New bakery in Pinckneyville

There's a new bakery in Pinckneyville. Aunt Minnie's Nibble and Chat opened recently in the former Masonic Lodge on Mill Street. The bakery is owned by Mary Rice who was called Aunt Minnie by a niece who couldn't say Mary. The nibble and chat part of the bakery's name is an homage to the old Chat and Nibble in town. The business is operated by Rice and her family members- husband Jim Rice, nieces, sister, daughter, mother. A few friends also help out, as needed. Rice, who works in therapy at area nursing homes, has always been a baker. She frequently took her wares to work to share and always got compliments. Rice worked to perfect the sweet offerings and will expand their menu as time permits. The current best-seller is a huge cinnamon roll. Aunt Minnie's Nibble and Chat is open 5:30 a.m. to 12 noon Wednesday through Sunday. The bakery also offers cakes for special occasions.