[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 74 (Tuesday, May 2, 2023)]
[Senate]
[Page S1460]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING RAMSEY'S MARKET

 Ms. ERNST. Mr. President, as ranking member of the Senate 
Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, each week I recognize 
an outstanding Iowa small business that exemplifies the American 
entrepreneurial spirit. This week, it is my privilege to recognize 
Ramsey's Market of Lenox, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.
  The company was founded by Theo and Bonnie Ramsey in 2015 after 
learning that the local grocery store in Lenox was up for sale. As 
veterans of the U.S. Air Force, service is key for the Ramsey family, 
so the pair jumped at the opportunity to fill a critical community 
need. When a local grocery store goes out of business, residents 
sometimes have extensive drives just to buy the basic food items. Over 
the years, Ramsey's Market has been able to expand to include a food 
locker delivery service, an adjoining Ace Hardware store with a bar 
inside, and even a second location in Manning, IA.
  Another unique aspect of the store is live music. Theo and Bonnie met 
during their time in the U.S. Air Force Band of the Golden West, where 
they both were singers. It is very normal for local musicians to 
perform in the grocery store while customers shop. The staff behind the 
deli counter, and even Bonnie can often be found singing to customers.
  Ramsey's Market has been recognized for their hard work, earning the 
Iowa Farm Bureau's Renew Rural Iowa Entrepreneur Award in 2018 for 
their unique shopping experience and their impact on the Lenox 
community. They have even been recognized for their success by 
America's Small Business Development Center, Iowa. In January 2022, I 
had the opportunity to visit the store and see the local impact the 
business has on Taylor County.
  Ramsey's Market's commitment to providing quality groceries in a fun 
environment is clear. I want to congratulate the Ramsey family, and the 
entire team at Ramsey's Market, for their continued dedication to 
finding a solution to the food deserts in Iowa and serving their 
community. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and success 
in Iowa.

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