Pennsylvania

The Sweetest States: Where America Loves Ice Cream Most

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 21:12:23 GMT

July is National Ice Cream Month, and Americans are indulging like never before. But which states truly have the biggest sweet tooth? Recent research from SpinBlitz analyzed Google Maps listings nationwide to rank states by ice cream shop density, specifically the number of ice cream shops per 100,000 residents. Here are the top states who take their frozen dairy treats most seriously.

Top 10 Ice Cream-Loving States

1. Vermont (18.51 shops per 100K residents) Vermont tops the list with the highest number of ice cream shops per capita, and it’s not just thanks to Ben & Jerry’s. The state has a strong dairy foundation and a deep appreciation for small-batch, locally made ice cream. Whether in rural towns or tourist-friendly spots, ice cream shops are a visible part of Vermont’s food culture.

2. West Virginia (18.08) West Virginia ranks second in ice cream shop density thanks to a strong presence of locally owned parlors, custard stands and small-town scoop shops. It might not be a headline-grabbing food destination, but the state has a steady, long-standing appreciation for traditional favorites like banana splits, hand-dipped cones and floats.

3. Rhode Island (17.84) Rhode Island earns bronze in the nation for ice cream shop density. Known for regional favorites like frozen lemonade and coffee milkshakes, the state also supports a strong network of ice cream parlors across its coastal towns and neighborhoods. From tourist areas to local main streets, frozen treats are easy to find.

4. Pennsylvania (17.58) Pennsylvania ranks fourth with a diverse ice cream scene that reflects its mix of communities. From family-run creameries in rural areas to innovative shops in urban centers, the state offers a wide range of frozen dessert options.

5. Wisconsin (16.44) Known far and wide for its cheese, Wisconsin also delivers big on ice cream. Known as the Dairy State, it’s no surprise the state is brimming with mom-and-pop scoop shops, custard stands and local brands producing rich ice cream. Whether you’re at a farmstead creamery or a college-town cone counter, Wisconsin’s pride for ice cream shines.

6. Illinois (16.12) Chicago might be the driving force behind Illinois’ ranking, with its booming food scene filled with Instagram-worthy sundaes, small-batch gelato and quirky flavors. But don’t overlook the rural towns and suburbs, where old-school diners and small-town scoop shops keep the classics alive.

7. New Mexico (15.89) The only Southwestern state to crack the top 10, New Mexico might surprise you. But with sizzling summer temperatures and a thriving local food culture, it makes sense frozen treats are in demand. You’ll find shops serving everything from chile-spiked chocolate to cactus fruit sorbet.

8. Michigan (15.79) Snow doesn’t stop Michiganders from indulging. With thousands of inland lakes and summer tourists flooding towns like Traverse City and Petoskey, ice cream is a lakeside staple. From old-fashioned scoops to cherry-studded blends, Michigan’s ice cream culture is powered by nostalgia, local ingredients and a serious sweet tooth.

9. New Hampshire (15.54) New England knows its dairy, and New Hampshire is no exception. This state might not be flashy, but its abundance of seasonal roadside stands, maple-infused flavors and mom-and-pop ice cream stops make it a solid contender. Summer drives through the mountains or along the lakes are rarely complete without a cone in hand.

10. New York (15.35) New York ranks 10^th, where ice cream is as diverse as the state itself. From trendy, creative scoop shops and food trucks in the heart of New York City to time-tested creameries in upstate towns, there’s a flavor and style for everyone. With tourists and locals alike lining up for their favorite cones, New York’s ice cream doesn’t disappoint.

See How Your State Stacks Up in the Ice Cream Race
Whether you’re craving a classic cone or something a little more adventurous, it’s clear that some states really know how to satisfy that ice cream craving. Curious how all 50 states stack up in the great ice cream showdown? Check out the full ranking and see where your home ranks:

