Menchie's Restaurant, a frozen yogurt and fruity sorbet store that bills itself as "the friendliest place on Earth," is celebrating its opening in Fenton with a week's worth of free giveaways and special promotions. The store is at 98 Gravois Bluffs Circle Drive. It is open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and from 11 a.m. o 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

Menchies had a preview and a ceremonial ribbon-cutting Friday, attended by members of the Fenton Chamber of Commerce and other patrons who stopped in as well. The store's mascot, Menchie, was a featured participant.

The weeklong series of grand opening promotions begin at 1 p.m. Sunday (Saturday, Jan. 12). The first 25 guests at the store will receive a free plushie doll. In addition, while supplies last, a free colorable T-short will be given to customers. Free face painting also will be available.

The Grand opening celebration continues from 5 to 6 p.m. Monday (Jan. 13) during a $1 "Yummm hour" Guests will be able to fill a cup with their favorite frozen yogurt for $1. From 2 to 4 p.m. Tuesday (Jan. 15), kids under 10 years of age will eat free. On Wednesday (Jan. 16) the lunchtime crowd will benefit from half-off prices on Menchies products from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.  At 3 p.m. Thursday (Jan. 16) free dodge balls will be given out to the first 25 guests. Friday is date night from 8 p.m. to closing where Menchies' treats will be on a buy-one-get-one-free basis.

Menchie's is new to Missouri, according to Steffanie Campbell, who, along with her husband, Jim, are the franchisees for the store.

The Campbells first encountered Menchie’s while on vacation in Florida, and said they found the great food and fun atmosphere irresistible.

They hope to offer an unparalleled experience that is welcoming, fun and interactive, with arts and crafts for kids, enjoyable music and indoor/outdoor seating areas where friends and family gather. Guests are able to choose from more than 100 rotating yogurt flavors and a variety of more than 70  toppings for unlimited combinations. Flavors range from fruity sorbets and nonfat yogurts such as black cherry, shredded coconut and apple pie; to luscious lowfat yogurts including fudge brownie batter and chocolate peanut butter cup. These can be topped with fresh fruit, nuts, granola, candy, sauces or hot fudge to make a treat that’s as healthy or decadent as each guest prefers.

“We absolutely fell in love with Menchie’s, and we know the family-oriented Fenton community will too,” said Jim Campbell.