Sales of Creamery flavor to support THON, fight against childhood cancer

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State Berkey Creamery has created a new ice cream flavor, "THON Gold Ribbon Ripple," and it's For The Kids.

The new pint flavor was unveiled today during the opening hour of THON Weekend 2018, Penn State's annual 46-hour, student-run dance marathon benefiting children and their families battling childhood cancer.

The ice cream will be sold at the Creamery's kiosk near Gate B in the Bryce Jordan Center during THON, which continues through Sunday. A portion of proceeds from sales of the flavor — a blend of chocolate ice cream, golden caramel swirl and white chips — will be donated to the cause.

"As part of the Penn State community, it's our honor to support this very worthwhile event," said Jim Brown, Creamery assistant manager. "We join our students — and the children and their families — as they take a stand to end childhood cancer."

Since 1977, THON has raised more than $146 million for Four Diamonds at Penn State Children's Hospital, advancing its mission to provide emotional and financial support, spread awareness, and ensure funding for critical research, all in pursuit of a cure.

According to Leah Freeark, THON 2018 hospitality director, more than 350 Penn State student organizations participate in THON throughout the year by holding fundraisers, attending THON events and building relationships with beneficiary families.

THON Weekend is the culmination of these efforts as people come together at the Bryce Jordan Center on the University Park campus to support the dancers and the families facing cancer.

"The THON executive committee is thrilled to have the opportunity to partner with another integral Penn State tradition, the Berkey Creamery, to create a new ice cream flavor," Freeark said. "Not only will a portion of all proceeds be donated directly back to THON, but the flavor also will spread awareness — 'For The Kids' — to all those enjoying this sweet treat."

"THON Gold Ribbon Ripple" may be available for purchase in the future. Creamery Manager Thomas Davis said the intention is to make it a standard flavor, that could be sold as early as Monday in the store and online.

"For now, our focus is on THON Weekend," he said. "We encourage everyone to cheer on the children, their families and the dancers — it's a fantastic event for a great cause."