prohibition era decorations and a bare-wood bar made from locally milled red oak.
Bear Wallow refers to itself as ‘‘the first legal distillery in Indiana.’’ The claim rings very true, as the success of Bear Wallow would not have been possible even two years ago. Previous Indiana law prevented would-be entrepreneurs from operating small distilleries in the state. Following changes to the law in 2013, Mike and Susan Spagnuolo were on the front line pioneering this industry that is flourishing in Indiana’s 9th District. Their small business, like so many others, is helping to create needed jobs, drive our local economy, and generate tourism throughout the state. It is an honor representing entrepreneurs like the Spagnuolos who took a risk opening Bear Wallow Distillery. I hope their example serves to inspire other would-be entrepreneurs, and am pleased to highlight their good work today in this installment of Indiana’s 9th District Small Business Spotlight.
5/15/14
HONORING THE STORY INN OF BROWN COUNTY, INDIANA
Mr. YOUNG of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, Hoosier innovation and small business entrepreneurship help drive the economic engine of the state. Indiana small businesses are a source of pride for towns and cities across the state for the distinctly local, high quality goods and services they provide. One such small business is the Story Inn of Brown County. Located at "one inconvenient location since 1851,'' the Story Inn is a snapshot of Indiana's frontier past and melds modern convenience with a rugged atmosphere.
The Story Inn is a staple in southern Indiana with a unique history. The village of Story, Indiana was established through a land grant from President Millard Fillmore to Dr. George Story in 1851. The village grew to support a sizeable population and embodied the small-town Hoosier experience. When the Great Depression crippled the nation, citizens of Story left in droves to search for economic opportunity elsewhere. The small Indiana town never fully regained its pre-depression population, but the lack of development and construction after the economic collapse was a benefit in disguise. Story remained a vintage tribute to Indiana's frontier past, relatively untouched by the modern era, complete with wooden cabins, cattle barns, and an old-fashioned general store.
The general store was converted to a bed and breakfast in the 1980s by aspiring entrepreneurs. In 1998 the town of Story was purchased by Richard R Hofstetter and Frank Mueller. It is still owned by Mr. Hofstetter and today, the bed and breakfast occupies the entire village. A peaceful getaway nestled in the rolling hills of Brown County Indiana, the Story Inn caters to those who wish to revel in breathtaking sights, enjoy culinary delights, or escape the bustle of city life. Guests can relax in a variety of cozy rooms that have elements of modernity but seamlessly blend into the luscious forests that surround the Inn. Even Indianapolis radio personality Greg Garrison purchased a cabin that overlooks the town and is available to guests. ``The Garrison'' cabin is the epitome of Brown County style: the walls are paneled in pine and the balcony provides an expansive view of the Brown County wilderness.
Guests can enjoy authentic Hoosier cuisine at the Inn's restaurant which features delicacies like locally-raised pork and beef, garden-grown herbs, spices, and fresh local produce, all complimented by a crisp glass or two of fine wine. The Story Inn's commitment to elegant simplicity drives visitors from across the state to this quaint bed and breakfast.
The Story Inn of Brown County continues to offer excellent service with a local taste to any and all desiring a serene getaway. Whether one is embarking on a nature trail, wishing to sample local cuisine, yearning to enjoy the scenery, or just passing through for a visit, the Story Inn is an amazing getaway and a remarkable part of Indiana's history. I would like to thank the Story Inn for its cultural impact on the state, and most importantly, for continuing to exemplify the Hoosier spirit. I wish all involved--including the Blue Lady--continued success for many years to come!
12/9/13
HONORING SCHIMPFF'S CONFECTIONARY OF JEFFERSONVILLE, INDIANA
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.
9/30/13
HONORING CRISTIANI EXCAVATING
Mr. YOUNG of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, individuals and families benefit when businesses, big and small, are able to help communities maximize their economic potential. In Southern Indiana, Dan Cristiani is one outstanding example of a small business owner who harnesses the talent and work ethic of his employees to improve their community.
At just fifteen years old, Mr. Cristiani started his first business by cutting down timber and selling it as firewood. Today his company--Dan Cristiani Excavating--is a full service business that sells and rents heavy equipment, distributes topsoil and mulch, and offers waste disposal services for individuals and companies.
