[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 32 (Thursday, February 16, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Page S455]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   RECOGNIZING THE SHOE AND TACK SHOP

 Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, as a member and former chairman of 
the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each month 
I recognize and celebrate the American entrepreneurial spirit by 
highlighting the success of a small business in my home State of Idaho. 
Today, I am pleased to honor The Shoe and Tack Shop, as the Idaho Small 
Business of the Month for February 2023.
  The Shoe and Tack shop, owned by Steve, Patty, and Clay Gorrell, has 
been in business since January 17, 1979. Steve, a cowboy and rodeo 
clown, met Patty while working for her father at Simplot. The two 
married in 1970 and moved to Colorado a few years later. During their 
time in Colorado, Steve managed 40,000 head of cattle for Lebsack and 
Patty worked as a supervisor for Miller Western Wear. By 1978, they 
found their way back to Twin Falls, ID, where Steve worked for his 
father's business, Dan's Boot Repair. Five months later, Steve and 
Patty moved to Jerome and began their venture at shoe repair.
  What started as a boot and shoe repair shop has since evolved into a 
retail store, where the Gorrell family makes and sells their own cowboy 
gear. The Gorrell family has mastered their craftsmanship--Clay is an 
artisan, who does much of the tooling, Patty does the intricate sewing, 
and Steve does a little bit of everything.
  The Gorrells commitment to the community shows through knowledgeable, 
fair, and honest treatment of their customers. From building and 
repairing tack, to offering advice on the best pair of boots, the 
Gorrells offer exceptional service. Their journey from humble 
beginnings to becoming a community stronghold exemplifies the American 
entrepreneurial spirit. They are truly a local gem.
  Congratulations to the Gorrell family on their selection as the Idaho 
Small Business of the Month for February 2023. Thank you for serving 
Idaho as small business owners and entrepreneurs. You make Idaho proud, 
and I look forward to your continued growth and success.

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