Ice cream. There is something special about the cool confection. Perhaps it’s the bond that begins as a child when chasing the jingle of the ice cream truck down the street, or perhaps it’s the pure nostalgic joy an ice cream cone delivers as an adult when you’re holding one topped with bright sprinkles — or jimmies, depending on where you’re from. The timeless treat is appreciated in all its forms, from gelato and sorbet to sandwiches and milkshakes. In the spirit of summer, we talk with local ice cream makers about their journeys, dish out our favorite scoops, hunt down vegan options and even get a little weird.