Craveables Ice Cream Shop serves community, provides unique job opportunity for employees

By: Christian Shields  |  Photos by: Ashlee Glen

CraveABLEs ice cream shop combines quality desserts with exceptional service to ensure that customers and staff alike feel welcome, supported, and well-fed.

Started by local high school special education teachers Taylor Perkins and Genevieve Weaver, craveABLEs aims to come alongside individuals with intellectual disabilities by providing them with a stable job that not only allows them to better their community, but also gain valuable life skills that they can carry for the rest of their lives, including food prep, money skills, taking inventory, fulfilling online orders, busing tables, building relationships with customers, and more.

Perkins, who serves as the president of the non-profit, said that she first had the idea for the ice cream shop after watching several of her high school students have trouble finding work
after graduation.

“Outside of just my classroom, I have also met so many families who have had children with disabilities struggling to find something meaningful… and specifically overlooked in the workforce,” she said.

“A lot of people hear they have a disability and think that they can’t do anything, but that’s false. They are able to do tons of things. Sometimes they just need encouragement or the correct platform to showcase all they are able to do.”

With over a dozen different flavors of Homestead Creamery ice cream as well as options for ice cream nachos, sammies, and floats, the shop looks to meet every customer’s specific sweet tooth.

“Our slogan is ‘full bellies, fuller hearts’ because customers can go to different places and get ice cream, but there’s no other place where you can go and get sweet treats and also know that you are doing a great thing and changing lives,” Perkins said. “You’re providing [craveABLEs employees] with their first and, for some, only job they will ever have. So, we need the community and the customers to make this successful. Without customers, we are an ice cream shop with no one to serve.” 

In addition to the craveABLEs trailer, which launched in April, the company also added a brick-and-mortar location in June at 2608 Lakeside Drive. While the trailer allows employees to venture out and serve the community at festivals and private events, the permanent store enables them to better foster relationships with the community.

“By coming to craveABLEs, customers will know that it’s more than just ice cream and they are making a difference in all the employees’ lives,” Perkins said. “And vice versa—our employees are so happy to have a job and a chance to engage with the community and meet new friends. Our customers can learn a lot from our employees, such as how to be happy with the little things in life, specifically the opportunity to just have a job!”  

You can find craveABLEs at 2608 Lakeside Drive in Lynchburg and online at craveables.org.

Baking is often considered both a science and an art. From the sweet aroma of freshly baked bread to the satisfying crunch of a perfectly baked cookie, the world of baking offers endless opportunities for creativity and delight. For those just starting their journey, understanding the basics can set you on the path to becoming a skilled baker. This guide will walk you through the essential aspects of baking, from understanding key terms and ingredients to mastering oven temperatures and techniques.

Understanding Baking Terms

Before diving into recipes, it’s important to familiarize yourself with some common baking terms. These terms are the language of baking, and understanding them will help you follow recipes accurately and troubleshoot any issues that arise.

• Folding: A gentle mixing method used to combine delicate ingredients, such as beaten egg whites or whipped cream, into a batter without deflating them. This technique is essential for creating light and airy baked goods like soufflés and mousse.
• Proofing: The process of allowing yeast dough to rise before baking. This step is crucial for achieving the desired texture and volume in breads and pastries. Proper proofing allows the yeast to ferment, producing carbon dioxide that makes the dough rise.
• Blind Baking: Baking a pie crust or pastry shell partially or fully before adding the filling to prevent a soggy bottom. This technique is essential for custard pies, tarts, and any pie with a filling that doesn’t require long baking.
• Kneading: Working dough with your hands to develop gluten, giving bread its structure and chewiness. Kneading can be done by hand or with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook.

Essential Ingredients

Every baker’s pantry should be stocked with a few key ingredients. Understanding the role of each ingredient will help you follow recipes and make substitutions when necessary.

• Flour: The backbone of most baked goods. All-purpose flour is versatile and suitable for most recipes, but bread flour, cake flour, and pastry flour each have specific uses based on their protein content. Bread flour has a higher protein content, providing more gluten and structure, while cake flour is lighter and produces a tender crumb.
• Sugar: Granulated sugar is commonly used, but brown sugar, confectioners’ sugar, and alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup also play important roles in baking. Brown sugar adds moisture and a rich flavor due to its molasses content.
• Leavening Agents: These include baking powder, baking soda, and yeast. They create the gas that makes dough rise and give baked goods their lightness. Baking powder and baking soda are chemical leaveners, while yeast is a biological leavener.
• Fats: Butter, margarine, shortening, and oils contribute to the texture, flavor, and moisture of baked goods. Butter is preferred for its flavor, while shortening is often used for its ability to produce flaky pastries.
• Eggs: Eggs provide structure, leavening, color, and flavor. They also help emulsify mixtures. The proteins in eggs provide structure, while the fats add richness.
• Liquids: Water, milk, cream, and buttermilk add moisture and react with leavening agents to help baked goods rise. Buttermilk, with its acidity, also helps tenderize the gluten in the dough.

Measuring Ingredients

Accurate measurement is crucial in baking. Unlike cooking, where you can often improvise, baking requires precision. Here are some tips for measuring ingredients:

• Dry Ingredients: Use measuring cups specifically designed for dry ingredients. Spoon the ingredient into the cup and level it off with a straight edge to ensure accuracy. Avoid packing the flour unless the recipe specifically instructs you to do so.
• Liquid Ingredients: Use a clear measuring cup with a spout. Place it on a flat surface and check the measurement at eye level to avoid parallax error.
• Weight: For the most accuracy, consider using a kitchen scale. Many professional bakers prefer weighing ingredients, especially flour and sugar, to ensure consistency. This method eliminates variations caused by how ingredients are packed or scooped.

