Press Releases
Giant Sundae Commemorates 70th Anniversary of June Dairy Month
PHILADELPHIA (June 14, 2007) – Pennsylvania’s dairy promotion organizations kicked off June Dairy Month with the creation of a colossal ice cream sundae on the steps of the Capitol Building in Harrisburg on Tuesday, June 12.
This year, the dairy industry marks the 70th anniversary of honoring our nation’s hard-working dairy farmers during June Dairy Month. Dairy is the largest segment of Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry, generating more than $1.77 billion in economic activity.
“By celebrating June Dairy Month, we are giving Pennsylvanians the opportunity to thank the Commonwealth’s nearly 8,400 dairy farmers who work diligently year-round to provide consumers with a fresh supply of milk and dairy foods,” said Joyce Bupp, a York County dairy farmer and farmer spokesperson for Mid-Atlantic Dairy Association.
Consumers and dairy farmers alike gathered at the Capitol Building for a dip of Pennsylvania-churned ice cream. The annual salute to dairy farmers was sponsored by Mid-Atlantic Dairy Association and Pennsylvania Dairy Promotion Program, who work together to build dairy demand.
To kick off the event, Pennsylvania Secretary of Agriculture Dennis C Wolff read a proclamation by Gov. Rendell commemorating June Dairy Month in the Commonwealth.
“Pennsylvania is proud of its dairy industry and the important contribution it makes to our economy and the welfare of our citizens,” said Rendell in his proclamation. “We salute dairy farmers and their families for the strength and vitality they bring to rural communities throughout the Commonwealth, and their commitment to using the most modern technology for maximum efficiency.”
Representative Mike Peifer of Wayne County declared June 12 as “Dairy Day” in the state. Pennsylvania Dairy Princess Sarah Caldwell and dairywoman Joyce Bupp spoke on behalf of the state’s dairy industry and dairy farmers.
Following the opening remarks, dairy promotion staff and several dairy princesses created the giant sundae using 90 gallons of Turkey Hill vanilla ice cream. The sundae topped with 10 gallons of chocolate fudge, 10 gallons of strawberries and 30 pounds of chopped pecans, all donated by Turkey Hill Dairy of Lancaster. A 12-inch ball of cherries was placed on the sundae’s peak.
According to Cindy Weimer, industry relations manager for Mid-Atlantic Dairy Association, this event reinforces the common goals shared by dairy farmers, milk processors and industry partners. “We are working together to bolster dairy’s image and build its future,” Weimer said. “This event is one of the dairy promotion checkoff programs that are working to increase demand for dairy products.”
Mid-Atlantic Dairy Association and Pennsylvania Dairy Promotion Program are the local planning and management organizations funded by dairy farmer checkoff dollars. They work closely with Dairy Management Inc.™ and are responsible for increasing demand for U.S.-produced dairy products on behalf of Pennsylvania’s dairy farmers. For more information, visit www.dairyspot.com.