Fudgie the Whale - Flying Saucers - those little chocolate crunchies that are most commonly associated with a particular ice cream spot that you likely grew up visiting for a cool treat on a summer night.

That iconic ice cream shop that has ties to so many of our childhoods, that doesn't have as many storefront locations as it once did (in the Hudson Valley at least). We're talking Carvel, and the incredible transformation that one Hudson Valley Carvel shop has made in just a few months time.

S. Mahon
S. Mahon
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Hopewell Junction Carvel Under New Ownership

The new owners of Carvel are simply what community is about!! They have a lovely business, clean, tasty and their care shows!

This is along the lines of what so many people have been saying since Shayne Mahon took over as owner of the Hopewell Junction Carvel. A short three months ago, during the 'quiet season,' Shayne has done everything but that, be quiet, as he brought life to an ice cream establishment in the dead of winter, and excitement (and smiles) to the faces of local patrons who have expressed how happy they are with what he's been doing.

S.Mahon
S.Mahon
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Like many of us, Shayne grew up enjoying Carvel with his family, specifically recalled his Grandma having Flying Saucers at the ready, and a signature Carvel Ice Cream cake for birthday celebrations. Many years later, his aunt and uncle ended up owning the Jefferson Valley Carvel location, and then brought him to the Hudson Valley with hopes that he would one day end up in the business. Shayne ended up getting his real estate license and enjoying that career, but fast forward years later, lended a hand when his family needed one at their Carvel business.

S.Mahon
S.Mahon
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That decision to help his family with their Carvel store helped solidify his decision to purchase the Hopewell location, and as he said 'the rest is history.'

SEE ALSO: What Happened to Hudson Valley Gyro in East Fishkill?

Community Praises Hopewell Carvel's New Offerings, Customer Service

My approach to the store (and life in general I guess),is that I want everyone walking out the door with a smile on their face.

This is what Shayne shared regarding his approach to running a thriving Carvel ice cream shop in Hopewell Junction. Grateful for the warm welcome, and thankful for the good word that has been spread about what new ownership at Carvel has brought to Hopewell.

Ahead of the Super Bowl, local patrons raved about the creative cakes on display in the case, Fudgie decked out for the big game, even incorporating some Swiftie decor into the offerings. Prior to that, Fudgie was dressed up for Christmas and New Year's Eve, and they've got fun things planned for St. Patrick's Day, too.

S.Mahon
S.Mahon
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Beyond the standard cake offerings, Shayne and his crew, who are quite literally making everything (cakes, saucers, hand dipped flavors) on site, every day, have been going all out with some fun creations like the pizza cake (that Shayne created) pictured below.

S.Mahon
S.Mahon
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Carvel's 90th Anniversary Approaches

As for what's next, Shayne shared that there will be some celebratory stuff to look forward to around summer for Carvel's 90th anniversary. On the corporate side, a new dairy free soft serve has launched, and is made with Oatly brand oat milk and receiving great feedback. Locally, the Hopewell location will be getting a big makeover in about two years. Shayne and the Hopewell Carvel are working with the local community sponsoring some sports teams and doing school sponsorships, too.

 

I’d be lying if I said I had some concrete plan heading in with an outline of how everything will go. My approach has basically been to make sure that the store itself is clean and feels welcoming, and serves as a place for people to just enjoy themselves with some ice cream, pretty simple.

LOOK: The 21 most popular ice cream flavors in America

Stacker analyzed YouGov data and found the most popular ice cream flavors in the U.S. Read on to find America's favorite flavors.

Gallery Credit: Stacker

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