[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 110 (Thursday, June 24, 2021)]
[Senate]
[Page S4768]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   RECOGNIZING RUSTIC ROOTS ON SECOND

 Mr. PAUL. Mr. President, as ranking member of the Senate 
Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I will 
recognize an outstanding Kentucky small business that exemplifies the 
American entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to 
recognize a woman-owned small business, Rustic Roots on Second of 
Pikeville, KY, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.
  Located in downtown Pikeville, Rustic Roots on Second opened its 
doors in 2015. After graduating from the University of Kentucky, 
founder and owner, Maura Minix, wanted to provide a place for Kentucky 
artisans to showcase and sell their work. Maura, who grew up in 
Prestonsburg, KY, saw an opportunity to set up a shop in neighboring 
Pikeville. She established Rustic Roots on Second, providing a retail 
outlet for Kentuckian and Appalachian artisans.
  Today, Rustic Roots on Second continues supporting and promoting 
small businesses and artisans in eastern Kentucky. Over 30 local 
vendors sell their goods at the store, ranging from food and textile 
goods to artwork and furniture made from used bourbon barrels. Maura's 
mother, Brenda Minix, is a key part of the operation, working as store 
manager and serving as the ``face'' of the business around town. 
Customers are regularly greeted by name and treated according to the 
golden rule. Rustic Roots on Second also serves as an event venue, 
renting out its shop for celebrations, fundraisers, and business 
events. The store works with local artisans to host classes and 
workshops, rotating offerings to meet community interest. From painting 
to dulcimer playing, teaching and celebrating the arts is a priority.
  Notably, Rustic Roots on Second is a leader in downtown Pikesville's 
business community. They regularly participate in local and regional 
events, including the Appalachian Vintage Street Market, Wine-Tasting & 
Retailgating, and Pikesville's famous Hillbilly Days festival. Rustic 
Roots on Second is a member of the Southeast Kentucky Chamber of 
Commerce and is involved with Shaping Our Appalachian Region--SOAR--
Kentucky, which fosters entrepreneurship and innovation in the region. 
They are committed to revitalizing and promoting downtown Pikeville 
through their support of the Pikeville Main Street Program, Inc.
  Like many small businesses, Rustic Roots on Second actively supports 
charitable and civic organizations. For several years, Maura and Brenda 
have teamed up with local businesses to host picnics and decorate their 
storefronts to thank police officers, firefighters, and first 
responders for their service. They regularly support fundraisers for 
clubs, churches, and sports teams and have sponsored silent auctions to 
benefit local schools. Rustic Roots on Second's advocacy and community 
leadership has been recognized in local and regional publications.
  When the COVID-19 pandemic occurred, Pikeville rallied together to 
support Rustic Roots on Second. As a nonessential business, Rustic 
Roots on Second was impacted by the lockdowns. Maura and Brenda 
adapted, overhauling and expanding their online store to continue 
serving customers nationwide. As Kentucky reopened, Maura and Brenda 
worked with local small businesses to ensure downtown Pikeville 
reopened safely, welcoming locals and visitors alike to their vibrant 
community.
  Rustic Roots on Second is an outstanding example of the critical role 
small businesses play in uplifting and advocating for their 
communities. Congratulations to Maura, Brenda, and the entire team at 
Rustic Roots on Second. I wish them the best of luck and look forward 
to watching their continued growth and success in Kentucky.

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