Ernst Names Small Business of the Week, Sorensen Studios

Throughout this Congress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in every one of Iowa's 99 counties.

RED OAK, Iowa - U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Chair of the Senate Small Business Committee, today announced her Small Business of the Week: Sorensen Studios of Adair County. Throughout the 119th Congress, Chair Ernst plans to recognize a small business in each of Iowa's 99 counties.

"The mural of the story is that Sorensen Studios is a prime example of creative entrepreneurship," said Chair Ernst. "Maria and Ray Sorensen's commitment to their business, community, and our nation's veterans rocks."

The idea for Sorensen Studios began when Ray "Bubba" Sorensen started helping his now-wife, Maria, on her journalism projects at Iowa State University. As the two worked together, it was clear they made a great team. In 2008, Maria and Bubba opened Sorensen Studios, using Bubba's artistic talent and Maria's knack for photography and logistics.

For nearly two decades, Sorensen Studios has been owned and operated by Maria and Bubba. In 2013, Sorensen Studios started the Freedom Rock Tour, with the goal of putting signature painted rocks honoring veterans in all 99 of Iowa's counties. Today, there is a Freedom Rock in every Iowa county, and the Sorensens have started the 50-State Freedom Rock Tour to highlight and thank veterans across the country. The pair also launched the Freedom Rock Foundation, a nonprofit created to maintain Freedom Rocks, with a board made up of veterans. In addition to Sorensen Studios, Bubba is a state representative for the 23rd district in the Iowa House of Representatives.

Stay tuned as Chair Ernst continues to recognize outstanding Iowa small businesses with her Small Business of the Week award.

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