Ashley Powers
Ashley Powers

Washington journalist Ashley Powers (@ashleypowers on Twitter) is a contributing writer for the California Sunday Magazine.

Food  |  News & Politics

The Secret, Dark, and Twisted Story Behind the Gifford Family’s Ice Cream Empire

For generations of Washingtonians, the Gifford family’s ice-cream business was synonymous with wholesome fun. Even after the chain collapsed amid allegations of financial impropriety, a string of entrepreneurs sought to revive the beloved brand. But now a memoir by the last surviving member of the dynasty says the real history of Gifford’s was more sinister than anyone knew. Can Andrew Gifford undo a city’s nostalgic love for his family’s name?