[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 140 (Tuesday, September 10, 2024)]
[Senate]
[Page S5934]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    RECOGNIZING JUNIPER & OLIVE CO.

 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 
Juniper & Olive Co. of Jewell, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the 
Week.
  Juniper & Olive Co. is a full-service bistro and bar that stands out 
for its interior design and commitment to local sustainability. After 
graduating from my alma mater, Iowa State University, Cyndi honed her 
marketing and mixology skills in New York City and Texas, where she 
gained diverse experiences that would later shape her vision for her 
own bistro. In 2020, Cyndi returned to her home State of Iowa and later 
opened Juniper & Olive Co. named after the classic cocktail and two 
dogs she rescued from the local shelter.
  Juniper & Olive Co. is located on Jewell's historic lot No.1, which 
was established in 1881. The building, once a 1920s speakeasy, adds to 
the historical charm that Cyndi embraced in her restaurant's design, 
which is known for its vintage, eclectic sophistication. Juniper & 
Olive Co. serves small plates featuring locally sourced and produced 
items, including everything from cheese boards to desserts and chicken 
salad. The team has a passion for specialty cocktails, including 
martinis and especially Cyndi's secret Bloody Mary blend, which is a 
customer favorite. In 2023, Cyndi expanded the business by opening a 
bridal boutique, where brides can try on dresses and select the one for 
their special day.
  From the start, Juniper & Olive Co. has been a community-driven 
endeavor. Cyndi collaborated with a childhood neighbor and classmate to 
build the restaurant's bar. A group of her former teachers and coaches 
helped paint the restaurant's interior. Friends from all over the 
community contributed to the design and renovations, and they even 
helped clean the dishes during Juniper & Olive Co.'s soft opening. 
Today, the company has nine full-time employees who dedicate themselves 
to supporting the Jewell community, making Juniper & Olive Co. not only 
a dining destination but a place for community, family, and fun.
  I want to congratulate Cyndi and the entire team at Juniper and Olive 
Co. for their hard work and passion that adds to Hamilton County's 
community charm. I look forward to seeing their continued growth and 
success in Iowa.

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