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Ice Cream
Factory reopens By Lizzie Gotimer Saturday's rain didn't keep the lines away as the Ice Cream Factory on North Lee Highway opened for the season. Helped by unusually warm weather, the business did well, owner Darlene Hileman said. One father, who visits the stand with his family each opening weekend, said it was fun not having to shiver while they ate their ice cream. Local college students call the business the "Pink Hut" after its signature roof. It might be hard to spot otherwise -- it measures just 7 1/2-by-9 1/2 feet. Employee Brandon Fuentes of Buena Vista says the lines start to form at 3 p.m. on hot days, but noon and after dinner are also busy times. Hileman, who is beginning her second season as owner, says she is offering new treats and specials this year. She has added warm chocolate cake slices to the menu, topped with hot fudge, with ice cream on the side. There is also yellow cake served with fresh strawberries. As temperatures cool next fall, the cake slices will be served with a hot, spiced apple topping. Hileman has yet to name these new additions to the stand's signature milkshakes and sundaes. The business is open every day noon-9 p.m. As the weather warms, closing time will move back to 10 p.m. It’s difficult to heat the building, so, for the sake of her employees, Hileman says she won't stay open on early spring nights when the thermometer drops below 50 degrees. Temperatures dipped into the 30s Wednesday night, and are likely to remain chilly through the weekend.
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Produced by Washington and Lee journalism students. Lead supervisor: Prof. Claudette Artwick Reporting supervisors: Technical supervisor: Michael Todd |
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