FREDERICKTOWN — The “TK” in TK’s Ice Cream & Sweets stands for Todd and Kristine Lindeman, co-owners of Fredericktown’s newest sweet treat destination located at 13 E College St.
The married couple now owns three businesses in the area, including The Shoppe On Main in Fredericktown and Alumni Roofing, a commercial roofing company located in Lexington.
A welcoming space for people of all ages was one of the biggest priorities during the creation of TK’s. This included keeping accessibility in mind throughout all stages.
“Some of your local mom and pop shops are not always the easiest to get in and out of, and there’s a financial barrier to that … so that was important to us, access for all,” Kristine said.
As a wheelchair user herself, Kristine has yet to see the second floor in-person, only seeing the extra space through FaceTime.
The shop is currently in the process of installing an elevator to make the space more accessible, for both Kristine and the rest of the community.
The renovations have been both a family and local effort
Katie Lindeman, daughter of Todd and Kristine, worked alongside her parents to restore and build-up the store.
And two senior classes took part in helping to restore the building through Fredericktown Local School District’s Project Lead the Way.
The Architecture Design class toured the building, pulled building code and presented several options for interior design. The Introduction to Engineering Design class designed several options for an exterior design and patio gathering area, according to Kristine.
More than 20 students were involved in the process through the two classes.
The Lindemans hope the business will continue to provide opportunities for young locals by offering a chance to join the workforce.
“Most of our staff are young, and it gives them an opportunity to have a local job that’s super flexible. I spent 16 years in retail, and I feel like those soft skills are just important to have,” Kristine said.
Staying involved in the community, even beyond employment, is a constant goal for TK’s as it grows.
Recently, TK’s sponsored a local youth baseball team, which won its championship this past season.
“It’s been super fun to see the kids excited, and again, (its) a safe place for them to come hang out and let us love on them a little bit,” Kristine said.
The menu features local vendors, including hard dip ice cream from Round Hill Dairy and Coney Island hot dogs from Smithhisler Meats.
According to Kristine, it has been about 15 years since a dedicated ice cream joint was open in Fredericktown. She hopes TK’s will become a place where families, coworkers and the community come together.
TK’s Ice Cream & Sweets will hold its ribbon cutting on Aug. 7. The event will be an all-day affair, according to Kristine, and will have face painting and a balloon artist.