Oven Temperatures and Baking Times

Understanding your oven and how it works is essential for successful baking. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

• Preheating: Always preheat your oven before baking. Most recipes specify a temperature, and it’s important to reach that temperature before placing your item in the oven. An under-heated oven can cause baked goods to cook unevenly or not rise properly.
• Oven Thermometer: Ovens can be inaccurate. Using an oven thermometer ensures you’re baking at the correct temperature. This small investment can make a big difference in your baking results.
• Rack Position: The position of your oven rack can affect baking. Generally, the middle rack is ideal for most baking, but some recipes may call for higher or lower placement. Baking on the middle rack ensures even air circulation and consistent heat.
• Baking Times: Follow the recipe’s suggested baking time, but start checking for doneness a few minutes early. Factors like oven accuracy, pan type, and ingredient variations can affect baking time. Remember that baking times are guidelines and not absolutes.

Basic Baking Techniques

Mastering a few basic techniques will give you the confidence to tackle a variety of recipes. Here are some essentials:

• Mixing: Proper mixing ensures even distribution of ingredients. Different recipes require different mixing methods, from gently folding in egg whites to vigorously beating butter and sugar. Overmixing can develop too much gluten, leading to tough baked goods.
• Kneading Dough: Kneading develops gluten, which gives bread its structure. To knead, press the dough with the heel of your hand, fold it over, and rotate. Repeat until the dough is smooth and elastic. Proper kneading helps create the desired texture in bread.
• Rolling and Shaping: Many recipes require rolling dough to a specific thickness or shaping it into rolls or loaves. Use a lightly floured surface to prevent sticking. Rolling dough evenly ensures even baking.
• Testing for Doneness: For cakes and quick breads, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s done. For breads, tap the bottom – it should sound hollow. Visual cues, such as golden-brown crusts, can also indicate doneness.

Tips for Success

Even with the best recipes and techniques, a few extra tips can make your baking experience more enjoyable and successful:

• Read the Recipe: Always read through the entire recipe before starting. Make sure you understand each step and have all the necessary ingredients and equipment. This prevents surprises and mistakes mid-recipe.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Many recipes call for room temperature ingredients, such as butter and eggs. This ensures they incorporate more easily and evenly into the batter, creating a smoother texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can result in tough, dense baked goods. Mix just until the ingredients are combined, especially when adding flour to batters and doughs.
• Use Quality Ingredients: The quality of your ingredients affects the final product. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results. Fresh ingredients yield better flavor and texture.
• Practice Patience: Baking often requires patience. Allow time for dough to rise, for flavors to meld, and for items to cool properly before serving or decorating. Rushing can lead to subpar results.

With these foundational skills and knowledge, you can confidently explore the vast world of baking. Whether you’re baking for fun, for family, or with professional aspirations, the joy of creating something delicious from scratch is an incomparable (and tasty) reward.

Summer in Central Virginia means long, sunny days perfect for swimming and splashing around. Whether you’re in Lynchburg, Campbell County, Bedford, Appomattox, Amherst, or Altavista, this region offers a variety of aquatic venues. From family-friendly splashpads to serene lakes and hidden swimming holes, there’s something for everyone. 

Lynchburg

Public Pools

Lynchburg offers several public pools that provide a refreshing escape during the hot summer months. The Miller Park Pool, located in Miller Park, is a popular choice. It features a large main pool with lap lanes, a diving area, and a children’s wading pool. 

Splashpads

For a fun, no-swim-necessary experience, the Riverside Park Sprayground is a must-visit. This splashpad features interactive water jets, sprayers, and fountains that are perfect for young children. The nearby playground and picnic areas make it a great spot for a family day out.

Editor’s Note: At the time of publishing, the Riverside Park Sprayground is temporarily closed for maintenance.

Lakes and Swimming Holes

While Lynchburg itself doesn’t have significant natural lakes, the nearby James River offers several spots for swimming and recreation. Percival’s Island Natural Area provides scenic views and access to the river, making it a popular spot for locals looking to cool off.

Campbell County

Lakes and Swimming Holes

Leesville Lake in Campbell County is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing. With several public access points, it’s a great spot to enjoy a day on the water. Additionally, the Staunton River State Park offers swimming opportunities along the river, with scenic spots perfect for a refreshing dip.

Bedford

Lakes and Swimming Holes

Smith Mountain Lake, partially located in Bedford County, is a renowned destination for all kinds of water activities. Public beaches, such as those at Smith Mountain Lake State Park, provide safe and enjoyable swimming environments. For a more secluded experience, the Blue Ridge Parkway offers hidden swimming holes surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, such as the James River Footbridge area in Big Island just off of the Appalachian Trail.

Appomattox

Lakes and Swimming Holes

Holliday Lake State Park in Appomattox County offers a serene lake perfect for swimming. The designated swimming area is roped off for safety, and the park provides lifeguards during peak times. The park’s natural setting also offers hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities.

Amherst

Lakes and Swimming Holes

Thrashers Lake is a peaceful spot in Amherst County for swimming and fishing. The lake is surrounded by beautiful scenery and offers a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

Altavista

Splashpads

English Park in Altavista features a splashpad that is a hit with local children. The park also includes sports fields and picnic areas, making it a great place for a family outing.

Lakes and Swimming Holes

For those seeking a natural swimming experience, Leesville Lake extends into the Altavista area, providing ample opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing.

The Lynchburg region offers a diverse array of aquatic venues, each providing unique experiences for residents and visitors alike. From the lively splashpads and community pools to the tranquil lakes and hidden swimming holes, there is no shortage of places to cool off and enjoy the water. So, grab your swimsuit and sunscreen, and explore the refreshing waters of Central Virginia this summer!