In Pearl River, one of the icons of the River is King Cone. Before it was established it was called Mr. Softee; remember that? Everyone in town knows that it's open from the day of the St. Patrick's Parade in Pearl River until November. It has to be the most fascinating places to really enjoy yourself while you people watch. Everyone gets so excited about their treat. You can see it in their faces, hear it in their voices and feel their enthusiasm when they order.
Remember when you were a kid and your parents took you for ice cream? Well, for those of you who are adults, you now understand that they may have been taking you out, but their ulterior motive was for themselves. Oh that luscious ice cream treat!
All you have to do is just look at the excitement on the faces of the moms and dads, grandmas and granddads, aunts and uncles, or whoever is there standing at the counter just waiting for their order to be taken and fulfilled. Everyone, young and old are "In the Zone" when they order and when they are enjoying their ice cream reward.
The cost of the ice cream doesn't seem to matter. Everyone knows they can pick up a half gallon at Shop Rite or 7-11 much cheaper, but it's not the same. There is an energy in the anticipation of waiting, ordering and having the dish, cone or cup being delivered across that open window. Yes, it is a window, a window into our youth. We connect in that very moment. Past, present and future are delivered right to you in a small container.
Throughout the whole experience, it is a social event. You get to see everyone. Everyone seems to have that ice cream grin across their faces. It's like nothing can go wrong in that moment. All your troubles are pushed aside.
How many times are we going to go to King Cone this year? We couldn't venture to guess. The place is like the field of dreams. If you build it they will come seems to be the motto of King Kone. People pass their money over without batting an eye just to enjoy much more than ice cream. Big experience come is small packages. See you at the Cone!
