The Daniel Island News Features Mister Softee Charleston

The Daniel Island News published a June 2026 feature on the ice cream truck tradition still rolling through Daniel Island, Point Hope, and the Cainhoy Peninsula. The story, written by Daniel Island resident Audra Schaafsma, names Mister Softee Charleston and talks with owner Frank Ruggiero about how the business works today.

We wanted to share that coverage in our own words, and point you to the full piece in Summer's sweetest roving tradition gets a modern upgrade.

The jingle still pulls people outside

The paper described a tradition that still sounds like summer: kids hear the music and come running, just as earlier generations did. Frank told them about a stop in Carolina Park where eight kids in pajamas were jumping up and down when the truck came around the corner, because they had heard the jingle. That is the part of the job that does not change.

On Daniel Island, that same pull shows up at neighborhood socials, office parks, and backyard parties. The truck also serves Point Hope and the Cainhoy Peninsula, so a private event does not have to sit on the island itself for us to come to you.

Private events are a big part of the work now

Frank told the paper the work has moved well beyond driving one route and hoping people hear the music. Today the truck is booked for weddings, HOA events, school events, birthday parties, and block parties. Families and planners can request a date online instead of waiting on the curb.

That booking path is the same one we use here. Send the date, address, and guest count through the contact form, and we confirm from there.

Cones, sprinkles, and how people pay

The most popular order is still a vanilla cone with rainbow sprinkles. The truck also serves sundaes, milkshakes, waffle cones, soda floats, and banana boats, which is why adults get in line with the kids.

Cash is still welcome. Frank told the paper digital payments now make up most of the window, split about 65/35 credit and Apple Pay to cash.

Read the full feature

For the complete story, including Frank's comments in his own words, read Summer's sweetest roving tradition gets a modern upgrade in The Daniel Island News. Then check Frank's story or the Daniel Island service area if you want the truck at your next gathering.