Tony’s Ice Cream Legacy Celebrated at Exhibit Reception
By: Lauren Ramsey – Wise News Network
Dallas, NC (WNN)— The history of Tony’s Ice Cream was celebrated on Friday, March 7th, at the Gaston County Museum during the opening VIP reception of “The Old Fashioned Way: The Tony’s Ice Cream Story” exhibit, which is dedicated to the beloved local ice cream store.
A Gathering of Generations and Memorabilia
The opening reception attracted a notable crowd of elected officials and community members, all eager to celebrate the cherished history of Tony’s Ice Cream. Displays featured vintage artifacts showcasing the evolution of Tony’s Ice Cream, from its early days as a pushcart to its current storefront.
Guests paused to see antique ice cream scoops along with many other artifacts. Louis Colletta, the current owner of Tony’s Ice Cream, was in attendance with his family. He walked through the exhibit, engaging with attendees and sharing personal stories. He pointed to a pot on display, recounting how his Aunt Mary would use it to bring the family spaghetti, a cherished memory that resonated with many in the room. Museum staff were also present throughout the museum, pointing out notable artifacts and sharing historical context.
Belmont Specialty Foods: A Taste of Local Flavor
Adding to the festivities, Belmont Specialty Foods provided catering for the event. A beautifully arranged table featured a variety of refreshments, including pastries, breads, and fresh vegetables, offering guests a variety of options to choose from. There were also a variety of drinks to choose from such as sodas, Wine, and Beer.
A Musical Welcome
Adding a soulful addition to the evening, musician Vince Rivers provided peaceful entertainment. As a modern-day singer-songwriter who weaves R&B, jazz, blues, and reggae into his music, Rivers created a lively yet intimate atmosphere throughout the museum’s reception.
Louis Colletta’s Family Connection
We caught up with Louis Coletta during the event. When asked what it meant to have his family’s history and legacy featured in the exhibit, Colletta expressed a deep sense of pride in the family legacy. “Well, it’s quite an honor,” he remarked, gesturing towards the displays. “I know my granddad Carmine, my dad, my mom, and my brother Bob… it was just a great big family thing.”
Coletta emphasized the importance of preserving the original recipes, stating, “We actually made chocolate ice cream right now the way my granddad made chocolate ice cream. If we can’t make the ice cream exactly the way we want to make it, we just won’t make it at all.”
He also stressed the company’s commitment to customer service, noting, “We value all of our customers. We’re serving generations of people in Gastonia, and we’re honored to do that.” He expressed admiration for his grandfather’s entrepreneurial spirit, pointing to the ice cream wagon on display and calling it “a jewel”.
A Legacy Preserved
Overall, The “Old Fashioned Way: The Tony’s Ice Cream Story” exhibit at the Gaston County Museum serves as a testament to the legacy of Tony’s Ice Cream. It brings to life the sweet memories and rich history of Tony’s Ice Cream, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the company’s contribution to the community.
The exhibit will be open to the public for a year and a half, offering a delightful journey through the past for ice cream lovers of all ages.
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