Ithaca, N.Y. (June 26, 2006)—Visitors to Ithaca, the

birthplace of the ice cream sundae, will get a cool treat

from the sweltering heat this July. To Celebrate National

Ice Cream Month, Ithaca restaurants will offer

complimentary Purity Ice Cream sundaes, the area’s

signature brand, on Sundays in July. The sweet offer is

valid with purchase of any entrée at participating Ithaca

restaurants serving Purity Ice Cream.


Though several cities claim to be the birthplace of the

ice cream sundae, Ithaca has the oldest documented proof.

An Ithaca Journal ad dated May 28, 1892 describes

the “Sunday” as a new treat. Later articles detail its

creation in Ithaca “on a whim” one hot Sunday afternoon in

April 1892. After the day’s sermon, local pastor John M.

Scott and parishioner Chester Platt, took two dishes of

ice cream, splashed a candied cherry on top and covered

the entire dessert with cherry syrup—making Ithaca the

true birthplace of one of America’s favorite summertime

treats.


Purity Ice Cream, the Pride of the Finger Lakes, was first

produced in Ithaca1936 when Leo Guentert opened his shop

on First Street. Over the ensuing 70 years, Purity’s

unmatched quality and taste turned it into a regional

favorite, tickling the taste buds of Central New Yorkers

with flavors like Finger Lakes Tourist, Bulldog Crunch,

and Boomberry, along with traditional varieties.


Less than a day’s drive from everywhere in the metro

Northeast, Ithaca is a progressive community renowned for

breathtaking gorge waterfalls, outstanding recreation and

world-class thinking. Home to Cornell University and

Ithaca College, the city’s rich culture, fine lodging and

abundance of top-quality restaurants make it an ideal base

for any Finger Lakes wine country getaway. Travel and

lodging information is available at VisitIthaca.Com, or

800-284-8422.


Participating Restaurants:


Antlers Restaurant

The Boatyard Grill

Joe’s Restaurant

Juna's Café

Kilpatrick’s Publick House

Lost Dog Cafe

Madeline’s Restaurant

Maxie's Supper Club

Olivia


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