Rank	State	Ice Cream Shops per 100,000 residents
1	Vermont	18.51
2	West Virginia	18.08
3	Rhode Island	17.84
4	Pennsylvania	17.58
5	Wisconsin	16.44
6	Illinois	16.12
7	New Mexico	15.89
8	Michigan	15.79
9	New Hampshire	15.54
10	New York	15.35
11	Massachusetts	14.99
12	North Dakota	14.92
13	Ohio	14.90
14	Maine	14.89
15	Nebraska	14.83
16	Alaska	14.79
17	Indiana	14.78
18	Idaho	14.27
19	Delaware	14.05
20	Montana	14.00
21	South Dakota	13.96
22	Hawaii	13.78
23	Florida	13.67
24	New Jersey	13.61
25	Wyoming	13.56
26	Mississippi	13.25
27	Iowa	13.02
28	North Carolina	12.58
29	Texas	12.40
30	Arkansas	12.23
31	California	12.10
32	Arizona	12.09
33	Kansas	11.71
34	Connecticut	11.60
35	Virginia	11.25
36	Oklahoma	10.66
37	Nevada	10.54
38	Utah	10.38
39	Minnesota	10.37
40	Oregon	10.37
41	Tennessee	10.26
42	Louisiana	10.20
43	Georgia	10.00
44	Colorado	9.98
45	Kentucky	9.73
46	Washington	9.43
47	Alabama	9.23
48	South Carolina	8.80
49	Maryland	8.56
50	Missouri	8.44

Pennsylvania Governor Sues USDA Over Termination of Program That Supports Food Banks, Locally Grown

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 13:54:05 GMT

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said in a news release that his administration has filed a lawsuit against the USDA for unlawfully terminating the state’s Local Food Purchase Assistance program agreement — a $13 million commitment that directly supports 189 Pennsylvania farms and supplies 14 food banks with fresh, locally grown food.

The governor announced the legal action at the Share Food Program in Philadelphia, one of the state’s largest emergency food providers.

Shapiro said his administration had tried to appeal the termination of the LFPA program by filing an administrative appeal through the USDA, reaching out to Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins and through meetings with USDA leadership in Washington, D.C. When the USDA ignored Pennsylvania’s request to support farmers, the administration was left with no other choice but to sue, the governor said.

“Pennsylvania farmers do the noble work of putting food on our tables — and for the last three years, they’ve been paid to provide fresh, local food to food banks across our commonwealth as part of a successful federal initiative,” Shapiro said in the release. “When the USDA abruptly terminated our agreement without cause, they ripped away a reliable source of income for 189 Pennsylvania farms — and cut off funding that would have helped provide over 4.4 million meals to families across the commonwealth. That’s not just bad policy — it’s a broken promise. A deal is a deal, and I’ve taken legal action today to ensure the federal government honors its commitment to Pennsylvania.”

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture has administered more than $28 million in federal LFPA funding since 2022. The state said the USDA canceled the most recent three-year contract in March, which was signed December 2024.

Pennsylvania rebuked USDA’s claims that the state was “sitting on tens of millions” in unspent LFPA funds, saying the state’s program operates on a reimbursement basis, paying vendors upfront and is reimbursed by the federal government once the state incurs expenses.

“The USDA’s decision was not just unexpected — it was unlawful, and it has already caused serious harm to Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry,” state Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said in the release. “This is about real people — the farmers, producers, and rural communities who are now facing uncertainty as a result. These are hardworking men and women who put food on our tables, support local economies, and preserve our farmland for future generations. Governor Shapiro is fighting for our farmers because the stakes are far too high.”

The governor’s office said the Share Food Program distributed more than 30 million meals to individuals, families and food pantries in 2024. It also deliverd more than 83,000 senior food boxes through USDA programs, rescued nearly 6 million pounds of food and delivered more than 47,000 free home food packages to Philadelphia residents.

“Since 1986, our mission has been to feed the region’s most vulnerable families — and today, we’re serving nearly one million people each month, with more than half of them children,” said George Matysik, executive director of Share Food Program. “At Share, we believe food is a human right and hunger is a solvable problem — principles we live by every day. The LFPA program helped us source nutritious food from local farms — but now, with demand at record highs, this cut will hurt real people and damage trust. At a time when demand at our food bank has risen 120% in just three years, losing LFPA hurts real people — and breaks a promise that should have been kept.”

Shapiro’s office said the state is one of the only in the country that uses LFPA funding to support in-state farmers to ensure that federal dollars stay local and support the state’s agricultural economy.

