RECOGNIZING NEW YORK PIZZA DEPARTMENT

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

RECOGNIZING NEW YORK PIZZA DEPARTMENT

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 97 (Tuesday, June 9, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 97 (Tuesday, June 9, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S2689-S2690] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING NEW YORK PIZZA DEPARTMENT 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 New York Pizza Department in Post Falls during Support Local Gems as one of Idaho's Small Businesses of the Month for June 2026. Originally called Nate's New York Pizza, the business was founded in 2009 by Nate Banner with the goal of bringing authentic New York-style food to north Idaho. Applying what he learned from a New Yorker who had moved out West, Nate got to work crafting a menu based on quality and tradition. Today, the business is known as New York Pizza Department, or NYPD as it is often referred to by Post Falls locals. The name pays tribute not only to the pizza's New York roots but also to all the first responders that serve north Idaho. Michael Kuipers purchased the store in March of 2026 and, alongside his wife and daughter, operates the business with a passion for building connections with the community over New York-style pizza. Using the original recipes and techniques Nate passed down from New York natives, Michael has cultivated a welcoming gathering place for families, friends, and neighbors. A major priority for Michael is their work with the Post Falls community to support local schools and teachers. From donating pizzas for events to recognizing educators who go above and beyond, New York Pizza Department is heavily involved in strengthening the growing north Idaho community. The store also puts a heavy emphasis on giving back to local first responders, including the Post Falls Police Department. For Michael, these efforts are not only rewarding but a helpful way to build meaningful connections beyond delicious pizza. Congratulations to Michael and the entire New York Pizza Department team for being selected as an Idaho Small Business of the Month for June 2026. You are an outstanding example [[Page S2690]] 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. ____________________