MIDDLETOWN, Ohio — Central Pastry has been serving treats on Middletown’s main drag for decades, and the coronavirus pandemic isn’t stopping that.
In fact, the bakery’s signature cookie is bringing plenty of extra smiles.
The smiley face butter cookies that are already a favorite of many added a mask last week, just like the ones urged by Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, and they were an instant hit.
“At first I didn’t want to do it last week, because they would compete with Easter,” said owner Vera Slamka. “But we put them out on Thursday and everyone wanted them. We sold so many it was ridiculous, all of them, they were gone.”
The idea came from a friend of Slamka’s daughter, Elizabeth, who sent a picture of a similar offering from a German bakery and asked Central Pastry to make two dozen.
Slamka said the cookies help to remind everyone to do their part by wearing a mask when they go out to stop the spread of the virus.
“There is no reason to panic, to be upset about it or depressed, because I think this is time for the people to really get together and be with family. Family is so important,” Slamka said.
The store at 1518 Central Ave. is selling out of the masked cookies daily. They are favorites for doctors, nurses and first responders. Dozens have been shipped.
The bakery remains open during the stay-at-home order and precautions have been taken. Shields have been installed at the counters, markings are on the floor to keep customers six feet a part and all the staff wear masks, just like their smiling cookies.
The Journal-News is news partner of WCPO 9.
