Risch Honors Idaho Veteran-Owned Small Businesses

WASHINGTON - Ahead of Veterans Day, U.S. Senator Jim Risch, a senior member and former chairman of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, announced the recognition of seven veteran-owned small businesses from across the Gem State as Idaho Small Businesses of the Month for November 2026. Each business will be recognized for its contributions to Idaho in the Congressional Record of the U.S. Senate.

"Idaho's veterans continue to serve our nation long after their time in the military. These men and women are mission-driven, highly skilled, and go on to establish businesses that support Idaho's economy and communities," said Risch. "I am proud to recognize their service and honor our dedicated veteran-owned small businesses this November. These businesses are outstanding examples of the impact veterans have on Idaho, and I look forward to their continued success."

Blackhawk BBQ Pit - Blackfoot: Army Blackhawk Pilot Nic Transtrum bought a barbeque trailer in 2019 to introduce southern mobile barbeque culture to Eastern Idaho. Since then, Nic has grown Blackhawk BBQ Pit from a family venture into a thriving business, using it to support local veterans, first responders, and law enforcement.

Bunker Baits - Kuna: Andrew Myers proudly served 13 years as an Army Airborne Infantryman before he returned home and began making fishing baits. Originally a therapeutic outlet, Andrew turned his passion into Bunker Baits. Andrew plans to expand his business and introduce more veterans to bait-making as they transition to civilian life.

Hart Whole Home Discount Store - Twin Falls: After nearly nine years of service in the U.S. Army, Jon Leninger medically retired and opened Hart Whole Home Discount Store with his wife in 2021. Named after their youngest daughter, this family-owned business serves the Magic Valley by both furnishing their homes and supporting community fundraisers.

Idaho Spice Company - Caldwell: Craig Smith served 10 years in the U.S. Army and another decade at the Boise VA. In 2019, Craig started Idaho Spice Company after discovering his passion for experimenting with flavors. The company has expanded to offer a wide variety of spices, teas, and sauces and along with cooking classes for Treasure Valley residents.

J-Dog - Coeur d'Alene: U.S. Marine Corps veteran John Merwald partnered with J-Dog Junk Removal & Hauling in 2020 to bring their services to North Idaho. Dedicated to supporting those in uniform, John places an emphasis on hiring veterans, military personnel, first responders, and their families at J-Dog.

Range 208 - Lewiston: After eight years of service and two deployments in the U.S. Marine Corps, Joe Alicea returned to civilian life and later purchased Diamondback Shooting Range in Lewiston. Joe renamed the business to Range 208, using the business logo to honor his time in the Marine Corps. Range 208 serves the Lewis-Clark Valley by offering classes and services for all skill levels, but specifically to local law enforcement, women, and youth.

Strong Shed - Rexburg: U.S. Army veteran Braydan Newton started his civilian career as an apprentice for Strong Shed in 2010 before purchasing the business with his wife, Rachel, in 2018. The Newtons have since expanded the company to serve customers all over Southeast Idaho, building a reputation for quality craftsmanship, hard work, and integrity.