Those who live in Kent and have a sweet tooth for tasty treats are in luck. The Arctic Squirrel, an ice cream shop, is one of the many new additions to the downtown area.

The owners and operators of The Arctic Squirrel are Darrin and Michelle Hartman. They said they chose to open the store in Kent because they have lived in the city for several years. The Hartmans, along with their oldest son, are alumni of the university.

The Hartmans chose the name The Arctic Squirrel because they felt that it related to the famous black squirrels that are unique to the area. They also decided the name was appropriate because of the store’s location in Acorn Alley.

“We thought it would be fun to incorporate acorns into the squirrel name,” Hartman said.

Michelle said she believes the ice cream shop will be a hit with everyone because it features Emack and Bolio’s “super premium ice cream” and hand-dipped chocolates that she said can’t be found anywhere else near Kent. She said this type of ice cream uses the highest-quality extracts and ingredients, no added dyes and is freshly made.

Of the Arctic Squirrel’s 28 flavors of ice cream to choose from, the shop also serves low-fat yogurt, non-fat yogurt, sugar-free ice cream, sorbet, cones, sundaes, milkshakes, sodas, smoothies and chocolates.

The prices, special offers and business hours will be determined closer to the store’s opening day, which is hoped to be in October.

– Whitney Chaffin