Did you know July is National Ice Cream Month? And even better—National Ice Cream Day falls on the third Sunday of July each year. We have President Ronald Reagan to thank for that sweet little proclamation back in 1984, and we’ve been celebrating with cones, sundaes, and sprinkles ever since.
Whether you’re a cup or cone person, chocolate or vanilla, or just say yes to anything cold and creamy—ice cream is the unofficial official dessert of summer.
Here are a few ways you can celebrate locally and at home: 🍦 Try making your own! Here’s a simple recipe to start with. 🍦 Host a sundae bar with classic toppings—hot fudge, caramel, sprinkles, cherries, nuts, and whipped cream. 🍦 Or better yet, support a local ice cream shop—like Dupes Scoops & More, right here in Wheeling.
A Fulton Tradition Reimagined
One of Wheeling’s newest small businesses is scooping up joy and nostalgia in the heart of Fulton. Dupes Scoops & More opened its doors in July 2024, but it already feels like a longtime local favorite.
Owner Luke Duplaga says taking over the space was a no-brainer.
“When it became available, I stepped out to do my own thing. Growing up, we always went to Fulton DQ after leaving Generations. The last thing I wanted was to see ice cream leave Fulton.”
For Luke, this isn’t just about starting a new chapter—it’s about continuing a Wheeling tradition. And when your family has been running beloved local businesses for generations (pun fully intended), you understand the heart of a community.
“Wheeling is your perfect small town. Everyone steps up for each other. I’ll never leave Wheeling. It’ll always be home.”
Luke credits his dad—and the family’s legacy—for planting the seed of entrepreneurship early on.
“Growing up in my family’s business showed me the kind of man I wanted to be. I used to fall asleep thinking about running my dad’s place one day and becoming a leader. I still see what we’ve learned from him show up in me and my siblings every day.”
(And full disclosure: I had my wedding reception at Generations not long ago—so yes, I’m a big fan of the Duplaga family and everything they’ve poured into Wheeling.)
When asked what drew him specifically to ice cream, Luke didn’t hesitate:
“It was always ice cream. That’s what this location was meant for—especially to honor the family who ran DQ here for 50+ years. There was never a doubt.”
Owner, Luke, sharing a Pup Cup to a patron with paws!
What’s Next for Dupes?
The early days of small business ownership are full of surprises—and for Luke, the biggest one has been the community’s support.
“I wasn’t really sure how this would go, but luckily we’ve taken off. We just keep trying to be our best and create an atmosphere people love.”
That support has fueled even bigger plans for Dupes Scoops.
“Dupes is here to stay. Eventually I want to see my nieces, nephews—or maybe my future kids—take it over in some capacity.”
But you won’t have to wait long to see what’s next.
“A lot sooner than five years from now, you’ll see more from us. I’m getting a trailer very soon for private parties, festivals—you name it. Five years from now? Maybe another brick and mortar. But for now, it’s one day at a time, keep pushing.”
Indulge in “Unicorn Avalanche” cotton candy ice cream with vanilla wafers + sprinkles, whipped cream, and waffle cone.
Luke says giving back and staying active in the community will always be part of the business’s foundation.
“Community is very important to me. Without support, I can’t keep going. Staying involved is a priority.”
And he has this to say to any young entrepreneurs in town:
“If you’re young, motivated, and willing to work your butt off 24/7—go for it. Most successful people fail over and over, but it’s what keeps you coming back that gets you there. I might fail tomorrow, but I’ll be back the next day grinding with a smile.”
We’ll raise a vanilla cone (with crunch, of course) to that kind of spirit.
So, Wheeling—how are you celebrating National Ice Cream Month? We suggest a stop at Dupes Scoops & More for something cold, creamy, and community-made.
Luke’s go-to?
“Always been a vanilla cone with crunch. But my second favorite? Cookie dough avalanche.”
Support local. Treat yourself. Celebrate summer. Happy National Ice Cream Month, Wheeling!
Olivia Beihl is a dedicated 5th grade teacher at Madison Elementary in Ohio County Schools. Originally from Charles Town, WV, she now resides in Wheeling with her husband, along with their two cats and a dog named Sadie. A fun-loving spirit, Olivia enjoys reading, hiking, and exploring new places, always seeking adventure and the beauty of the outdoors.