“I started providing fresh fruits and vegetables to Pennsylvania food banks several years ago — from Share in Philadelphia to food banks in Pittsburgh, Mercer County and across central PA. That work gave me a deep appreciation for what food insecurity really looks like. Whether someone is going through a tough time or has long struggled to make ends meet, the need is real — and the people who dedicate their time to helping others are truly inspiring,” said Brian Campbell, owner and founder of Brian Campbell Farms. “It’s not just about putting food on the table — it’s about providing healthy, nutritious options that can change lives. Programs like LFPA made it possible for farmers to cover the basic costs of harvesting, packaging, and delivering fresh produce to food banks. It was enough support to make it doable, and that made all the difference for the people we serve.”

ARA Legislator of the Year Award: Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 15:01:25 GMT

For his support of ag retailers, House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson (R-Pa.) has received one of ARA’s annual Legislator of the Year awards.

“Rep. Thompson’s leadership has promoted policies that help to protect ARA member companies’ freedom to operate profitably as they deliver essential services and products to their farmer customers when they need it,” says ARA president & CEO Daren Coppock.

Coppock explains Thompson sponsored the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2024, which aimed to reauthorize essential Farm Bill programs through 2029 and secure critical financial and disaster assistance for the agricultural community.

“ARA looks forward to continuing to work with Rep. Thompson and his colleagues in Congress to advance ARA’s public policy priorities established by our membership,” Coppock says.

Each year, ARA recognizes two legislators who have championed the issues of importance to agriculture and agriculture suppliers.

“I’m honored to receive this recognition from the Agricultural Retailers Association,” Thompson says. “ARA is a tremendous advocate for policies that support farmers and the businesses that keep American agriculture moving forward. I appreciate their partnership in pushing for a strong farm bill, which will ensure producers and the entire agricultural supply chain get the tools, certainty, and resources they need.”

Your Next Read: ARA Legislator of the Year Award: Representative David Rouzer

Pennsylvania's Painterland Sisters See Spectacular Success With “Side” Yogurt Business

Wed, 08 May 2024 19:54:38 GMT

When Stephanie and Hayley Painter started a yogurt business a couple of years ago to help support their family’s Pennsylvania dairy farm, they didn’t envision it quickly becoming the country’s fastest growing yogurt brand in the natural foods space. But that’s exactly what happened. Painterland Sisters Icelandic Yogurt is now sold in 2,200 stores coast to coast.

Stephanie explains how and why she and her sister achieved such success in a brand new podcast called Grow Getters , which explores “Agriculture’s most inventive side hustles.” Hosted by Davis Michaelsen and produced by Farm Journal Studios, Grow Getters takes a lively look at creative ways farmers are plugging into their passions and sometimes exploring new technologies to add revenue to their operations. In agriculture’s challenging economic climate, these resourceful “grow getters” are redefining what it means to be a farmer.

Watch episode one of Grow Getters here.

Forbes Magazine’s “30 Under 30" List

With their organic, nutrient-dense yogurt, made using milk from their farm and from nearby farms, the Painter sisters have taken moonlighting to a whole new level, even landing a spot on Forbes magazine’s most recent “30 Under 30” list .

“We saw cool, powerful women helping their family’s business on the Forbes 30 Under 30, so my sister and I looked at each other and said, ‘We want to do that,’” Stephanie explains on the first Grow Getters podcast. “We want to represent dairy. Farming, right? Agriculture. Wouldn’t that be amazing to make it relatable, to make dairy cool and fun to the general consumer?”

More than achieving accolades, however, the sisters’ mission is to connect consumers with the farmers who are producing their food every day. They’re also committed to continuing the succession process on the family’s fourth-generation farm, preserving and even increasing its value for the next generation coming up quickly behind them.

Read more about the Painter sisters and their exploding business.

Following its debut on May 7 with the Painter sisters, Grow Getters will release a new episode every other Tuesday. Blending stories of side-hustle highs and lows with plenty of humor and even some flashy singing and piano-playing by Davis, Grow Getters is like no other show in today’s ag media world. The goal of the podcast is to celebrate and match the unbridled moxie, energy and creativity of its guests. Subscribe to the Farm Journal YouTube page for the latest episodes.

Your Mental Health Toolbox: How To Recognize The Warning Signs

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 22:28:17 GMT

Working in agriculture isn’t easy, and factors such as commodity prices, weather and family dynamics often weigh heavily on those involved.

It’s important the friends, family, and business professionals close to farmers are prepared to recognize warning signs and effectively communicate in a mental health crisis. PennState Extension shares several tips to help.

What To Look For
Some of the ways increased stress presents itself is through physical changes such as headaches or frequent illness, loss of the person’s sense of humor, change in routine, isolation or the feeling that they can’t do anything right.

