Around this time each year, while people are turning on the heat in their homes, layering their clothing and sipping hot cocoa, employees at Jarling's Custard Cup, 309 W. Kirby Ave., prepare to close its doors.

"A lot of people ask why we won't stay open all winter," said Bob Sisney, manager of the store, which is planning to close Nov. 23. "Our answer to them is, 'Once it gets below 40 degrees you won't want ice cream.'"

Cozy's, another local ice cream shop at 1511 Springfield Ave. is closing for the winter on Nov. 30 for the same reason, as well as to make some changes to the menu.

"We would lose money if we stayed open," said Tina Goglia, store manager.

Many people who cannot imagine living without their favorite ice cream for an entire season choose to buy a lot of it so they can enjoy their favorite goodies, such as snowstorms and cold fudge sundaes, all year long.

"Usually, people come in on the last week and stock up on quarts for the winter months," said Luke Detering, who has worked at Custard Cup for seven years. "People who really love us have been known to come in and buy five gallons at a time," he said.

Jarling's Custard Cup is visited by both Champaign and Urbana residents, as well as University students.

"I like it because it's a local business," said Champaign resident Bob Healy. "I came here during my undergrad years in the '80s, and now I bring my family here."

Ice cream lovers can look forward to Custard Cup opening March 1, weather permitting.

"Come in early (on closing day)," Detering advised. "We sell until we sell out and then we close our doors."