RECOGNIZING SUNSET SCOOPS

RECOGNIZING SUNSET SCOOPS

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 41 (Wednesday, March 4, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 41 (Wednesday, March 4, 2026)] [Senate] [Pages S798-S799] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] RECOGNIZING SUNSET SCOOPS Ms. 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 Sunset Scoops of Shelby County, IA, as the Senate Small Business of the Week. Founded in April 2025 by Jeremy and Tina Schechinger, Sunset Scoops is a small, family-owned business rooted in a passion for service and its community. Inspired by a desire to create a welcoming and fun environment for their four children and neighbors, the Schechingers opened Sunset Scoops in downtown Harlan as a gathering place where residents could connect and enjoy a fun treat together. Tina, a physician by day and a proud ``scooperista'' by night, drew inspiration from memories of working at a local cookie shop as a teenager and the joy that comes from creating special moments for others. Her vision for Sunset Scoops is a product of that lifelong dream, offering a space where families can make memories just as Tina once did. Tina chose the name Sunset Scoops because she wanted to provide Harlan with a place open past sunset, giving people the opportunity to enjoy themselves after work or a movie, something rare in a small town. Since opening its doors, the business has embraced its role as a community gathering space by hosting seasonal celebrations and participating in local events that bring families and neighbors together. Recently, the shop offered a ``12 Days of Ice Cream'' box set for Christmas and hosted a New Year's party for Harlan to celebrate as a community. The shop also provides a variety of board games, giving families and friends another way to enjoy time together. [[Page S799]] Today, Sunset Scoops operates as a local ice cream shop offering a wide variety of sweet treats, including banana splits, sundaes, root beer floats, donuts, milkshakes, and their best-selling specialty, ice cream nachos. The shop strives to be a nut-free facility, accommodating patrons with food allergies and providing options for folks with dietary restrictions. With a team of 10 employees, the business contributes to the vibrancy of Harlan's downtown and the broader Shelby County community. Through regular promotions and community-focused initiatives, Sunset Scoops demonstrates a commitment to giving back to the families and residents who support local small businesses. The business offers birthday parties, curbside pickup for a cozy night in, and discounted specials throughout the week. Beyond providing scoops for the Shelby County community, Sunset Scoops is a club- level member of the Shelby County Chamber of Commerce. Tina and Jeremy are also board members of the Harlan community athletic booster club. In its first year, Sunset Scoops has become more than a place to enjoy desserts; it has become a space where memories are made and community bonds are strengthened. Its story is a reminder that small businesses play an essential role in enriching local communities and sustaining rural economies. I am pleased to recognize Jeremy and Tina Schechinger, along with the entire team at Sunset Scoops, for their dedication to Harlan and Shelby County. I look forward to their continued success and wish them the very best in the years ahead. ____________________