In farmers specifically, this could look like a decline in the care of livestock and the farmstead’s appearance, no longer stopping by the coffee shop in the morning to chat with friends, or giving up something they were previously passionate about such as volunteering as a 4-H leader.

Prolonged symptoms take a toll on a person’s body and can have long-term effects like high blood pressure and diabetes.

Extension experts also say increased stress has the ability to make farmers more accident prone and could lead to an uptick in the number of accidents or injuries around the operation.

How To Approach The Conversation
If you notice these changes in a customer, friend or family member, the way you approach them about the topic matters. Simply asking them how they’re doing will probably elicit a response similar to “I’m fine.”

PennState Extension advises using active listening during this conversation to help the person feel comfortable sharing more about what’s going on and understand that you care.

For example, if they brush off your initial question of concern, encourage them to elaborate by saying, “I’ve noticed you seem down. Is there anything on your mind?”. Restate and paraphrase what they’ve shared with you periodically, so they know you’re interested and listening. This also gives them a chance to correct anything you’ve misunderstood and give more context if necessary. You could say, “It sounds like you’re thinking/feeling X. Is that right?”

Focus on listening, rather than what you’re going to say next and make sure to give them adequate time to speak before you jump in.

Extension experts also recommend talking to the person with empathy, rather than sympathy, even if you don’t have personal experience with what they’re going through.

Phrases To Help Convey Empathy:
• I know of several farms in similar situations.
• Every situation is a little different. Help me understand better.
• I don’t know what to say, but I’m so glad you told me.
• I can see this situation is hard for you. What changes would you like to see?
• I’m eager to help. What are some things I could do for you?

Try to avoid saying things like, “at least X didn’t happen” or “at least you still have X”.

Next Steps
Make sure you check back in with the person, whether you told them you would or not, and don’t promise things you can’t commit to.

If the situation becomes urgent, ask if you can call a family member or for help. Local, state and national resources are available.

South Mill Champs has new items

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 07:36:36 GMT

South Mill Champs , Kennett Square, Pa., has added a third operation to its company with the acquisition of Loveday Mushroom Farms, Winnipeg, Manitoba, said Michael Richmond, vice president of sales.

The enhanced production and supply capabilities will expand the company’s ability to supply fresh, high-quality mushrooms to all major population areas in North America within 48 hours.

The company also has launched a number of new products.

Stuffed mushroom caps — large crimini mushrooms stuffed with flavored cheese — have had “explosive growth” following their launch in June, he said.

They come in spinach and artichoke, Mediterranean and pizza flavors.

Minute Mushrooms, part of the growing value-added line of products offered by South Mill Champs, come in three varieties — Sautéed Portabella Mushrooms, Garlic Herb marinated mushrooms and Steak Sizzlers portabella mushrooms and onions — and provide a 60-second solution to mushroom side dishes and add-ons at home, he said.

And 40-ounce mushroom packs were launched in June to help restaurants keep their products fresh when they no longer need a 10-pound box.

They are available in whole and sliced white and crimini mushrooms.

Despite challenges presented by COVID-19, South Mill Champs will have an additional 15 million pounds of mushrooms for its customers in 2021 to support their continued growth, Richmond said.

Related Content:

South Mill Champs adds Loveday Mushroom Farms to company

Jeff Krieger Named Helm Sales Manager for East Corn Belt

Wed, 11 Nov 2020 06:22:03 GMT

Helm Agro US, Inc., announced the hiring of Jeff Krieger as Regional Sales Manager for the east Cornbelt.

Krieger will be responsible for crop protection product sales and supporting the company’s distributor, retailer and grower networks in the states of Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania.

Krieger brings 30 years of experience in agronomic product sales to the Helm organization. Recently Krieger was a Territory Sales Manager for Beck’s Hybrids. Prior to that he held sales positions with Sipcam Agro U.S. and Syngenta.

“Jeff is a great addition to our sales team, especially as new corn and soybean solutions get added to our crop protection portfolio,” Aaron Locker, Vice President of Sales, Helm Agro US said in a news release. “Jeff’s experience and knowledge of the row crop market will strengthen our ability to provide greater value to our customers. Plus, his commitment to customers makes him an ideal fit for the organization. We look forward to seeing him continue to foster existing relationships while building new ones in his territory.”