Greenbelt’s very own baker extraordinaire, Chef Lou Parker expects to have a grand re-opening in a few weeks. His late wife, Denise (Niecey) Parker, will become part of the store’s name. Parker hopes to fill the store with Denise’s nurturing and kind spirit, making it an inviting place for customers to frequent in the community they both loved.
Over the past two years Chef Lou has experienced many trials and tribulations. He has lost his eyesight, his wife and his best friend. To make matters worse a tree fell on his house and the water heater in the store leaked, causing serious damage. Through it all his faith and the memory of Denise have sustained him. He is a man of great faith and an elder at Bible Way Church.
Chef Lou wants the Greenbelt community to remember that, as a volunteer, Denise helped many women transition from incarceration and/or homelessness to more stable lives. She was a board member of the Community Crisis Service Center, worked in real estate in Greenbelt and helped people walk through the housing process, especially those with mortgage and other
housing issues. To continue Denise’s legacy, Chef Lou will add a few new baked goods, in addition to his usual delicious cakes, cookies and pastries.
He will continue serving ice cream and his carrot cake will remain a staple. He also plans to offer seniors special discount days.
Currently the store is under renovation – he is replacing the water heater and installing a new floor. Chef Lou believes these renovations will help to create a more welcoming atmosphere for customers and enable him to fulfill his vision to engage in and uplift the community of Greenbelt.
Welcome Back, Chef Lou!