Julie Diestelkamp, owner of Simply Sweet LLC in Owensville, has confirmed that she will be opening a similar shop in Gerald. 

The business will be located in the building that most recently was the home of P&M Variety, but has been vacant for many years. It has become an eyesore that is easily visible to all who travel through town. The building is located south of Third Street, between Pine and Main streets. 

Diestelkamp, who will be renting the eastern part of the building, says her new shop will be much the same as the one she currently operates in Owensville. Light breakfasts and lunches with daily specials will be the backbone of the menu. She will also offer coffee, speciality soft drinks such as bubble tea, and pastries. The store will also supply cakes to order and other baked goods. 

While malts, shakes and sundaes are on her menu year round, she hopes to offer ice cream during the summer. 

Plans also include a drive-thru window and a patio out the front door. Diestelkamp hopes to be open for business by the beginning of summer. 

Ashton Withington, the new owner of the building, has plans to renovate the apartment spaces on the building’s upper level. He also has a companion business in mind for the building’s other half. 

Withington also purchased a building in the 300 block of Main Street where has made significant improvements.