Family-owned businesses in Middletown, from the Main’s to the Gladhill’s, have a long, rich history of successful business. The newest addition, Jaley’s ice cream parlor, is all set to add its name to the list.

Run by the Darr family, and named after their two children, Jacob and Haley, Jaley’s has already made a lasting impression to the community. Jaley’s offers numerous ice cream flavors and a variety of toppings ranging from gummy bears to sprinkles.

“The toppings are my favorite,” said Middletown High School freshman Brandon Stonestreet.

Jaley’s also offers more than the standard vanilla, chocolate and strawberry with Hershey flavors, varying from Moose Tracks to Cappuccino Crunch.

The Darr’s moved to Middletown in 2002 along with their two children, now 11 and 12. Wendi Darr noted that her husband always wanted to start an ice cream parlor because “everyone is always happy.” That reason along with the family’s belief that the kids in the community had few places where they could be with their friends brought about Jaley’s.

When asked how the business contributes to Middletown, Darr said that “it is a safe environment and a good place for local kids to hang out.”

“They can stay here as long as they want,” Darr added.

Jaley’s has installed several televisions in the shop so “kids can watch cartoons or the guys can watch the game,” Darr said.

Besides watching the latest television show, customers can enjoy their frozen treats in an old fashion ice cream parlor setting, while sitting at the counter or at one of the many tables located along the wall.

There is more to Jaley’s than just ice cream. The shop also offers muffins, breads and pastries, plus lattes and cappuccinos. Since Jaley’s opens at 6:30 a.m. Monday through Friday, the morning commuters are able to stop in for breakfast.

Jaley’s is also a great way to finish off a meal. “After you eat pizza [at James Gang] you can head on over to Jaley’s and get ice cream,” said Stonestreet. 

MHS freshman Emma Trapp thinks that Jaley’s is a “great place to hang out.” making it an added plus for the local teenagers. Trapp also likes the staff at Jaley’s, because “they are friendly and helpful.”

In fact, many of those “friendly and helpful” staff members are Middletown High School students. Besides providing Middletown with delicious ice cream, Jaley’s has also given Middletown teens an excellent opportunity for employment.

MHS junior Erin Kilonsky has worked at Jaley’s since it first opened because she needed a job and simply because she “thought it would be fun to scoop ice cream.” Kilonsky says she sees “a lot of people from school” while working.

For many local teens, Jaley’s is within walking distance, saving them the hassle of having to find someone to drive them to work and lots of money on gas.

Jaley’s has already made a great impression on Middletown’s residents in the short time it has been open. On any given evening one can find families, local teens, and couples enjoying Jaley’s many offerings. It has quickly become a place that offers great food and conversation.

Even though the summer is over and the traditional ice cream season is coming to an end, Jaley’s will no doubt make the community long for ice cream all year round. Jaley’s is set to become a wonderful Middletown tradition.