RECOGNIZING JUNKYARD JEANS

On 2026-06-09, Senator James E. Risch (R-ID) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING JUNKYARD JEANS" in the Senate.

RECOGNIZING JUNKYARD JEANS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 97 (Tuesday, June 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 97 (Tuesday, June 9, 2026)] [Senate] [Page S2689] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING JUNKYARD JEANS Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, Idaho's small businesses are the backbone of our economy and our communities. These small businesses not only employ our friends and neighbors but also provide invaluable goods and services that showcase Idaho's ingenuity and shared values. They are an intrinsic element of the Gem State and deserve to be celebrated. I am proud to launch my seventh annual Support Local Gems, a successful statewide initiative, on June 12, to encourage Idahoans to support the small businesses that make our State thrive. As a member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, I am pleased to honor Junkyard Jeans in Boise during Support Local Gems as one of Idaho's Small Businesses of the Month for June 2026. Started in 1991 by Eric Schrader, Junkyard Jeans has built a reputation for exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to American- made products. What began with Eric's passion for designing and manufacturing quality denim has since grown into a unique and beloved Boise business. Today, Junkyard Jeans offers a curated selection of vintage goods, including custom chain-stitched and embroidered garments and one-of-a-kind collectible pieces. Partnering with another Idaho business, McKinney Monograms, Eric and his team learned the art of chain-stitching and embroidery techniques used by old-school masters who worked on vintage denim. Much of Junkyard Jeans' manufacturing work is done in-house with entirely American materials, ensuring each piece in the store has a unique character. Junkyard Jeans has also invested in the next generation, collaborating with Boise State University, BYU Idaho, and the International Business Program to start an internship program for students interested in clothing design and manufacturing. In 2013, the company participated in a traveling artisan makers project that showcased Idaho craftsmanship and custom sewing across the country. Located in the heart of Boise, Junkyard Jeans has seen dozens of storefronts come and go. Recognizing the challenges and opportunities many Main Street retailers face, Eric has dedicated much of his 30 years in operation to working with surrounding small businesses and hosting block parties and community events to encourage residents to shop small. Congratulations to Eric Schrader and the entire Junkyard Jeans team for being selected as an Idaho Small Business of the Month for June 2026. You are an outstanding example of what it means to be one of Idaho's Local Gems. You make our great State proud, and I look forward to your continued growth and success. ____________________