NORFOLK, Neb.--Passing the torch.

A local shop in downtown Norfolk is getting new ownership.

The original owner of the shop, Jodi Ronspies, started ‘MJ’s Gelato and More’ back in 2019. She said it was time to retire and find other people who can serve the community.

“I was hoping when I put it up for sale somebody would buy it that would want to continue this nice little shop downtown,” said Ronspies. “It’s something unique.”

The new owners Karen and Steven Carlsen said when the shop became available to purchase, they thought it was a match made in heaven.

“We know the community loves MJ’s,” said Karen Carlsen. “We kinda jumped on it.”

The Carlsen’s will be officially taken over the shop starting on April 17th. Steven Carlsen said they have some exciting changes in the works for the shop.

“We are going to extend the hours,” said Steven Carlsen. “We’re planning to be open either nine or ten pm each night to kinda give us an opportunity to see how things will go where the demand is at and allow for the community to decide for us.”

Carlsen said another big change they’re planning to make is having something for everyone to enjoy.

“We want to expand the lineup to allow for people that have other needs ,” he added.

A change to its menu that will include vegan options and sorbet products for customers who are dairy intolerant.

Keeping connections with the community is going to be an important aspect of what the shop wants to be known for.

Currently, the shop gets cupcakes from a local bakery in Madison and that’s something Carlsen said will continue into the future.

With a military background in mind, the family knowns a thing or two about what it’s like to serve.

“The idea of being able to take those experiences and really apply them to a business and being able to react well with people of all walks of life and provide them something that brings them joy is extraordinary for us,” said Steven Carlsen.