Nothing but smiles is what the Bonkey’s crew is serving up. With this year marking its 14th anniversary, it is definitely a nostalgic place, not only for people living in New Freedom, but for many surrounding towns as well. Whether you are a regular, newcomer, young or old, you will always be treated as part of the Bonkey’s family and will be sure to find something you love.

This year, Bonkey’s has opened on Thursday, March 16. It has a quiet opening each year, as many people rush to Bonkey’s the following day, St. Patrick’s Day.  

Of course each year means something new and improved. Junior Erin Kaliszak is excited to serve all of the new products and thinks everyone will enjoy them.

“We have lots of new things at Bonkey’s this year,” said Kaliszak. “We have our new waffle sundaes that are delicious! There are strawberry and apple waffle sundaes. We also have new Fruity Pebble ice cream sandwiches and a few new

flavors of ice cream, such as a new and improved German Chocolate, Lemon Custard and Unicorn.”

Junior Miranda Shaffer is excited for the season to start as she loves her job.

“I expect this season to go very well especially with our new items like sundaes and ice cream flavors,” said Shaffer. “I am very excited to work another season at Bonkey’s with my amazing co-workers that will be filled with lots of memories, laughter and ice cream!”

Music teacher and Bonkey’s worker Scott Kaliszak worked opening day this year and reflected on how the day went.

“Opening day was not as busy as I remember many being in the past, but this was mainly due to the leftover snow from the storm 3 days ago. The customers were all still as enthusiastic, creating a steady line throughout the

evening,” said Kaliszak. “Our most popular flavor, as always, was Cookie Monster, a delectable mixing of smashed Oreo cookies, cookie dough pieces, and scooter crunch dumped in blue ice cream. It was a great evening, filled with many smiles and laughter, which can always be found in the family friendly atmosphere of Bonkeys!”

Bonkey’s will be open 3-9pm on weekdays and 12-9pm on weekends.