RECOGNIZING PRESENT COMPANY

On 2026-08-04, Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) delivered a floor speech titled "RECOGNIZING PRESENT COMPANY" in the Senate.

RECOGNIZING PRESENT COMPANY

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 127 (Tuesday, August 4, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 127 (Tuesday, August 4, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S4428-S4429] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING PRESENT COMPANY Ms. ERNST. Madam President, as chair 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 honor Present Company of Audubon County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. In 1990, Present Company opened its doors as a home decor boutique. The business quickly became a destination for quality home furnishings and unique gifts for the Audubon community. After more than three decades serving southwest Iowa under three different owners, Present Company transitioned into the hands of Telia Carter in 2022. Telia spent 16 years working at a local bank and embraced the opportunity to head up the beloved boutique. Under her leadership, Present Company has remained true to its original mission while evolving alongside changing customer preferences to meet the needs and interests of Audubon and the surrounding communities. Today, Present Company continues to offer carefully selected home decor along with a variety of gifts, apparel, jewelry, and specialty items. They also provide a tuxedo rental service for local school dances making the store a staple of Audubon's downtown business district. With a small but dedicated team of three employees, the boutique has earned a reputation as a place where customers can find unique items and personalized service that reflects the character of smalltown Iowa. In hopes of expanding the offerings on Main Street, the business began to house The Nail Room by Lisset, a local nail salon founded by former National Guard Lisset Huerta. Beyond its retail offerings, the Present Company regularly donates to organizations that assist children in buying animals to show [[Page S4429]] at the county fair. They also donate to local golf tournaments and the Audubon T-Bone days to promote the beef industry. During the holidays, the business will organize community events including a Thanksgiving Shopping Extravaganza and a Christmas tour of homes. Present Company's ongoing investment in their community demonstrates the important role locally owned small businesses play in strengthening Iowa's rural communities. I am pleased to recognize Telia Carter and the team at Present Company for their dedication to Audubon County. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead. ____________________