(Zachary Meseck photo)

NORWICH – After more than 30 years of business in the Town of Norwich, Lindy’s Ice Cream Stop announced Tuesday it won’t allow smoking or vaping so customers can enjoy their food without dealing with second-hand smoke.

According to Lindy’s Ice Cream Stop Owner Kay Lindenthaler, this change in smoking policy came for several reasons including her husband’s battle with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) which is an umbrella term used to describe progressive lung diseases including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and non-reversible asthma.

“It’s not just for my husband though, I made this change for everybody, especially for the young and old who really struggle with cigarette smoke,” said Lindenthaler. “You should be able to enjoy a meal without sitting next to someone who is smoking.”

She said by installing signs and enforcing rules that include no smoking, vaping, or climbing, she hopes to provide the best experience possible for her customers. She added that she’s been very fortunate to have the same employees returning for several years in a row, and hopes seeing familiar faces makes customers feel more at home.

“I think working at the shop is a great stepping stone for these kids to get real work experience, make money, and pursue their futures,” said Lindenthaler. “I have one motto that I tell them when they get hired, you have to learn to add, subtract, and be pleasant – that’s all.”