East Idaho Times

U.S. Senator Jim Risch, a member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, has announced the recognition of seven small businesses in Idaho as Local Gems. This acknowledgment is part of the fifth annual Support Local Gems All Season Long initiative, a campaign aimed at encouraging residents to support local enterprises that contribute to Idaho's unique character. These businesses will be officially noted in the Congressional Record of the U.S. Senate.

“Small businesses are the heart of Idaho. I’m proud to recognize Clark’s Diamond Jewelry, Freedom Tires, Anderson Reserve, MidStar Firearms, Bullets ‘N Brew, Denny’s Wrecker Service, and iSource for their dedication to their communities. These local gems exemplify Idaho’s entrepreneurial spirit, and I look forward to their continued growth and success,” said Risch.

Clark’s Diamond Jewelry has been a part of Coeur d’Alene's history since 1907. The business is now run by Dan Clark's daughter Jane and remains a prominent destination for fine jewelry on Sherman Avenue.

Freedom Tires was established in 2023 by Ryan and Kimberly Humphrey with Kenny and Sherry Gingras as partners. They provide mobile tire services in Lewiston and Moscow with recent expansions into commercial sectors.

Anderson Reserve offers fine dining along with butcher shop services in Sweet. Owner Paul Anderson drew inspiration from his grandfather's meatpacking career to create this distinctive venue which also features a helicopter pad.

MidStar Firearms opened its doors in 2011 under Justin Davis' leadership before being acquired by the Garrett family. Located in Middleton, it specializes in firearm retailing and maintenance services.

Bullets ‘N Brew combines a coffee shop with firearms retailing under one roof since its inception by Gary Mode in 2017. Situated in Hagerman, it serves both locals and tourists interested in sporting goods.

Denny’s Wrecker Service started operations back in 1962 with one truck but has grown into an extensive fleet offering towing services out of Pocatello while providing free holiday season rides home since the late '80s to combat drunk driving incidents.

iSource began serving Rexburg residents' Apple product repair needs starting from 2013 through Devin Dial's efforts which led Remington Sharp towards expanding operations further into Idaho Falls due to growing demand from neighboring areas.

Support Local Gems All Season Long revives the statewide Support Local Gems during holidays aiming at boosting awareness around supporting small-scale enterprises across various regions within Idaho.