[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 144 (Tuesday, September 17, 2024)]
[Senate]
[Page S6094]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                            RECOGNIZING SCE

 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 SCE 
of Cherokee, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.
  Upon graduation from Iowa State University in 2003, Cory Bouchard 
began working as an operations supervisor for Schoon Construction, Inc. 
He worked at the company for 11 years until the owner was looking to 
sell part of the business. Cory knew he was interested, and his wife 
Maria recognized the need for reliable excavation and construction 
services in Cherokee and throughout western Iowa. They purchased part 
of Schoon Construction, Inc., and created SCE.
  Since its founding in 2015, SCE specializes in providing commercial 
and residential site utility services, cementing their reputation as 
the go-to company in fixing the city's water, sewage, or utilities. 
Today SCE employs seven local community members who are all committed 
to upholding SCE's service standards.
  During the severe floods in Iowa this summer, SCE played an 
instrumental role in saving the city from potentially irreversible 
damage. The team worked around the clock alongside the Cherokee 
Volunteer Fire Department to pump out water and sewage, fix main water 
lines, and operate the city's vital water pumps. During the floods, the 
Cherokee sewage lift station that moves wastewater, nearly collapsed, 
prompting SCE to jump in and get it back on track. Once the flooding 
receded, SCE and local volunteers continued their work by focusing on 
cleanup and recovery.
  Beyond their operational contributions, SCE has a deep-rooted 
presence in the Cherokee community. The company is committed to helping 
local schools and community groups receive needed resources through 
their sponsorships. For example, SCE sponsors the Cherokee County Fair 
and the Cherokee County Rodeo. SCE is also a member of both the 
Cherokee Chamber of Commerce and the Better Business Bureau. In 2016, 
the Cherokee Chamber recognized SCE as the Small Business of the Year. 
Early next year, SCE will celebrate its tenth business anniversary.
  SCE's commitment to reliable construction and excavation servicing is 
clear. I would like to thank the Bouchard family and the team at SCE 
for their dedication and incredible commitment to Cherokee County and 
the western Iowa area. I look forward to seeing their continued 
development and achievements in Iowa.

                          ____________________