Don Lane, the self-proclaimed 'ice cream mayor', embarked on a unique journey to celebrate National Ice Cream Day in style. This month-long adventure took him across California, visiting over 90 local ice cream shops and indulging in the sweet treats they offer. Lane's passion for ice cream is evident, as he and his daughter even have matching ice cream cone tattoos!
His tour began in Southern California and made its way up through the Central Valley, with stops in San Diego, Los Angeles, and beyond. Along the way, he met up with family and friends, sharing the joy of ice cream with those around him. Lane's enthusiasm for the tour is infectious, as he describes the experience as 'a light mood' and a 'really beautiful thing to sit and eat ice cream with someone'.
In Santa Cruz, Lane and his crew visited four local ice cream shops, each with its own unique charm. Mission Hill Creamery and Coffee, Gran Gelato Caffé, The Penny Ice Creamery and Ice Cream on Fair, and Marianne’s and Polar Bear ice cream all played a part in the tour. Lane even had a special dish shaped like the World Cup trophy, as the crawl got underway just minutes after Spain's victory in the FIFA World Cup.
The day was particularly special for Mission Hill Creamery, as it was their 16th anniversary. Owner David Kumec held a bag full of prize options for customers to choose from, and Lane presented the shop with a proclamation from Mayor Fred Keeley. Gran Gelato Caffé, the newest shop on the tour, opened in March and offers traditional and innovative flavors, including hazelnut, popcorn, and even mozzarella.
Lane's journey is far from over, as he plans to continue his California ice cream tour for the next few weeks, visiting nearby towns and sampling unique and classic flavors. With 55 ice cream shops already under his belt, Lane's strategy has fallen apart, as he is constantly drawn to new flavors and experiences. His favorite combination is coffee and chocolate, but he has also tried black licorice, tequila, and tomato basil-flavored ice cream scoops.
Lane's ice cream tour is not just about the treats; it's about the experience and the joy of sharing it with others. His enthusiasm and passion for ice cream are infectious, and his journey is a testament to the power of indulging in life's simple pleasures. As he continues his tour, Lane is sure to create more memorable moments and spread the love of ice cream across the state.
