Taylor's Re-Opening Makes Chester 'Normal' Again

Bringing customers from all over the region, the landmark of Taylor's Ice Cream Parlor in Chester is back in full swing after a grand re-opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony just before Thanksgiving.

On hand to help the small business reopen its doors was Chester Borough Mayor Bob Davis. The following is an account of the parlor's return from an eight-month closure forced by a fire, and what the business means to the business district.

With a lot of fanfare and cameras snapping, Taylor’s re-opened on Saturday, Nov. 23, after being closed since March of this year. Chester’s Fire Department was well represented with many firemen and two fire trucks. (I stop to note that without our valiant fire fighters’ efforts there would be no Centennial Building and hence no Taylor's to re-open this year.) 

The Klein family made a grand appearance with many family members. (Ron Klein owns the business.) Karen Taylor was there to represent the Taylor family. Mayor Robert Davis, Councilman Iversen and Councilwoman Gugliemini were among the well-wishers. Assemblyman Anthony Bucco and his wife also made a grand appearance including a Proclamation from the New Jersey State Assembly. 

Mayor Davis cut the ribbon and remarked that he and his wife, Mary Louise, have greatly missed Taylor’s homemade ice cream over the past 8 months. Not to be denied, the doors opened and scores of people lined up for first servings in the newly remodeled and nicely appointed ice cream shop. With the separating petition removed, the dining area was united with the serving area. What a nice improvement!

After about an hour, the initial patrons slowly became satisfied with their first helpings. Many went back for another taste. The clientele were served by Chester’s teenagers as they once again were back to help us all enjoy one of our favorite foods.

The shop remained busy most of the day with hundreds of well-wishers and Chester was once again, back to normal. 

Taylors has returned.