In addition to owning a thriving business, Mr. Cristiani has become a recognized community philanthropist. He is particularly involved with Clark County 4-H, saying, ``My dad was involved in Floyd County 4-H, and I guess I'm kind of a chip off the old block.'' In 2002, he started a consignment auction to help raise money for the organization. The annual event provides an opportunity for individuals and businesses to sell farm equipment that is no longer needed, typically generating between $15,000 and $20,000 for 4-H. Additionally, he donates money for 4-H project animals. There is no doubt that 4-H plays an essential role in educating children about the benefits of agriculture throughout Indiana's 9th District, and I appreciate that he is helping give children access to this wonderful organization.
Beyond his contributions to 4-H, Mr. Cristiani and his excavating company help provide many other services to Clark County, such as funds and equipment for a new baseball park. But perhaps his greatest impact is felt when the community is most in need. For example, in 2004 a tornado struck the north edge of Borden, Indiana, and he immediately sent his excavating equipment and crew to the affected area to begin cleanup. He did so under no pretense of being paid, and there was no guarantee of reimbursement for equipment use or staff salaries. Despite that, his team stayed in the area for weeks providing assistance to Hoosiers when they most needed it. As a result, Borden was back on its feet much more quickly than other towns impacted by the storm.
Dan Cristiani and Dan Cristiani Excavating are representative of the small businesses in which Hoosiers in Indiana's 9th District take pride. Their commitment and generosity prove that, whether big or small, businesses of any size can make a positive contribution to their community. I am proud to represent such sturdy Americans, and I am pleased to highlight their good works in the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD today in this installment of Indiana's 9th District Small Business Spotlight.
7/23/13
HONORING BUFFALOUIE'S OF BLOOMINGTON, INDIANA
Mr. YOUNG of Indiana. Mr. Speaker, my home state of Indiana takes pride in its long tradition of Hoosier innovation and small business entrepreneurship. Hoosier businesses across Indiana's 9th District strive to offer quality products and services that become integral parts of their local communities. One such small business is BuffaLouie's, a popular restaurant in Bloomington, Indiana, which is known throughout the state for their amazing selection of buffalo-style chicken wings and homemade sauces.
BuffaLouie's has been a mainstay in Bloomington since they first opened their doors in 1987. It is a popular hangout for Indiana University (IU) students and Bloomington residents alike, who come and enjoy great food in a comfortable atmosphere. In fact, BuffaLouie's has such a strong reputation that they earned national recognition from USA Today as one of the Top Ten Wing Joints in the country.
Today, I commend BuffaLouie's on the success of their business, as well as their commitment to improving the local Bloomington community. As part of my commitment to acknowledge Hoosier small businesses and the critical role they play in my home state, I want to recognize BuffaLouie's as the first in a series titled the 9th District's Hoosier Small Business Spotlight.
Jay Lieser, an IU student and native of Buffalo, New York, founded BuffaLouie's. His mother and father, Ed and Trudy--or Mr. and Mrs. Louie as they are often referred--joined their son in his venture, bringing their family recipes to BuffaLouie's. BuffaLouie's is truly a family business, getting its name and company logo from another member of the Lieser family, Jay's grandfather Lou. This tradition of family and service to the community has been carried on by the current owners, the husband and wife team of Ed and Jamie Schwartzman.
The Schwartzman's have continued to build on the cornerstone of what makes BuffaLouie's great: working hard to "serve quality food, prepared fresh and made to order using the finest ingredients in a family friendly atmosphere.'' It is not uncommon to see both Mr. and Mrs. Schwartzman at the restaurant helping serve customers and personally thanking patrons for their business. It is this philosophy and commitment that has garnered a loyal following of wing lovers in Bloomington.
BuffaLouie's strengthened its local ties when it relocated from its 17th street location to the famous Gables building on Indiana Avenue. The Gables, once known as the "Book Nook,'' often played host to the famous jazz musician and IU graduate Hoagy Carmichael. It is where the famous musician penned part of his immortal song "Star Dust.'' In keeping with this tradition BuffaLouie's hosts musical performances that allow customers to enjoy the historic venue.
BuffaLouie's has become a landmark in Bloomington, Indiana--exemplifying the spirit of Hoosier small businesses across Indiana's 9th district. The family friendly atmosphere and nationally recognized wings continue to bring satisfied customers through the doors of the historic Gables building. I would like to congratulate BuffaLouie's on more than 25 successful years in business and thank them for the dedication they show their customers. I wish them continued success for many years to come.