MODESTO - Ice cream is nearly synonymous with summer. Nothing soothes the discomfort of a sizzling summer day better than a scoop of your favorite chilled dairy dessert.

For nearly three decades, The Ice Cream Company, located at 2401 East Orangeburg Ave. in Modesto, has been delighting kids and adults of all ages with homemade ice cream and friendly service.

“The Ice Cream Company is a Modesto icon,” said owner Bonnie Acree. “Our friendly atmosphere makes everyone feel right at home.”

Since 2011, The Ice Cream Company has been owned and operated by Bonnie and Corey Acree. When the news broke that the parlor was getting ready to close its doors, Acree knew she had to step up to the plate and keep the tradition alive by taking over the business.

“This shop holds many memories dear to my heart,” said Acree. “I would come here as a kid all the time. I even celebrated my 15th birthday under this roof and had my very first LaPalooza with my friends. I’ve had the honor of also celebrating my daughter’s 15th birthday here as well.”

Whether it’s a birthday celebration, an ice cream party or a group of friends attempting to takedown the 10 pound La Palooza—the biggest ice cream sundae in town — The Ice Cream Company welcomes them all.

This Modesto parlor doesn’t just scoop up dairy delights, the staff hand-turns each of the 32 different flavors.

“Our ice cream production prepares up to 80 tubs of ice cream a week,” said Acree. “My son, James, who’s in charge of production, is the mastermind behind the new flavors. Our newest creation, ‘Everything Good,’ is a mixture of chocolate truffles, cookie dough, Reese’s peanut butter cups and chocolate chips. This flavor is a crowd favorite.”

Along with hand-turned ice cream, the parlor also offers a wide selection of sandwiches and salads made to order.

“We try to keep our menu fresh and healthier,” said Acree. “I’m kind of a health nut on a regular basis, so I like to indulge on my ice cream once in a while. It’s nice to have the two under one roof.”

TICC also likes to give back to the community and help those in need. Every month the shop donates part of its proceeds to a charitable organization. This month, TICC will donate a percentage of proceeds to the Hope Dental Van, a mobile dental van fully equipped to provide dental care for underprivileged families.

“Helping other people in need is the cornerstone for our business,” said Acree. “We like to give back to the community and assist others that need it the most.”



— NANCY ANGEL / The 209