This is not an official government website.
© 2026 PLEJ LC. All rights reserved.
Congressional Daily Record
This section is a tribute, commemoration, or district-facing statement. It mentions committees such as Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, members such as Joni Ernst.
Issued
May 19, 2026
senate side of the record
People
1
Linked members mentioned in this section
Legislation
0
No linked legislation in this section
Committees
1
Committees connected to this section
Senate Holds
0
No hold activity linked here
Source Document
Connected Data
People mentioned
Source Control
Reader mode is for comprehension. The linked government PDF is the official published source.
Download official Senate Record PDFReturn to issue contextMs. ERNST. Mr. 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 Mapleton Hometown Variety of Monona County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week.
Koenigs returned to his hometown of Mapleton. In 1987, he acquired what was then a Ben Franklin Store from his aunt and uncle after working there for over 10 years. Just a few years later, Jerry married his wife Carol, and the couple took on the business together. In the early 2000s, the store was renamed to Mapleton Hometown Variety. The shop was established to serve the everyday needs of the Mapleton community through a welcoming, locally owned retail experience. Over the years, it has become a trusted destination for residents seeking a wide variety of products, including fabric, toys, gifts, home decor, craft supplies, greeting cards, and floral arrangements. Hometown Variety has earned a strong reputation for quality products, personalized customer service, and a shopping experience rooted in the values of small-town Iowa.
customers with both everyday essentials and thoughtful items for special occasions. After Jerry passed away in 2020, Carol continued his legacy by cultivating a loyal customer base and welcoming atmosphere that keeps families returning year after year. Supported by a dedicated team of under 10 employees, the business reflects the reliability and strong workplace culture often found in Iowa's most enduring small businesses.
strong entrepreneurial spirit that defines Iowa small businesses. Throughout its decades of operation, the business has supported community growth and local engagement through involvement in organizations such as the Mapleton Community Club, Rotary Club, and Maple Valley Development. The business was also recognized for their continued service and support at a local 4-H event.
local events, schools, churches, and charitable causes, demonstrating a longstanding commitment to supporting families and neighbors in Mapleton. Her appreciation for the loyal customers and strong local support that have sustained Hometown Variety reflects the enduring connection between Iowa small businesses and the communities they serve.
at Mapleton Hometown Variety, for their dedication to Mapleton and Monona County. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead.