(U.S. Senator James E. Risch Press Release, June 4, 2024)
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch, senior member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, announced the selection of seven small businesses from across the state as the Idaho Small Businesses of the Month for June 2024 in coordination with Support Local Gems (SLG). SLG will take place on Friday, June 7, 2024. Each of the small businesses will be recognized for their contributions to the Gem State in the Congressional Record of the U.S. Senate.
“Small businesses are the lifeblood of Idaho. I’m proud to recognize Axe Force One, Backwoods Brew, The Eddy, Hands On, Manwaring Cheese, Nel’s Bi-Lo Market, and the Parma Motor-Vu for their dedication to the Gem State’s communities. These local gems exemplify Idaho’s entrepreneurial-spirit, and I look forward to their continued growth and success,” said Risch.
This week, Senator Risch announced the launch of the fourth annual Support Local Gems initiative to encourage Idahoans to support local businesses on Friday, June 7th. In coordination with the effort, Senator Risch selected Idaho small businesses for the month of June that exemplify Idaho values of hard work, entrepreneurial spirit, and exceptional commitment to community.
- Axe Force One: Doug Duncan brought axe throwing to Coeur d’Alene in 2019. Axe Force One is a thrilling venue and gathering place for both first-time axe throwers and axe throwing regulars.
- Backwoods Brew: Shania Woods opened Backwoods Brew as a walk-up coffee trailer in April 2022. Shortly thereafter, the Lewiston coffee shop expanded to a drive thru and recently announced a second brick and mortar location will open soon to continue fueling the LC Valley.
- The Eddy: The Eddy, named after the calm waters found after a rapid, offers customers coffee, pastries, beer, and wine all locally sourced. Owner Ed Lodge opened The Eddy in 2023 as a place for the Marsing community to rest and rejuvenate.
- Hands On: For over 20 years, Hands On has offered a creative outlet for all ages and skill levels in the Magic Valley. From canvas courses to clay throwing, owner Ashley Dubois has ensured Hands On is a place where everyone can slow down and lean into their creative side.
- Manwaring Cheese: Since 1955, Manwaring Cheese has been a beloved institution in Eastern Idaho. Now located in Idaho Falls and operated by Blake Manwaring, this spot serves up some of the best grilled cheeses, cheese curds, and ice cream Idaho has to offer.
- Nel’s Bi-Lo Market: Nel’s Bi-Lo Market is a mainstay in Pocatello and has been for over half a century. Current owner Barry Dutton has maintained the family-like operations that keep customers coming back.
- Parma Motor-Vu: Susan Haaheim’s grandparents opened the Parma Motor-Vu in 1953. As a third-generation owner, Susan is delighted to see the drive-in movie remains fun for all ages.
