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BUCHANAN — A new business has arrived just in time to offer customers in Buchanan relief from the sweltering summer heat.

Chunk’s, 324 E. Dewey St., opened its doors to the Buchanan community last weekend, with hours consisting of 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.

The shop, owned by Haley and Justin Jones, offers customers a wide range of ice cream flavors from Moo-ville Creamery of Nashville, Mich. According to Haley, Moo-ville has 70 flavors and a selection of non-dairy and sugar-free options. Chunk’s plans to offer 12 flavors on a rotating basis at the walk-up shop.

According to Haley, the name “Chunk’s” is a tribute to the nickname she’s always called her husband. The couple celebrated their five-year anniversary last Saturday.

“It’s definitely been overwhelming but exciting at the same time and I get to do it with my husband, so that’s been great,” she said.

For Haley, opening an ice cream shop has been a dream 15 years in the making. 

“I’m still in shock,” she said. “It’s crazy to think that it has actually come about.”

After spending five years in real estate, Haley knew it was time to turn to her dream and spoke with building owner Randy Hendrixson. The Joneses decided the guard house was the perfect place to set up shop.

“We were drawn to its historical significance but also the unique opportunity it presents,” Haley said during an April City Commission meeting. “It’s a cherished part of the city’s heritage that we hope to rejuvenate… When we discovered and toured the 1916 guard shack, its potential charm was undeniable. Our goal is to lovingly restore this historic gem to its original splendor and honor its storied past while creating a lively gathering spot for ice cream lovers.”

For the Joneses, their dream is about more than selling ice cream. 

“We’re not passionate about scoops and cones, we are passionate about community,” Haley said during an April City Commission meeting. “We want to create a family friendly environment for people whether they are out for a walk on the trail or are enjoying a day feeding the ducks.”