COCHECTON CENTER, NY — New manager Pam Riddell is on a mission: to create community space with essential goods and food in the historic Heinle’s General Store. Riddell is creating a space for community members to congregate, share news, drink coffee and have breakfast and sandwiches, all day.

“We’ve got rock salt, oil for cars and ATVs, groceries, toiletries and household goods... all essential products at reasonable prices. We’re getting more products, every day,” she said.

The store will celebrate its grand opening with a holiday party on Sunday, December 16, beginning at 2 p.m. The party is catered by The Coach of Monticello.

Heinle’s General Store was founded by William F. Heinle in 1840 and remained in the family until his great-grandson Brian Heinle sold it to Paul Shin in 2006.

The store is now owned by Bi-Jay Singh, who lives in Livingston Manor and is an Air Force reservist.

“We’re looking to create a space for people to congregate, eat and, on occasion, watch football,” Riddell said.

The store will be open seven days a week and on holidays from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. The store will close at 9 p.m. on Fridays.