[Congressional Record Volume 165, Number 79 (Monday, May 13, 2019)]
[Senate]
[Page S2783]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   RECOGNIZING PEET SHOE DRYER, INC.

 Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, as a member and former chairman of 
the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, it is my 
privilege to recognize an Idaho small business that exemplifies 
creativity, hard work, and dedication to improving their community. The 
small business I am honoring today is a shining example of the many 
Idaho businesses that are led by innovative individuals who are not 
afraid to harness creativity to bring new and inventive ideas to 
market. In honor of the U.S. Small Business Administration's National 
Small Business Week, it is my pleasure to name PEET Shoe Dryer, Inc., 
of St. Maries, ID, as the Senate Small Business of the Day.
  Founded in 1968 in the heart of one of the most beautiful locales in 
the United States, PEET Shoe Dryer has been a supporter of American 
outdoor enthusiasts for the last 50 years. Searching for a quicker way 
to dry his boots after hiking, founder Gene Peet designed the original 
shoe dryer for his own personal use. Soon, however, his friends and 
family began requesting shoe dryers for themselves. Realizing the 
demand for his new invention, Gene opened PEET Shoe Dryer.
  Starting from humble beginnings, Gene and his son Blair began 
building their shoe dryers in the kitchen of their family home. Gene's 
first customers were loggers and hunters in the local St. Maries area, 
who depend on having dry and comfortable shoes for their workday. Not 
having enough money for advertising, Gene simply relied on the quality 
of his product and satisfaction of his customers to help spread the 
word for his new invention; and as word spread, Gene's enterprise 
quickly grew into a thriving business.
  Today, PEET Shoe Dryer, now run by Gene's son Blair Peet, continues 
to succeed. They have improved the manufacturing of their boot and shoe 
dryers, as well as expanded their offerings. Serving millions of 
customers over the years, PEET Shoe Dryer has never compromised on its 
commitment to quality and service.
  Having grown from a small, word-of-mouth business to a successful 
international exporter, PEET Shoe Dryer is an outstanding example of 
the American dream. It is with great pleasure that I extend my 
congratulations to the Peet family and all of the employees at PEET 
Shoe Dryer, Incorporated, for being named the Senate Small Business of 
the Day. I wish them well as they continue serving the people of Idaho 
and look forward to watching their continued growth and 
success.

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